Pastor Stephen Dedman

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Devotional For December 6, 2023

Encouragement

Lift up your eyes on high, And see who has created these things, Who brings out their host by number; He calls them all by name, By the greatness of His might And the strength of His power; Not one is missing.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭26‬

In the busyness of life, we often find ourselves absorbed in the immediate, consumed with the demands and responsibilities of the day. Yet, Isaiah urges us to pause, to lift our gaze beyond the mundane, and to fix our eyes upon the heavenly display of our Creator.

Consider the magnitude of these words – the One who flung the stars into existence, who set each celestial body in its course, knows them all by name. The vastness of the universe is not a random occurrence; it is a meticulously crafted masterpiece. In the same way, the God who governs galaxies is intimately acquainted with every detail of our lives.

As we ponder the magnitude of God’s creative power, a sense of awe and reverence fills our hearts. The stars declare His glory, and we are reminded that our lives are intricately woven into His divine masterpiece. The Creator who fashioned the cosmos is not a distant deity but a God who calls us by name, guiding us through the journey of life.

In the midst of life’s challenges, uncertainties, and joys, let us anchor our faith in the unchanging character of the One who spoke the stars into existence. Lift your eyes, not just to the stars, but to the Author of your story. Trust in the greatness of His might and the strength of His power. Not one detail of your life escapes His notice, for you are fearfully and wonderfully made by the hands that flung the stars across the heavens.

Pray

Lord, I stand in awe of Your mighty power. Teach me to trust in Your sovereignty and find comfort in the knowledge that not one detail of my life escapes Your loving gaze. In moments of uncertainty, may Your presence be my anchor. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For December 5, 2023

Encouragement

“Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭45‬

This verse draws attention to the consequences of spiritual neglect and the importance of guarding our hearts against negative influences.

Jesus describes a man who, after being delivered from an unclean spirit, neglects to guard his heart. The consequences are severe – not only does the initial demon return, but it is accompanied by even more demons.

This symbolizes our spiritual lives. When we experience moments of victory or deliverance, it is crucial to recognize the need for continued spiritual development. Our hearts are susceptible to various influences, and without intentional guarding, we risk falling into a state worse than before.

Are there negative forces or habits that need to be addressed in your life? Identify the areas where you can guard your heart more diligently. Actively cultivate positive habits and engage in activities that nurture your spiritual well-being. This may include prayer, meditation, studying scripture, and surrounding yourself with uplifting community.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the deliverance and victories You’ve granted in my life. Help me to guard and protect my heart. Open my eyes to the evil influences that may lead me astray. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For December 4, 2023

Encouragement

“Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding.”
‭‭Job‬ ‭38‬:‭4‬

This verse invites humility and trust, acknowledging that God’s ways surpass our comprehension. As you face the challenges of life, find peace in surrendering to the Creator who intricately designed the foundations of the world. Embrace the truth that you are held secure in the hands of the One who spoke the universe into existence.

Instead of relying solely on personal understanding, actively seek God’s wisdom through prayer, meditation, and studying scriptures. Trust that God’s guidance surpasses human wisdom, and align your decisions with His revealed truth.

Apply this verse during times of suffering. Remember that just as God’s wisdom laid the foundations of the earth, His wisdom is at work in your life’s foundation.

Pray

Lord, Your works are beautiful and amazing. Help me to trust Your infinite wisdom. Give me strength to understand Your ways and purpose for my life. in Jesus’ name, amen.