Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For July 30, 2024

Oh, that my ways were directed To keep Your statutes!
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭5‬

This verse is a reminder that our true delight is found in following the path God has set before us.

In a world full of distractions and temptations, it’s easy to stray from the righteous path. In moments of weakness we can be led astray. The psalmist’s expresses a deep yearning to remain steadfast in obedience so that we don’t get off path. 

The desire to follow God’s way is a powerful mindset. When we make a conscious effort to align our lives with God’s will, we find a profound sense of purpose and contentment.

What path do you see yourself on today? Are you being guided by the Spirit of God? 

If you find yourself off track or going down the wrong path, make a u-turn today. Allow God to guide your steps and put you back where you belong. 

Pray

Lord, I long to be steadfast in obeying Your decrees and to live according to Your wisdom. Strengthen me to remain obedient to Your commandments. Help me to seek Your will and way for my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 29, 2024

that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
‭‭I John‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬

Fellowship is a powerful concept that goes beyond mere social interactions. It involves a deep and intimate connection. Just as the apostles had a personal relationship with Jesus, they want to share this opportunity with us. Through their testimony and the Word of God, we can come to know Jesus in a profound way. We can experience His love, grace, and truth.

As we embark on this journey of fellowship with God, it’s important to understand that it is not a one-sided relationship. It requires our active participation and a heart open to God’s presence. We must spend time in prayer, reading the Scriptures, and seeking His guidance. In doing so, we draw closer to Him and experience His transformative power in our lives.

Consider the opportunity for fellowship we have with God. Strive to deepen your relationship with Him, seeking His presence, and embracing the love and unity that come from being in fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wonderful opportunity to be in fellowship with You. Open my heart and mind to Your presence. Help me to grow in Your likeness and point others to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 28, 2024

But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬

Peter begins by acknowledging that “the end of all things is at hand.” This serves as a wake-up call for believers. While the exact timing of the end is known only to God, Peter emphasizes the need to be ready. The awareness of the return of Christ should shape the way we live each day.

The call to be “serious and watchful in your prayers” underscores the importance of an active prayer life. In times of uncertainty, prayer becomes a lifeline connecting us to God’s guidance, strength, and peace. It is in prayer that we align our hearts with God’s will and seek His wisdom for the journey ahead.

Living with purpose means being intentional in our relationship with Christ. It involves prioritizing prayer, not as a ritual but as a genuine conversation with our Heavenly Father. As we face the challenges of life, let us be watchful in prayer, recognizing that God’s presence is our source of strength.

Consider the life of Jesus, who, in the face of overwhelming difficulties, sought the Father in constant prayer. In the garden of Gethsemane, He prayed earnestly, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Our prayers align us with God’s purposes and empower us to face whatever may come with confidence.

Pray

Dear Lord, thank you for the reminder that the end of all things is at hand. Help me to live with a sense of urgency, recognizing the importance of my relationship with you. May my prayers be serious and watchful, aligning my heart with your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.