Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: salvation

The Chosen Life

Encouragement

So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭20‬:‭16‬

The context and background to this verse is very important to understand. Jesus shared a story (a parable) with His disciples so that they would understand more about the kingdom of heaven.

Jesus told them a story about a good landowner who agreed to pay his laborers a denarius which was far and above what the job entailed. When it came time to pay their wages the first ones who were hired complained because they saw the gracious landowner pay the others equally who didn’t work as long and hard.

Jesus was having this teaching moment because he knew the hearts of the disciples. They were thinking they needed more rewards because of their committed service to the Lord. Jesus needed them to understand that the gift of eternal life in heaven was more than what they deserved.

Then Jesus concluded by saying, “For many are called but few chosen.” Jesus extends an invitation to all but only a few will accept His salvation. Others will not believe in Jesus because they think He is not good, gracious or generous. So they walk away like the Rich Young Ruler, thinking they have everything they need.

You have been called but have you said “yes” to giving up everything to follow Jesus? His payment of heaven is more than fair. Do you desire eternal life more than anything this world has to offer? Your service to the Lord will be proof.

Pray

Lord, Your grace is enough. Your mercy and forgiveness is what I need. I surrender my life to receiving Your gift of eternal life.

Courageous Leadership

Encouragement

Then Moses turned to the Lord and said, “O Lord, why have you done evil to this people? Why did you ever send me? For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has done evil to this people, and you have not delivered your people at all.”
Exodus‬ ‭5:22-23‬

If you are in any position of leadership you know the weight and responsibilities that come with the position. People under your leadership need to know that you are mindful and cautious in every decision you make. 

As a leader you are responsible no matter what happens. People often turn to leaders for help but people don’t always respect their decisions. Part of being in leadership is knowing that you must make tough decisions and live with the consequences or rewards.

Good leaders aren’t always popular people. They lead the best they know how and do what they think is right. But most importantly, every leader must lead with courage. 

Moses knew the burden of leadership when God appointed him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and out of slavery. Moses did as God instructed but Pharaoh resisted and punished the people even more harshly. Moses was distraught. He didn’t understand why God was not following through with His part. 

At first Moses was the bad guy in the eyes of the Israelites. However, Moses stood courageous and confident in the Lord’s power. Good leaders must exercise great courage.  

The definition of courage is the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery. Moses didn’t think he could be a good leader but God wanted to use his weaknesses to display His power. Moses led according to God’s Word and that takes courage. 

It takes courage to stand for what is right, to face your enemy, to rise above evil, and to call out wickedness. God will never ask you to do something He will not equip you to do. He will use you to display His power and glory. God just wants you to be a courageous leader!

What are some of the decisions you have made or having to make that are not very popular with other people? Do your decisions point people to Jesus? Does your leadership reflect the character of God?

Be strong and courageous!

Pray

Lord, I know you will give me the power and wisdom to do what you’ve called me to do. I trust you to use me any way I can be used. Give me courage and boldness. 

Merry Christmas

Encouragement

Let your heart be filled with the wonder of Mary,
as obedient as Joseph,
as joyful as the heavenly host of angels,
as eager to seek the Savior as the shepherds,
determined like the magi,
and may the peace of Christ satisfy your soul.

A Christmas Prayer

Father God, let Your glory shine upon us that we may conform ourselves to Your goodness. You have come to us as a Child for us to be filled with Your joy. Your everlasting love is the greatest gift known to mankind. Your majesty and power is too much for us to understand. Let Your mercy reach down from Heaven and redeem us each and every day. Let us strengthen our faith through fellowship with You. May we enter into the rest of recognizing Your presence in our life. Give us peace that passes all understanding. Reveal Your holiness to us that we may purify our hearts with gladness. Forgive us from our sins and cleanse us from unrighteousness. May we trust in You with all of heart and mind. Give us the courage and wisdom to seek Your will and way. We praise Your holy name. It’s in the most precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas!