Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

Devotional For November 1, 2023

Encouragement

The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!”
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭19‬

After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, many people started following Jesus. In response, the Pharisees were frustrated because of the increasing popularity of Jesus. They said, “the world has gone after Him.” This statement, though made by the Pharisees with a sense of alarm, holds a profound truth about the impact of Jesus on the world.

This truth reminds us of the powerful draw that Jesus has. His teachings of love, grace, and salvation have an appeal that goes beyond cultural, geographical, and societal boundaries. People from all backgrounds and walks of life are drawn to His transformative power and message of hope.

What is your response to Jesus? Are you drawn to His teachings, recognizing that He is the answer to our deepest longings? Do you follow Him and share His love with the world around us?

Jesus’s influence continues to be felt across the globe, and we are called to be part of the world that follows Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the profound impact You have on the world. Help me to draw closer to You and share the wonderful message of love and hope with others. Empower me to live out Your example of love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 31, 2023

Encouragement

I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬

In the introduction of this psalm, David expresses feelings of abandonment, sorrow, and distress. However, as he progresses, his focus shifts, and by the end, we see a change of perspective.

Psalm 13:6 is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can find a reason to rejoice. David’s heart, once heavy with doubt and despair, is now singing praises. He declares, “I will sing to the Lord because He has dealt bountifully with me.”

This change in perspective reminds us of the faithfulness of God. He may allow us to walk through valleys, but ultimately, His desire is to deal bountifully with us. He provides us with strength and comfort. When we take a step back and reflect on His goodness, we can’t help but break out in songs of gratitude.

So, when you find yourself in a struggle, remember the promise of Psalm 13:6. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and He continues to deal bountifully with His children. In those moments when you wonder if you can sing through your trials, let God’s Word inspire you to lift your voice in praise, for the Lord is indeed worthy of our songs of thanksgiving.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the reminder that You deal bountifully with me. In times of trial and difficulty, help me to shift my perspective and remember Your faithfulness. Let my heart be filled with gratitude and praise for Your abundant goodness and salvation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 27, 2023

Encouragement

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
‭‭James‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬

James gives us a wonderful description of the wisdom that comes from above, from God Himself. This wisdom from above is a reflection of God’s character and His heart for His children. Let’s dive into this description of wisdom.

First, it is “pure.” God’s wisdom is untainted by impurities or selfish motives. It seeks what is right and just, reflecting His holy nature.

Second, it is “peaceable.” This wisdom promotes peace and harmony, not strife or discord. It encourages reconciliation and unity among people.

Third, it is “gentle.” It is marked by kindness and tenderness, not harshness or cruelty. It considers the feelings and needs of others.

Fourth, it is “willing to yield.” God’s wisdom is open to reason and does not insist on its own way. It is teachable and flexible, recognizing that we can learn from others.

Fifth, it is “full of mercy and good fruits.” This wisdom is characterized by compassion and a desire to do good. It is not judgmental but extends grace and bears the fruit of righteousness.

Sixth, it is “without partiality.” God’s wisdom does not show favoritism. It treats all people with equity and fairness, regardless of their background or status.

Seventh, it is “without hypocrisy.” It is genuine and sincere, not marked by deceit or insincerity. It aligns with the truth and does not pretend to be something it is not.

By embracing this wisdom, we can be instruments of God’s love, peace, and grace in a world in need of His truth. Ask God for His wisdom and the strength to live it out in your daily walk.

Pray

Lord, I come before You, seeking Your wisdom from above. Help me to embrace a wisdom that is pure, peaceable, gentle, and filled with mercy. Guide my heart to live without partiality and hypocrisy, that I may be a vessel of Your grace and goodness in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.