Pastor Stephen Dedman

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬

Life often doesn’t always go the way we expect or within the timeline we desire. Waiting can feel frustrating, especially when we’re praying for answers, direction, or breakthroughs. However, God’s timing is always perfect, and His plans for us are greater than anything we could imagine.

Think of a seed planted soil. It doesn’t sprout into a full plant overnight. Beneath the surface, unseen to the human eye, roots are growing, strengthening, and preparing the plant for the fruit it will bear. In the same way, in seasons of waiting, God is working in ways we cannot see, preparing us for His purpose and blessings.

When we trust God’s timing, we demonstrate our faith in His sovereignty and His goodness. He knows what we need and when we need it. Instead of rushing ahead or becoming discouraged, we are called to rest in His promises, knowing He is faithful.

Take a moment to reflect on an area of your life where you’re waiting for God’s direction or provision. Surrender that situation to Him in prayer, asking for patience and trust in His perfect timing.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your perfect plan for my life. Help me to trust in Your timing, even when I feel impatient or uncertain. Remind me that You are always working for my good, even in seasons of waiting. Strengthen my faith and help me rest in Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭14‬

In the closing words of his second letter to the Corinthians, the apostle Paul prays a blessing upon the believers, invoking the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit. This triune blessing is the essence of the Christian faith.

First, Paul invokes the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace is defined as God’s undeserved favor. It is through the grace of Jesus Christ that we are forgiven, redeemed, and reconciled to God. His grace is freely given, available to all who believe, and it empowers us to live transformed lives.

Second, Paul speaks of the love of God. God’s love is unconditional, unfailing, and incomprehensible. It is a love that surpasses human understanding. It was out of love that God sent His Son into the world to save us (John 3:16), and it is His love that sustains us through every circumstance. Knowing that we are loved by God gives us strength, comfort, and assurance.

Finally, Paul mentions the communion of the Holy Spirit. Communion refers to an intimate fellowship with God, made possible through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit not only guides and empowers us but also enables us to experience a friendship with God and with one another. Through the communion of the Holy Spirit, we are united as the body of Christ, sharing in a common faith and purpose.

As we meditate on this triune blessing, may we be reminded of the richness and depth of our relationship with God. May we embrace the grace of Jesus Christ, rejoice in the love of God, and cultivate a communion with the Holy Spirit. And may this blessing be upon us all, now and forevermore.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the triune blessing of Your grace, love, and fellowship. Help me to fully embrace the depth of Your love, to walk in the grace of Jesus Christ, and to live in agreement with Your Holy Spirit. May Your presence be with me always, guiding me, strengthening me, and filling me with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach,
‭‭Mark‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬

Just as Jesus chose twelve ordinary men, He extends an invitation to each of us today. In the midst of our busy lives, responsibilities, and distractions, He calls us to spend time with Him daily. He desires to be our constant companion, guiding us, comforting us, and revealing the truths of His kingdom.

Being with Jesus allows us to witness firsthand His compassion for the broken, His wisdom in handling challenges, and His unwavering faith in God the Father. As we walk with Him, we learn invaluable lessons, not just for ourselves but also to share with others.

We have a special purpose as disciples of Christ. We are not called to walk alone or merely perform tasks in our own strength. We are called to be with Him, to abide in His love, and to allow His truth to shape every aspect of our lives.

Have you responded to Jesus’ invitation wholeheartedly? It is a privilege to be one of His followers.

Pray

Lord, thank You for calling me to be one of Your followers. Help me to embrace Your presence so that I will grow close to You. Give me the courage to follow You wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ name, amen.