Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: grace

June 6, 2023

Encouragement

For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.
‭‭Titus‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬

There are times when we need to be reminded of our former life and the transformative grace of God that has given us new life in Christ.

As we reflect on this verse, we are confronted with the reality of our sin nature. We were once foolish, making unwise choices. We were disobedient, rebellious, and willingly followed our own desires. We were seeking fulfillment and satisfaction in worldly pursuits that left us empty and unsatisfied.

But through God’s wonderful grace…, our life was transformed. This verse reminds us of the amazing work of redemption and transformation that God has accomplished in us through Jesus Christ.

Through faith in Jesus, we have been made new. Our past sins have been washed away by the blood of Jesus. We are no longer defined by our past, but rather by the righteousness and holiness of Jesus Christ.

This verse also serves as a challenge for ongoing transformation. We need to recognize the parts of our old nature that still exist. We must consistently yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to shape us into the image of Christ.

Are you thankful for the great love and mercy God has bestowed upon your life? Are you walking in obedience and love towards Him and one another?

Pray

Lord, Your love and grace never fails to amaze me. I am so thankful for what You have done in my life. Help me to continue striving to please You in all that I do.

June 5, 2023

Encouragement

Better a handful with quietness than both hands full, together with toil and grasping for the wind.
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬

In the book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon reflects on the nature of life and the things that often consume our time and energy. In Ecclesiastes 4:6, he wants the reader to reflect on the importance of unity.

Solomon’s words are so full of wisdom. They remind us that contentment is not found in the accumulation of possessions, but in finding peace in all circumstances. He illustrates having one handful with peace versus having two handfuls with constant strife.

When we focus solely on acquiring more, we risk losing sight of what truly matters most. We exhaust ourselves in gaining material wealth, popularity, and power, while neglecting the things that bring genuine fulfillment.

As followers of Christ, we are called to a different way of living—one characterized by love, compassion, and unity. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of unity, praying for them to be one, just as He and the Father are one (John 17:20-21).

When we unite with other Believers, we can accomplish far more than what we could on our own. Together, we can tackle bigger challenges, uplift one another, and spread the Gospel message.

Genuine fulfillment lies not in what we possess or achieve, but in the relationships we build and the love we share. Seek to promote unity and find contentment in the blessings of God. As you do so, you will discover the true blessing of experiencing peace and the joy that comes from living in unity.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wisdom found in Scripture. Help me to resist the temptations of the world that constantly push me toward material gain and self-centeredness. Teach me to appreciate the blessings in my life and find contentment in what I already possess. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 3, 2023

Encouragement

Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬

In our fast-paced lives, it is easy for prayer to become an afterthought. However, the apostle Paul encourages us to “continue steadfastly in prayer.” This reminds us of the importance of prayer in our daily walk with God.

To continue steadfastly in prayer means to be devoted and committed in conversation with our God. It involves setting aside a dedicated time each day to seek God’s will and listen to His voice.

Yet, Paul doesn’t stop there. He urges us to be watchful in prayer. Prayer requires attentiveness. We are to be watchful for God’s guidance, His answers, and His presence.

Moreover, Paul emphasizes the significance of gratitude in our prayer life. We are to approach God with thanksgiving. Gratitude opens our hearts to a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father and cultivates a spirit of joy.

Prayer should never a burden but a precious privilege. It is the means by which we commune with our loving Father. Set aside some time for prayer and approach God with a heart filled with gratitude. It will strengthen your faith, comfort your heart, and guide you through every season of life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for blessing me with Your grace and presence. Help me to always turn to You in prayer for all things and in all things. Strengthen my faith and give me joy unspeakable.