Pastor Stephen Dedman

A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭1‬

Question
What choices today will help build a reputation that honors God and blesses those around you?

Context
The book of Proverbs contains wisdom sayings primarily written or compiled by King Solomon to guide people in godly living. Proverbs 22 emphasizes practical wisdom for everyday life, including relationships, humility, parenting, and stewardship. Verse 1 reminds us that character and reputation matter more than material wealth.

Application
In a world that often measures success by money, possessions, or status, this verse calls us to focus on our character. Our actions, honesty, and treatment of others build a reputation that lasts longer than wealth. Each day offers opportunities to protect and strengthen our “good name” by choosing integrity, kindness, and faithfulness even when it costs us something.

Truth For The Day
Character is a treasure more valuable than wealth, and a life lived with integrity honors God and blesses others.

Pray
Lord, help me value integrity more than success or gain. Guide my words and actions so that my life reflects Your character. May my reputation point others toward Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬

Question
Which of these qualities: unity, compassion, or humility does God want you to grow in most?

Context
Peter wrote this letter to believers who were scattered and facing persecution. He wanted them to live in a way that reflected Christ, even under pressure. In this verse, he summarizes qualities that create harmony and godly witness among Christians: unity, compassion, love, tenderness, and humility. These traits were meant to help them stand firm in faith and influence a hostile world through Christlike behavior.

Application
1 Peter 3:8 calls us to examine how we relate to others. In our homes, workplaces, and communities, the world notices the way we treat people. Practicing humility, empathy, and love can soften hearts and reflect God’s character. This verse reminds us that spiritual strength isn’t just about what we believe, but also how we live it out in relationships.

Truth For The Day
Our attitude toward others is a powerful testimony of Christ in us.

Pray
Lord, help me reflect Your love in all my relationships. Give me a humble heart, compassion for others, and the ability to live in unity with those around me. Teach me to act with tenderness and patience so that others see You through me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
‭‭I John‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬

Question
Are you living today like someone who truly belongs to God?

Context
John writes to believers to assure them of their identity in Christ amid false teachings and spiritual confusion. He reminds them that they already belong to God, yet their full transformation will be completed when Christ returns. Salvation is secure, but spiritual growth is ongoing.

Application
We may feel unfinished or frustrated with our struggles, but God is still shaping us. As believers, we are already God’s children, yet He is still shaping what we will become. There are parts of our journey we don’t fully understand, but our hope is secure and one day we will see Christ face to face and be made like Him.

Truth For The Day
God is still working on me, and my future in Christ is secure.

Pray
Lord, thank You for calling me Your child. Continue shaping my life to look more like Jesus each day as I trust You with the journey. In Jesus’ name, Amen.