Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: jesus

May 25, 2023

Encouragement

Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭4‬

What does it mean to delight in the Lord? Delighting in the Lord means finding joy, satisfaction, and contentment in the Lord Himself, rather than in the pleasures of this world.

When we wholeheartedly delight in the Lord, something amazing happens. We begin to see the world through His perspective, and our desires are transformed to reflect His perfect plans for us.

It is essential to remember that delighting in the Lord does not guarantee the fulfillment of every wish or dream. Instead, it redirects our desires to align with His divine purpose and will. Our desires become more in tune with His desires for us, which ultimately leads to a life of greater fulfillment and purpose.

God knows what is truly best for us, even when we are unsure or misguided in our desires. The fulfillment of our desires is within God’s perfect timing and sovereign plan. We must be patient and trust in His providence.

Take a moment and reflect on the condition of your heart. Are you truly delighting in the Lord, finding our joy and contentment in Him alone? Are you seeking His presence daily, allowing His love and grace to transform you from within?

As we seek God, He will grant us the desires of our hearts. His faithfulness endures forever, and His promises never fail. So, let us trust in His goodness and walk in the assurance that He is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

Pray

Lord, I come before You today with a heart full of gratitude. Help me to delight in You above anything else. Teach me to trust in Your timing and surrender my hopes and dreams into Your hands

May 23, 2023

Encouragement

Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
‭‭James‬ ‭3‬:‭18‬

As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers. Today we are reminded of how important it is to be cultivators of peace.

Peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a profound state of harmony and well-being. It involves unity, reconciliation, and restoration. God desires for us to promote peace to reflect His glory.

When we have experienced the peace that surpasses all understanding in our own lives, we become equipped to extend that same peace to others. As we draw near to God, He enables us to bear the fruit of righteousness, which includes peace as a vital part.

Promoting peace involves choosing our words carefully, speaking with grace and love, and seeking reconciliation rather than harboring bitterness and resentment. It involves careful listening, empathizing, and seeking to understand others’ perspectives. It involves forgiving others.

As we faithfully promote peace, we will reap a harvest of righteousness. Additionally, we create an environment where righteousness can flourish. It brings healing, restoration, and transformation.

Promoting peace may be difficult at times. But don’t get discouraged because God is with us. We can find strength in knowing that we are aligning ourselves with His divine purpose and reflecting His character.

Are you a peacemaker? Do you faithfully pursue peace, reflecting the awesome power of God’s love and grace?

Pray

Lord, thank You for calling me to be a person who reflects Your character. Help me to promote peace in all areas of my life. Transform my heart to reflect Your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 22, 2023

Encouragement

I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬

The psalmist David, was known as a man after God’s own heart, and still experienced moments of despair and doubt. Though troubles surrounded him, he had a reason to rejoice!

Even when we are weighed down by life’s burdens, we can lift our voices and praise, declaring God’s majesty, His love, and His unfailing care. Praise becomes a powerful weapon when we face discouragement, as it redirects our attention from our problems to the One who is greater than any challenge we face.

In our time of uncertainty, we can find hope and encouragement in the never changing character of our God. He is a God who sees, who hears, and who cares deeply for His children. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). The circumstances around us may be burdensome, but our God remains steadfast, faithful, and true.

Regardless of what we may be going through, our hearts can sing melody of praise. Remember the goodness of God and give thanks for His faithfulness.

Pray

Lord, I praise You for Your goodness and faithfulness. Even in the midst of trials, help me to trust in Your unwavering love and care. Teach me to sing Your praises, regardless of my circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.