Pastor Stephen Dedman

Question #8 – What fears are holding you back from achieving God’s best for your life?

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
‭‭II Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬

In 2 Timothy, Paul writes to his young protégé, Timothy, who is facing challenges and opposition in his ministry. The reminder in 2 Timothy 1:7 speaks directly to the reality that fear is not from God. Instead, God gives us the power, love, and clarity of mind to overcome fear and walk in the fullness of His purpose for us.

Fear has been a tool used by the enemy throughout Scripture to keep people from stepping into God’s best. When Moses was called to lead the Israelites, he feared he was inadequate. When the spies were sent to the Promised Land, fear kept an entire generation from entering. Gideon was crippled with fear. Even Peter was gripped by fear when he denied Christ. Fear can cripple our faith, but God’s Word teaches us that fear doesn’t come from Him.

What fears are holding you back from experiencing God’s best for your life? Is it the fear of failure? Fear of inadequacy? Fear of rejection or criticism? Fear of the unknown? Whatever form it takes, fear can paralyze us and prevent us from stepping into the fullness of God’s plans.

God has not given us a spirit of fear. Fear often comes from a place of uncertainty or insecurity, but God calls us to trust in Him. When we feel fear rising within us, we must remember that it is not from God. Instead, He gives us power to overcome, love that casts out all fear, and a sound mind that is stable, clear, and focused.

Fear has the power to hold us back from the incredible plans God has for our lives, but we do not have to live in fear. God has given us everything we need to overcome it. As you identify the fears that have been holding you back, choose to trust in God’s promises, step out in faith, and rely on His strength. In doing so, you will discover the joy and fulfillment that come from living out His best for your life.

In what area of your life do you need to step out in obedience, trusting God’s power rather than your own strength?

Pray

Lord, I thank You that fear is not from You. Help me to recognize the fears that are keeping me from experiencing the fullness of Your plans for my life. Replace my fear with faith, and give me the courage to step out in obedience, even when I feel afraid. Remind me daily that Your power is made perfect in my weakness, and that You will strengthen and equip me for every good work. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Question #7 – Do find joy even in the midst of difficult circumstances?

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬

It may seem a little counterintuitive to human nature to find joy during hardships. However, as Christians we are to look beyond the suffering and notice how God is working all things out to His glory. It’s difficult to understand but it’s a command.

The difficulties we face are opportunities for growth. James says that our faith is strengthened when we face difficulties in life. It’s when things get out of our control that we must trust God more. And once we see God work it all out, we gain a deeper trust in God.

When you face difficult circumstances, do you focus on your pain or do you recognize God’s power? God promises to supply our very need. So if you have a need, count on God to come through for you. God’s power will give you the confidence to smile.

Every trial has a purpose. When we face challenges, we often want immediate answers or relief. But God uses these situations to develop our character, to teach us perseverance, and to draw us closer to Him. The pain you feel today may be preparing you for a greater purpose tomorrow.

Are you experiencing a difficult circumstance at the present? Count it all joy! Have you come through a difficult season? Praise the Lord! Remember that God has a purpose and a plan.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being with me in every season of life, including the difficult ones. Help me to see my trials not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth. Strengthen my faith, and remind me that You are always at work, even when I don’t understand what is happening. Give me the grace to trust in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Question #6 – Are you mentoring someone?

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭19‬

Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave His disciples a powerful mandate to go out into the world and make disciples. This command is for all believers to go out and raise up new followers of Christ.

A way of making new disciples is to mentor other people who need spiritual guidance. In the early church, Paul was an excellent example of mentoring through his relationship with Timothy. He poured his life into Timothy, teaching him in the ways of the Lord, encouraging him in his faith, and preparing him to lead others.

Mentorship is a biblical principle that is rooted in the life of Jesus and His disciples. Just as Jesus invested His time, energy, and wisdom into His followers, we are called to do the same. We often overlook this responsibility, thinking it’s only for pastors or church leaders. Discipleship is not just about sharing the gospel, but it includes guiding, teaching, and walking alongside someone as they grow in their faith.

When you mentor someone, you’re multiplying the work of God in the world. You are equipping others to grow deeper in their relationship with Christ, and they in turn can mentor someone else. This process builds the kingdom of God far beyond your personal reach.

Are you mentoring someone? Are you investing in the spiritual growth of someone else? Mentoring doesn’t have to be intimidating. It could be as simple as meeting with someone over coffee and praying together about the things that are happening in their life. Just making yourself available is what matters most.

Pray and ask God to open your eyes to someone who could benefit from your guidance and wisdom.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the Great Commission. Help me to be obedient to this command and to recognize the importance of mentoring others in their spiritual walk. Give me wisdom and patience to encourage others around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.