Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: stephen dedman

Devotional For July 18, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬

James reminds us that as believers, we are called to live in holiness. We are called to get rid of the sinful habits and behaviors that could hinder our spiritual growth. It requires a conscious decision to remove anything that separates us from God’s presence.

The word of God has the power to transform our lives from the inside out. When we apply ourselves to God’s word with humility and a teachable spirit, the word takes root in our hearts and produces righteousness. The word is not just informative; it is a living, active force that brings about spiritual change.

The word of God rescues us from the bondage of sin, and reconciles us with God. It guides us on the path of righteousness and leads us to eternal life. As we open our hearts to God’s word, we position ourselves to receive His grace and experience the power of His truth.

John 1:14 says, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” When you lay aside sinful things and embrace the word of God, you will experience the presence of God in a supernatural way.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your word that has transformed my life. Help me to lay aside anything that separates me from experiencing Your presence. Please forgive me of my sins. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 14, 2023

Encouragement

Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬

Jesus taught His followers the importance of giving. It is a powerful reminder that the act of giving opens up the floodgates of blessings. Jesus isn’t just referring to material possessions; He is talking about a generous and compassionate attitude towards others.

As followers of Christ, we are called to give, whether it’s our time, resources, or talents. The beauty of this spiritual discipline lies not only in what we give, but also in what we receive.

Jesus promises that when we give, it will be given back to us in good measure. Our heavenly Father delights in blessing His children, and He uses the act of giving as a conduit for blessing us.

It’s important to note that the measure we use in giving determines the measure of blessings we will receive. If we give sparingly, we limit the flow of blessings into our lives. But if we give with a cheerful heart, with a spirit of abundance and generosity, we position ourselves to receive an abundance.

This teaching extends beyond material possessions. When we give forgiveness, we receive forgiveness in return. When we show kindness, we experience kindness from others. When we offer love, we are embraced with love. It’s a divine economy where the more we give, the more we receive.

What measure do you use in giving? Are you giving out of obligation or with a joyful heart? Are you holding back or sowing generously? Challenge yourself to adopt a spirit of generosity, knowing that as you give, God will faithfully pour blessings into your life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your love and always providing for me. Teach me to be generous. Open my eyes to opportunities where I can sow seeds of kindness and generosity. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 12, 2023

Encouragement

So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.
‭‭I Thessalonians‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬

In the letter to the Thessalonians, Paul expresses his deep care and love for the believers in Thessalonica. He reminds them of the genuine love and sacrificial devotion he and his companions showed them while they were serving Christ together.

Paul’s ministry was characterized by a deep sense of love and grace. He and his fellow workers didn’t merely preach the gospel; they also invested into their lives. They shared the good news and then embraced the believers as family, helping them mature in their faith.

When we encounter people who are in need of Christ’s saving grace, our responsibility is not only to share the message of the gospel with them but also to accompany it with genuine acts of love and support.

As followers of Christ, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves. We are to walk alongside them, sharing not only the gospel but our very lives. This means investing time and effort in building meaningful connections, listening intentionally, and meeting physical needs.

Are you sharing both the message of the gospel and investing your time and energy into others? Do you extend yourself in acts of kindness, hoping it creates an opportunity for others to encounter Christ’s love?

Pray

Lord, teach me to love others as You love me. Help me to build relationships rooted in Your love, so that through my life and testimony, others may encounter Your grace and compassion. In Jesus’ name, amen.