Pastor Stephen Dedman

For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection,
‭‭Romans‬ ‭6‬:‭5‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Are you living as someone who has been made alive in Christ, or are you allowing your past to dictate your present?

Context
In Romans 6, Paul explains that salvation is more than receiving forgiveness, it is being united with Christ. Through faith, believers are identified with Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection. Just as a seed must be planted before new life emerges, our old sinful nature was crucified with Christ so that we might walk in newness of life.

This does not mean we are instantly free from temptation, but it does mean that sin no longer has dominion over us. Because Christ lives, we have the power to live differently. The resurrection of Jesus is not merely a historical event to celebrate; it is a present reality that transforms how we think, love, serve, and obey.

Application
When we struggle with old habits or discouragement, we must remember who we are in Christ. Our identity is no longer defined by our past failures but by our union with the risen Savior. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in every believer, enabling us to pursue holiness and live with hope.

Truth For The Day
Because you are united with Christ, your old life no longer defines you—His resurrection power gives you strength to walk in obedience each day.

Pray
Lord, thank You for uniting me in Your death and resurrection. Help me to leave behind the old ways of sin and to walk each day in the new life You have given me. Strengthen me to live in the power of Your resurrection and to reflect Jesus in all I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“The baptism of John—was it from heaven or from men?”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭20‬:‭4‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Is there an area of your life where you know what God has said but have been reluctant to obey?

Context
The religious leaders confronted Jesus, demanding to know by what authority He taught and performed miracles. Rather than answering immediately, Jesus asked them a question: “Was the baptism of John from heaven or from man?” Their response revealed their hearts. Instead of seeking the truth, they calculated the political consequences of every possible answer. Fearing the people more than they feared God, they finally replied, “We do not know.”

Application
Jesus exposed a sobering reality: it is possible to know the facts about God while refusing to submit to His authority. The leaders were not confused by the evidence. John the Baptist had clearly pointed people to the Messiah. Their problem was not a lack of information but a lack of willingness to believe.

We can fall into the same trap. When God’s Word confronts our lives, we must decide whether we will accept His authority or justify our own desires. Faith is more than acknowledging truth, it is surrendering to it. The Lord is not looking for people who simply admire His wisdom; He is looking for those who will obey Him.

Truth For The Day
God’s authority calls for more than intellectual agreement, it calls for wholehearted surrender.

Pray
Lord, forgive me for the times I have resisted Your authority. Give me a heart that values Your truth above the opinions of others. Help me to trust Your Word, submit to Your will, and follow You with wholehearted obedience. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation,
And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭12‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Is there anything in your life that is stealing the joy of your walk with Christ?

Context
Psalm 51 is David’s heartfelt prayer of repentance after his sin with Bathsheba was exposed by the prophet Nathan. Although David had experienced God’s forgiveness before, he understood that sin had robbed him of the joy and fellowship he once enjoyed with the Lord. Notice that he did not ask for his salvation to be restored, but for the joy of his salvation to return.

Application
Even as believers, unconfessed sin, spiritual neglect, or misplaced priorities can leave us feeling distant from God. While our salvation is secure in Christ, our joy can fade when our hearts wander. The good news is that God delights in restoring those who come to Him with genuine repentance. He not only forgives but also renews our desire to walk faithfully with Him.

Truth For The Day
God is always ready to restore the joy of those who humbly return to Him.

Pray
Lord, thank You for Your mercy and forgiveness. When I drift from You, draw me back with Your loving grace. Restore the joy of my salvation and give me a willing spirit that delights in obeying You. Help me to walk closely with You each day so that my life reflects the peace and joy that only You can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.