Pastor Stephen Dedman

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

Question
What area of your life do you need to “stand fast” in and refuse to return to old patterns?

Context
Freedom is one of the most beautiful gifts God gives His people. But the freedom Paul speaks of in Galatians 5:1 is not political, emotional, or even physical, it’s spiritual. Christ has broken every chain that sin, guilt, shame, and legalism once wrapped around our lives. He didn’t set us partially free or conditionally free; He set us completely free.

Application
Paul warns us because he knows how easy it is to slip back into old patterns. Sometimes we drift back toward trying to earn God’s approval by our works. Sometimes we return to habits or mindsets that Christ already delivered us from. Freedom requires firmness as Paul says, “Stand fast.” Hold your ground. Protect the liberty Jesus died to give you.

Christ didn’t free you so you could wander back into bondage; He freed you so you could walk confidently in grace, live boldly in purpose, and serve joyfully out of love not fear.

Today, stand firm in the truth that you are accepted, forgiven, and empowered. The chains you feel tugging on you have already been broken. Don’t let the enemy, your past, or your own thoughts convince you otherwise.

Truth For The Day
You are free because Christ has made you free, so today, you don’t have to live under anything He already broke off your life.

Pray
Lord, thank You for the freedom You purchased for me through Jesus. Help me to stand firm in that liberty and not return to the things that once held me captive. Strengthen my mind, steady my heart, and remind me daily that I am free indeed. Let my life be a testimony of Your grace and power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬

Question
What plans, decisions, or areas of your life have you been handling without seeking God’s direction?

Context
James writes to scattered believers who were making confident plans about business, travel, and future success, yet leaving God out of their decisions. He challenges their pride and self-reliance, reminding them that life is fragile, temporary, and completely dependent on God’s will. The issue wasn’t planning, it was planning without God.

Application
Today, slow down and acknowledge God in your plans. Before you make a decision, commit it to Him. Ask, “Lord, what do You want?” Plan with humility, live with purpose, and treat every moment as an opportunity to honor God. Let the brevity of life push you into deeper dependence on Him.

Truth For The Day
Life is a vapor so live today with God’s purpose in mind.

Pray
Lord, thank You for the reminder that my life is a precious and brief gift from You. Help me to live with humility, intention, and dependence on Your will. Teach me not to take moments for granted but to honor You in every decision. Guide my steps today and align my plans with Your purpose. Let my brief life reflect Your eternal glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor.
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭9‬

Question
Who is one person God is calling you to partner with, support, or invite into your journey today?

Context
Ecclesiastes is Solomon’s reflective look at life “under the sun” apart from God’s eternal perspective. In chapter 4, he observes the emptiness of isolation and the value of companionship. He notes that oppression, loneliness, and the pursuit of success without relationship lead to weariness. In contrast, partnership, community, and shared labor bring strength, protection, and blessing.

Application
Life was never meant to be lived alone. God wired us for relationships, first with Him, then with others. Solomon reminds us that two working together accomplish more than one striving alone. We are stronger when someone can lift us when we fall, pray for us when we’re weak, and celebrate with us when God blesses us. Community multiplies strength, joy, and perseverance. Whether in marriage, ministry, friendship, or family, God places people around us as divine helpers to encourage and sharpen us.

Ask God to show you the people He has placed in your life to walk with you in this season. Be intentional about building those relationships by making the call, sending the message, asking for prayer, or offering help. Don’t try to carry everything alone; allow someone to lift one side of the weight.

Truth For The Day
God multiplies what we do when we don’t walk alone.

Pray
Lord, thank You for the gift of relationships. Help me to recognize the people You have placed in my life to walk with me, strengthen me, and encourage me. Give me the humility to seek help when I need it and the compassion to offer support when others are weak. In Jesus’ name, amen.