Pastor Stephen Dedman

February 14, 2025

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬

Life often presents challenges that make us question whether we have enough—enough strength, enough resources, enough wisdom—to carry out the work God has placed before us. In these moments, 2 Corinthians 9:8 reassures us that God’s provision is not limited by our circumstances.

Paul, in writing to the Corinthians, speaks about generosity and God’s ability to supply every need. This verse reminds us that God’s blessings are not just financial; they include grace, wisdom, endurance, and every other resource required to live out His will. When we step out in faith—whether in our giving, serving, or simply trusting Him—God supplies what is necessary so that we can continue in good works.

Notice the completeness of Paul’s words: “in all things.” There is no situation where God’s grace is insufficient. His provision is abundant, ensuring that we are equipped for every task He calls us to.

Are you feeling inadequate or lacking in any area of your life? Trust in the God who provides abundantly. His grace is more than enough, and as you walk in obedience, He will supply everything you need—not just for yourself, but so that you can be a blessing to others.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your abundant grace and provision. Help me to trust that You will supply all I need to do the work You have called me to. Strengthen my faith and allow me to be a vessel of Your blessings to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

February 13, 2025

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.

February 12, 2025

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.