Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: grace

Devotional For August 27, 2023

Encouragement

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God:
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭2‬

Today’s verse reminds that obedience to God’s voice is the key to unlocking these blessings that overflow and overtake our lives. God desires to bless His children for their continued obedience. It is out of the goodness f His heart that He shows us what great things He can do.

Imagine blessings that don’t just trickle in but flow forth in abundance. God’s promise in Deuteronomy 28:2 is that His blessings will not only come upon you but overtake you. He doesn’t hold back; His desire is to lavish His goodness upon us.

There is a connection between obedience and blessings. When we align our lives with God’s commands and listen to His voice, we position ourselves to receive the blessings He has prepared for us. Obedience reflects our trust in His plans.

The many types of blessings mentioned in Deuteronomy 28 encompass a wide range—physical, material, and spiritual. These blessings give us a glimpse into the heart of a loving Father who desires to provide for His children in every aspect of their lives.

The idea of blessings overtaking us highlights God’s initiative in showering us with His grace. As we walk in obedience, blessings chase after us. It’s a beautiful reminder that God’s favor is not contingent on our efforts alone but on His boundless love.

Can you say that you are blessed with the goodness of God? Are there areas where obedience to God’s voice can bring about His blessings in greater measure? Consider how aligning with His will can lead to an overflow of blessings.

Pray

Lord, I’m grateful for Your desire to bless me. Help me to listen to Your voice and obey Your commands. Help me walk in alignment with Your will and experience the overflow of blessings that come from living in Your ways. Thank You for Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For August 25, 2023

Encouragement

Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭10‬

The imagery of God’s sovereign hand is woven throughout the pages of Scripture, depicting His guidance, protection, and loving care for His children. In Psalm 139:10, we glimpse the profound truth that wherever we go, the hand of God leads us and holds us securely.

Imagine walking in the dark through unfamiliar terrain. The assurance that “Your hand shall lead me” brings a sense of comfort. God’s hand is not just a hopeful presence; it’s a force that guides us on the paths He has already ordained for us.

The imagery of God’s right hand holding us speaks of His strength. It’s a reminder that we are not left to navigate through life’s journey alone. His grip is firm and capable of carrying us through even the most difficult circumstances.

God’s hand isn’t distant; it’s close and personal. When we take His hand, we experience an intimate connection with our Creator. His touch offers comfort, reassurance, and the sense that we are known and loved beyond measure.

There are moments in our life when things feel uncertain. It’s in these times that we can hold onto the promise that God’s hand is leading and upholding us. His presence provides us with the strength and courage to face whatever lies ahead that we cannot see.

Consider areas in your life where you need to trust His leading more fully. Ask God to lead you with His sovereign hand and He will guide you to where you need to be.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your guiding and protecting hand. I am grateful that Your hand leads me and holds me securely. In times of uncertainty, help me to trust Your grip and find comfort in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For August 23, 2023

Encouragement

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭19‬:‭14‬

This verse invites us to reflect on the significance of our thoughts and speech, and to seek God’s guidance in ensuring they are pleasing to Him. The psalmist recognizes the intimate connection between the “meditation of the heart” and the “words of the mouth.” Our words stem from an overflow of what’s in our hearts. When our hearts are filled with love, grace, and godly intentions, our words will reflect that beauty.

The core desire is for our words and the meditation of our hearts to be pleasing to God. This plea emphasizes our longing to bring glory to God through our thoughts and speech. We seek to live in a way that resonates with His character.

The verse concludes with a reminder of God’s role in our lives as our “strength and Redeemer.” Our dependence on Him is crucial for the transformation of our hearts and the refinement of our words. With God’s strength, we can choose words of encouragement, wisdom, and love.

Living out this verse requires us to be intentional and to have a surrendered heart. It’s about consistently seeking God’s guidance in our thoughts and interactions. When we invite the Holy Spirit to shape our innermost being, our words will naturally align with God’s will.

Do your thoughts and words align with the desires of God? How can you ensure that your heart’s meditation and your spoken words honor God? Spend time in prayer, inviting God to guide your thoughts and speech.

Pray

Lord, I pray that the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart would be pleasing in Your sight. Help me to align my thoughts and speech with Your wisdom and grace. Strengthen me to choose words that build up and encourage others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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