Pastor Stephen Dedman

He shall come down like rain upon the grass before mowing, like showers that water the earth.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭72‬:‭6‬

Psalm 72:6 uses the imagery of rain and showers to illustrate the abundance of blessings that flow from the righteous rule of a king. Just as rain refreshes the earth, nourishing the grass, so too does the righteous king bring blessing and prosperity to the land.

We can apply this imagery to our understanding of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King of kings whose reign brings blessing and salvation to all who trust in Him. Jesus is described as the “Sun of Righteousness” who brings healing and restoration (Malachi 4:2). His reign is characterized by justice, righteousness, and compassion, and His blessings are poured out abundantly upon His people.

The imagery of rain serves as a reminder of the dependability of God’s provision. Just as rain falls upon the earth at the appointed time, so too does God’s grace and blessings flow into our lives according to His perfect timing and purposes. Even in times of drought or difficulty, we can trust that God will send His refreshing rain to nourish and sustain us.

Consider how you can be a channel of God’s blessings to others. Strive to live in righteousness and compassion, allowing God’s grace to flow through you to refresh and nourish those around you.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the abundant blessings that flow from Your righteous rule. Help me to live in righteousness and compassion, reflecting Your character. May I be a channel of Your blessings to those in need, bringing refreshment and nourishment to the world around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬

In the opening of his first letter, Peter offers praise to God for His abundant mercy and the new birth believers have received through Jesus Christ. He highlights the resurrection of Jesus as the foundation of our living hope, which transcends the trials and challenges of this present life.

Our living hope in Christ, is not based on wishful thinking or human optimism, but on the solid foundation of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. This living hope is not merely a future expectation but a present reality, transforming our lives and sustaining us through every trial and adversity we face. 

Through the resurrection of Jesus, we have been born again to a living hope—a hope that is secure, vibrant, and eternal. It is a hope that anchors our souls in the midst of life’s storms and fills us with joy and confidence in God’s faithfulness.

Our living hope in Christ empowers us to live with purpose and boldness. It enables us to face the challenges of life with courage, knowing that our ultimate victory is assured in Christ. We can rejoice knowing that Christ has lavished upon us an abundance of mercy and grace. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for giving me a living hope. Help me to fix my eyes on You. Fill me with joy and confidence as I live in the reality of the new birth and the assurance of an eternal inheritance. Let my life be a testament to Your abundant mercy and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬

In the introduction of this psalm, David expresses feelings of abandonment, sorrow, and distress. However, as he progresses, his focus shifts, and by the end, we see a change of perspective.

Psalm 13:6 is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can find a reason to rejoice. David’s heart, once heavy with doubt and despair, is now singing praises. He declares, “I will sing to the Lord because He has dealt bountifully with me.”

This change in perspective reminds us of the faithfulness of God. He may allow us to walk through valleys, but ultimately, His desire is to deal bountifully with us. He provides us with strength and comfort. When we take a step back and reflect on His goodness, we can’t help but break out in songs of gratitude.

So, when you find yourself in a struggle, remember the promise of Psalm 13:6. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and He continues to deal bountifully with His children. In those moments when you wonder if you can sing through your trials, let God’s Word inspire you to lift your voice in praise, for the Lord is indeed worthy of our songs of thanksgiving.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the reminder that You deal bountifully with me. In times of trial and difficulty, help me to shift my perspective and remember Your faithfulness. Let my heart be filled with gratitude and praise for Your abundant goodness and salvation. In Jesus’ name, amen.