Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For November 5, 2023

Encouragement

that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
‭‭I John‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬

Fellowship is a powerful concept that goes beyond mere social interactions. It involves a deep and intimate connection. Just as the apostles had a personal relationship with Jesus, they want to share this opportunity with us. Through their testimony and the Word of God, we can come to know Jesus in a profound way. We can experience His love, grace, and truth.

As we embark on this journey of fellowship with God, it’s important to understand that it is not a one-sided relationship. It requires our active participation and a heart open to God’s presence. We must spend time in prayer, reading the Scriptures, and seeking His guidance. In doing so, we draw closer to Him and experience His transformative power in our lives.

Consider the opportunity for fellowship we have with God. Strive to deepen your relationship with Him, seeking His presence, and embracing the love and unity that come from being in fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wonderful opportunity to be in fellowship with You. Open my heart and mind to Your presence. Help me to grow in Your likeness and point others to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 4, 2023

Encouragement

Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
‭‭John‬ ‭17‬:‭17‬

In John 17, we hear a prayer from Jesus, often referred to as the “High Priestly Prayer.” In this prayer, Jesus intercedes on behalf of His disciples and all future believers, asking that they be sanctified by the truth.

Sanctification involves being set apart for a holy purpose. Jesus desires that we be set apart and by the truth. He identifies God’s Word as the source of that truth. God’s Word is the ultimate standard of truth, a guide for our lives, and a revelation of God’s character and will.

It is very important that we immerse ourselves in God’s Word. The Bible not only informs us of the truth but also has the power to change us. It corrects our misconceptions, convicts us of sin, guides our decisions, and shapes our character to align with God’s holiness.

Make a commitment to seeking and living out the truth found in God’s Word. As you do, you will be progressively sanctified and set apart for God’s purposes. May His truth touch your heart and direct your actions.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the truth found in Your Word. Help me to cherish and immerse myself in it, so that I can be continually sanctified and set apart for Your holy purposes. May Your Word shape my thoughts, decisions, and actions. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 2, 2023

Encouragement

When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk they have secretly set a snare for me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭142‬:‭3‬

This verse captures a moment when the psalmist felt overwhelmed by his circumstances. These words describe when he was heavy burdened and it seemed that others had set traps and obstacles in his way.

Life often brings moments of distress and feelings of being ensnared by challenges. In these times, it’s important to remember that God is fully aware of our circumstances. He knows our every step, and nothing escapes His attention. When we’re burdened and feel surrounded by difficulties, we can turn to Him, knowing that He is our refuge and strength.

The act of pouring out our hearts to God is a form of honest and vulnerable prayer. Just as the psalmist did, we can share our fears, anxieties, and troubles with our heavenly Father. He listens, cares, and offers guidance, comfort, and strength. It’s a reminder that in our moments of overwhelming circumstances, we don’t have to face them alone.

So, when you find yourself in a situation like the one described in Psalm 142:3, take a cue from the psalmist. Pour out your heart to God, and trust in His knowledge of your path. He is there to guide you through the snares and give you peace for your troubled spirit.

Pray

Lord, in the moments when I feel overwhelmed, I’m thankful that I can turn to You. You know my path, and nothing is hidden from Your sight. I pour out my heart to You, knowing that You will encourage and strengthen me. In Jesus’ name, amen.