Pastor Stephen Dedman

October 19, 2025

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬

Question
What burden are you carrying today that Jesus is asking you to lay down at His feet?

Context
When Jesus spoke these words, He was addressing people who were exhausted not just physically, but spiritually. The religious leaders of the time had placed heavy burdens on the people: endless rules, rituals, and expectations that made them feel like they could never measure up. Jesus steps into that moment and gives an invitation that changes everything: “Come to Me.” He wasn’t offering another law to follow but was offering Himself. In a world that demanded performance, Jesus promised peace. In a faith filled with rules, He offered relationship.

Application
Jesus’ words still speak directly to our hearts today. We carry different kinds of burdens such as stress, guilt, fear, financial strain, family pressure, even spiritual weariness. But His invitation hasn’t changed: “Come to Me.” Notice what Jesus doesn’t say. He doesn’t say, “Get yourself together first.” He doesn’t say, “Earn your way to peace.” He says, “Come.” The rest He offers isn’t found in a vacation, a nap, or a change in schedule. It’s found in His presence. When we lay our burdens at His feet, we trade anxiety for assurance, and striving for stillness. Rest doesn’t mean everything goes away. It means Jesus carries what you can’t.

Truth For The Day
True rest is not the absence of work, but the presence of Jesus.

Pray
Lord, thank You for inviting me to come to You just as I am. I confess that I’ve tried to carry too much on my own. Teach me to rest in Your presence, to trust in Your strength, and to find peace in Your promises. Today, I lay my burdens at Your feet. Be my rest, my peace, and my refuge. In Jesus’ name, amen.

October 18, 2025

And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
‭‭1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭17‬

Question
What are you investing in that will fade instead of things that will last forever?

Context
John is writing to believers to remind them of the contrast between the temporary nature of this world and the eternal life promised to those who follow Christ. In the verses leading up to this one, John warns against loving the world of its cravings, pride, and material pursuits. He’s not condemning creation itself, but the sinful systems and desires that pull people away from God. This verse serves as a reminder that everything this world offers will fade, but what is done in obedience to God endures forever.

Application
It’s easy to get caught up chasing what’s popular, successful, or comfortable. But John calls us to live with eternity in mind. Our time, talents, and treasures are temporary gifts meant to serve an eternal purpose. When we choose God’s will over worldly desires, whether that’s forgiving instead of holding a grudge, serving instead of seeking attention, or trusting instead of worrying, we’re investing in what truly lasts.

Truth For The Day
Everything the world has to offer will fade away, but everything done in God’s will lasts forever.

Pray
Lord, thank You for reminding me that this world is passing away. Help me to live with eternity in mind and to seek Your will above all else. Teach me to let go of temporary pursuits and to hold fast to what truly matters which is Your truth, Your love, and Your purpose. May my life reflect what lasts forever. In Jesus’ name, amen.

October 17, 2025

“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭37‬

Question
Do your words consistently reflect the truth and character of Christ?

Context
In Matthew 5, Jesus is preaching the Sermon on the Mount, addressing how believers are to live. In verses 33–37, He confronts the common practice of making oaths or vows to prove honesty. People in that time would swear “by heaven” or “by earth” to give weight to their promises, but often used such oaths to manipulate or deceive. Jesus teaches that His followers should not need oaths at all. Their simple, truthful word should be enough. This reveals that real righteousness begins in the heart and is demonstrated through integrity.

Application
As believers, our words matter. In a world filled with exaggeration, excuses, and empty promises, Jesus calls us to live with honesty and consistency. When we say “yes,” we should mean it. When we say “no,” we should stand by it. Living this way builds trust with others and reflects the truth of Christ in us. Integrity doesn’t just protect our reputation, it honors God and strengthens our witness.

Truth For The Day
A heart anchored in truth speaks words that can be trusted.

Pray
Lord, help me to speak with honesty and integrity in all that I do. Let my words be trustworthy and my actions consistent with my faith. May my “yes” and “no” reflect Your truth and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.