Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: faith

What Season Are You In?

Encouragement

To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:
Ecclesiastes 3:1

Sometimes we may find ourselves in a difficult or challenging season of life, and it can be easy to feel discouraged or hopeless. However, this verse reminds us that even the difficult seasons have a purpose and a time limit. We can take comfort in knowing that this season will not last forever, and that God has a plan for our lives.

Similarly, when we are in a season of abundance or blessing, it can be easy to become complacent or take things for granted. This verse reminds us that even in times of plenty, there will be other seasons where we may face hardships or challenges.

Ultimately, we are encouraged to trust in God’s timing and purpose for our lives. Whether we are in a season of joy or sorrow, we can take comfort in knowing that God is with us and has a plan for our lives.

Let us learn to embrace each season with gratitude and trust, knowing that God is in control. Take a moment today and think about where God has you. Thank Him for His favor and thank Him for His provision.

Pray

Lord, help me to recognize that You are in control no matter what season I am in. Thank you for blessing me. Thank you for the hardships I have faced that only increased my faith in You.

Spirit Led

Encouragement

One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.
Acts 13:2-3

Acts 13:1-3 describes a significant moment in the early Christian church when the Holy Spirit set apart Paul and Barnabas for a special work. As they were worshipping and fasting, the Holy Spirit spoke to the church leaders and called them to separate these two men for the task of spreading the gospel to the Gentiles.

This passage reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s direction and guidance in our lives. Just as the church leaders were sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, we too should be attentive to God’s voice and open to His leading.

God has a plan and a purpose for each of us, and it is only by seeking His guidance that we can fulfill that purpose. When we take time to worship, fast, and pray, we create space to hear from God and discern His will for our lives.

Let us follow the example of the early church and be intentional about seeking God’s direction in all that we do. As we do so, we can trust that He will lead us on the path of righteousness and use us to accomplish His purposes.

Pray

Lord, I want to be led by Your Spirit and be obedient to Your commands. Help me to discern Your voice. Help me to rid myself of any distractions that are keeping me from following You.

Unshakable Faith

Encouragement

For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.
II Timothy 1:12

Today’s verse serves as a powerful reminder that our faith in God is unshakable, and that he is always with us, even in the midst of our suffering.

The apostle Paul wrote these words while he was imprisoned for his faith, facing persecution and the very real possibility of death. Despite his circumstances, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and trusted in God’s power to protect him and the gospel message that he had dedicated his life to spreading.

As Christians, we will face challenges and difficulties that will test our faith. However, we can take comfort in knowing that our faith is rooted in Christ who is infinitely powerful and trustworthy. When we face trials, we can turn to Him for strength and guidance, knowing that He is able to protect us and keep us safe.

In times of struggle, let us hold fast to these words in 2 Timothy 1:12, trusting in God’s power and love to see us through. May we find comfort in knowing that He is with us always, guarding our faith and guiding us on our journey towards eternal life.

Pray

Lord, You are all-knowing and I can trust that You know my every concern. Give me strength to face today with bold faith. I know You are with me right now.