Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: grace

Devotional For July 20, 2023

Encouragement

holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬

In the letter to the Philippians, Paul encourages believers to hold fast to the word of life. This call reminds us that our lives should be lived with purpose and dedication.

The “word of life” that Paul refers to is the Gospel, the message of salvation and hope found in Jesus Christ. In a world full of despair and uncertainty, our faith, in Christ, should draw others towards the source of true life.

Being a light in the world is not always easy. Challenges, distractions, and the many temptations that surround us, dim our spiritual glow. The enemy seeks to make us think that our labor is in vain.

It is in these moments that Paul’s challenge becomes even more critical. To “hold fast” implies a firm grip, a strong commitment to the truth of the Gospel, and a deep devotion to Christ.

By holding fast to the word of life, we position ourselves with God’s purposes and find joy in knowing that our efforts are not in vain. Our lives take on eternal significance when we become faithful stewards of the Gospel, spreading its message through both words and actions.

Examine yourself to see if you are truly holding fast to the word of life. Are you living in a way that reflects the light of Christ? Are your actions, attitudes, and words drawing others closer to Jesus?

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your word, which brings life and hope into my soul. Help me to hold fast to the Gospel, to remain committed in my faith. Make my life to be a testimony to your goodness and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 15, 2023

Encouragement

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬

What does it mean for us to say, “To live is Christ”? It means that our lives are no longer driven by selfish ambition, worldly success, or temporary pleasures. Instead, our lives are characterized by a passionate pursuit of Christ and a desire to align ourselves with His will. “To live is Christ” means we find our purpose, joy, and fulfillment in Him alone.

Paul’s declaration, “For to me, to live is Christ,” reveals his unwavering commitment to Christ as the very essence and purpose of his existence. Paul had encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, and from that moment, his life was radically changed. He abandoned his former way of life and pursued an intimate relationship with Jesus. Every aspect of Paul’s being—his thoughts, actions, and desires—were now directed towards the person of Christ.

Paul does not stop there. He continues, “and to die is gain.” This phrase may seem counterintuitive at first, as death is often viewed with fear and uncertainty. However, for a believer, death holds a different significance. It is not the end but the beginning. It is a gain because it marks our ultimate victory over sin and suffering.

Paul’s perspective on life and death challenges us to evaluate our priorities and prioritize our hearts towards what truly matters. The pursuits and possessions of this world pale in comparison to the immeasurable worth of Christ. When we grasp the profound truth that to live is Christ and to die is gain, it changes the way we approach every aspect of our lives.

Are you wholly devoted to Christ? Do you seek to live for Him in every circumstance? As we live for Christ, may we find comfort in the assurance that even death cannot separate us from His love and the eternal inheritance that awaits us.

Pray

Lord, help me to be a living testimony to the truth that to live is Christ. Teach me to surrender my desires, ambitions, and fears to You, and enable me to walk in step with Your Spirit each day. Help me to find joy and purpose. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 14, 2023

Encouragement

Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬

Jesus taught His followers the importance of giving. It is a powerful reminder that the act of giving opens up the floodgates of blessings. Jesus isn’t just referring to material possessions; He is talking about a generous and compassionate attitude towards others.

As followers of Christ, we are called to give, whether it’s our time, resources, or talents. The beauty of this spiritual discipline lies not only in what we give, but also in what we receive.

Jesus promises that when we give, it will be given back to us in good measure. Our heavenly Father delights in blessing His children, and He uses the act of giving as a conduit for blessing us.

It’s important to note that the measure we use in giving determines the measure of blessings we will receive. If we give sparingly, we limit the flow of blessings into our lives. But if we give with a cheerful heart, with a spirit of abundance and generosity, we position ourselves to receive an abundance.

This teaching extends beyond material possessions. When we give forgiveness, we receive forgiveness in return. When we show kindness, we experience kindness from others. When we offer love, we are embraced with love. It’s a divine economy where the more we give, the more we receive.

What measure do you use in giving? Are you giving out of obligation or with a joyful heart? Are you holding back or sowing generously? Challenge yourself to adopt a spirit of generosity, knowing that as you give, God will faithfully pour blessings into your life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your love and always providing for me. Teach me to be generous. Open my eyes to opportunities where I can sow seeds of kindness and generosity. In Jesus’ name, amen.