Pastor Stephen Dedman

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.

“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.

“So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, The crawling locust, The consuming locust, And the chewing locust, My great army which I sent among you.”
‭‭Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬

Question
Have you ever looked back on a season of your life and wondered if the time, opportunities, or blessings you lost could ever be restored?

Context
The book of Joel opens with devastation. A plague of locusts swept through Judah, destroying crops, livelihoods, and hope. The land was bare, the people were desperate, and Joel called them to repent and return to God.

But the story doesn’t end with judgment. Through Joel, God promises restoration, renewal, and revival for His people when they turn back to Him with sincere hearts.

Application
We’ve all had “locust years” or times when sin, hardship, or circumstances have robbed us of peace, joy, or purpose. Joel reminds us that God is not finished with us even after loss. When we humble ourselves and return to Him, God steps in not only to forgive, but to restore and to give back more than what was taken. The same God who allowed the locusts to come is the One who promises, “I will restore.”

That’s the nature of grace. God takes what’s broken, barren, or wasted, and brings beauty, abundance, and fruit again.

Truth For The Day
God can restore years of loss in a moment of grace.

Pray
Lord, thank You that You are the God who restores. Even when life feels stripped bare, You promise to bring new fruit. Forgive me for the times I’ve turned away, and help me to trust Your power to redeem what has been lost. Bring restoration to my heart, home, and faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.