Pastor Stephen Dedman

This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.
‭‭Titus‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬

The apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of believers being devoted to doing good works, which are not only beneficial to others but also essential to the Christian life. While salvation comes through faith alone in Christ, genuine faith naturally produces a life characterized by good works. As recipients of God’s grace, we are called to reflect His love and righteousness through our actions, attitudes, and behaviors.

Good works are not merely acts of charity or kindness but are evidence of a heart and a life surrendered to God. They include acts of compassion, generosity, service, and love towards others, motivated by a desire to glorify God and advance His kingdom.

We are called to be intentional about maintaining good works in our lives. This requires a daily commitment to living out our faith in practical ways, seeking opportunities to bless and serve those around us. Whether it’s helping a neighbor in need or simply showing kindness to a stranger, every act of goodness reflects the character of Christ and has the potential to impact lives for eternity.

Let us not grow weary in doing good, but let us be steadfast in our pursuit of good works, knowing that they are pleasing to God and beneficial to others. May our lives be a witness of God’s grace as we strive to live out our faith in love and service to the world.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of salvation. Help me to be diligent in maintaining good works, as a response to Your grace and love in my life. Open my eyes to the needs of those around me, and empower me by Your Spirit to be a source of blessing and encouragement to others. May my life be a reflection of Your goodness and mercy, drawing others to You and glorifying Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭30‬

Psalm 18:30 serves as a powerful declaration of the unchanging faithfulness of God. In a world marked by uncertainty and change, God’s character remains constant. His ways are perfect, and His Word is proven true through the ages.

First, David affirms that God’s way is perfect. Unlike human plans and strategies that are flawed and subject to error, God’s ways are flawless and beyond reproach. He orchestrates every detail of our lives with wisdom and precision, leading us along paths of righteousness and blessing.

Second, David declares that the word of the Lord is proven. Throughout history, God has faithfully fulfilled His promises and upheld His Word. His faithfulness in the past gives us confidence to trust in Him for the future. We can rely on His promises with unwavering certainty, knowing that He is faithful to His word.

Lastly, David proclaims that God is a shield to all who trust in Him. God not only guides and directs our steps but also protects us from harm and danger. He is our defender and refuge, shielding us from the attacks of the enemy and preserving us in times of trouble.

Today, let us reaffirm our trust in God’s perfect ways and proven word. As we face the challenges and uncertainties of life, may we find refuge and strength in the unchanging faithfulness of our God.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your perfect ways and proven word. Help me to trust in Your unfailing faithfulness, knowing that You are my shield and protector. Strengthen my faith and guide me along paths of righteousness, that I may honor You in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us,
‭‭Acts‬ ‭15‬:‭8‬

In the book of Acts, we find a profound truth that should bring comfort and assurance to our hearts: God’s perfect plan has always been in motion. Acts 15:18 reminds us that God has known all His works from eternity. This means that every event, every twist and turn in our lives, and the entire course of human history are within His divine knowledge and control.

Often, we may question why certain things happen, or we may struggle with uncertainty about the future. In these moments, Acts 15:18 serves as a reminder that God’s understanding is far beyond our own. He has seen all things in existence from beginning to end, and every part, no matter how seemingly insignificant, plays a part in His masterful design.

As we reflect on this verse, it’s an invitation to trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. Even when we cannot comprehend the reasons behind our circumstances, we can rest assured that God’s plan is unfolding perfectly. Our role is to have faith, to seek His guidance, and to align our lives with His purposes.

So, take a moment to pray and surrender your worries, doubts, and uncertainties to the One who knows the end from the beginning. Trust that God’s plan is far greater than anything we can fathom, and His ways are always perfect. May this truth bring you peace and confidence in your journey of faith.

Pray

Lord, in times of uncertainty and when I cannot see the full picture, help me to trust in Your sovereignty. I surrender my worries and doubts to You, knowing that You know all things from eternity. Thank you for being a God who holds the future and for loving me unconditionally. In Jesus’ name, amen.