Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For September 6, 2023

Encouragement

The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭21‬:‭5‬

Diligence is a quality that sets the stage for success in various aspects of life. In today’s verse, we are reminded of the impact of diligence on our plans and outcomes.

In Proverbs 6:6-8, we are encouraged to consider the ways of the ant, which is diligent in gathering food during the summer to prepare for the winter. This tiny creature teaches us about the power of consistent effort and foresight. The ant works diligent.

Diligence begins with careful planning. It involves setting goals, making well-thought-out decisions, and following through with persistence. When we diligently plan, we set ourselves up for success and abundance.

Diligence isn’t just a one-time effort though; it’s a commitment to being consist. It’s about daily, disciplined steps toward our goals, even when obstacles arise. Diligence keeps us focused on the path, regardless of distractions or difficulties.

The verse reminds us that the plans of the diligent lead to plenty. Diligence pays off; it brings prosperity, not just in material wealth but also in personal growth and character development.

Take a moment to reflect on your life and the areas where diligence has played a role in your success. Consider your current goals and plans. Are there areas where you can apply greater diligence?

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Help me to embrace diligence in all aspects of my life. Help me be diligent in my planning and consistent in my efforts. May everything I do bring glory to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 3, 2023

Encouragement

Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?
‭‭James‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬

God’s selection criteria differs from the world’s standards. Today’s verse celebrates the value God places on faith and highlights the rich inheritance awaiting those who love Him.

In the world’s eyes, wealth, power, and status often take center stage. But God’s perspective is radically different. He chooses those whom the world may consider poor or insignificant and blesses them with riches of faith.

God’s selection is not based on material wealth but on the wealth of faith. This faith isn’t limited by worldly constraints; it’s a faith that trusts God regardless of circumstances.

James reminds us that those whom God chooses are heirs of His kingdom. This means that regardless of our earthly circumstances, we have a glorious inheritance awaiting us—an inheritance that surpasses anything this world can offer.

James anlso emphasizes that this inheritance is promised to “those who love Him.” Love for God is the key that unlocks the treasures of His kingdom. It’s a love that aligns our hearts with His and leads us to walk in His ways.

Take a moment and reflect on the significance of being chosen heirs of God’s kingdom through faith and love. Are you nurturing your faith and cultivating a deeper love for God?

Pray

Lord, I am humbled by Your choice to make me an heir of Your kingdom. Thank You for valuing faith and love above worldly riches. Help me to nurture my faith, to love You wholeheartedly, and to live as a testimony to Your grace and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 2, 2023

Encouragement

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you;
‭‭Numbers‬ ‭6‬:‭24‬-‭25‬

In these two verses from the book of Numbers, we are presented with a beautiful and timeless blessing that the Lord instructed Aaron and his sons to pronounce upon the children of Israel. This blessing is an expression of God’s love and care for His people, and it continues to hold great significance for us today.

“The Lord bless you and keep you”: This part of the blessing reminds us that God desires to bless us abundantly. His blessings are not merely material, but they encompass every aspect of our lives. He longs to provide for our needs, protect us from harm, and guide us along the path of righteousness. As we reflect on this, let us trust in His provision and rely on His unfailing protection.

“The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you”: This portion of the blessing is a reminder of God’s grace and favor. When God’s face shines upon us, it symbolizes His pleasure and delight in us. His grace, freely given, is a gift beyond measure. It reminds us that we are not deserving of His love, yet He showers it upon us.

These verses also point to the personal nature of our relationship with God. He desires to bless us individually and to be intimately involved in our lives. His desire is not only to bless and keep us but to shine His face upon us and be gracious to us personally.

As you go about your day, know that the Lord desires to bless you, keep you, shine His face upon you, and be gracious to you. May this knowledge bring you comfort, confidence, and a deeper connection with our loving and gracious God.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your love and grace that You pour upon me. Let Your blessings remind me of how You desire to show Your love. Help me to bless others as You have blessed me. In Jesus’s name, amen.

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