Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: daily devotional

Devotional For October 16, 2023

Encouragement

For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭22‬

The Apostle Paul paints a vivid picture of a world in anticipation, eagerly awaiting its redemption. The imagery of creation groaning and laboring with birth pangs gives a sense of longing and hope. We too yearn for the fullness of God’s promises to be realized in our lives.

The world is filled with both beauty and brokenness. As believers, we are not exempt from brokenness. We experience suffering, grief, and the weight of our own shortcomings. But Romans 8:22 reassures us that we are not alone in our longing for redemption.

This verse serves as a reminder that our hope is not in vain. We have the assurance that God is working to bring about the redemption of all things. In the midst of our struggles and the world’s brokenness, we can look forward with hope, knowing that a day of restoration is coming.

We can also find purpose in this process. Just as creation groans and labors, we too can be agents of change, spreading God’s love and working toward the restoration of His creation.

Today, trust in God’s promise of restoration, and seek to be a light of hope and love in a world that groans for redemption.

Pray

Lord, I acknowledge the brokenness in this world. I long for the day of redemption. Help me to find hope and purpose in my role of spreading Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 15, 2023

Encouragement

Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭60‬:‭1‬

Isaiah 60:1 is a verse filled with hope. In the midst of living in a dark world, the glory of the Lord is shining upon us. It carries a message that no matter what happens, God’s presence is with us.

“Arise” is a call to action. It encourages us to lift ourselves from doubt, fear, or complacency. It urges us to wake up from a spiritual slumber and embrace the new day that God has provided.

“Shine” is a reminder of our purpose. As God’s children, we are called to be the light of Jesus to the world, reflecting His love, grace, and truth. When we shine, we illuminate the darkness around us and help others find their way to God.

“And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you” signifies the divine favor and blessing that God bestows upon those who seek Him. When His glory rests upon us, we are empowered to live with purpose, grace, and a deep sense of His presence.

As a child of God, you are called to arise and shine. Let your life be a reflection of God’s light and glory. In times of challenge, look to the risen light of Christ for guidance, strength, and hope. Embrace the promise of His presence.

Pray

Lord, thank You for entrusting me to shine Your light in this dark world. Help me to heed the call to arise and shine. Fill me with Your presence and empower me to be a glimpse of hope to those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 14, 2023

Encouragement

The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭14‬:‭2‬

This verse tells us that the Lord gazes down from heaven, not in judgment but in search of understanding hearts and those who earnestly seek Him.

Understanding in this context is not just about intellectual knowledge; it’s about recognizing a relationship with God. God is not interested in religion or rituals. He desires a genuine and intimate relationship with His children.

To “seek God” means to yearn for Him, to long for His presence, and to actively pursue a deeper relationship with Him. It’s an acknowledgment that true wisdom and fulfillment are found in God alone.

Take a moment to reflect on your life. Are you sincerely seeking God? Is your heart open to His guidance and presence? Are you earnestly pursuing an understanding of His ways and His will?

Pray

Lord, I come before You with a humble heart, seeking a deeper understanding of You. I acknowledge that true wisdom and fulfillment can only be found in Your presence. I long for a deeper understanding of Your ways, that I may live in alignment with Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.