Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: jesus

Devotional For October 10, 2023

Encouragement

For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭5

Paul’s words remind us that the Christian life is not about promoting ourselves or seeking personal glory. Instead, our focus should be on proclaiming and exalting Christ. He is the source of our hope, the object of our faith, and the center of our message.

This verse challenges us to examine our motives. Are we living to advance our own interests or are we seeking to lift up Christ in every aspect of our lives? A Christ-centered life places Him at the forefront, acknowledging His lordship over all.

Our message is not about human wisdom or personal achievements but about the power of the Gospel to change lives. By proclaiming Christ, we offer hope, redemption, and eternal life to those who hear.

Paul described himself as a bondservant, emphasizing his humility and willingness to serve for the sake of Jesus. As followers of Christ, we are called to a similar attitude of servanthood, putting the needs and interests of others before our own.

Whether in our families, churches, workplaces, or communities, we are called to exemplify servant-leadership. This means leading with humility, compassion, and a willingness to put others first.

Serving others for Jesus’ sake may require sacrifice. It may involve giving of our time, resources, or talents to meet the needs of those around us. Through our sacrificial love, we reflect Christ’s love to the world.

A life marked by servant-hearted love and a Christ-centered focus is a powerful witness to the transformative work of the Gospel. It draws others to Christ and demonstrates the beauty of His lordship.

    Pray

    Lord, thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Help me to live a Christ-centered life. Teach me the humility and sacrificial love that characterized the ministry of Paul. Help me to serve others selflessly and be impactful witnesses of your transforming grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For October 9, 2023

    Encouragement

    Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,
    ‭‭II Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭11

    If you knew Jesus would return today, would you do anything differently? Peter’s words challenge us to be ready for His coming.

    He points out that all things in this world will one day be dissolved or pass away. In light of this reality, Peter offers a clear directive: we are called to live in “holy conduct and godliness.” What does this mean for us in our daily lives?

    Living in holy conduct means striving for a life of moral integrity and purity. It involves making choices that align with God’s values and principles. It means treating others with kindness, honesty, and respect. It means seeking to live a life that honors God in all aspects.

    Living in godliness entails nurturing a deep and meaningful relationship with God. It means seeking to know Him more through prayer, studying His Word, and spending time in His presence. It means imitating the character of Christ, growing in love, compassion, and humility.

    Are you living in holy conduct and godliness? Are you allowing our faith to transform your daily actions and decisions?

    Remember that the choices we make today have a lasting impact. The pursuit of holiness and godliness is not about perfection but about progress.

    Pray

    Lord, help me be mindful of how temporary this world is and the importance of holy conduct and godliness. Guide me in my daily life, empowering me to live in a way that reflects Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For October 8, 2023

    Encouragement

    And at midnight a cry was heard: “Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!”
    ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭6‬

    The parable of the ten virgins found in Matthew 25:1-13 is a powerful illustration of the need for readiness and vigilance in our walk with the Lord. In this verse, we see the moment when a cry is heard, announcing the arrival of the bridegroom. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being spiritually prepared for the Rapture.

    In this parable, the cry that awakens the virgins symbolizes the moment that Jesus comes. Just as the virgins needed to be prepared with oil in their lamps, we are called to be spiritually prepared for the coming of our Bridegroom, Jesus.

    Here are some important lessons we can draw from this verse:

    1. The cry came at an unexpected time—midnight. It serves as a reminder that we do not know the day or hour of Christ’s return. Thus, we must always be ready to meet Him.
    2. The virgins who were prepared with oil in their lamps were able to go out and meet the bridegroom. Likewise, we must be spiritually prepared through faith in Christ, living in a manner that reflects His teachings.
    3. When the cry is heard, the virgins go out to meet the bridegroom. In the same way, we should eagerly anticipate Christ’s return and be prepared to respond to His call.
    4. Just as the virgins had to stay awake and vigilant, we are called to watch for signs of Christ’s return and to live our lives in a manner that honors Him.
    • Are you spiritually prepared, filled with the oil of faith and righteousness?
    • Are you watching for the signs of His return?
    • Are you living in a way that honors Him in all aspects of your life?

    Pray

    Lord, thank You for the reminder to be spiritually prepared for Your return. Help me to live in readiness and watchfulness. Let my faith and actions reflect my expectation of Your return. In Jesus’ name, amen.