Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For August 28, 2023

Encouragement

And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth.
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬

John’s vision takes us to the throne room of heaven, where he sees a Lamb standing at the center of attention. This Lamb holds a position of highest authority among the heavenly beings. It is a picture of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

The Lamb appears to have been slain. Even in heaven, the Lamb’s sacrifice is not forgotten. This points to the eternal impact of Christ’s sacrificial death—His atonement continues to resonate throughout eternity.

Seven is a perfect or complete number. The seven horns and seven eyes symbolize the Lamb’s perfect power and perfect knowledge. The seven Spirits of God means the Holy Spirit is the perfect Spirit of God. The Lamb’s sovereignty and omniscience assure us that He is both mighty and all-knowing.

With this vision, we witness the fullness of the redemption story. The slain Lamb of God stands victoriously, reminding us of Jesus’ triumphant resurrection. His sacrifice and death paid the price for our sins and secured our eternal salvation.

One day we will see this image in real time, with our own eyes. Until that time comes, we should consider the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice for our salvation. Does the sacrificial love of Christ inspire you in your faith journey? Do you show the character of Christ in all that you do?

Pray

Lord, I’m humbled by the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Thank You for His atonement that brings redemption and eternal life. Help me to live in the light of His sacrifice, sharing His love with others and walking in His footsteps. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For August 27, 2023

Encouragement

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God:
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭2‬

Today’s verse reminds that obedience to God’s voice is the key to unlocking these blessings that overflow and overtake our lives. God desires to bless His children for their continued obedience. It is out of the goodness f His heart that He shows us what great things He can do.

Imagine blessings that don’t just trickle in but flow forth in abundance. God’s promise in Deuteronomy 28:2 is that His blessings will not only come upon you but overtake you. He doesn’t hold back; His desire is to lavish His goodness upon us.

There is a connection between obedience and blessings. When we align our lives with God’s commands and listen to His voice, we position ourselves to receive the blessings He has prepared for us. Obedience reflects our trust in His plans.

The many types of blessings mentioned in Deuteronomy 28 encompass a wide range—physical, material, and spiritual. These blessings give us a glimpse into the heart of a loving Father who desires to provide for His children in every aspect of their lives.

The idea of blessings overtaking us highlights God’s initiative in showering us with His grace. As we walk in obedience, blessings chase after us. It’s a beautiful reminder that God’s favor is not contingent on our efforts alone but on His boundless love.

Can you say that you are blessed with the goodness of God? Are there areas where obedience to God’s voice can bring about His blessings in greater measure? Consider how aligning with His will can lead to an overflow of blessings.

Pray

Lord, I’m grateful for Your desire to bless me. Help me to listen to Your voice and obey Your commands. Help me walk in alignment with Your will and experience the overflow of blessings that come from living in Your ways. Thank You for Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For August 26, 2023

Encouragement

Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.”
‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭32‬

In John 11:32, we witness a profound moment of vulnerability and raw emotion as Mary, grieving the loss of her brother Lazarus, falls at the feet of Jesus. Her words echo the questions that can sometimes fill our hearts in times of pain and confusion.

Mary’s journey to Jesus was undoubtedly filled with a mix of emotions—grief, hope, and perhaps even a tinge of disappointment. She knew that if Jesus had been present, her brother might have been spared from death. In her sorrow, Mary’s response is an authentic pouring out of her heart.

Mary’s action of falling at Jesus’ feet illustrates the beautiful truth that our Savior is a safe place for our pain. He invites us to bring our questions, doubts, and grief to Him. He understands the depth of our emotions and invites us to lay them at His feet.

Mary’s words reveal her honest conversation with Jesus. God desires us to approach Him with our unfiltered thoughts and emotions. When we express our heartache, we create space for God to respond with comfort, understanding, and the assurance of His presence.

At the feet of Jesus, we learn the power of surrender. Mary’s words, while expressing her desire for a different outcome, also demonstrate her willingness to place her trust in Jesus’ sovereignty. Her posture teaches us to surrender our control and entrust our circumstances to Him.

Reflect on moments when you’ve felt like Mary—overwhelmed by grief, confusion, or disappointment. How can you cultivate an authentic dialogue with Jesus in those moments? Consider how falling at His feet can be an act of surrender and an invitation for His comfort.

Pray

Lord, in times of grief and confusion, I thank You for being a safe place for my pain. Help me to bring my raw emotions to You, knowing that You understand and care for my heart. Teach me to surrender my control and trust in Your sovereignty, even when circumstances are difficult. In Jesus’ name, amen.