Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: daily devotional

Devotional For July 28, 2023

Encouragement

So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬

In Genesis 1, we witness the account of God’s creation, where every element of the universe was formed by His majestic hand. On the sixth and final day of creation, mankind is created and set apart from all creation in the image of God.

God intentionally designed us in His image. We are purposefully crafted by the Creator Himself. This truth carries profound implications for our understanding of human value and purpose.

As beings made in God’s image, we possess inherent value. Every individual, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background, carries the imprint of the Divine. This truth is a reminder that each person is precious and deeply loved by God. It compels us to treat one another with respect, kindness, and compassion.

Understanding that we are created in God’s image also gives us a glimpse into our purpose. We are called to reflect God’s character and attributes to the world around us. Just as a mirror reflects an image, our lives are meant to mirror the love, grace, mercy, and justice of our Heavenly Father. We fulfill our purpose when we live in obedience to His Word and walk in alignment with His will.

Today, there seems to be a lot of confusion about God’s design of mankind. If you reject your gender, you reject your value and purpose. God has a purpose for you to be who He created you to be. God did not make a mistake.

Pray

Lord, thank You for creating me in Your image. Help me to grasp the profound truth of my inherent worth and value. Guide me to fulfill my purpose by reflecting Your character and attributes in all that I do. Let Your image be evident in my life, drawing others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 27, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore keep the words of this covenant, and do them, that you may prosper in all that you do.
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭29‬:‭9‬

Have you ever wondered why God blesses some people but not others? Have you witnessed times in your life when God was blessing you more than other times? Let’s take a close look at a possible reason why?

In Deuteronomy 29, Moses addressed the Israelites, reminding them of God’s faithfulness throughout their 40 years in the wilderness. He emphasized the importance of keeping the covenant they made with the Lord and obeying His commands. Today, we too are called to remember God’s faithfulness and walk in obedience.

God’s covenant with His people is a promise that extends beyond generations. His covenant affirms that He will always be our faithful and trustworthy guide. Just as the Israelites were called to keep the covenant, we are also called to honor our covenant with God through faith and obedience.

When we faithfully keep His Word, we position ourselves to prosper in all that we do. This prosperity may not always be materialistic but it does include peace and joy that comes from walking in obedience. God enjoys blessing His children.

Today, make a commitment to walk in obedience to God’s commands. As you seek to follow His ways, you will open yourself up to a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. When you are in fellowship with God, your life becomes a testimony of His goodness, grace, and faithfulness.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness throughout my life. Help me to remember Your goodness and grace. Give me the strength and willingness to obey Your Word and honor the covenant I have with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 25, 2023

Encouragement

Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.
‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬

In this passage of Scripture, Jesus was preparing His disciples for His departure from this world. He promised to send the Helper, the Holy Spirit, who will be an ever-present source of strength, guidance, and comfort for all who believe.

Imagine what the disciples were thinking as they heard Jesus speak about leaving. They had walked with Him, witnessed countless miracles, and found joy being in His presence. Jesus assured them that His departure would not be a loss but a gain. It was to their advantage because, through His departure, the Helper would come.

Today, we have an advantage because the very presence of the Almighty abides within us. Through the Holy Spirit, we experience an intimate relationship with God. This promise is not limited to the disciples; it is a gift for all who call upon the name of Jesus.

In our moments of sorrow, we have the Holy Spirit with us as the Comforter, offering peace that surpasses all understanding. When we face uncertainty, we have the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth, giving us illumination, inspiration and revelation of the Word.

As we yield our lives to the Holy Spirit’s leading, He transforms our hearts, aligning our desires with God’s will. The Helper convicts us of sin, urging us to repent and walk in righteousness. He enables us to love sacrificially, forgive unconditionally, and serve others selflessly.

It is your choice to seek His guidance, trust His leading, and rely on His power. With the Holy Spirit, you can confidently face life’s challenges, knowing that you have the greatest advocate and companion in your journey of faith.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Help me to yield to His leading, that I may walk in Your truth. Empower me to love, serve, and forgive others with the same love and grace You have shown me. In Jesus’ name, amen.