Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: jesus

Devotional For July 28, 2023

Encouragement

So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬

In Genesis 1, we witness the account of God’s creation, where every element of the universe was formed by His majestic hand. On the sixth and final day of creation, mankind is created and set apart from all creation in the image of God.

God intentionally designed us in His image. We are purposefully crafted by the Creator Himself. This truth carries profound implications for our understanding of human value and purpose.

As beings made in God’s image, we possess inherent value. Every individual, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background, carries the imprint of the Divine. This truth is a reminder that each person is precious and deeply loved by God. It compels us to treat one another with respect, kindness, and compassion.

Understanding that we are created in God’s image also gives us a glimpse into our purpose. We are called to reflect God’s character and attributes to the world around us. Just as a mirror reflects an image, our lives are meant to mirror the love, grace, mercy, and justice of our Heavenly Father. We fulfill our purpose when we live in obedience to His Word and walk in alignment with His will.

Today, there seems to be a lot of confusion about God’s design of mankind. If you reject your gender, you reject your value and purpose. God has a purpose for you to be who He created you to be. God did not make a mistake.

Pray

Lord, thank You for creating me in Your image. Help me to grasp the profound truth of my inherent worth and value. Guide me to fulfill my purpose by reflecting Your character and attributes in all that I do. Let Your image be evident in my life, drawing others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 27, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore keep the words of this covenant, and do them, that you may prosper in all that you do.
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭29‬:‭9‬

Have you ever wondered why God blesses some people but not others? Have you witnessed times in your life when God was blessing you more than other times? Let’s take a close look at a possible reason why?

In Deuteronomy 29, Moses addressed the Israelites, reminding them of God’s faithfulness throughout their 40 years in the wilderness. He emphasized the importance of keeping the covenant they made with the Lord and obeying His commands. Today, we too are called to remember God’s faithfulness and walk in obedience.

God’s covenant with His people is a promise that extends beyond generations. His covenant affirms that He will always be our faithful and trustworthy guide. Just as the Israelites were called to keep the covenant, we are also called to honor our covenant with God through faith and obedience.

When we faithfully keep His Word, we position ourselves to prosper in all that we do. This prosperity may not always be materialistic but it does include peace and joy that comes from walking in obedience. God enjoys blessing His children.

Today, make a commitment to walk in obedience to God’s commands. As you seek to follow His ways, you will open yourself up to a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. When you are in fellowship with God, your life becomes a testimony of His goodness, grace, and faithfulness.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness throughout my life. Help me to remember Your goodness and grace. Give me the strength and willingness to obey Your Word and honor the covenant I have with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 26, 2023

Encouragement

My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.
‭‭I John‬ ‭3‬:‭18‬

As children of God, we are called to love one another not merely with empty words or expressions, but through genuine actions and sincere truth. In today’s verse, we can take away three truths that will shape the way we demonstrate love toward others.

  1. Love is Evidenced Through Action: John challenges us to show love through our actions. Love seeks to meet the needs of others. Whether it is lending a helping hand, showing kindness, or offering encouragement, our love becomes a powerful force when put into practice and not just passed along with words.
  2. Love is Rooted in Truth: True love is firmly grounded in truth. It seeks to uplift and empower, recognizing the value of every individual. We are challenged to be genuine and honest in our interactions, allowing love to flow from a heart that sincerely cares for others.
  3. Love is a Choice, Not just a Feeling: Love is not solely based on emotions but is a conscious decision to act on the well-being of others. It is a choice that goes beyond our comfort zone. When we imitate the love of Christ, we learn to love even when it is challenging or inconvenient.

As you seek to love others in deed and truth, you will become a living testimony of Christ’s transformative love, shining His light into a world in need of authentic compassion and grace.

Pray

Dear Lord, thank You for Your perfect example of love demonstrated through Jesus Christ. Help me to love others not just in words but through actions that reflect Your love. Give me the strength to choose love even when it is a challenge. In Jesus’ name, amen.