Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For March 4, 2024

For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.
‭‭Titus‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬

In Titus 3, the apostle Paul reminds Titus of the power of God’s grace in the lives of believers. Paul emphasizes the sinful nature from which they were saved and the importance of living in accordance with God’s mercy and love. Verse 3 portrays the past condition of believers before experiencing God’s redeeming grace.

Before coming to Christ, we were lost in sin, driven by selfish desires, and blinded by deception. However, through His mercy and love, God extended salvation to us, rescuing us from our sinful state.

As recipients of God’s grace, we are called to extend that same grace and compassion to others. Rather than harboring judgment or resentment towards those who are still lost in sin, let us approach them with understanding. Just as God showed kindness to us, let us be agents of His love in the lives of others.

In our interactions with others, remember our own past condition and the immeasurable grace God has shown us. Let us extend grace and compassion freely, reflecting the power of God’s love in our own lives.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your abundant grace. Help me to remember my own past and approach others with humility and compassion. Fill my heart with Your love, that I may reflect Your grace to those around me. May Your mercy be evident in all I do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For March 3, 2024

For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬

The apostle Peter writes to believers, encouraging them to live holy lives and endure suffering patiently, following the example of Christ. In verse 25, Peter uses the imagery of sheep and a shepherd to illustrate the spiritual reality of believers returning to Christ, who is the ultimate Shepherd and Guardian of their souls.

We often find ourselves wandering away from God’s path, entangled by the cares of this world or overcome by our own desires. Yet, just as a shepherd diligently seeks out his lost sheep, Christ pursues us, calling us back into His loving embrace. We are no longer aimless wanderers but cherished members of His flock, under His watchful care.

When you feel lost or overwhelmed, turn to Jesus, trusting in His unfailing love and guidance. Allow His presence to bring you comfort, peace, and assurance, knowing that He will never leave you.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd and Overseer. When start to stray, lead me back into Your loving arms. Help me to trust in Your provision and guidance, knowing that You care for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For March 2, 2024

I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬

Psalm 13 is king David’s lament (cry of sorrow) before God. In the preceding verses, David pours out his heart, expressing feelings of abandonment and distress. Yet, in verse 6, there is a shift. Despite his circumstances, David resolves to sing to the Lord, acknowledging God’s bountiful provision and faithfulness.

We often face seasons of darkness and uncertainty. Like David, we may experience doubt and despair, wondering if God has forgotten about us. However, Psalm 13 reminds us that even in the midst of our trials, we can choose to praise God. By shifting our focus from our circumstances to God’s character and past faithfulness, we can find joy and strength in His provision.

When you find yourself starting to worry or complain, stop and praise the Lord. If your heart is heavy with sorrow or despair, praise the Lord. Praising the Lord may not change the circumstance but it can change our attitude.

Pray

Lord, in moments of trial and distress, help me to remember Your faithfulness and provision. Grant me the courage to shift my focus from my circumstances to Your unwavering love and goodness. Fill my heart with gratitude and praise, knowing that You are always with me, working all things together for good. In Jesus’ name, amen.