Pastor Stephen Dedman

And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.
‭‭II Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬

Paul presents a concise but powerful message from the to his brother in Christ, Timothy. In this analogy, Paul uses the image of an athlete and underscores the importance of following the rules in order to receive the reward of victory. 

The Christian journey is much like a race or a competition, and in this race, we must adhere to God’s principles. Just as an athlete must follow the rules to attain victory, believers are called to live according to the commandments of God’s Word. It’s not merely about reaching the finish line but doing it with integrity, obedience, and a commitment to God’s standards.

In your spiritual race, be mindful of the rules set forth in Scripture. Living a life aligned with God’s principles not only honors Him but also positions you to receive blessings. The race may be challenging, with obstacles and trials, but our focus on running according to God’s rules ensures that we are on the path to victory.

As a Christian, we have victory in Jesus, so go fight and win today with a clear conscience. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Give me strength and discernment to live according to Your rules and Your plans. Keep me focused on righteousness, and guide me in every step of of the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭5‬

Life is full of decisions, uncertainties, and paths that feel too heavy to walk alone. But Psalm 37:5 gives us a simple, yet powerful, roadmap for navigating the unknown.

To commit your way to the Lord means to roll the weight of your plans, dreams, and concerns onto Him. It’s a deliberate surrender, not just saying “God, I need help,” but “God, I give You control.”

Then it says, trust also in Him. That means believing that He knows what He’s doing, even when the outcome doesn’t seem how you expected. Trusting God isn’t passive, it’s active faith in His character, timing, and goodness.

And the good news! “He shall bring it to pass.”
God never leaves surrendered hearts empty-handed. It may not happen overnight, but what He starts, He finishes. He will bring clarity, provision, peace, and purpose in His perfect time.

Release the pressure of trying to figure it all out. Hand it over to the One who already has a plan. When you commit your way to Him and trust fully, you can rest knowing He will bring it to pass.

Pray
Lord, I commit my plans, my path, and my future to You. Teach me to trust You even when I can’t see the full picture. I believe You are faithful to bring things to pass in Your perfect way. Help me wait with peace and confidence in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

And it happened when He was in a certain city, that behold, a man who was full of leprosy saw Jesus; and he fell on his face and implored Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭5‬:‭12‬

Leprosy in Jesus’ time was more than a disease, it was a life sentence of isolation, shame, and hopelessness. This man, “full of leprosy,” had likely been an outcast for years, rejected by society and considered unclean. He knew he had no hope in himself, but he heard about Jesus.

Notice his approach: He falls on his face, an act of humility, and he implores, an act of desperate faith. He doesn’t demand healing; he simply says, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.”

What powerful faith!
He believed completely in Jesus’ power, but he submitted himself to Jesus’ will.

How often do we come to God with our requests, but instead of surrendering, we demand? True faith is not just believing God can, it’s trusting Him even when He chooses a different timing or method than we expect.

Jesus’ heart is full of compassion. In the next verse (v.13), Jesus responds, “I am willing; be cleansed.”
And immediately, the man was healed.

Today, bring your needs to Jesus not with entitlement, but with a surrendered heart that says, “Lord, if You are willing…” Trust that He sees, He cares, and He is full of mercy.

Pray

Lord, I believe You are able. Help me to also trust Your will. Teach me to come to You in humility and surrender, knowing You care deeply for me. Thank You for being a Savior who is both powerful and compassionate. In Jesus’ name, amen.