Pastor Stephen Dedman

Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭14‬

Waiting is hard. In a world that craves instant gratification, the idea of patience and trusting God’s timing can feel countercultural and even frustrating. Yet, throughout Scripture, we see God working in the waiting. Abraham waited decades for God’s promise of a son to be fulfilled. Joseph waited years in prison before stepping into his calling. Even Jesus waited until the appointed time to begin His ministry.

Waiting doesn’t mean inactivity or passivity—it’s an opportunity to grow in faith and obedience. When we wait on God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust that He is working for our good, even when we can’t see the full picture.

The waiting seasons often teach us more than the moments when our prayers are answered. They refine our character, deepen our dependence on God, and help us cultivate gratitude when His blessings finally come.

Are you in a season of waiting right now? How can you actively trust God while you wait?

Pray

Lord, waiting can be so difficult, especially when I don’t see how everything will work out. Help me to trust Your timing and Your plan. Strengthen my heart and teach me to rely on You during this season. Thank You for the work You are doing, even when I cannot see it. I surrender my timeline to You and ask for Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to let urgent matters overshadow what’s truly important. Work deadlines, family obligations, and personal goals can quickly fill our minds and schedules, leaving little room for the things of God. But Jesus calls us to a different way of living—one where His kingdom is our first priority.

Seeking God’s kingdom first means aligning our hearts with His will, placing our relationship with Him above all else. It’s not about neglecting our responsibilities but about inviting God into every area of our lives. When we prioritize prayer, worship, and obedience, we’re acknowledging that everything we have and need comes from Him.

God promises that when we make Him our first priority, He will provide for our needs. This doesn’t mean life will be without challenges, but it does mean we can trust Him to care for us as we walk in faith.

Pray

Lord, help me to put You first in everything I do. Teach me to seek Your kingdom and Your righteousness above my own desires and distractions. I surrender my plans, my time, and my priorities to You. May my life reflect Your love and purpose as I trust You to provide for all my needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.
‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭27‬

Jesus gives us a wonderful message about the priorities of life. He tells us not to labor solely for the temporary and perishable things of this world, such as material wealth, fame, or pleasures. Instead, He urges us to seek after something far more valuable – the food that endures to everlasting life.

What is this enduring food? It is the spiritual nourishment that comes from a deep and abiding relationship with Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), and in Him, we find sustenance for our souls that goes beyond the physical needs of our bodies.

This verse reminds us that our primary focus in life should be on our relationship with God and the eternal treasures He offers. While it’s essential to work for our daily bread and fulfill our responsibilities, we must never lose sight of the greater purpose of our existence – to know, love, and serve God.

As you go about your day, remember to invest your time and energy in cultivating a close relationship with Christ, for in Him, you will find the true riches and abundant life that surpasses all earthly possessions.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of salvation. Help me to prioritize my spiritual well-being and seek a deeper relationship with You. Help me to labor for the eternal treasures that come from knowing and loving You. In Jesus’ name, amen.