Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: daily devotional

Devotional For September 24, 2023

Encouragement

For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬

The author of Hebrews urges us to “consider Him.” To consider means to think deeply, to reflect upon, and to meditate. So, let us consider Jesus, the ultimate example of endurance and faith.

Jesus endured unimaginable hostility during His earthly ministry. He was ridiculed, mocked, and betrayed by those He came to save. He faced persecution, false accusations, and even death on a cross. Yet, He endured it all with faith in His Father’s plan.

When we face our own trials and challenges, we can find encouragement in Jesus’ example. His endurance teaches us that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can press on in faith, knowing that He is with us.

The verse also warns us against becoming weary and discouraged in our souls. Weariness can cause us to lose heart and give up. But by fixing our focus on Jesus, we can find renewed strength and hope.

When we focus solely on our problems and hardships, they can seem overwhelming. But when we shift our focus to Jesus, our problems are put into proper perspective. He is greater than any challenge we face. (Thank You, Jesus!)

So, as we face life’s ups and downs, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. When we consider His endurance in the face of hostility, we find the inspiration to endure our own trials with faith and perseverance.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the example of endurance and strength to keep going. No matter the challenges that come my way I will remember focus more on You and less on my troubles. Help me to endure and overcome every challenge and trial. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 23, 2023

Encouragement

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved and comforting passages in the Bible. It has brought solace and strength to countless individuals throughout history.

“The Lord is my shepherd.” These five words convey a profound message of faith and trust. In describing the Lord as a shepherd, King David, the author of this psalm, draws upon imagery that was familiar to the people of his time. Shepherds were responsible for guiding, protecting, and providing for their sheep. In the same way, the Lord takes on the role of a caring and attentive shepherd in our lives.

  1. Guidance: Just as a shepherd leads his sheep to green pastures and still waters, the Lord leads us in the paths of righteousness. His guidance is perfect, and He knows the way that is best for us. Sometimes, life can feel uncertain and confusing, but we can take comfort in knowing that the Lord is leading us every step of the way.
  2. Protection: Shepherds protected their sheep from danger, whether it was from wild animals or treacherous terrain. Similarly, the Lord is our protector. He shields us from the spiritual and emotional dangers that threaten us. Even in the face of life’s challenges, we need not fear, for He is with us.
  3. Provision: “I shall not want.” The Lord, our Shepherd, provides for our every need. Just as a shepherd ensures that his flock lacks nothing, God supplies us with all that is necessary for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. We can trust in His abundant provision.

In our daily lives, it is easy to become anxious about our needs and uncertainties. However, Psalm 23:1 reminds us to shift our focus from our worries to our Shepherd. We can find comfort and security in the fact that the Lord is our guide, protector, and provider.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd. Help me to shift my focus from worrying and place my full trust in You. Give me peace and comfort knowing You are my Guide, Protector, and Provider. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For September 21, 2023

Encouragement

Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬

It’s easy to become self-absorbed, focusing solely on our own needs and desires. However, in Philippians 2:4, the Apostle Paul reminds us of a higher calling – a calling to exemplify the selfless love of Christ.

The verse begins with the word “Let,” which implies a choice we must make. We have the choice to live self-centered lives or to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who displayed the ultimate act of selflessness on the cross. He looked beyond His own interests and willingly laid down His life for the salvation of humanity.

Paul encourages us not only to consider our own interests but also to actively seek the interests of others. This means taking the time to understand the needs and concerns of those around us. It means showing compassion, lending a helping hand, and being willing to sacrifice our own comfort for the well-being of others.

Selfless love is not always easy. It requires humility and a willingness to put others first. But when we choose to follow Christ’s example, we become instruments of His love and grace in the world. Our actions reflect the transformative power of the Gospel.

As you go about your day, ask yourself, “How can I actively seek the interests of others today?” It might be a simple act of kindness, a listening ear to a friend in need, or a sacrificial gesture. Remember that in selfless love, we find the true essence of Christianity, and we become vessels through which God’s love can shine brightly.

Pray

Lord, help me to live out Philippians 2:4 today. Teach me to be selfless. Help me to look beyond my own interests and actively seek the interests of others, becoming instruments of Your love and grace in the world. In Jesus’ name, amen