Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: faith

Devotional For September 20, 2023

Encouragement

And He was casting out a demon, and it was mute. So it was, when the demon had gone out, that the mute spoke; and the multitudes marveled.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭14‬

In Luke 11:14, we encounter a powerful moment in the ministry of Jesus. He was in the midst of a crowd, and there was a man who had been unable to speak. But Jesus, in His divine authority, cast out the demon afflicting this man, and the result was astonishing—the mute man spoke, and the crowd was amazed.

This encounter reveals several profound truths about the power of God’s kingdom at work in our lives.

Just as the demon had bound the man’s ability to speak, there may be areas in our lives where we feel bound or silenced—whether it’s by fear, doubt, guilt, or any other form of oppression. The good news is that through Christ, we can find freedom from these chains.

Notice that Jesus didn’t use an elaborate ritual or a formula to free the man. He simply spoke with authority, and the demon had to obey. In our own lives, we can rely on the authority of Jesus to break the strongholds that hold us back.

The man who had been mute gained a voice and the ability to communicate. When we encounter Jesus, we too can experience transformation and restoration. He can heal our brokenness, mend our wounds, and give us a voice to declare His goodness.

The crowd’s reaction was one of amazement. When we witness the power of God at work, it should evoke wonder and amazement in us as well. These moments become opportunities for us to share our faith and testify to the incredible works of Jesus in our lives.

Remember that the same power that drove out the demon and restored the mute man is available to us today through our faith in Jesus Christ. Whatever silence or bondage you may be experiencing, know that Christ can bring freedom, healing, and transformation.

Pray

Lord, thank you for the power of your kingdom at work in my life. Just as you freed the mute man and amazed the crowd, I pray for your transformative power to break any bondage in my life. Help me to trust in your authority and be a witness to your incredible works. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 18, 2023

Encouragement

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬

Colossians 3:17 serves as a reminder of the significance of Christ in every aspect of our lives. It challenges us to live with purpose, integrity, and gratitude as we carry the name of Jesus into the world.

The verse begins with the phrase “whatever you do in word or deed.” This inclusive language leaves no room for compartmentalizing our faith. It means that every word we speak and every action we take should be influenced by our identity as followers of Christ.

Doing everything “in the name of the Lord Jesus” means that we act as representatives of Christ, reflecting His character and values. It’s a call to integrity, reminding us that our behavior should align with the teachings and example of Jesus.

The verse concludes with “giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Gratitude is a natural response to living in the name of Jesus. When we recognize the privilege and responsibility of bearing His name, our hearts overflow with thanksgiving for the salvation and purpose we find in Him.

Are there areas where your words or deeds do not align with the name of Jesus? How can you live more intentionally in His name, bringing glory to God?

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to live every moment in His name, reflecting His love, grace, and truth in all I say and do. Let my life be a testimony to Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 16, 2023

Encouragement

So the king’s scribes were called at that time, in the third month, which is the month of Sivan, on the twenty-third day; and it was written, according to all that Mordecai commanded, to the Jews, the satraps, the governors, and the princes of the provinces from India to Ethiopia, one hundred and twenty-seven provinces in all, to every province in its own script, to every people in their own language, and to the Jews in their own script and language.
‭‭Esther‬ ‭8‬:‭9‬

If today’s verse seems a little long, it’s the longest verse in the Bible. The Book of Esther is a remarkable story about a Jewish orphan turned queen, who finds herself in a position to save her people from destruction. In Esther 8:9, we witness a crucial moment when a divine turnaround occurs, bringing hope to a seemingly hopeless situation.

It begins with “at that time,” reminding us that God’s plans unfold according to His perfect timing. In our lives, we may face circumstances that seem dire, but God is always working behind the scenes, orchestrating events for our good.

Mordecai, Esther’s uncle, wrote a decree in multiple languages, emphasizing the inclusivity of God’s salvation. This mirrors God’s desire for all nations to come to Him. In Christ, there is unity and salvation for people from every background.

Mordecai’s decree carried a message of redemption and hope for the Jewish people. Similarly, God offers us redemption through Jesus Christ. No matter our past, we can find hope and forgiveness in Him.

Esther and Mordecai’s courage and obedience to God’s call played a pivotal role in the salvation of their people. When we align our lives with God’s purpose, He can use us in remarkable ways.

Esther 8:9 reminds us of God’s faithfulness to His promises. He had not abandoned His people but had a plan to deliver them. Likewise, God remains faithful to us, even in the darkest of times.

Just as God turned the situation around for Esther and the Jews, He can bring about divine turnarounds in your life as well. Simply trust in His providence, obey His call, and find hope in the midst of adversity.

Pray

Lord, help me to trust in Your divine timing of Your perfect plan. I know You have a special purpose for everything You do. Use me today to display Your goodness and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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