Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: God

Devotional For November 17, 2023

Encouragement

Every day I will bless You, And I will praise Your name forever and ever.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭145‬:‭2‬

David expressed his commitment to daily praise. This verse encourages us to cultivate a lifestyle of continuous praise and worship. David’s words inspire us to make praise a daily rhythm, not confined by circumstances but based on the unchanging character of God.

Consider the beauty of David’s commitment – not just occasional praise, but a deliberate act woven into the fabric of each day. It challenges us to recalibrate our perspective, shifting from gratitude to a posture of praise. In the busyness of life today, let’s echo David’s resolve, allowing every moment to be an opportunity to praise the Lord.

Are you ready to praise the Lord today? As you go through the day, make a purposeful attempt to praise God for all the things He has done for you.

Pray

Lord, I am stirred to make praise a daily practice. May my heart be continuously in a melody of gratitude, offering praise that honors You. Your name is worthy of eternal worship, and I commit to bless You every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 14, 2023

Encouragement

This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.
‭‭I John‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬

This verse guides us toward the pure nature of God. He is light and in Him there is no darkness at all. As we reflect on this truth, we are reminded that in His light, there is no room for shadows or deception.

In low light, objects that are not real can be perceived as real. But when the light is bright, the truth is revealed. The light of God reveals the truth. Jesus is the light of the world.

Today, let’s embrace the transformative power of God’s light. In the brilliance of His truth, let’s lay bare our hearts, allowing His light to illuminate every corner, exposing any darkness that may linger.

It’s a journey of authenticity and vulnerability, acknowledging that God’s light not only reveals but also purifies, bringing healing to the broken places within.

Pray

Lord, in the light of Your presence, I come before you with open hands and an open heart. Illuminate every area of my life with Your truth, dispelling any darkness that seeks to overshadow Your love. May Your light be a guiding force, shaping my thoughts, actions, and relationships. In this journey of transparency, may Your light bring healing and renewal, making me more like You each day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 13, 2023

Encouragement

You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one.
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭15‬

In this verse, Christ encourages a shift in our perspective, urging us to move away from worldly judgment and embrace a spirit of compassion and understanding. Let’s consider how we can embody Christ’s non-judgmental love in our daily lives.

We are naturally quick to assess based on appearances. We judge according to what we see. However, Jesus challenges us to adopt a different perspective—one that reflects His grace.

As followers of Christ, our calling is not to condemn but to extend mercy, recognizing the complexity of each person’s journey. Let’s strive to mirror Jesus’ example, offering compassion instead of criticism, and understanding rather than quick judgment.

Pray

Lord, grant me the grace to see others through the lens of love. Help me to resist the temptation to judge based on outward appearances and instead cultivate a heart that reflects Your mercy. May my interactions be marked by compassion and understanding, allowing Your love to shine through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.