Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For November 20, 2023

Encouragement

For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭7‬:‭15‬

These words can relate to the internal struggle that we all face—the tension between our intentions and our actions.

Paul’s wants us to acknowledge our own human frailty, the moments when our desire for righteous living collides with the reality of our shortcomings. We constantly find ourselves wrestling with the same internal conflicts, recognizing the gap between our desire to do good and the stumbling blocks we encounter.

But within this honest admission, there is a profound revelation of grace. Paul’s acknowledgment of his struggle doesn’t lead to despair but lays the groundwork for God’s mercy to intervene. In recognizing our flaws, we open ourselves to the redemptive work of Christ, who meets us in our imperfections.

As we navigate the complexities of living out our faith, let Romans 7:15 serve as a reminder that our journey is marked by both aspiration and imperfection. It’s an invitation to extend grace to ourselves and others, understanding that the transformative journey of sanctification is a process.

The question we need to ask ourselves is, “Are we allowing the power of God to control our lives?” God wants to reveal Himself in such a way that we cannot live life without Him. We may have good intentions, but we need the God to work on our behalf.

Pray

Lord, I come acknowledging the tension within my heart, the struggle to do what is right and the reality of my actions. I confess the need for Your mercy and grace. Thank you for understanding my frailty and giving me redemption. May Your power continue in my life as I walk in this journey of faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 16, 2023

Encouragement

Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭34‬

Jesus presents a powerful message about the connection between our hearts and our words. He addressed the Pharisees, calling them a “brood of vipers” and challenged them to examine the source of their speech. The message is clear: our words are not just utterances but reflections of the condition of our hearts.

The heart, in biblical terms, is the core of our being, containing our thoughts, emotions, and intentions. It serves as the wellspring from which our words flow. Jesus’ words remind us that the condition of our heart influences the content and nature of our speech. Just as a fountain cannot produce both fresh and bitter water at the same time, our heart cannot produce both good and evil speech.

As believers, we are called to guard our hearts diligently because our words have the power to build up or tear down, to encourage or discourage, to speak life or death. When we align our hearts with God’s truth and invite Him to shape our words, our speech will glorify Him.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, may we cultivate hearts that reflect the love and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ. May the words that flow from our mouths be a testimony to the transformative work God is doing within us, for out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.

Pray

Lord, help my heart be a reflection of Your heart. Empower me to speak words that bring glory and honor to Your name. Strengthen my heart to guard against evil. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 13, 2023

Encouragement

You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one.
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭15‬

In this verse, Christ encourages a shift in our perspective, urging us to move away from worldly judgment and embrace a spirit of compassion and understanding. Let’s consider how we can embody Christ’s non-judgmental love in our daily lives.

We are naturally quick to assess based on appearances. We judge according to what we see. However, Jesus challenges us to adopt a different perspective—one that reflects His grace.

As followers of Christ, our calling is not to condemn but to extend mercy, recognizing the complexity of each person’s journey. Let’s strive to mirror Jesus’ example, offering compassion instead of criticism, and understanding rather than quick judgment.

Pray

Lord, grant me the grace to see others through the lens of love. Help me to resist the temptation to judge based on outward appearances and instead cultivate a heart that reflects Your mercy. May my interactions be marked by compassion and understanding, allowing Your love to shine through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.