Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: stephen dedman

May 30, 2023

Encouragement

For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, And as a root out of dry ground. He has no form or comeliness; And when we see Him, There is no beauty that we should desire Him.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭2‬

Isaiah 53 is a prophetic chapter that describes the Messiah’s sacrificial, earthly life. In verse 2 lies a profound revelation that invites us to survey the humble beauty of our Savior.

With human eyes, we are captivated by physical appearances. But when it comes to our Savior, Isaiah illustrates a different picture. He reveals that Jesus did not have the kind of attractiveness that some think He would have.

Jesus’ physical appearance during His earthly ministry did not draw the attention of others. He did not possess a public figure that would be fitting for royalty. He chose to come in the most unexpected way. He did not attract attention through outward beauty but touched hearts through His words and actions of the beauty of His inner character.

The beauty of Jesus was in His humility, compassion, and selflessness. It was in His inner nature and character that His true beauty shone brightly.

As followers of Christ, we are called to display the same spirit of humility and selflessness. Our lives should reflect the inner beauty that comes from a heart devoted to God and a willingness to serve others selflessly.

Today, try fixing your gaze on the beauty of our Savior. Seek to reflect His character in your life and embrace humility and compassion for others.

Pray

Lord, thank You for revealing to me the humble beauty of Jesus through the words of Isaiah. Help me to see beyond external beauty and teach me the value of humility and selfless love that reflects Your nature and character. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 29, 2023

Encouragement

Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.
‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬

On Memorial Day, we are reminded of the love displayed by those who have laid down their lives for the sake of others. These words of Christ hold deep meaning not only in the context of His own sacrificial death but also in the brave acts of service performed by our fallen heroes.

As we remember and honor the fallen, let’s take a moment to express gratitude for those who have given themselves in service to their country. Let us forever appreciate their sacrifice, recognizing the immeasurable debt we owe to them.

Memorial Day is more than a day off. It is a special time to remember those who have given their all. We offer prayers of remembrance for their families and loved ones who still bear the weight of their absence.

The remembrance of the fallen should stir us to live purposefully. Let their sacrifice remind us of the importance of selflessness, service, and love in our own lives. May we honor their memory by extending kindness, compassion, and grace to those around us.

May we always remember the selfless acts of love performed by those who have gone on before us. Their sacrifice reflects the love of Jesus, reminding us of the power found in laying down one’s life for others. May the hope found in God’s promises sustain us as we carry their legacy forward.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the many women and men who have sacrificed their life for the freedoms I have today. Help me to be selfless toward others. May my life reflect the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 28, 2023

Encouragement

But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name Be joyful in You.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭5‬:‭11‬

This verse invites us to be glad and sing for joy. The joy we find in God is not based on our circumstances but on the unchanging nature of our heavenly Father. It is a joy that flows from knowing that we are loved, protected, and cared for by the Creator of the universe. It is a joy that springs forth from a deep relationship with Him.

When we trust in God, He spreads His protection over us. He becomes our shield and fortress, guarding us from the storms of life and shielding us from the schemes of the enemy. In His presence, we find refuge from the pressures of this world, the burdens of our hearts, and the attacks on our faith. We can rest assured that God’s protection is all-encompassing and unwavering.

As we experience God’s loving protection, our response is one of rejoicing. We rejoice not only in the blessings He bestows upon us but also in His very presence. Our joy is rooted in the truth of who God is and what He has done for us. It is a joy that fills our hearts with gratitude and praise. It is a joy that testifies of His faithfulness and goodness.

Choose to trust in God, knowing that He is your safe haven in every season of life. As you abide in His presence, trust in His unwavering protection and allow His love to be your source of strength and hope.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for being my refuge and stronghold in times of trouble. Help me to truly understand the depth of Your unfailing love and the security I have in Your presence. Fill my heart with gladness and joy as I dwell in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.