Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: daily devotional

The Pursuit Of Peace

Faith

‘Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: ‘
Hebrews 12:14

Have you ever considered the importance of peace and holiness? The command in today’s verse is to pursue peace and holiness. This means that we are to walk right with both men and God.

A lack of holiness is a critical obstacle to a close relationship with the Lord. Charles Spurgeon once said, “Unholy Christians are the plague of the church. They are spots in our feasts of charity. Like hidden rocks, they are the terror of navigators. It is hard to steer clear of them; and there is no telling what wrecks they may cause.”

You may be active in church attendance, engaged in spiritual activities, and believe you are a spiritual person, but if you do not have holiness you are missing a vital part of being a follower of Christ. Holiness is godliness and Christlikeness.

Jesus lived a holy and perfect life that was in complete obedience to God the Father. Everything He did pointed people to God. His peace and holiness showed the glory of God.

You cannot pursue peace and holiness outside a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Good works alone will not get you into Heaven. The closer you are to the Lord the more peace and holiness you will pursue.

Pray

Lord, will You give me the strength and courage to avoid evil and pursue peace and holiness? Forgive me and cleanse me of all sin. Fill me with Your love and joy.

The Unconditional Love Of God

Encouragement

‘As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. ‘
John 15:9

There is no greater love than the love of Jesus. God’s love for the world is witnessed through the person of Jesus for the sole purpose that all people should be saved. His love is unconditional and unchanging.

The promise of the Scripture tells us that there is nothing that can separate us from His love (Romans 8:35). As we study the Word of God, the message of His love is embedded through every book and every chapter. God wants us to know how much He loves us.

During times of uncertainty and difficulty His love never fails. His great love is what gives us hope and joy to endure the difficult times. Hence the reason for Jesus saying, “Abide in my love.” When we remain in His love we can endure to the end.

It’s easy to forget about how much Jesus loves us. Sometimes we stray from His Word and we let the distractions of life to control our minds and hearts. But the only way to stay in His love is to stay in His Word.

What’s more important than being in God’s Word and being reminded of His great love? No matter how busy we get or how famous we become we can never forget how much He loves us. Stay in His love and stay in His Word.

Pray

Lord, whatever is keeping me from being closer to You needs to be removed. Help me to remain in Your love and in Your Word. Thank you for loving me even when I’m hard to love.

God Has You Right Where You Belong

Encouragement

‘Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.’
Proverbs 22:29

Do you know what makes you stand out in your talents and abilities? Do you love what you do for a living?

God blesses every believer with extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit works in your life to show you who you are in Christ. You are special to God.

The Lord places us right where He wants us to be. You are where you are because God has a plan to use your gifts and abilities for His glory. You need to have confidence in knowing that God has a specific plan for you. Nothing happens by accident or incidentally.

God does not make mistakes. He has equipped you and given you the opportunity to work a specific task that can only allow God to shine. You did not get where you are without the help and guidance of God.

God blesses those who use their gifts to bless others. It is vital that you understand the gifts that God has given to you through the Holy Spirit so that you can minister or serve others. When you use your gifts you will receive joy and peace.

Pray

Lord, today I will use my gifts to serve others. Thank you for giving me the abilities to do what I do. Thank you for giving me the knowledge and wisdom to be who I am. I pray that my life will point others to You.