Pastor Stephen Dedman

So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭7‬

In life, we often focus on our efforts, what we can do, how much we can accomplish, and the results we expect. Whether in ministry, work, relationships, or personal growth, we may feel responsible for making things happen. But Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 3:7 that while we may plant seeds and water them, it is ultimately God who brings the increase.

Paul was addressing the Corinthians, who were dividing themselves by following different leaders—some claimed to follow Paul, others Apollos. But Paul made it clear that neither he nor Apollos was responsible for spiritual growth; they were merely servants. The true power belongs to God. This principle applies to us today as we are called to be faithful in planting and watering, but the results are in God’s hands.

Think about a farmer. He can till the soil, plant the seeds, and water the crops, but he cannot force them to grow. Growth is a divine process. In the same way, we can share the Gospel, disciple others, work hard in our careers, and pray for our loved ones, but we must trust God with the outcome.

This truth should bring us peace. It relieves the burden of trying to control everything. Our job is obedience; God’s job is the increase. If you’ve been discouraged because you don’t see immediate results, remember that God is at work in ways you cannot see. Your faithfulness is never in vain.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the reminder that the increase comes from You. Help me to be faithful in planting and watering, but to trust You with the results. Strengthen my faith to believe that You are working, even when I don’t see it. Let me rest in Your power and not my own. In Jesus’ name, amen.

But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭25‬

God’s Word is called the perfect law of liberty because it brings true freedom. Many believe that freedom means living without restrictions, but real freedom comes from surrendering to God’s will. His Word guides us away from sin, deception, and destruction, leading us into a life of peace, joy, and righteousness.

James challenges us not only to hear the Word but to do what it says. Too often, we listen to sermons, read devotionals, or study Scripture but fail to apply it in our daily lives. James compares this to someone who looks in a mirror and then forgets their own reflection. God’s Word reveals who we are in Christ and what He calls us to do. When we ignore it, we miss out on the transformation and blessing that come from obedience.

The key is to continue in it—to make God’s Word a daily guide and foundation for our lives. When we commit to living by His truth, we will see His blessings unfold—not just in material ways, but in the richness of a life filled with His presence, wisdom, and peace.

Are you merely hearing the Word, or are you living it out? Choose today to walk in obedience and experience the blessings that come from living in God’s truth.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your Word, which brings freedom and life. Help me to not only hear it but to apply it daily. Give me the strength to walk in obedience and trust that Your ways lead to true blessing. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,
‭‭II Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬

The apostle Paul’s prayer in 2 Thessalonians 1:11 expresses a deep desire that God would count us worthy of the divine calling placed upon our lives. 

This prayer unveils a profound truth — that our calling is not a random occurrence, but a purposeful design crafted by God Himself. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, Paul’s prayer encourages us to seek worthiness in our response to this divine calling.

God’s goodness plays a pivotal role in this journey. It is His goodness that propels us forward, guiding us along the path of righteousness. The fulfillment of God’s good pleasure is closely connected to the work of faith. As we exercise faith in Him, His power is unleashed, enabling us to live out the calling with strength and purpose.

Today, let us embrace this prayer as our own, seeking worthiness in our response to God’s calling. May His goodness guide our steps, and may the work of faith in our lives be accompanied by His mighty power. As we align ourselves with His purpose, we discover the true fulfillment that comes from living out our calling with God’s divine strength.

Pray

Lord, help me to embrace Your goodness in my life. Thank You for loving me and guiding me by Your power. Give me wisdom to fully understand the plans You have for me. In Jesus’ name, am