Pastor Stephen Dedman

November 12, 2025

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭19‬

Question
How can you live out the Great Commission in your daily life this week?

Context
These are some of Jesus’ final words to His disciples after His resurrection also known as The Great Commission. Standing on a mountain in Galilee, Jesus entrusted His followers with a divine mission: to spread the gospel, teach His Word, and baptize believers everywhere. This command wasn’t just for the disciples, it’s a calling for every believer.

Application
The call to “go” reminds us that the gospel was never meant to be contained within the walls of a church or the comfort of our routines. Every believer is called to be a messenger of God’s love wherever we are. “Making disciples” means more than just sharing information; it’s about walking with people as they grow in faith, modeling Christ’s character through our words and actions.

Sometimes we feel unqualified or afraid to share our faith. But remember, Jesus didn’t send His disciples in their own strength. In the very next verse, He promised, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” You’re never alone in this mission. The presence of Christ empowers you to speak, serve, and love boldly.

Truth For The Day
The Great Commission is not a suggestion; it’s our purpose.

Pray
Lord, thank You for trusting me with the mission to share Your Word. Give me boldness to speak, wisdom to teach, and compassion to reach others in love. Help me to remember that You are always with me as I go and make disciples. In Jesus’ name, amen.

November 11, 2025

“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬

Question
Am you using the freedom others fought for (and Christ died for) to serve God and make a difference in the lives of others?

Context
When Jesus spoke these words in John 15:13, He was describing the deepest form of love. It’s a love that gives, protects, and stands in the gap for others. Jesus laid down His life so that we could be free, not just as citizens of a nation, but as citizens of heaven.

In a very real sense, our veterans have lived out that kind of love through their service. Their courage reminds us of Christ’s own sacrifice.

On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation’s military. Their service is a living example of sacrifice, courage, and love for others. Many stood in harm’s way so that others could live in peace. Some returned home changed by what they endured; others gave the ultimate sacrifice and never came home at all.

Application
As we honor our veterans, we’re reminded that freedom is never free. The blessings we enjoy like freedom to worship, to speak, to live, have been preserved through both the blood of soldiers and the blood of the Savior. Reach out to a veteran today and say, “thank you!”

Truth For The Day
True freedom is not just living without restraint, it’s living with purpose, gratitude, and love that reflects the sacrifice of others and the grace of God.

Pray
Lord, thank You for the men and women who have served our country with honor and courage. Bless them for their sacrifice and protect those who still serve today. May we never take for granted the freedoms we enjoy, and may we use them to serve others and bring glory to Your name. Help us to remember the ultimate example of love through Jesus Christ who laid down His life for us all. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

November 10, 2025

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬

Question
Are you letting the peace of Christ make the final call in your decisions, your relationships, and your attitude?

Context
Paul wrote to the Colossian believers to help them live out their new identity in Christ. Paul reminded them that Jesus’ peace should be the deciding factor in every thought, word, and action. When Christ rules the heart, His peace rules the home, the church, and every relationship.

Application
This verse reminds us that peace isn’t just a feeling, it’s a choice. The word “rule” here means to “act as an umpire.” In other words, when confusion, anger, or anxiety start to rise, let the peace of Christ be the deciding voice. Ask, “Does this decision bring peace? Does it reflect the heart of Christ?”

When we allow Christ’s peace to govern our hearts, it not only calms our spirit but also shapes how we treat others. Paul ties peace to unity as we are members of one body, called to live in harmony. And then he ends with a powerful key: “And always be thankful.” Gratitude keeps peace alive because a thankful heart leaves no room for worry or division.

Truth For The Day
When Christ’s peace rules your heart, gratitude fills your life, and unity follows in your relationships.

Pray
Lord Jesus, thank You for the peace that only You can give. When life feels uncertain or tense, remind me to let Your peace take the lead. Help me to choose peace over pride, grace over grumbling, and gratitude over worry. Rule in my heart today and let Your peace flow through me to others. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.