Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For October 14, 2023

Encouragement

The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭14‬:‭2‬

This verse tells us that the Lord gazes down from heaven, not in judgment but in search of understanding hearts and those who earnestly seek Him.

Understanding in this context is not just about intellectual knowledge; it’s about recognizing a relationship with God. God is not interested in religion or rituals. He desires a genuine and intimate relationship with His children.

To “seek God” means to yearn for Him, to long for His presence, and to actively pursue a deeper relationship with Him. It’s an acknowledgment that true wisdom and fulfillment are found in God alone.

Take a moment to reflect on your life. Are you sincerely seeking God? Is your heart open to His guidance and presence? Are you earnestly pursuing an understanding of His ways and His will?

Pray

Lord, I come before You with a humble heart, seeking a deeper understanding of You. I acknowledge that true wisdom and fulfillment can only be found in Your presence. I long for a deeper understanding of Your ways, that I may live in alignment with Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 12, 2023

Encouragement

To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled.
‭‭Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭15‬

This verse begins with an affirmation of the purity of heart that comes from a genuine relationship with God. When our hearts are pure, we see the world through the lens of God’s grace and love. We see beauty, goodness, and potential even in the most challenging circumstances.

A pure heart is one that has embraced God’s grace, recognizing the need for forgiveness and redemption. Such a heart is quick to extend grace and see God’s work in the lives of others.

Purity of heart results in wholehearted faith. It allows us to trust in God’s sovereignty, even when life’s circumstances appear difficult or overwhelming. We know that God can work all things together for good (Romans 8:28).

In contrast, when our hearts are defiled and filled with unbelief and fear, our perception of the world becomes distorted. We may see impurity, negativity, and mistrust even in the purest of circumstances.

Sin leads to unbelief which contaminates our perspective. Doubt and fear release a distorted view of the world. Our minds become clouded with negativity, making it difficult to see the goodness around us.

The awareness of a defiled heart serves as a call to repentance. It invites us to turn to God, seek forgiveness, and ask for a renewed heart. Through Christ, we can experience the cleansing and purity that only He can provide.

Pray

Lord, I come before you, asking for a pure heart. Help me to see the world through the lens of Your grace and love. If my heart has become defiled, I repent and seek your cleansing and renewal. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 11, 2023

Encouragement

“For I,” says the Lord, “will be a wall of fire all around her, and I will be the glory in her midst.”
‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬

In this powerful verse from the book of Zechariah, we are reminded of the profound assurance of God’s divine presence and protection in our lives. The imagery of God as a “wall of fire” encircling us is a vivid symbol of His unwavering commitment to safeguarding and guiding His people.

No matter what challenges or threats we may face, God’s promise is clear: He will be our protector, our refuge, and our source of glory. Just as He was the guiding light for the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness, God remains the beacon of hope in our lives, illuminating our path with His radiant presence.

Take a moment to reflect on this truth today. God’s fiery wall of protection is not a distant promise but a living reality. He is with us, surrounding us with His love and grace. As we go about our daily lives, let’s remember that God is not only our protector but also the source of our truest glory. In Him, we find strength, peace, and purpose. With God as our “wall of fire” and the “glory in our midst,” we can face each day with unwavering confidence and gratitude for His constant presence.

Pray

Lord, thank You for protecting me and providing everything I need. Help me to face each and every day with confidence because I know You are with me. In Jesus’ name, amen.