Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: grace

Devotional For October 17, 2023

Encouragement

…rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭12‬

There are three keywords that speak to us today as we meditate on God’s Word. They are hope, patience and prayer.

Hope is a precious gift. As Christians, our hope is anchored in the promises of God. We have hope in the salvation brought through Jesus, hope in God’s faithfulness, and hope in the ultimate victory over sin and death. We choose to rejoice in the hope we have in Christ.

During the difficult seasons of life, patience becomes a virtue of great significance. Patience is a result of trusting in God’s plan and timing. It means that we continue to walk in faith, even when circumstances seem to suggest otherwise. Remember that God can work in and through tribulations for His glory.

Prayer is our lifeline to God, and it should be a significant part of our daily lives. In times of rejoicing, in times of trouble, and at all times in between, we are encouraged to remain in prayer. Through prayer, we deepen our relationship with God, seek His guidance, and lay our concerns at His feet.

Romans 12:12 reminds us to rejoice in the hope that Christ offers. Be patient when faced with challenges, knowing that God is with you. And continue steadfastly in prayer, staying connected to the source of your strength and peace. In doing so, you will go through life’s twists and turns with a heart full of faith and a spirit that endures.

    Pray

    Lord, thank You for the guidance and encouragement found in Your Word. Help me to embrace hope, patience, and prayer today. May I find hope in You, patience in tribulation, and the joy of connecting with You through prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For October 12, 2023

    Encouragement

    To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled.
    ‭‭Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭15‬

    This verse begins with an affirmation of the purity of heart that comes from a genuine relationship with God. When our hearts are pure, we see the world through the lens of God’s grace and love. We see beauty, goodness, and potential even in the most challenging circumstances.

    A pure heart is one that has embraced God’s grace, recognizing the need for forgiveness and redemption. Such a heart is quick to extend grace and see God’s work in the lives of others.

    Purity of heart results in wholehearted faith. It allows us to trust in God’s sovereignty, even when life’s circumstances appear difficult or overwhelming. We know that God can work all things together for good (Romans 8:28).

    In contrast, when our hearts are defiled and filled with unbelief and fear, our perception of the world becomes distorted. We may see impurity, negativity, and mistrust even in the purest of circumstances.

    Sin leads to unbelief which contaminates our perspective. Doubt and fear release a distorted view of the world. Our minds become clouded with negativity, making it difficult to see the goodness around us.

    The awareness of a defiled heart serves as a call to repentance. It invites us to turn to God, seek forgiveness, and ask for a renewed heart. Through Christ, we can experience the cleansing and purity that only He can provide.

    Pray

    Lord, I come before you, asking for a pure heart. Help me to see the world through the lens of Your grace and love. If my heart has become defiled, I repent and seek your cleansing and renewal. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For October 11, 2023

    Encouragement

    “For I,” says the Lord, “will be a wall of fire all around her, and I will be the glory in her midst.”
    ‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬

    In this powerful verse from the book of Zechariah, we are reminded of the profound assurance of God’s divine presence and protection in our lives. The imagery of God as a “wall of fire” encircling us is a vivid symbol of His unwavering commitment to safeguarding and guiding His people.

    No matter what challenges or threats we may face, God’s promise is clear: He will be our protector, our refuge, and our source of glory. Just as He was the guiding light for the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness, God remains the beacon of hope in our lives, illuminating our path with His radiant presence.

    Take a moment to reflect on this truth today. God’s fiery wall of protection is not a distant promise but a living reality. He is with us, surrounding us with His love and grace. As we go about our daily lives, let’s remember that God is not only our protector but also the source of our truest glory. In Him, we find strength, peace, and purpose. With God as our “wall of fire” and the “glory in our midst,” we can face each day with unwavering confidence and gratitude for His constant presence.

    Pray

    Lord, thank You for protecting me and providing everything I need. Help me to face each and every day with confidence because I know You are with me. In Jesus’ name, amen.