Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For April 2, 2024

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬

In the opening of his first letter, Peter offers praise to God for His abundant mercy and the new birth believers have received through Jesus Christ. He highlights the resurrection of Jesus as the foundation of our living hope, which transcends the trials and challenges of this present life.

Our living hope in Christ, is not based on wishful thinking or human optimism, but on the solid foundation of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. This living hope is not merely a future expectation but a present reality, transforming our lives and sustaining us through every trial and adversity we face.

Through the resurrection of Jesus, we have been born again to a living hope—a hope that is secure, vibrant, and eternal. It is a hope that anchors our souls in the midst of life’s storms and fills us with joy and confidence in God’s faithfulness.

Our living hope in Christ empowers us to live with purpose and boldness. It enables us to face the challenges of life with courage, knowing that our ultimate victory is assured in Christ. We can rejoice knowing that Christ has lavished upon us an abundance of mercy and grace.

Pray

Lord, thank You for giving me a living hope. Help me to fix my eyes on You. Fill me with joy and confidence as I live in the reality of the new birth and the assurance of an eternal inheritance. Let my life be a testament to Your abundant mercy and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For April 1, 2024

whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭14

James addresses the issue of pride and worldly-mindedness among believers. He reminds us of the brevity and uncertainty of life, emphasizing the nature of human existence compared to the eternal purposes of God.

Despite our best-laid plans and aspirations for the future, we are ultimately unable to control or predict what tomorrow may bring. Our lives are but a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow, a reminder of our mortality and dependence on God.

Instead of placing our trust and security in earthly pursuits and possessions, we are called to recognize the shortness of this life and to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

James encourages us to live each day with a sense of urgency and purpose, making the most of the time we have been given. Rather than being consumed by worries about the future or regrets about the past, we are encouraged to embrace the present moment, trusting in God’s providence and guidance for our lives.

Today, commit to living with a purpose and a passion, knowing that your life is but a vapor, yet deeply cherished and valued by our Heavenly Father.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of life that You have bestowed upon me. Help me to recognize the brevity and uncertainty of each day and to live each moment with gratitude and purpose. May I trust in Your providence and seek first Your kingdom first. Guide me by Your Spirit and empower me to live in such a way that honors and glorifies You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For March 30, 2024

And the women who had come with Him from Galilee followed after, and they observed the tomb and how His body was laid. Then they returned and prepared spices and fragrant oils. And they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭55‬-‭56‬

Saturday of Holy Week is a day of waiting and anticipation, characterized by reflection and expectant hope. The faithful women who followed Jesus during His ministry tended to the practical matters of His burial. They prepared spices and fragrant oils to anoint His body, demonstrating their devotion and reverence for Jesus.

As we consider the significance of Holy Saturday, we are reminded of the importance of waiting faithfully in the midst of uncertainty and sorrow. Like the disciples and followers of Jesus, we may find ourselves in seasons of waiting, where hope feels distant. Yet, even in the silence and stillness of Holy Saturday, God is at work.

Today, we embrace the sacredness of this day of waiting and reflection. May we find rest in the presence of God, trusting in His faithfulness and goodness even in the midst of uncertainty. And may we anticipate with hope and expectation the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday, when we proclaim Christ’s victory over sin and death.

Pray

Lord, I am reminded of the solemnity of this day and the significance of Your redemptive plan. Help me to wait faithfully in the midst of uncertainty, trusting in Your faithfulness and goodness. Prepare my heart to celebrate the joy of Easter Sunday. In Jesus’ name, amen.