Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: grace

Devotional For September 30, 2023

Encouragement

My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you,
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬

Paul’s words reflect the heart of a spiritual parent who cares deeply for the spiritual development of his “children” in the faith. It reminds us that in our journey as believers, we should not only focus on our personal growth but also invest in the growth of others.

The phrase “labor in birth again” underscores the idea that spiritual growth is a process. Just as a woman goes through labor pains to bring a child into the world, nurturing spiritual growth can be challenging and requires much effort. It’s journey consisting of teaching, guiding, and discipling.

The ultimate goal of spiritual growth is for “Christ to be formed in you.” This means that our lives should increasingly reflect the character, love, and nature of Jesus. It’s about becoming more like Him in our thoughts, actions, and attitudes.

It’s essential to recognize that this transformation doesn’t happen through our own efforts alone. It is through our relationship with Christ. We depend on His grace, guidance, and the work of the Holy Spirit to mold us into His image.

Consider your role in nurturing spiritual growth, both in your own life and in the lives of those around you. Like Paul, may we be committed to seeing Christ formed in us and in others, recognizing that it is a labor of love guided by our deep faith in Christ.

    Pray

    Lord, help me to be diligent in becoming more like You. Help me to encourage others in their growth in faith. Let Your love shine through me each and every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For September 28, 2023

    Encouragement

    Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
    ‭‭I Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬

    In this verse, the Apostle Peter provides us with valuable wisdom and guidance on how to navigate the spiritual battles we face in life. He urges us to be both sober and vigilant, and he likens our adversary, the devil, to a roaring lion on the prowl.

    Peter encourages us to be sober, not just in the sense of abstaining from alcohol, but also in our spiritual lives. Sobriety means being clear-minded and not clouded by the distractions or temptations of this world. It’s about maintaining spiritual clarity so that we can discern the enemy’s tactics.

    Being vigilant implies being watchful and alert. We are called to watch over our hearts and minds. The devil is constantly seeking opportunities to lead us astray, so we must remain vigilant in our faith, prayer, and devotion to God.

    Peter reminds us that the devil is our adversary, and he is relentless in his efforts to devour our faith, joy, and peace. Understanding the nature of our spiritual enemy is crucial. He often operates through deception, temptation, and discouragement.

    While the devil may be an adversary, we have the ultimate protector in God. Through prayer, faith, and reliance on God’s Word, we can resist the schemes of the enemy. God provides us with the armor of faith to stand firm.

    As you go about your day, stay rooted in your relationship with God, and you’ll find the strength to overcome the challenges that come your way.

    Pray

    Lord, thank You for the guidance and wisdom found in your Word. Help me to be sober and vigilant in my faith, guarding my heart against the schemes of the enemy. Strengthen me with Your Spirit so that I may stand firm in my faith and find refuge in Your loving arms. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For September 27, 2023

    Encouragement

    …for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
    ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬

    In today’s verse, the Apostle Paul highlights two essential aspects of our relationship with God.

    1. God’s Divine Will: The verse acknowledges that God desires us to align our will with His divine purpose. His will is always perfect and in our best interest. When we earnestly seek His will, we open the door for His guidance and blessings in our lives.

    2. God’s Empowering Grace: Not only does God invite us to follow His will, but He also empowers us to do so. This empowerment comes through the Holy Spirit, who works within us, transforming our desires and enabling us to carry out His plans.

    As we seek God’s will in our lives, we may face moments of uncertainty or doubt. But God’s Spirit guides and enlightens our hearts, helping us understand His purpose for us.

    When we encounter difficulties or obstacles in following God’s will, His empowering grace equips us with the strength and resilience needed to overcome them.

    God’s empowerment allows us to live purposefully, fulfilling His good pleasure. When we align our will with His, our lives take on deeper meaning and significance.

    Philippians 2:13 reminds us that God is actively at work within us, enabling us to desire and fulfill His divine will. As we seek His guidance and rely on His empowering grace, we can live a life that brings Him glory and aligns with His perfect plan for us.

    Pray

    Lord, I am so grateful for Your invitation to follow Your will and for the empowering grace of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to seek Your guidance in all aspects of my life and to align my desires with Your purpose. Help me to trust in Your empowerment to fulfill Your good pleasure. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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