Pastor Stephen Dedman

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Devotional For September 30, 2023

Encouragement

My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you,
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬

Paul’s words reflect the heart of a spiritual parent who cares deeply for the spiritual development of his “children” in the faith. It reminds us that in our journey as believers, we should not only focus on our personal growth but also invest in the growth of others.

The phrase “labor in birth again” underscores the idea that spiritual growth is a process. Just as a woman goes through labor pains to bring a child into the world, nurturing spiritual growth can be challenging and requires much effort. It’s journey consisting of teaching, guiding, and discipling.

The ultimate goal of spiritual growth is for “Christ to be formed in you.” This means that our lives should increasingly reflect the character, love, and nature of Jesus. It’s about becoming more like Him in our thoughts, actions, and attitudes.

It’s essential to recognize that this transformation doesn’t happen through our own efforts alone. It is through our relationship with Christ. We depend on His grace, guidance, and the work of the Holy Spirit to mold us into His image.

Consider your role in nurturing spiritual growth, both in your own life and in the lives of those around you. Like Paul, may we be committed to seeing Christ formed in us and in others, recognizing that it is a labor of love guided by our deep faith in Christ.

    Pray

    Lord, help me to be diligent in becoming more like You. Help me to encourage others in their growth in faith. Let Your love shine through me each and every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For September 29, 2023

    Encouragement

    And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.
    ‭‭Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭28‬

    This is a powerful prophecy that speaks of a future outpouring of God’s Spirit upon all people. It’s a promise of God’s presence and guidance in a remarkable way. This verse reminds us that God desires to have a close and personal relationship with each one of us.

    The promise that God will “pour out His Spirit on all flesh” signifies inclusivity. It’s not limited to a particular group or age; it’s for everyone. In this promise, we see God’s desire to work in the lives of people from all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life. He wants to use both the wisdom of the old and the energy of the young.

    God’s promise of pouring out His Spirit should fill our hearts with hope and expectation. It reminds us that His presence is not distant or reserved for a select few; it’s available to all who seek Him. Through the Holy Spirit, we receive guidance, empowerment, and the ability to fulfill our God-given purpose.

    As you reflect on Joel 2:28, seek the Lord in prayer, spend time in His Word, and be receptive to the desires He places in your heart. Trust that His Spirit is at work, both in you and in the world around you.

    Pray

    Lord, thank You for the promise of Your Spirit. I open my heart to receive more of Your presence and guidance. Use me to fulfill Your purposes and to be an instrument of Your love in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For September 27, 2023

    Encouragement

    …for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
    ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬

    In today’s verse, the Apostle Paul highlights two essential aspects of our relationship with God.

    1. God’s Divine Will: The verse acknowledges that God desires us to align our will with His divine purpose. His will is always perfect and in our best interest. When we earnestly seek His will, we open the door for His guidance and blessings in our lives.

    2. God’s Empowering Grace: Not only does God invite us to follow His will, but He also empowers us to do so. This empowerment comes through the Holy Spirit, who works within us, transforming our desires and enabling us to carry out His plans.

    As we seek God’s will in our lives, we may face moments of uncertainty or doubt. But God’s Spirit guides and enlightens our hearts, helping us understand His purpose for us.

    When we encounter difficulties or obstacles in following God’s will, His empowering grace equips us with the strength and resilience needed to overcome them.

    God’s empowerment allows us to live purposefully, fulfilling His good pleasure. When we align our will with His, our lives take on deeper meaning and significance.

    Philippians 2:13 reminds us that God is actively at work within us, enabling us to desire and fulfill His divine will. As we seek His guidance and rely on His empowering grace, we can live a life that brings Him glory and aligns with His perfect plan for us.

    Pray

    Lord, I am so grateful for Your invitation to follow Your will and for the empowering grace of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to seek Your guidance in all aspects of my life and to align my desires with Your purpose. Help me to trust in Your empowerment to fulfill Your good pleasure. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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