Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For July 10, 2023

Encouragement

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬

The moment we come to faith in Christ, we experience a transformative encounter with the grace and love of God. We receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, surrendering our lives to His lordship and entrusting ourselves to His care. It is a moment of new birth, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God.

Paul reminds the church that receiving Christ is the beginning of a lifelong journey. He urges the Colossians—and us—to continue walking in Him, living in a way that reflects our relationship with Jesus. This ongoing journey of faith involves daily surrender, obedience, and dependence on Christ.

To walk in Christ means to align our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with His teachings and commands. It involves abiding in His Word and seeking His presence through prayer. It is a deliberate choice on our behalf to live in fellowship with Him.

We are called to be rooted in Christ. This means building our lives on the solid foundation of His truth and love. It means seeking His wisdom and guidance in every decision, trusting in His promises.

As we walk in Christ, our faith becomes deeply rooted. We are transformed into His likeness, bearing the fruit of love, joy, peace, and righteousness. Our lives become a testimony to the life-changing power of Jesus Christ.

It is a daily discipline walk in Christ. Allow the grace and love of Christ to shape and guide your daily walk and watch how you become closer to God in fellowship.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the blessing me with the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Help me to walk in Him, day by day. Teach me to abide in Your Word, to seek Your presence, and to live in obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 8, 2023

Encouragement

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭30‬

Take a moment and really take this verse in. There is much power and truth to this verse. Read it about three times and read it slowly.

In Psalm 18, King David is pouring his heart out to God for His faithfulness and deliverance. Specifically I n verse 30, David proclaims a powerful truth about God: His way is perfect and His Word is proven.

God’s way is perfect. He orchestrates every detail and guides us according to His sovereign plan. Even in situations where we may not fully understand or see the purpose, we can trust that God’s way is always perfect. He sees the bigger picture and His ways lead to ultimate good.

Not only is God’s way perfect, but His Word is proven. Throughout history, the Scriptures have stood the test of time and have been proven reliable and trustworthy. The promises, principles, and teachings found in the Word of God provide guidance, wisdom, and comfort in every season of life. As we align our lives with God’s Word, we can walk in confidence, knowing that His truth is unchanging and that His Word will not fail.

When you face times of uncertainty, trust that God’s plan is unfolding, even if you can’t see the outcome. Find peace and comfort in the power of His Word. When you place your trust in Him, you will experience His presence as protection and strength.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the perfect way in which You lead and guide me by Your Spirit. Help me to trust in Your wisdom, even when I don’t understand. Strengthen my faith as I rely on Your proven Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 7, 2023

Encouragement

For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.
‭‭Philemon‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬

In the short but powerful letter of Philemon, the apostle Paul expresses his gratitude and joy for the love and faith demonstrated by Philemon, a beloved brother in Christ. Philemon’s love and generosity was a source of joy for Paul and a means of refreshing the hearts of fellow believers.

The world we live in pushes self-centeredness and personal gain. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to a different standard. We are called to love one another as Christ has loved us (John 13:34). Philemon’s actions exemplified the love of Christ and it encouraged the people around him.

When we demonstrate Christ-like love and extend kindness to others, we not only bless them but we aLao experience the joy that comes from obeying God’s commandments. Our acts of love become a testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel in our lives.

As believers, we are part of a larger family and our actions impact one another. When we demonstrate love, we contribute to the well-being and spiritual refreshment of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Take a moment today and reflect on your effectiveness Christ-like love. Are you seeking opportunities to demonstrate love and kindness to those around you? Are you refreshing the hearts of fellow believers?

May our love be a source of joy, bringing refreshment to the weary and pointing others to the love and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for loving me and giving me eternal life. Fill my heart with joy that I may bless others with kindness. Give me an opportunity to express Christ-like love to someone who needs to be encouraged today.