Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: God

June 1, 2023

Encouragement

For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭29‬

This verse holds a profound truth that may seem paradoxical at first glance. It tells us that as followers of Christ, we are not only given the privilege of believing in Him, but also the privilege of suffering for Him.

Suffering is something no one desires to encounter much less to consider it a privilege. This verse reminds us that our suffering takes on a deeper meaning when it is for the sake of Christ. It is not meaningless; it’s part of our maturing.

When we face trials and tribulations, we can find peace in knowing that we are sharing in the fellowship of Christ’s sufferings. It is through our trials that we draw closer to Him, deepen our faith, and experience His strength and grace in ways we may not have otherwise.

Remember that our suffering is not in vain. It has been granted to us by God for a purpose. It builds our character, strengthens our faith, and ultimately brings glory to His name.

Know that God is with you in your sufferings, and be encouraged that your time of suffering is a testimony to your faith in Christ. The privilege of suffering for His sake is acknowledging that in doing so, you are becoming more like Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for allowing the sufferings that You allow in my life. Help me to endure and embrace what You have brought upon me to build me up and make me a better Christian. I praise You for my sufferings that glorify You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 31, 2023

Encouragement

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬

In the backdrop of this verse is a conversation happening between Jesus and a Pharisee named, Nicodemus. Nicodemus approached Jesus at night seeking answers regarding eternal life.

In response, Jesus not only revealed the need to be born again but also explained the purpose behind His coming into the world. Jesus said, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

God did not send His Son into the world to condemn it. Jesus did not come to bring judgment or condemnation upon us, despite our sinfulness and brokenness. Instead, He came to save the world through Himself.

The world was already covered in sin and condemnation, and God could have rightfully condemned it. However, He chose a different path—a path of grace. God’s desire was to provide a way for us to be saved. The purpose of Jesus’ earthly ministry was to offer salvation freely to all who would believe in Him.

As believers, we are called to reflect the heart of our Savior. Our lives should be characterized by love, compassion, and a deep desire to see others reconciled to God through Jesus Christ.

John 3:17 gives us hope in a broken world. It reminds us that no matter how lost, broken, or condemned we may feel, there is a God who loves us unconditionally. He sent His Son to save us, not to condemn us. Let us embrace this truth and extend the same love, grace, and mercy to others that we have received from our Heavenly Father.

Pray

Lord, I am grateful for Your immeasurable love and grace. Thank You for not condemning me but sending Your Son to save me. Make my life reflect the message of redemption and hope. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 30, 2023

Encouragement

For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, And as a root out of dry ground. He has no form or comeliness; And when we see Him, There is no beauty that we should desire Him.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭2‬

Isaiah 53 is a prophetic chapter that describes the Messiah’s sacrificial, earthly life. In verse 2 lies a profound revelation that invites us to survey the humble beauty of our Savior.

With human eyes, we are captivated by physical appearances. But when it comes to our Savior, Isaiah illustrates a different picture. He reveals that Jesus did not have the kind of attractiveness that some think He would have.

Jesus’ physical appearance during His earthly ministry did not draw the attention of others. He did not possess a public figure that would be fitting for royalty. He chose to come in the most unexpected way. He did not attract attention through outward beauty but touched hearts through His words and actions of the beauty of His inner character.

The beauty of Jesus was in His humility, compassion, and selflessness. It was in His inner nature and character that His true beauty shone brightly.

As followers of Christ, we are called to display the same spirit of humility and selflessness. Our lives should reflect the inner beauty that comes from a heart devoted to God and a willingness to serve others selflessly.

Today, try fixing your gaze on the beauty of our Savior. Seek to reflect His character in your life and embrace humility and compassion for others.

Pray

Lord, thank You for revealing to me the humble beauty of Jesus through the words of Isaiah. Help me to see beyond external beauty and teach me the value of humility and selfless love that reflects Your nature and character. In Jesus’ name, amen.