Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: grace

The Good News Of Christmas

Encouragement

Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.”
Luke 2:10

In just a few days, people all across the world will be celebrating Christmas Day. But how many people will know the true meaning of Christmas and will be celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ?

The shepherds out in the field didn’t know about Jesus until the angel of the Lord came down to them. He said to them, “Don’t be afraid, I have good news, of great joy, for all people!” In verse 15, they were ready to go to Bethlehem and see what the fuss was all about.

I think we could all use some good news this Christmas Season. So many people right now are living in fear and worry and it makes it difficult to enjoy the wonder of Christmas. Let’s echo the angel and tell everyone we see “Fear not! Jesus brings you joy!”

Just imagine if more people around us were filled with this kind of joy and happiness. It would turn the world upside down. It starts with you and me, telling others about Jesus and how He is the source of joy.

We need the people in our world wondering what the fuss is all about when it comes to the birth of Jesus. People need to know about Jesus’ birth. And we need to be telling how it happened and why it happened. I encourage you today to tell someone about the true meaning of Christmas. Don’t assume that everyone knows about Jesus.

Pray

Lord, put someone in my path today that I can speak to about the birth of Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas. Help me to share with them the good news of Jesus. Let the light of Jesus shine bright in my soul.

A Sign To Believe God’s Promises

Encouragement

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14

The miracle of Christmas is that God didn’t just make promises, He followed through. God didn’t just speak words, He took action. Jesus’ birth is the revealed promise of God.

When Isaiah prophesied about the coming of the Messiah, Israel was in a time of judgment. Even though the nation deserved to be punished for turning their back on God, He promised to save them and bless them.

God sent a message of hope to His chosen people despite their unbelief. God wanted to display His love and forgiveness and grace. So He came to save His people of their sins.

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas we need to be reminded that God came to be with us. But most importantly, we need to invite Him into our life. Have you asked Him into your life?

It’s sad to know that people could actually reject God’s grace and mercy. God wants to bless us with His presence and His promises but it is up to each one to accept His gift.

This Christmas, let Jesus fill your heart with joy. Let the message of hope restore your soul. God wants to do amazing things in your life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your grace and mercy. Thank You for coming to save me of my sin. Now my hope is in Your coming again.

Godliness Is Profitable

Encouragement

For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.
‭‭I Timothy‬ ‭4:8‬

In ancient Greek and Roman cultures physical exercise was very important. Most adult men participated in competitive sports and would devote themselves to staying fit. Paul writes to the young pastor, Timothy, and says the same work and commitment that people put towards physical exercise should be put toward pursuing godliness.

The word godliness means to have the character and attitude of God. It is a task to be godly but it is attainable. It is a worthy goal, much more worthy than the potential attainments of physical exercise. It takes effort, strength, and determination to achieve godliness which is comparable of how an athlete trains to be the best.

Spiritual development and physical development share some similarities. Both require exertion and proper nutrition. Feeding our mind, heart and soul is just as important, if not more, than feeding our body. Jesus was tempted by the devil to turn stones into bread but replied, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”‭‭ (Matthew‬ ‭4:4)

Do you exercise towards godliness? Do you put forth an excellent effort to keep yourself pure and holy? It takes a great deal of strength and will power but it’s worth the effort. God is very pleased when we reflect the image of His character and attitude.

Pray

Lord, I pray Your Word feeds me and satisfies me more than anything else. Help me to know You more so I can be who You want me to be.