Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For September 13, 2023

Encouragement

But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬

In the fast-paced and often chaotic world we live in, it’s easy to feel insignificant or overlooked. We may wonder if anyone truly cares about the intricacies of our lives. In Luke 12:7, Jesus reminds us that our Heavenly Father knows us intimately and values us beyond measure.

Consider the profound truth that Jesus shares here: “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” This statement goes far beyond a mere count of hairs. It signifies God’s intimate knowledge of every detail of our existence. He knows the thoughts that race through our minds, the desires of our hearts, and the struggles we face daily.

The verse continues with a powerful message of reassurance: “Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Jesus points to the value God places on us. If God cares for the sparrows, which are common and seemingly insignificant birds, how much more does He care for you, a creation made in His own image?

This truth should fill us with awe and gratitude. We are not alone in this world; we are not forgotten. God’s love for us is immeasurable, and His attention to the details of our lives is unwavering.

In moments of doubt or when facing life’s challenges, remember Luke 12:7. Let it be a source of comfort and strength. You are precious to God, and He knows you better than anyone else ever could. Trust in His love and care for you, and let go of fear and insecurity. You are valued beyond measure in the eyes of your Heavenly Father.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your love and mercy. I trust in You and will not fear what I cannot change. You alone are worthy to be praised. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 11, 2023

Encouragement

And one cried to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭6‬:‭3‬

9/11 stands as a day that many will never forget. Our nation faced the gruesome reality that a group of terrorists committed some unthinkable acts of violence and war. Instead of crippling us, we stood together and were united as one.

What was meant for evil was used to bring a nation together. Americans were on their knees praying and seeking God for help and answers. Churches were full and God was honored and worshipped.

Today, as we remember the events of September 11, 2001, let us explore the significance of this verse in the context of that tragic day and the enduring holiness of our Creator.

Isaiah’s vision of God’s holiness is a reminder that our God is set apart, pure, and perfect. Even in the face of unimaginable tragedy, God’s holiness remains unblemished. In times of darkness, we can take comfort in knowing that His character remains unwavering and steadfast.

September 11, 2001, marked a day of great sorrow and brokenness. But even in the midst of brokenness, God’s holiness shines through. It is in our response to adversity, our acts of kindness, and our pursuit of justice that we can reflect His holiness and bring a measure of healing to a hurting world.

The heavenly beings in Isaiah’s vision continuously declare, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord.” Our worship of God should not be confined to church walls but should permeate every aspect of our lives. Through our words, actions, and attitudes, we can exalt the holiness of God and be a beacon of hope to others.

Even in the midst of tragedy, there are glimpses of God’s glory – in the bravery of first responders, the compassion of strangers, and the resilience of survivors. As we remember 9/11, let us always remember that God’s glory shines bright and His holiness is unchanging.

In times of great sorrow and uncertainty in our life, we can find solace in knowing that He remains holy, sovereign, and loving. Let us strive to reflect His holiness in our lives, and may we continue to seek His glory even in the face of adversity.

Pray

Lord, when I call on You, You are a present help. Help me to never forget that Your holiness provides healing, comfort and peace. Let me see Your glory even times seem uncertain. Thank You for Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 10, 2023

Encouragement

Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬

The apostle Paul states a profound insight into our role as believers in Christ: helping others mature in their faith. This verse challenges us to reflect on our actions and consider what we are doing to assist others on their spiritual journey.

The foundation of helping others mature in their faith is simply proclaiming Jesus Christ. Our words and actions should consistently point to Him as the source of salvation, hope, and transformation. We share the Good News of Christ’s love and sacrifice. Do your words and actions point others to Jesus and help establish their foundation of faith?

Paul emphasizes in this verse two essential aspects of helping others grow in faith: warning and teaching. We have a responsibility not only to share the Gospel but also to guide and instruct others in all wisdom. This includes providing counsel, offering encouragement, and helping them navigate the challenges of the Christian journey.

Our ultimate goal is to present every person “perfect in Christ Jesus.” This doesn’t mean flawless perfection but rather maturity and completeness in their relationship with Christ. We aim to help others grow spiritually, becoming more like Jesus in character and faith.

What are you doing to help your family, neighbors and friends mature in their faith? Reflect on your interactions and whether you are actively preaching Christ, warning, and teaching in wisdom.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the privilege of sharing the Gospel and helping others grow in faith. Help me to be diligent in proclaiming Christ, offering both warning and teaching. Help my efforts contribute to presenting every person mature in Christ Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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