Pastor Stephen Dedman

“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.”
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭36‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Am you using the freedoms God has given you to live faithfully and share the hope of Christ with others?

Context
When Jesus spoke these words, He wasn’t referring to freedom from earthly governments but freedom from the bondage of sin. Every person is born enslaved to sin, unable to save themselves. Through His death and resurrection, Christ broke sin’s power and offers forgiveness, new life, and eternal hope to all who trust in Him.

Application
The Fourth of July reminds us of the tremendous blessing of living in a nation that values liberty. We are grateful for those who sacrificed their lives so that future generations could enjoy freedom. Yet, as precious as political freedom is, it cannot compare to the spiritual freedom that Jesus Christ offers.

As we celebrate America’s independence today, let it remind us to celebrate an even greater victory, the day Christ set us free. Our greatest citizenship is not found in any earthly nation but in the kingdom of God. Because of Jesus, we are no longer condemned, no longer slaves to our past, and no longer without hope.

Thank God for our country, pray for its leaders, and use the freedoms we enjoy to boldly proclaim the gospel while we still have the opportunity.

Truth For The Day
The greatest freedom is not political liberty but freedom from sin through Jesus Christ.

Pray
Lord, thank You for the blessing of living in a free nation and for those who have sacrificed to preserve that freedom. Above all, thank You for the freedom that was purchased through Your death and resurrection. Help me never to take that gift for granted. May I live each day as one who has been truly set free, bringing glory to You and sharing the gospel with those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
What is one area of your life where God is calling you to greater faithfulness today?

Context
In the context of 1 Corinthians 4, Paul reminds believers that God’s servants are stewards and not owners. Our responsibility is not to achieve worldly success but to remain faithful to the One who called us. Faithfulness is one of the most overlooked virtues in the Christian life. We often dream of doing great things for God, yet the Lord places tremendous value on how we handle the ordinary responsibilities He has already entrusted to us.

Application
Faithfulness is choosing to pray even when you don’t feel like it. It is opening God’s Word every day, serving others without seeking recognition, keeping your promises, and honoring Christ in the little decisions that no one else sees. While people often measure results, God measures faithfulness.

Truth For The Day
God is not asking you to be famous or extraordinary. He is asking you to be faithful where He has placed you.

Pray
Lord, thank You for entrusting me with opportunities to serve You each day. Help me to be faithful in both the large and small responsibilities You have given me. Teach me to seek Your approval above the praise of others and to honor You with a consistent, obedient life. May my faithfulness bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Open the gates, that the righteous nation which keeps the truth may enter in.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭26‬:‭2‬ ‭NKJV‬

Question
Does your daily life demonstrate a commitment to God’s truth, even when it is difficult?

Context
Isaiah 26 is a song of praise celebrating God’s future kingdom and His faithful deliverance of His people. The “gates” symbolize entrance into God’s secure city—a place of salvation, peace, and fellowship with Him. Isaiah emphasizes that those who enter are characterized by righteousness and faithfulness to God’s truth. This is not teaching salvation by works, but describing the lives of those who belong to the Lord and have placed their faith in Him.

Application
Our world often encourages compromise, but God calls His people to remain faithful to His truth. A believer’s life should reflect the transforming work of God’s grace through obedience, integrity, and steadfast trust. While we are saved by grace through faith, genuine faith produces a life that honors Christ. Every day we have the opportunity to live as citizens of God’s kingdom by walking according to His Word rather than the values of the world.

Truth For The Day
Those who belong to Christ are called to live faithfully, reflecting His truth in every area of life.

Pray
Lord, thank You for calling me into Your family through faith. Help me to live in a way that reflects Your righteousness and Your truth. Give me the courage to remain faithful in a world that often rejects Your Word. May my life point others to You and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.