Pastor Stephen Dedman

February 15, 2025

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬

The apostle Paul delivers a profound message about the sacredness of our physical bodies. Our bodies house the very presence of the Holy Spirit. Imagine, the God of the universe chooses to dwell within each believer, making each one into a living temple.

This scripture calls us to live to a higher standard. It challenges us to view our bodies not merely as vessels for personal desires but as holy sanctuaries set apart for a divine purpose. As stewards of these sacred temples, we are entrusted with the responsibility to honor God in all we do.

The call to honor our bodies as temples goes beyond physical well-being; it’s honoring God with our thoughts, words, and actions. How do we speak about ourselves and others? What thoughts dominate our minds? Are our actions reflective of the holiness residing within us? These questions urge us to align our lives with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Our choices matter. Let us seek after a journey of intentional living. As we do, we will find joy and peace in fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives. Our bodies, temples of the Holy Spirit, become instruments through which His light shines brightly in a world longing for the hope and love only found in Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for making my body as a temple where You choose to reside. Help me to always remember to honor my body as a holy place. Let my thoughts, words, and actions be pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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.