Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: stephen dedman

Devotional For July 7, 2023

Encouragement

For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.
‭‭Philemon‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬

In the short but powerful letter of Philemon, the apostle Paul expresses his gratitude and joy for the love and faith demonstrated by Philemon, a beloved brother in Christ. Philemon’s love and generosity was a source of joy for Paul and a means of refreshing the hearts of fellow believers.

The world we live in pushes self-centeredness and personal gain. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to a different standard. We are called to love one another as Christ has loved us (John 13:34). Philemon’s actions exemplified the love of Christ and it encouraged the people around him.

When we demonstrate Christ-like love and extend kindness to others, we not only bless them but we aLao experience the joy that comes from obeying God’s commandments. Our acts of love become a testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel in our lives.

As believers, we are part of a larger family and our actions impact one another. When we demonstrate love, we contribute to the well-being and spiritual refreshment of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Take a moment today and reflect on your effectiveness Christ-like love. Are you seeking opportunities to demonstrate love and kindness to those around you? Are you refreshing the hearts of fellow believers?

May our love be a source of joy, bringing refreshment to the weary and pointing others to the love and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for loving me and giving me eternal life. Fill my heart with joy that I may bless others with kindness. Give me an opportunity to express Christ-like love to someone who needs to be encouraged today.

Devotional For July 4, 2023

Encouragement

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬

As we celebrate Independence Day, we are reminded of the great blessing it is to live in a land where freedom is cherished. In today’s verse, the apostle Paul reminds us of the ultimate freedom that we have received through Christ.

Our Savior has set us free from the yoke of slavery to sin and given us the opportunity to live in a relationship with Him marked by love, grace, and forgiveness. This freedom is not dependent on our circumstances or the state of the world around us. It is a freedom that remains unshakeable, regardless of the challenges we may face.

While we cherish the freedom to express our beliefs, pursue our dreams, and live according to our convictions, may we also remember to use our freedom responsibly. Let’s remember that true freedom is not a license for selfishness, but an opportunity to serve and make a positive impact in the lives of others.

On this Independence Day, may we celebrate not only the freedom we enjoy as citizens of a nation, but also the freedom we have in Christ. Let’s be thankful for His sacrificial love and grace that have set us free.

Pray

Lord, thank You for setting me free from my sin. Help me to live a life that reflects the freedom I have received through You. Please continue to bless our great nation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 3, 2023

Encouragement

“Can anyone hide himself in secret places, So I shall not see him?” says the Lord; “Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord.
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭23‬:‭24‬

It may be a frightful thought but no one can escape God’s watchful eye or hide their actions from His sight. There is no secret or hidden place beyond His awareness. God knows all things, sees everything, and is everywhere.

The Lord says, “Do I not fill heaven and earth?” These words reveal the magnitude of God’s presence. He is not confined to a specific location or limited by time and space. There is no place where He is not.

This truth holds great significance for us as believers. It reminds us that we are never alone or forgotten. In our joys and victories, God is present. In our struggles and sorrows, He is with us. He sees us in our private moments, knows the thoughts of our hearts, and understands the complexities of our lives.

The omnipresence of God brings comfort, accountability, and a sense of awe. It assures us that we can turn to Him in every situation, knowing that He is near and attentive to our needs. It also serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, for we cannot hide our deeds from the all-seeing eyes of our Heavenly Father.

Knowing that God is omnipresent, we are called to live with integrity. We can take comfort in knowing that even in the most challenging circumstances, God sees us and is working on our behalf. He hears our cries and understands our hearts.

Is there something you are trying to hide from God? Don’t be deceived by the false notion that you can hide anything from God or live in ways contrary to His will. Know that God is with you, guiding and directing your steps. Allow His presence to lead you to worship and honor Him in all that you do.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your omnipresence. Help me to grasp the depth of this truth and to live in constant awareness of Your presence in my life. Guide me to walk in integrity and to honor You in every area of my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.