Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: jesus

Devotional For December 5, 2023

Encouragement

“Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭45‬

This verse draws attention to the consequences of spiritual neglect and the importance of guarding our hearts against negative influences.

Jesus describes a man who, after being delivered from an unclean spirit, neglects to guard his heart. The consequences are severe – not only does the initial demon return, but it is accompanied by even more demons.

This symbolizes our spiritual lives. When we experience moments of victory or deliverance, it is crucial to recognize the need for continued spiritual development. Our hearts are susceptible to various influences, and without intentional guarding, we risk falling into a state worse than before.

Are there negative forces or habits that need to be addressed in your life? Identify the areas where you can guard your heart more diligently. Actively cultivate positive habits and engage in activities that nurture your spiritual well-being. This may include prayer, meditation, studying scripture, and surrounding yourself with uplifting community.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the deliverance and victories You’ve granted in my life. Help me to guard and protect my heart. Open my eyes to the evil influences that may lead me astray. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 28, 2023

Encouragement

Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭28:6‬

Christians are called to walk in integrity.  It is the basic element of Christian morality.  Integrity means to do what is right and honest even when no one is watching.  

Unfortunately, there are countless examples of Christians who make their public life appear to be great and wonderful but privately they are living unrighteously.  Integrity calls us to walk in the path of Christ and to steer away from hypocrisy.

Our lives are to be marked by love, compassion, mercy, justice, and fearing God above everything else.  We must be quick to turn from evil and do good.  To know what is the right thing to do and not do it is a sin.  

We all face challenges of integrity that can either make us or break us.  Living a life of integrity means that we set aside popular self-perceptions and model Christ-like behaviors.  When it comes down to it, most of the time you are the only one who knows what you did is right or not.  

If we desire to influence others we must have integrity.  Integrity is crucial in all aspects of leadership.

Pray

Lord, keep me humble and always allow me to remember that when no one else is watching, You are. Help me to be a person of integrity. Keep me in Your sovereign hands. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 27, 2023

Encouragement

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬

The apostle Paul delivers a profound message about the sacredness of our physical bodies. Our bodies house the very presence of the Holy Spirit. Imagine, the God of the universe chooses to dwell within each believer, making each one into a living temple.

This scripture calls us to live to a higher standard. It challenges us to view our bodies not merely as vessels for personal desires but as holy sanctuaries set apart for a divine purpose. As stewards of these sacred temples, we are entrusted with the responsibility to honor God in all we do.

The call to honor our bodies as temples goes beyond physical well-being; it’s honoring God with our thoughts, words, and actions. How do we speak about ourselves and others? What thoughts dominate our minds? Are our actions reflective of the holiness residing within us? These questions urge us to align our lives with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Our choices matter. Let us seek after a journey of intentional living. As we do, we will find joy and peace in fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives. Our bodies, temples of the Holy Spirit, become instruments through which His light shines brightly in a world longing for the hope and love only found in Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for making my body as a temple where You choose to reside. Help me to always remember to honor my body as a holy place. Let my thoughts, words, and actions be pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.