Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For April 27, 2024

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬

The apostle Paul, writing to Christian’s in Rome, expounds on the foundational truths of the gospel. Here, Paul emphasizes the power of faith in Christ, which leads to justification and ultimately, peace with God.

The peace that Paul speaks of is not just the absence of conflict or turmoil in our lives but a profound reconciliation with God Himself. Prior to our faith in Christ, we were distanced from God because of our sin. However, through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, we have been justified—declared righteous—in the sight of God.

This justification isn’t based on our own merit or good works but solely on our faith in Jesus Christ. When we place our trust in Him, His righteousness is imputed to us, and we are made right with God. This newfound peace with God brings about a deep sense of security, assurance, and wholeness in our lives. No longer do we need to fear judgment or condemnation, for we are now children of God, fully accepted and loved by Him.

As we endure life’s challenges and uncertainties, it’s essential to anchor ourselves in the truth of Romans 5:1. Our peace isn’t dependent on our circumstances but on our unshakable relationship with God through Christ. Regardless of what we face, we can rest in the assurance that nothing can separate us from His love and the peace that surpasses all understanding.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of peace that comes through faith in You. Help me to continually anchor my life in this truth, finding my security and identity in You alone. In moments of doubt or fear, remind me of the peace that I have with You. Empower me by Your Spirit to live boldly and confidently, knowing that nothing can separate me from Your great love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For April 26, 2024

“No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light.“
‭‭Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭33‬

This verse follows Jesus’ teaching on the importance of spiritual sight. He emphasizes that what we see, or allow to illuminate our lives, profoundly impacts our spiritual condition.

Just as a lamp is meant to shine through the darkness, so are we called to let our light shine through the world. As followers of Christ, we’re entrusted with the light of His truth, love, and grace. This light isn’t meant to be hidden or kept to ourselves; rather, it’s meant to be shared openly and boldly. We are called to live in such a way that our actions, words, and attitudes reflect the light of Christ, illuminating the lives of those around us.

However, it’s essential to remember that our light isn’t self-generated; it’s a reflection of Christ’s light shining through us. Therefore, we must cultivate a close relationship with Him through prayer, study of His Word, and fellowship with other believers. As we abide in Christ, His light naturally radiates through us, impacting the world around us and drawing others closer to Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for entrusting me with Your light. Help me to live in such a way that Your light shines brightly through me, illuminating the darkness around me. Give me the courage and boldness to share Your love and truth with those around me, that they may come to know You and experience Your transformation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For April 25, 2024

A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭24‬

In a world where relationships can be fleeting and superficial, this verse reminds us of the importance of cultivating meaningful and enduring friendships. The first part of the verse highlights the reciprocal nature of friendship. It emphasizes that to have friends, one must first be friendly. True friendship requires effort, intentionality, and a willingness to invest time and energy into building and nurturing relationships. Just as we desire friendship, we are called to extend friendship to others, demonstrating kindness, empathy, and love.

The latter part of the verse introduces the concept of a friend who sticks closer than a brother. This refers to a friend who demonstrates unwavering loyalty, support, and companionship, even in the face of adversity. This type of friend is rare and precious, someone who knows us deeply, accepts us fully, and stands by us through all of life’s challenges and triumphs.

Lastly, this verse challenges us to be true friends to others—to embody the qualities of loyalty, support, and companionship that we desire in return. As we extend friendship to others, we reflect the love of Christ and fulfill His commandment to love one another as He has loved us (John 15:12).

As we reflect on Proverbs 18:24, may we be inspired to cultivate meaningful friendships, to cherish the friends who stick closer than brothers, and to emulate the love and friendship of Jesus Christ in all of our relationships.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of friendship and for the friends who bless my life with their love and support. Help me to be a faithful friend to others, reflecting Your love and grace. And thank You, Jesus, for being the ultimate friend who sticks closer than a brother. In Jesus’ name, amen.