Pastor Stephen Dedman

Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬

In a world where conflict and division seem to be everywhere, Proverbs 10:12 offers a powerful contrast between hatred and love. Hatred fuels arguments, deepens wounds, and creates division, but love has the power to heal, restore, and bring peace.

We see this truth in our daily lives. A harsh word spoken in anger can escalate a simple misunderstanding into a full-blown conflict. Grudges and resentment can tear apart friendships, families, and even churches. But love, when practiced intentionally, can stop the cycle of strife. Love chooses forgiveness over bitterness, grace over revenge, and peace over hostility.

The greatest example of this love is found in Jesus Christ. His love covered our sins, offering us grace instead of condemnation. Because of His love, we are called to extend the same grace to others.

Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? A relationship that needs healing? Ask God to fill your heart with His love, so you can extend that same love to others. When we choose love, we reflect Christ and bring His peace into the world around us.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to love as You love. Remove any bitterness or resentment from my heart and replace it with Your grace. Teach me to forgive, to be patient, and to seek peace in all my relationships. May my love reflect Your love, covering sins and bringing healing where it is needed. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Yes, all kings shall fall down before Him; all nations shall serve Him.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭72‬:‭11‬

One day, all kings and nations will bow down before the Lord. Today’s verse shows us the sovereignty of God and the day when His rule will be acknowledged and embraced by all. 

Today’s world is characterized by power struggles and political agendas. However, there is a day approaching when the highest earthly authorities will recognize the supremacy of the King of Kings. As believers, we find comfort and hope in the assurance that God’s divine plan will ultimately be carried out.

But what does this mean for us today? It serves as a reminder of the type of leadership that aligns with God’s heart. Godly leadership is characterized by humility, service, and a recognition that God has ultimate authority, not man. Whether we are leaders or followers, we’re called to live out the qualities that honor and serve God’s purposes.

Let’s pray for our leaders and for God to raise up Godly men and women who will recognize His authority and rule. Take a moment and reflect on your own life. Are your actions and attitude aligned with the humility and service that characterize godly leadership? 

Pray

Lord, thank You for revealing that one day all kings and nations will bow before You. I pray for the leaders across the world to recognize Your sovereignty and power. Help me to personally model godly leadership that glorifies Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.

But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭8‬:‭26‬

The disciples found themselves in the middle of a raging storm, tossed by wind and waves while Jesus slept peacefully in the boat. In their panic, they cried out, fearing for their lives. But Jesus, undisturbed by the storm, simply spoke, and the winds obeyed.

How often do we find ourselves in a storm—overwhelmed by financial struggles, health issues, broken relationships, or the uncertainty of the future? Like the disciples, we may cry out, wondering if God sees our distress. Yet Jesus’ response is both a challenge and an invitation: “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?”

Fear arises when we focus on the storm rather than the Savior. The disciples were in the presence of the One who created the sea, yet they let fear overshadow their faith. Jesus, in His power and authority, calmed the storm, demonstrating that He is sovereign over all things.

What storm are you facing today? Instead of allowing fear to take control, turn your eyes to Jesus. Trust that He is with you, even in the chaos. His Word is powerful, and His presence brings peace. When we place our faith in Him, we can rest in the assurance that no storm is greater than our God.

Pray

Lord, help me to trust You in the midst of life’s storms. Strengthen my faith so that I focus on You rather than my fears. Remind me that You are in control, and in Your presence, I can find peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.