Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For July 16, 2024

I will never forget Your precepts, For by them You have given me life.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭93‬

Today’s verse reminds us of the power of God’s Word and the life-giving impact it has on our souls. Our lives may be challenged or shaken by circumstances but God’s Word will lift us up and strengthen us to keep going. 

The psalmist declares, “I will never forget Your precepts.” God’s precepts are divine instructions and teachings that we are encouraged to abide by in our daily lives. In times of joy, we must hold onto the Word to keep us humble and grounded. In moments of sorrow, it becomes our source of hope and strength.

The second part of the verse states, “for by them, You have given me life.” The psalmist acknowledges that the very essence of his existence and purpose flows from God’s Word. When we abide by God’s precepts we gain a life more abundant. 

God’s Word speaks to our hearts, reveals our deepest needs, and guides us on the path of righteousness. When we encounter God’s Word with an open heart, we are transformed by its power and presence.

Make time to read, study, and meditate on His precepts, for they are the keys to abundant life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Word. Help me to embrace it with a heart filled with gratitude. As I meditate on Your Word, may it empower me to live according to Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen

Devotional For July 15, 2024

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God:
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭2‬

Today’s verse reminds that obedience to God’s voice is the key to unlocking these blessings that overflow and overtake our lives. God desires to bless His children for their continued obedience. It is out of the goodness f His heart that He shows us what great things He can do. 

Imagine blessings that don’t just trickle in but flow forth in abundance. God’s promise in Deuteronomy 28:2 is that His blessings will not only come upon you but overtake you. He doesn’t hold back; His desire is to lavish His goodness upon us. 

There is a connection between obedience and blessings. When we align our lives with God’s commands and listen to His voice, we position ourselves to receive the blessings He has prepared for us. Obedience reflects our trust in His plans.

The many types of blessings mentioned in Deuteronomy 28 encompass a wide range—physical, material, and spiritual. These blessings give us a glimpse into the heart of a loving Father who desires to provide for His children in every aspect of their lives.

The idea of blessings overtaking us highlights God’s initiative in showering us with His grace. As we walk in obedience, blessings chase after us. It’s a beautiful reminder that God’s favor is not contingent on our efforts alone but on His boundless love.

Can you say that you are blessed with the goodness of God? Are there areas where obedience to God’s voice can bring about His blessings in greater measure? Consider how aligning with His will can lead to an overflow of blessings.

Pray

Lord, I’m grateful for Your desire to bless me. Help me to listen to Your voice and obey Your commands. Help me walk in alignment with Your will and experience the overflow of blessings that come from living in Your ways. Thank You for Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 14, 2024

holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬

In the letter to the Philippians, Paul encourages believers to hold fast to the word of life. This call reminds us that our lives should be lived with purpose and dedication.

The “word of life” that Paul refers to is the Gospel, the message of salvation and hope found in Jesus Christ. In a world full of despair and uncertainty, our faith, in Christ, should draw others towards the source of true life.

Being a light in the world is not always easy. Challenges, distractions, and the many temptations that surround us, dim our spiritual glow. The enemy seeks to make us think that our labor is in vain. 

It is in these moments that Paul’s challenge becomes even more critical. To “hold fast” implies a firm grip, a strong commitment to the truth of the Gospel, and a deep devotion to Christ.

By holding fast to the word of life, we position ourselves with God’s purposes and find joy in knowing that our efforts are not in vain. Our lives take on eternal significance when we become faithful stewards of the Gospel, spreading its message through both words and actions.

Examine yourself to see if you are truly holding fast to the word of life. Are you living in a way that reflects the light of Christ? Are your actions, attitudes, and words drawing others closer to Jesus?

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your word, which brings life and hope into my soul. Help me to hold fast to the Gospel, to remain committed in my faith. Make my life to be a testimony to your goodness and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.