Pastor Stephen Dedman

July 18, 2025

“My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.”
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭29‬

In the midst of life’s uncertainties and trials, there is one constant source of security and comfort for believers – the unwavering love and protection of our Heavenly Father. Jesus reassures His followers of this truth, emphasizing the immeasurable security found in being held in the hands of the Father.

The assurance is twofold. First, Jesus affirms the greatness of the Father, emphasizing His sovereignty and power over all things. The One who has given believers to Jesus is greater than any force or enemy that may seek to harm them. Nothing and no one can stand against the omnipotence of God.

Second, Jesus declares the absolute security of those who belong to the Father. Just as no one is able to snatch the sheep out of the hands of the shepherd, so too is no one able to snatch believers out of the hands of the Father. His grip is firm, His love is unwavering, and His protection is unyielding.

Rest in the assurance that His love never fails, His promises are true, and His protection is absolute. And let us live each day with boldness and faith, knowing that we are secure in the hands of our Heavenly Father, who is greater than all.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the immeasurable security and comfort found in Your loving embrace. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty and Your goodness, knowing that no one can snatch me out of Your hands. Help me to live each day with confidence and faith, knowing that I am secure in Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

July 17, 2025

When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭8‬:‭3‬-‭4‬

As we contemplate the beauty and grandeur of the heavens, we are reminded of the awe-inspiring power and creativity of our Creator. The universe, with its countless stars, galaxies, and celestial wonders, stands as a testimony of God’s infinite wisdom and glory.

Despite our smallness and insignificance in comparison to all of creation, God chooses to bestow His love and attention upon us.

Today, we should echo the psalmist’s sense of wonder and gratitude for God’s love and care for us. May we be humbled by the majesty of God’s creation and His concern for our well-being. And may we respond with hearts full of praise and adoration, magnifying the name of our great and glorious Creator.

Take a moment to look up at the night sky and marvel at the beauty of God’s creation. Allow the glory of the heavens to remind you of the greatness of our Creator and His unfailing love for you. And let your heart overflow with gratitude and praise for the privilege of being known and loved by God.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the beauty and majesty of Your creation, which reflects Your glory and greatness. Help me to marvel at Your handiwork and to recognize Your love and care. Let my heart be filled with gratitude and praise for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

July 16, 2025

He shall come down like rain upon the grass before mowing, like showers that water the earth.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭72‬:‭6‬

Psalm 72:6 uses the imagery of rain and showers to illustrate the abundance of blessings that flow from the righteous rule of a king. Just as rain refreshes the earth, nourishing the grass, so too does the righteous king bring blessing and prosperity to the land.

We can apply this imagery to our understanding of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King of kings whose reign brings blessing and salvation to all who trust in Him. Jesus is described as the “Sun of Righteousness” who brings healing and restoration (Malachi 4:2). His reign is characterized by justice, righteousness, and compassion, and His blessings are poured out abundantly upon His people.

The imagery of rain serves as a reminder of the dependability of God’s provision. Just as rain falls upon the earth at the appointed time, so too does God’s grace and blessings flow into our lives according to His perfect timing and purposes. Even in times of drought or difficulty, we can trust that God will send His refreshing rain to nourish and sustain us.

Consider how you can be a channel of God’s blessings to others. Strive to live in righteousness and compassion, allowing God’s grace to flow through you to refresh and nourish those around you.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the abundant blessings that flow from Your righteous rule. Help me to live in righteousness and compassion, reflecting Your character. May I be a channel of Your blessings to those in need, bringing refreshment and nourishment to the world around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.