Pastor Stephen Dedman

May 11, 2025

Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her:
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭31‬:‭28‬

Who are the mothers or mother figures that have impacted your life? Motherhood is far more than biological maternity. It’s a reflection of a nurturing, sacrificial love that can be found in many relationships and roles. 

Proverbs 31 paints a beautiful picture of a woman who embodies the qualities of a nurturing caregiver. She speaks with wisdom, provides guidance and instruction, and diligently cares for her household. Her children and husband rise up to honor and bless her, recognizing the invaluable role she plays in their lives.

This biblical description of a godly mother serves as a model for women who aspire to live out their faith in practical ways within their families and communities. It emphasizes the importance of character, integrity, and faithfulness in fulfilling the role of a mother and nurturer.

On this Mother’s Day, take time to express your gratitude and love for all those who have nurtured and cared for you. Whether it’s through a simple thank-you note, a thoughtful gesture, or spending quality time together, let us take the opportunity to honor the mothers and mother figures in our lives.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of motherhood and the mothers who have blessed me. Help me to honor and appreciate the mothers and mother figures in my life, recognizing their invaluable contributions. Help me to grow in Your likeness and extend grace to those who may need a blessing as well. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 10, 2025

If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭26‬

Jesus speaks these words to His disciples during the final days of His earthly ministry, just before He is to suffer on the cross. Jesus emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the connection between service, following Him, and divine honor.

As His followers, Jesus invites us into a life of service and discipleship. True service involves following Christ closely, aligning our actions with His teachings, and being where He is—both in physical presence and spiritual alignment. This involves sacrificial love, humility, and a commitment to living out the principles of God’s kingdom. In doing so, we receive the promise that the Father will honor us.

Today, consciously choose to serve Christ. This may manifest in acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness. It may require you to step out of your comfort zone, just as Christ did during His earthly ministry.

Pray

Lord, I come before You with a heart open to Your guidance. Teach me to be a true servant, following closely in Your footsteps. Grant me the strength to serve selflessly, the humility to follow obediently, and the grace to embody the values of Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 9, 2025

Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭14‬

Waiting is hard. In a world that craves instant gratification, the idea of patience and trusting God’s timing can feel countercultural and even frustrating. Yet, throughout Scripture, we see God working in the waiting. Abraham waited decades for God’s promise of a son to be fulfilled. Joseph waited years in prison before stepping into his calling. Even Jesus waited until the appointed time to begin His ministry.

Waiting doesn’t mean inactivity or passivity—it’s an opportunity to grow in faith and obedience. When we wait on God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust that He is working for our good, even when we can’t see the full picture.

The waiting seasons often teach us more than the moments when our prayers are answered. They refine our character, deepen our dependence on God, and help us cultivate gratitude when His blessings finally come.

Are you in a season of waiting right now? How can you actively trust God while you wait?

Pray

Lord, waiting can be so difficult, especially when I don’t see how everything will work out. Help me to trust Your timing and Your plan. Strengthen my heart and teach me to rely on You during this season. Thank You for the work You are doing, even when I cannot see it. I surrender my timeline to You and ask for Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.