Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: faith

June 7, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭2‬

In a world that promotes praise and the applause of others, Jesus invites His followers to take a different approach. He instructs us to give in secret, where only God sees and knows our actions.

Why would Jesus call us to give in secret? It is because He understands the selfish desire within us to be seen and praised by others. He knows that when we do charitable deeds for human applause it can ruin the best of intentions. However, when we give out of the genuineness of our hearts, our deeds become an act of worship to God.

True giving is about meeting the needs of others with sincerity and humility, without seeking anything in return. When we give in secret, our hearts are aligned with God’s heart, and our actions reflect His character.

Jesus teaches that when we give with the right motives, our acts of kindness are seen and awarded by our Heavenly Father who blesses us with eternal riches. Our eternal blessings outweigh any earthly reward.

Today, let us examine our hearts when it comes to giving. Are we seeking the praise of others, or are we motivated by a sincere desire to bless those in need? Let our giving be in the quietness of our hearts, knowing that God approves and appreciates our acts of generosity.

Pray

Lord, help me to embrace the secret forms of giving. Give me a genuine heart of compassion and selflessness, and help me to give without seeking the approval or recognition of others. May my acts of kindness be an offering of love and worship to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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 3, 2023

Encouragement

Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬

In our fast-paced lives, it is easy for prayer to become an afterthought. However, the apostle Paul encourages us to “continue steadfastly in prayer.” This reminds us of the importance of prayer in our daily walk with God.

To continue steadfastly in prayer means to be devoted and committed in conversation with our God. It involves setting aside a dedicated time each day to seek God’s will and listen to His voice.

Yet, Paul doesn’t stop there. He urges us to be watchful in prayer. Prayer requires attentiveness. We are to be watchful for God’s guidance, His answers, and His presence.

Moreover, Paul emphasizes the significance of gratitude in our prayer life. We are to approach God with thanksgiving. Gratitude opens our hearts to a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father and cultivates a spirit of joy.

Prayer should never a burden but a precious privilege. It is the means by which we commune with our loving Father. Set aside some time for prayer and approach God with a heart filled with gratitude. It will strengthen your faith, comfort your heart, and guide you through every season of life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for blessing me with Your grace and presence. Help me to always turn to You in prayer for all things and in all things. Strengthen my faith and give me joy unspeakable.