Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: faith

Devotional For July 29, 2023

Encouragement

So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬

Is “tithing” mentioned in the New Testament? I get this question all the time. The word “tithing” is not mentioned. However, we are given many examples as to how we are to give back to God.

In today’s verse, Paul addresses the “attitude” that giving should stem from as we honor God and bless others. Here are five “nesses” of biblical giving to keep in mind.

  1. Willingness: Our generosity should be a product of thoughtful consideration, prayer, and seeking God’s guidance. When we purposefully decide what to give, it reflects our willingness to align our hearts with God’s will.
  2. Joyfulness: Paul reminds us that God loves a cheerful giver. When we give joyfully, it reflects our gratitude for God’s blessings in our lives. Joyful giving is a response to God’s love and grace, expressing our love for Him and our concern for others.
  3. Free-Heartedness: Paul emphasizes that giving should not be forced upon us. God desires a voluntary and free-hearted response from His children. Our willingness to give out of love for God and others, brings joy to the heart of God.
  4. Abundantness: Although this is not an actual word it makes sense. Throughout the Bible, we see the theme of sowing and reaping. When we give abundantly, we open ourselves up to receive God’s blessings in abundance. Our generosity paves the way for God’s abundance in our lives.
  5. Reflectiveness: Ultimately, our giving mirrors the nature of God, who is the ultimate Giver. He gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, as a sacrifice for our salvation. When we give, we reflect God’s character and demonstrate His love to the world.

May your giving not only bless others but also deepen your relationship with God.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being a gracious and generous God. Help me to give with pure motives and a joyful heart, as an act of worship. Let my generosity be a reflection of Your love that abides in me. In Jesus’ name, amen

Devotional For July 26, 2023

Encouragement

My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.
‭‭I John‬ ‭3‬:‭18‬

As children of God, we are called to love one another not merely with empty words or expressions, but through genuine actions and sincere truth. In today’s verse, we can take away three truths that will shape the way we demonstrate love toward others.

  1. Love is Evidenced Through Action: John challenges us to show love through our actions. Love seeks to meet the needs of others. Whether it is lending a helping hand, showing kindness, or offering encouragement, our love becomes a powerful force when put into practice and not just passed along with words.
  2. Love is Rooted in Truth: True love is firmly grounded in truth. It seeks to uplift and empower, recognizing the value of every individual. We are challenged to be genuine and honest in our interactions, allowing love to flow from a heart that sincerely cares for others.
  3. Love is a Choice, Not just a Feeling: Love is not solely based on emotions but is a conscious decision to act on the well-being of others. It is a choice that goes beyond our comfort zone. When we imitate the love of Christ, we learn to love even when it is challenging or inconvenient.

As you seek to love others in deed and truth, you will become a living testimony of Christ’s transformative love, shining His light into a world in need of authentic compassion and grace.

Pray

Dear Lord, thank You for Your perfect example of love demonstrated through Jesus Christ. Help me to love others not just in words but through actions that reflect Your love. Give me the strength to choose love even when it is a challenge. 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.