Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: daily devotional

June 6, 2023

Encouragement

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

There are times when we need to be reminded of our former life and the transformative grace of God that has given us new life in Christ.

As we reflect on this verse, we are confronted with the reality of our sin nature. We were once foolish, making unwise choices. We were disobedient, rebellious, and willingly followed our own desires. We were seeking fulfillment and satisfaction in worldly pursuits that left us empty and unsatisfied.

But through God’s wonderful grace…, our life was transformed. This verse reminds us of the amazing work of redemption and transformation that God has accomplished in us through Jesus Christ.

Through faith in Jesus, we have been made new. Our past sins have been washed away by the blood of Jesus. We are no longer defined by our past, but rather by the righteousness and holiness of Jesus Christ.

This verse also serves as a challenge for ongoing transformation. We need to recognize the parts of our old nature that still exist. We must consistently yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to shape us into the image of Christ.

Are you thankful for the great love and mercy God has bestowed upon your life? Are you walking in obedience and love towards Him and one another?

Pray

Lord, Your love and grace never fails to amaze me. I am so thankful for what You have done in my life. Help me to continue striving to please You in all that I do.

June 5, 2023

Encouragement

Better a handful with quietness than both hands full, together with toil and grasping for the wind.
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬

In the book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon reflects on the nature of life and the things that often consume our time and energy. In Ecclesiastes 4:6, he wants the reader to reflect on the importance of unity.

Solomon’s words are so full of wisdom. They remind us that contentment is not found in the accumulation of possessions, but in finding peace in all circumstances. He illustrates having one handful with peace versus having two handfuls with constant strife.

When we focus solely on acquiring more, we risk losing sight of what truly matters most. We exhaust ourselves in gaining material wealth, popularity, and power, while neglecting the things that bring genuine fulfillment.

As followers of Christ, we are called to a different way of living—one characterized by love, compassion, and unity. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of unity, praying for them to be one, just as He and the Father are one (John 17:20-21).

When we unite with other Believers, we can accomplish far more than what we could on our own. Together, we can tackle bigger challenges, uplift one another, and spread the Gospel message.

Genuine fulfillment lies not in what we possess or achieve, but in the relationships we build and the love we share. Seek to promote unity and find contentment in the blessings of God. As you do so, you will discover the true blessing of experiencing peace and the joy that comes from living in unity.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wisdom found in Scripture. Help me to resist the temptations of the world that constantly push me toward material gain and self-centeredness. Teach me to appreciate the blessings in my life and find contentment in what I already possess. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 4, 2023

Encouragement

When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬

In our journey of faith, it sometimes feels as if we have enemies on all sides. During such times, it is easy to become overwhelmed and discouraged. Thankfully, today’s verse offers us a powerful promise and a source of hope.

When the Lord takes pleasure in our ways, He can transform our situations. His divine intervention brings about reconciliation and peace, even in the face of conflict. This promise serves as a reminder that God is actively involved in our lives and is concerned about our well-being.

The way to experience the fulfillment of this promise is to please the Lord in all our ways. As we align our thoughts and actions with His will, we invite His favor into our lives. It is important to remember that pleasing God doesn’t mean following a set of rules or religious rituals but rather developing a personal relationship with Him through Christ our Lord.

When we genuinely seek to please God, we position ourselves under His divine favor. This favor has the power to influence even our most challenging circumstances. Our enemies may plot against us, but God’s favor can cause them to make peace with us.

Are you truly seeking to please the Lord in all your ways? Trust that He will work all things together for your good.

Pray

Lord, I desire to please You in all that I do. Help me to trust in Your perfect timing and to rely on Your favor to bring peace in my life. Strengthen my faith as I seek to align my ways with Yours. In Jesus’ name, amen.