Pastor Stephen Dedman

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬

Life often doesn’t always go the way we expect or within the timeline we desire. Waiting can feel frustrating, especially when we’re praying for answers, direction, or breakthroughs. However, God’s timing is always perfect, and His plans for us are greater than anything we could imagine.

Think of a seed planted soil. It doesn’t sprout into a full plant overnight. Beneath the surface, unseen to the human eye, roots are growing, strengthening, and preparing the plant for the fruit it will bear. In the same way, in seasons of waiting, God is working in ways we cannot see, preparing us for His purpose and blessings.

When we trust God’s timing, we demonstrate our faith in His sovereignty and His goodness. He knows what we need and when we need it. Instead of rushing ahead or becoming discouraged, we are called to rest in His promises, knowing He is faithful.

Take a moment to reflect on an area of your life where you’re waiting for God’s direction or provision. Surrender that situation to Him in prayer, asking for patience and trust in His perfect timing.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your perfect plan for my life. Help me to trust in Your timing, even when I feel impatient or uncertain. Remind me that You are always working for my good, even in seasons of waiting. Strengthen my faith and help me rest in Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭14‬

Waiting is hard. In a world that craves instant gratification, the idea of patience and trusting God’s timing can feel countercultural and even frustrating. Yet, throughout Scripture, we see God working in the waiting. Abraham waited decades for God’s promise of a son to be fulfilled. Joseph waited years in prison before stepping into his calling. Even Jesus waited until the appointed time to begin His ministry.

Waiting doesn’t mean inactivity or passivity—it’s an opportunity to grow in faith and obedience. When we wait on God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust that He is working for our good, even when we can’t see the full picture.

The waiting seasons often teach us more than the moments when our prayers are answered. They refine our character, deepen our dependence on God, and help us cultivate gratitude when His blessings finally come.

Are you in a season of waiting right now? How can you actively trust God while you wait?

Pray

Lord, waiting can be so difficult, especially when I don’t see how everything will work out. Help me to trust Your timing and Your plan. Strengthen my heart and teach me to rely on You during this season. Thank You for the work You are doing, even when I cannot see it. I surrender my timeline to You and ask for Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to let urgent matters overshadow what’s truly important. Work deadlines, family obligations, and personal goals can quickly fill our minds and schedules, leaving little room for the things of God. But Jesus calls us to a different way of living—one where His kingdom is our first priority.

Seeking God’s kingdom first means aligning our hearts with His will, placing our relationship with Him above all else. It’s not about neglecting our responsibilities but about inviting God into every area of our lives. When we prioritize prayer, worship, and obedience, we’re acknowledging that everything we have and need comes from Him.

God promises that when we make Him our first priority, He will provide for our needs. This doesn’t mean life will be without challenges, but it does mean we can trust Him to care for us as we walk in faith.

Pray

Lord, help me to put You first in everything I do. Teach me to seek Your kingdom and Your righteousness above my own desires and distractions. I surrender my plans, my time, and my priorities to You. May my life reflect Your love and purpose as I trust You to provide for all my needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.