Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: jesus

We All Will Face Judgment

Encouragement

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
II Corinthians 5:10

Today’s verse reminds us that we will all face judgment before Christ, and we will be held accountable for our actions.

As believers in Christ, it’s important to remember that our salvation is not based on our works, but rather on our faith in Him. However, this doesn’t mean that our actions and choices don’t matter. We are called to live a life that reflects our faith in Christ and to strive to do good works.

When we stand before Christ, we will be judged not only on what we did, but also on what we didn’t do. Did we use the gifts and talents God gave us to further His Kingdom? Did we love and serve others as Christ commanded us to do? These are the questions we must ask ourselves as we seek to live a life that honors God.

May we be reminded today to live with the knowledge that we will one day face Christ, and let us strive to do good and make a positive impact in the world around us.

Pray

Lord, I know I will be judged according to the things I have done. I know I will be forgiven but help me to acknowledge that I am the only one held accountable. Show me Your ways to perfect my life.

Unshakable Faith

Encouragement

For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.
II Timothy 1:12

Today’s verse serves as a powerful reminder that our faith in God is unshakable, and that he is always with us, even in the midst of our suffering.

The apostle Paul wrote these words while he was imprisoned for his faith, facing persecution and the very real possibility of death. Despite his circumstances, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and trusted in God’s power to protect him and the gospel message that he had dedicated his life to spreading.

As Christians, we will face challenges and difficulties that will test our faith. However, we can take comfort in knowing that our faith is rooted in Christ who is infinitely powerful and trustworthy. When we face trials, we can turn to Him for strength and guidance, knowing that He is able to protect us and keep us safe.

In times of struggle, let us hold fast to these words in 2 Timothy 1:12, trusting in God’s power and love to see us through. May we find comfort in knowing that He is with us always, guarding our faith and guiding us on our journey towards eternal life.

Pray

Lord, You are all-knowing and I can trust that You know my every concern. Give me strength to face today with bold faith. I know You are with me right now.

Joy In The Midst Of Pain

Encouragement

For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭30:5‬

Psalm 30:5 is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and steadfast love towards us, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. The psalmist acknowledges that weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning.

This verse speaks to the reality that life is full of ups and downs. There will be times when we experience pain, loss, and heartache. But in those moments, we can take comfort in the fact that God is with us and that he will bring us through to the other side.

God’s anger towards our sin is real, but it is also temporary. His grace and favor towards us are eternal. No matter what we have done or what we are going through, God’s love for us remains constant.

As we face the trials of life, we can trust that God is working all things together for our good. We may not always understand what he is doing or why, but we can be sure that he is with us and that he will never leave us nor forsake us.

May we hold onto the promise of Psalm 30:5, and may we always remember that joy comes in the morning. Let us trust in God’s unfailing love and faithfulness, and may we find hope and peace in him, no matter what we may face.

Pray

Lord, I trust your mercy and grace will see me through today. Help me to enjoy what you have supplied me with and I will find peace in resting in Your presence.