Pastor Stephen Dedman

You shall not commit adultery.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20‬:‭14‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Are there any thoughts, habits, or relationships in your life that need to be surrendered to God so you can walk in greater purity and faithfulness?

Context
Exodus 20 records the Ten Commandments, God’s covenant instructions for His people after delivering them from Egypt. This command protects the sacred institution of marriage. Adultery is not merely a violation of a promise between two people; it is a sin against God, who designed marriage to reflect His faithfulness and covenant love.

Application
In a culture that often treats commitment casually, God calls His people to live with integrity and purity. Jesus later expanded this command by teaching that faithfulness begins in the heart, not just in outward actions (Matthew 5:28). This means guarding our thoughts, our eyes, our relationships, and the influences we allow into our lives.

Whether married or single, every believer is called to honor God with purity. Faithfulness is built through daily choices… choosing honesty over secrecy, commitment over compromise, and obedience over temptation. When we remain faithful in our relationships, we reflect the character of a faithful God.

Truth For The Day
God honors those who honor His design for purity, faithfulness, and covenant commitment.

Pray
Lord, thank You for being faithful to me even when I fail. Help me honor You with my thoughts, words, and actions. Guard my heart from temptation and strengthen me to walk in purity and integrity. Let my life reflect Your faithfulness in every relationship. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

You shall not murder.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20‬:‭13‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Are my words and attitudes toward others reflecting God’s value for human life?

Context
The sixth commandment was given to establish the sacredness of human life and remind God’s people that life belongs to Him. This commandment may seem straightforward and directed only to those who commit the very act of murder. However, God’s command reaches much deeper than the physical taking of a life. It reveals His heart concerning the value and sanctity of every person created in His image.

Jesus expanded this commandment in Matthew 5, teaching that anger, hatred, and bitterness can be the seeds that lead to destructive actions. While most people may never commit murder, many struggle with resentment, unforgiveness, or words that wound others. God command is not only to protect life but also to honor, encourage, and love one another.

Application
As believers, we are called to be life-givers. Our words should build up rather than tear down. Our actions should bring healing rather than harm. We reflect God’s character when we value people the way He values them.

Ask God to reveal any bitterness, anger, or unforgiveness in your heart. Choose today to honor others with your words, actions, and attitudes, recognizing that every person is created in God’s image.

Truth For The Day
Every life is valuable because every person is created in the image of God.

Pray
Lord, thank You for creating every person in Your image. Forgive me for the times I have harbored anger, bitterness, or hurtful attitudes toward others. Help me to value people as You do and to be a source of encouragement, kindness, and life. May my words and actions reflect Your love today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20‬:‭12‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
How can you intentionally show honor to your parents or parental figures today?

Context
Exodus 20 records the Ten Commandments, God’s foundational instructions for His covenant people. The first four commandments focus on our relationship with God, while the remaining six focus on our relationships with others. The command to honor father and mother stands at the center, bridging both areas. It is the first commandment accompanied with a promise, a promise of blessing and longevity.

Application
To honor our parents means more than simple obedience as children. It involves respect, gratitude, and care throughout our lives. Even when parents are imperfect, God calls us to maintain an attitude of honor. This does not mean approving of wrongdoing or enduring abuse, but it does mean treating them with dignity and respect. Our attitude toward parental authority often reflects our attitude toward God’s authority.

In a culture that frequently dismisses authority and values independence above all else, believers are called to be different. Honoring our parents demonstrates humility, obedience, and trust in God’s design for the family.

Truth For The Day
A heart that honors God will seek to honor the people of authority He has placed in its life.

Pray
Lord, thank You for the people You have placed in my life to guide, teach, and influence me. Help me to honor my parents with my words, actions, and attitude. Forgive me for times I have been disrespectful or ungrateful. Teach me to reflect Your love and grace in my relationships and to walk in obedience to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.