David Numbered Israel

December 13, 2019 Pastor Stephen Dedman Trust

David Numbered Israel

Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel.
‭‭1 Chronicles‬ ‭21:1‬

Trust God

David had to make a choice. He could choose to trust God or he could fall into the temptation of Satan. He called for a census of Israel to be made and trusted in numbers. We should never seek confidence in numbers and not trust God. Instead of boasting in the power of God, David was more flattered with making a name for himself. We can call this a pride issue. David wanted other nations to fear him. When the numbers came were totaled it was amazing and almost unbelievable. 800,000 men in Israel who were qualified to serve in the military is very impressive. And another 500,000 men were counted in Judah. David knew he had a great army and he used these numbers to send a message to others.

We must understand a couple of things. First, David did not count his own people. He counted God’s people. These people did not belong to him they were God’s people. Second, a census was taken not only to impress others with the number of men fit for military but also to show how rich the nation was. A census would establish how many people were paying taxes. It was another way for David to exercise power. Third, this census was a sin. It was against what God wanted. David sinned. He finally came to his senses and repented to the Lord. However, 70,000 men died because of his great sin.

Pride was the issue. David forgot the history of how God’s great power and presence was with His children and began seeking praise of man. We should never fall into the temptation of receiving praise from man instead of pleasing God.

Prayer

Lord, I pray for your power and presence to always bring me remembrance of who You are. You are all that I need.

Advance The Gospel

December 13, 2019 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement, Faith, Salvation

Advance The Gospel

I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel,
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1:12‬

Everything Happens For A Reason

Something very significant about the apostle Paul was that he was always concerned with how he could spread the gospel. When he was placed into prison he used that opportunity to share Jesus with those around him. After being attacked by a mob he preached the gospel. When he was brought before the king he shared his faith as a testimony. It didn’t seem to matter what circumstance he was in, he was continually sharing the gospel with others. He would use his situation as an opportunity to share Jesus with whoever he was with. Paul could take a negative situation and turn it into a great opportunity to win someone to Christ.

We too should look at every situation we encounter as an opportunity to share the love of Jesus or to speak the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. God may have us at an exact location or in a purposeful circumstance to share our testimony or speak a word of compassion to someone who needs it. We never need to miss an opportunity that God may be giving us to give the best gift someone can receive. God uses us in unique ways to further the building of His Kingdom. You may think you are in a crisis but know that God has you in it for a reason. Try not to become angry at God or even turn away from your faith just because you endure a time of suffering. We should be like Paul and turn the circumstance into an opportunity to advance the gospel.

Prayer

Lord, help me to be aware of where you have me and to be aware of the people around me so that I can tell them about the good news of Jesus.

A Gentle Tongue

December 10, 2019 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement, Trust

A Gentle Tongue

A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15:4‬ ‭

Choice Words

Words have power. Our words have the power to heal or crush. Positive and encouraging words can build up a person and negative and degrading words will tear them down. We must choose your words wisely.

People need to hear the truth but there is a positive and constructive process to do so. Sometimes our words come out hateful and unkind and are received as criticism. We must be careful to always be alert to what we are say and what kind of tone we say them in. Hurtful words are unforgettable. People will always remember the negative things you say. Right now you probably remember something negative that was said to you years ago. This is why it is important to use our words wisely.

The old saying, “if you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all” is a very good rule to follow. If we only speak true and positive words in a positive tone the outcome will be positive. We must build each other up and encourage one another in the Lord. Jesus never said anything that was untrue or derogatory. His words were always right and right on time. We must learn to control our speech. It takes much practice but it is possible. We will never be perfect but we can strive for perfection. Your words will have a great effect on people whether you like it or not. Even when you need to give constructive advice you can do it in a positive and encouraging way. Just be sure to pray before you speak. The Lord will give you the right words to say at the right time.

Prayer

Lord, let Your Spirit control my words and allow me to speak the truth with courage.