Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: faith

Devotional For October 26, 2023

Encouragement

So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us,
‭‭Acts‬ ‭15‬:‭8‬

In the book of Acts, we find a profound truth that should bring comfort and assurance to our hearts: God’s perfect plan has always been in motion. Acts 15:18 reminds us that God has known all His works from eternity. This means that every event, every twist and turn in our lives, and the entire course of human history are within His divine knowledge and control.

Often, we may question why certain things happen, or we may struggle with uncertainty about the future. In these moments, Acts 15:18 serves as a reminder that God’s understanding is far beyond our own. He has seen all things in existence from beginning to end, and every part, no matter how seemingly insignificant, plays a part in His masterful design.

As we reflect on this verse, it’s an invitation to trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. Even when we cannot comprehend the reasons behind our circumstances, we can rest assured that God’s plan is unfolding perfectly. Our role is to have faith, to seek His guidance, and to align our lives with His purposes.

So, take a moment to pray and surrender your worries, doubts, and uncertainties to the One who knows the end from the beginning. Trust that God’s plan is far greater than anything we can fathom, and His ways are always perfect. May this truth bring you peace and confidence in your journey of faith.

Pray

Lord, in times of uncertainty and when I cannot see the full picture, help me to trust in Your sovereignty. I surrender my worries and doubts to You, knowing that You know all things from eternity. Thank you for being a God who holds the future and for loving me unconditionally. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 25, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance,
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬

John the Baptist gives a powerful message about the significance of true repentance. His words encourage us to not only acknowledge our need for forgiveness but also to demonstrate that change in our lives through the fruits of our repentance.

John the Baptist preached repentance to a people who didn’t think they needed to change. Once people heard his message, they realized how far they had fallen short and how badly they needed to repent. They were baptized with water as an expression of how their hearts had been changed.

Repentance isn’t just about confessing your wrongdoing; it’s about a genuine transformation of your heart and actions. It’s about turning away from sin and turning towards God, resulting in a life that reflects this change.

Consider the quality of your own repentance. Are you simply asking for forgiveness, or are you bearing the fruits worthy of repentance in your life? Are you actively seeking to live in a way that aligns with God’s will and reflects the change in your heart?

Pray

Lord, I come before You with a humbled and repentant heart. Help me to bear fruit worthy of repentance in my life. Give me strength to turn away from my sins and to seek Your forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 23, 2023

Encouragement

Say to those who are fearful-hearted, “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, With the recompense of God; He will come and save you.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭35‬:‭4‬

The world can be a frightful place, and it’s easy to become “fearful-hearted.” But in Isaiah 35:4, we are reminded of a powerful message of hope and reassurance from God.

First, we are encouraged to “be strong” and not to give in to fear. This strength doesn’t come from our own abilities, but from the divine source of strength – God Himself. It is a call to trust in His power and promises.

The verse goes on to proclaim that God will come with vengeance and recompense. This is a reminder that justice ultimately belongs to Him, and He will set things right. The injustices we see in the world will not go unnoticed or unpunished.

Most importantly, the verse concludes with the beautiful promise that the Lord will come and save us. No matter how dire our circumstances may appear, God is our ultimate savior. He is with us in our trials, and His salvation is our ultimate hope.

Let this verse be a source of strength and a reminder of God’s unwavering love and commitment to His people. We can take refuge in His promise to save us, knowing that we are never alone in our journey. So, be strong, do not fear, and trust in the God who is our Savior and Redeemer.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being my Savior and Redeemer. Give me strength and courage to overcome any fear I may face today. I trust Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.