Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: grace

A Daily Devotional for July 1, 2023

Encouragement

I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬

In this sixth letter to the seven churches, Jesus addresses the church in Philadelphia. He commends them for their faithfulness and perseverance. Despite the challenges they faced, Jesus acknowledges their works and offers them an encouraging promise—a door of opportunity that no one can shut.

Just as Jesus knew the works of the church in Philadelphia, He knows the deeds of each one of us today. He also sees the challenges we encounter and the limitations we face. Yet, in the midst of it all, He promises an open door—a pathway to new possibilities, blessings, and growth.

The open door represents opportunities in various aspects of our lives—spiritually, relationally, and vocationally. It is an invitation to step into God’s divine plan and purpose for our lives. It may involve areas of ministry, personal growth, or unexpected blessings. Regardless of the specific nature of the open door, it signifies that God is at work, orchestrating circumstances for our benefit.

Notice that Jesus acknowledged their little strength. It is a reminder that our own human abilities and resources are insufficient to bring about significant change or accomplish God’s purposes. But, when we rely on Him, He empowers us beyond our limitations.

The key to walking through the open door lies in our faithfulness to God’s Word and our commitment to Jesus. As we remain in His truth and live out our faith, we position ourselves to receive His guidance, direction, and provision.

Sometimes it may be required of us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace unfamiliar territories. It may involve risks, challenges, or the need to rely completely on the leading of the Holy Spirit. Yet, we can be assured that as we step out in faith, we are not alone. God’s presence goes before us, equipping us for every step along the way.

Are you trusting in God’s love and perfect timing? Are you willing to walk through the door, even if it means leaving behind the familiar and taking a leap of faith? With God as your guide, you can rest assured that the path He establishes will lead to blessings and an abundant life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the open door of opportunity that You have set before me. Give me discernment to recognize the doors You open and the courage to walk through them. Give me wisdom and guidance as I navigate new paths and step into the unknown. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 30, 2023

Encouragement

Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬

Jesus addresses the fifth church which was located in Sardis. He urged them to wake up from their spiritual slumber. Today, this message resonates with believers all over the world, as we are often plagued with complacency.

Jesus begins by urging the church to remember their moment of salvation. Do you remember the overwhelming love and grace that engulfed you when you first encountered Jesus? Never let that memory fade into the background of your spiritual journey.

Jesus called the church at Sardis to hold fast to their faith and to repent. It means to cling to the truth of God’s Word and refuse to ever compromise because of worldly pressures. It means to remain faithful in our commitment to following Christ, even when the path seems difficult. Repentance involves turning away from anything that hinders our relationship with God. It is an act of humility, surrender, and willingness to change.

Jesus also issued a stern warning to the church. He reminds us that He is coming back, and His return will be unexpected. Everyone must be watchful and alert, living with a sense of urgency. We cannot be caught off guard being entangled in the distractions and cares of this world. Instead, we must prioritize our relationship with Christ, knowing that His return is imminent.

We are called to be the light of the world. We are not meant to blend in but to stand out. Let us heed the words of Jesus and awaken from our spiritual slumber.

Be watchful and diligent to seek the Lord. Shine bright in the midst of darkness. Let your faith and hope be placed in the promise that Jesus is coming soon.

Pray

Lord, awaken my heart from any spiritual slumber I may have fallen into. Help me to remember the power of my salvation and the work You have done in my life. Fill me with a sense of watchfulness and readiness for Your return. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 27, 2023

Encouragement

Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬

In the second letter to the seven churches, Jesus encourages the Christians in Smyrna, who were was facing persecution for their faith. Let’s focus on the words of Jesus and be encouraged as well.

  1. Do Not Fear: Jesus begins by addressing the fears that the church in Smyrna would face. Fear can cause a person to fight, flight or freeze. Jesus reminds us not to fear the trials and tribulations that come our way. He is with us and He is greater than any challenge we face.
  2. Testing and Tribulation: Jesus acknowledges that the church in Smyrna would experience severe suffering. Just as they faced opposition from the devil, we too encounter trials and hardships in our daily walk with Christ. However, in our times of testing, God refines our faith, strengthens our character, and deepens our dependence upon Him. Our struggles serve a bigger purpose in God’s plan for our lives.
  3. Be Faithful until Death: The central message of this verse is a call to be faithful, even if it cost us our lives. Jesus encourages the believers to remain committed to Him, regardless of the cost. This is a challenge for us today as well. We are called to hold fast to our faith and to remain faithful even in the midst of adversity, opposition, or persecution.
  4. The Crown of Life: In the midst of their suffering, Jesus offers the church in Smyrna a glorious promise: the crown of life. This crown is the eternal reward and the abundant life that awaits those who remain faithful until the end. It is a reminder that our temporary struggles are incomparable to the joy and fulfillment that await us in heaven. As we remain faithful, we can look forward to receiving the crown of life promised to all who love Him.

Regardless of the challenges you face, do not waver in your faith. God is with you in every trial, testing, and tribulation. As you remain faithful until death, God, who is Faithful and True, will reward you with the crown of life.

Pray

Lord, give me strength and courage to not fear the things that I often fear. Fill my heart with love and give me a sound mind. Thank You for being with me in every step I make. In Jesus’ name, amen.