Pastor Stephen Dedman

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Devotional For October 17, 2023

Encouragement

…rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭12‬

There are three keywords that speak to us today as we meditate on God’s Word. They are hope, patience and prayer.

Hope is a precious gift. As Christians, our hope is anchored in the promises of God. We have hope in the salvation brought through Jesus, hope in God’s faithfulness, and hope in the ultimate victory over sin and death. We choose to rejoice in the hope we have in Christ.

During the difficult seasons of life, patience becomes a virtue of great significance. Patience is a result of trusting in God’s plan and timing. It means that we continue to walk in faith, even when circumstances seem to suggest otherwise. Remember that God can work in and through tribulations for His glory.

Prayer is our lifeline to God, and it should be a significant part of our daily lives. In times of rejoicing, in times of trouble, and at all times in between, we are encouraged to remain in prayer. Through prayer, we deepen our relationship with God, seek His guidance, and lay our concerns at His feet.

Romans 12:12 reminds us to rejoice in the hope that Christ offers. Be patient when faced with challenges, knowing that God is with you. And continue steadfastly in prayer, staying connected to the source of your strength and peace. In doing so, you will go through life’s twists and turns with a heart full of faith and a spirit that endures.

    Pray

    Lord, thank You for the guidance and encouragement found in Your Word. Help me to embrace hope, patience, and prayer today. May I find hope in You, patience in tribulation, and the joy of connecting with You through prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Devotional For October 14, 2023

    Encouragement

    The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
    ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭14‬:‭2‬

    This verse tells us that the Lord gazes down from heaven, not in judgment but in search of understanding hearts and those who earnestly seek Him.

    Understanding in this context is not just about intellectual knowledge; it’s about recognizing a relationship with God. God is not interested in religion or rituals. He desires a genuine and intimate relationship with His children.

    To “seek God” means to yearn for Him, to long for His presence, and to actively pursue a deeper relationship with Him. It’s an acknowledgment that true wisdom and fulfillment are found in God alone.

    Take a moment to reflect on your life. Are you sincerely seeking God? Is your heart open to His guidance and presence? Are you earnestly pursuing an understanding of His ways and His will?

    Pray

    Lord, I come before You with a humble heart, seeking a deeper understanding of You. I acknowledge that true wisdom and fulfillment can only be found in Your presence. I long for a deeper understanding of Your ways, that I may live in alignment with Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    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.