Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: God

God Had A Plan From The Beginning

Encouragement

Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,
Luke 2:4

What’s the big deal about Bethlehem? Have you ever wondered why God chose Bethlehem to be the birthplace of Jesus?

Bethlehem which means “House of Bread”, has historical significance as the place where David was crowned as king of Israel thus giving Jesus a royal lineage. According to the Book of Ruth, Bethlehem is where Ruth gleaned the fields for grain.

Joseph and Mary had to travel about 80 miles south of Nazareth to reach Bethlehem to register for the census. It would have taken them several days as they journeyed down the dusty and rocky roads. Being 9-months pregnant, Mary would have either walked or rode on a donkey.

Needless to say, it was difficult and dangerous for the young couple. But it was Bethlehem that Micah prophesied to be the birthplace for the Messiah (Micah 5:2). So they went.

Sometimes our life’s journey is difficult and dangerous, but God has a plan for our life. We may not know why we go where we go but God directs our steps. We just need to be obedient and go.

Are you being obedient to the plan of God? Are you allowing God to use you right where He has you?

Pray

Lord, Your plans and Your purposes are much better than mine. Your ways and thoughts are so much higher than mine. Help me to trust you in every area of my life. Even when I question what is happening help me to trust in You.

The Good News Of Christmas

Encouragement

Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.”
Luke 2:10

In just a few days, people all across the world will be celebrating Christmas Day. But how many people will know the true meaning of Christmas and will be celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ?

The shepherds out in the field didn’t know about Jesus until the angel of the Lord came down to them. He said to them, “Don’t be afraid, I have good news, of great joy, for all people!” In verse 15, they were ready to go to Bethlehem and see what the fuss was all about.

I think we could all use some good news this Christmas Season. So many people right now are living in fear and worry and it makes it difficult to enjoy the wonder of Christmas. Let’s echo the angel and tell everyone we see “Fear not! Jesus brings you joy!”

Just imagine if more people around us were filled with this kind of joy and happiness. It would turn the world upside down. It starts with you and me, telling others about Jesus and how He is the source of joy.

We need the people in our world wondering what the fuss is all about when it comes to the birth of Jesus. People need to know about Jesus’ birth. And we need to be telling how it happened and why it happened. I encourage you today to tell someone about the true meaning of Christmas. Don’t assume that everyone knows about Jesus.

Pray

Lord, put someone in my path today that I can speak to about the birth of Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas. Help me to share with them the good news of Jesus. Let the light of Jesus shine bright in my soul.

A Sign To Believe God’s Promises

Encouragement

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14

The miracle of Christmas is that God didn’t just make promises, He followed through. God didn’t just speak words, He took action. Jesus’ birth is the revealed promise of God.

When Isaiah prophesied about the coming of the Messiah, Israel was in a time of judgment. Even though the nation deserved to be punished for turning their back on God, He promised to save them and bless them.

God sent a message of hope to His chosen people despite their unbelief. God wanted to display His love and forgiveness and grace. So He came to save His people of their sins.

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas we need to be reminded that God came to be with us. But most importantly, we need to invite Him into our life. Have you asked Him into your life?

It’s sad to know that people could actually reject God’s grace and mercy. God wants to bless us with His presence and His promises but it is up to each one to accept His gift.

This Christmas, let Jesus fill your heart with joy. Let the message of hope restore your soul. God wants to do amazing things in your life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your grace and mercy. Thank You for coming to save me of my sin. Now my hope is in Your coming again.