Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: jesus

Devotional For November 13, 2023

Encouragement

You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one.
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭15‬

In this verse, Christ encourages a shift in our perspective, urging us to move away from worldly judgment and embrace a spirit of compassion and understanding. Let’s consider how we can embody Christ’s non-judgmental love in our daily lives.

We are naturally quick to assess based on appearances. We judge according to what we see. However, Jesus challenges us to adopt a different perspective—one that reflects His grace.

As followers of Christ, our calling is not to condemn but to extend mercy, recognizing the complexity of each person’s journey. Let’s strive to mirror Jesus’ example, offering compassion instead of criticism, and understanding rather than quick judgment.

Pray

Lord, grant me the grace to see others through the lens of love. Help me to resist the temptation to judge based on outward appearances and instead cultivate a heart that reflects Your mercy. May my interactions be marked by compassion and understanding, allowing Your love to shine through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 12, 2023

Encouragement

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬

What does it mean to rejoice always? It is a joy that is not controlled by circumstances. The source of this joy is not found in the pleasures of the world but rather in the character of our Lord. As we survey this verse, let’s explore three aspects that encourage us to rejoice.

1. Rejoice in the Lord: Our joy is anchored in the Lord Himself. Regardless of the storms that may rage around us, the foundation of our joy remains in Him. It’s not contingent on our situations but on the unchanging nature of God. We can rejoice because God is always good.

2. Always: The command to rejoice always is not a suggestion but a call to a consistent attitude of rejoicing. It means rejoicing when times are good and when times are not so good. The “always” challenges us to see beyond the immediate circumstances and trust that God’s sovereignty is at work.

3. Rejoice Again: Paul underscores the importance of joy by repeating the command – “Again, I will say, rejoice!” It’s as if he wanted to emphasize that the call to rejoice is not a one-time event but a continuous lifestyle of a Christian. Even when challenges threaten to steal our joy, we are reminded to return to the source, to rejoice again in the Lord who is our strength and refuge.

Are you rejoicing in the Lord today?

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the source of joy for me. Help me to cultivate a spirit of joy, anchored in a close relationship with You. Help me to continually find joy in your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 11, 2023

Encouragement

Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬

Paul describes a powerful truth about the victory achieved through Christ. This verse states the triumphant work of Jesus on the cross and the defeat of the evil forces that seek to hold us captive.

As believers, we stand victorious and secured with Christ. Every chain that once bound us has been loosed, and the forces of darkness have been disarmed. Satan has no grip on us as believers.

It doesn’t mean that we will no longer face the fiery darts of the devil. It means we have the power through Jesus Christ to overcome. In our daily challenges, let’s draw strength from the reality that we face each battle as conquerors, not victims.

Seek the help and power of the Lord to fight your battles and to fight against temptations. Have faith and know that you already have victory in Jesus.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the victory on the cross. Grant me a deeper understanding of the freedom I now possess and the authority bestowed upon me as a believer. Help me remember to face each challenge from a stance of victory. In Jesus’ name, amen.