Pastor Stephen Dedman

Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”
‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭14‬

John 6:14 is a response of the people who witnessed one of the many miracles performed by Jesus. They recognized that Jesus had an extraordinary nature. 

The miracle these people witnessed was the feeding of the five thousand men, where Jesus multiplied a few loaves of bread and fish to feed a multitude. While they saw a physical manifestation of God’s power, it points to a profound spiritual reality. Just as Jesus provided physical bread to satisfy their hunger, He is also the spiritual Bread that satisfies the deepest longings of our hearts.

The recognition of Jesus as the “Prophet who is to come into the world” reminds us that He alone can satisfy our spiritual hunger.

If you have ever witnessed a miracle of God, you know that only God could have done such a wonderful work. Take time to thank the Lord for His mighty works.

As you go about your day, consider the hunger within your own heart. Are you seeking to fill it with things that ultimately leave you empty, or are you turning to the true Bread of Life, Jesus Christ? His presence in your life can bring a profound sense of fulfillment, purpose, and eternal satisfaction.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the Bread of Life. Help me to recognize You as the source of true fulfillment and satisfaction. May I turn to You to satisfy the deepest longings of my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬

The apostle Paul states a profound insight into our role as believers in Christ: helping others mature in their faith. This verse challenges us to reflect on our actions and consider what we are doing to assist others on their spiritual journey.

The foundation of helping others mature in their faith is simply proclaiming Jesus Christ. Our words and actions should consistently point to Him as the source of salvation, hope, and transformation. We share the Good News of Christ’s love and sacrifice. Do your words and actions point others to Jesus and help establish their foundation of faith?

Paul emphasizes in this verse two essential aspects of helping others grow in faith: warning and teaching. We have a responsibility not only to share the Gospel but also to guide and instruct others in all wisdom. This includes providing counsel, offering encouragement, and helping them navigate the challenges of the Christian journey.

Our ultimate goal is to present every person “perfect in Christ Jesus.” This doesn’t mean flawless perfection but rather maturity and completeness in their relationship with Christ. We aim to help others grow spiritually, becoming more like Jesus in character and faith.

What are you doing to help your family, neighbors and friends mature in their faith? Reflect on your interactions and whether you are actively preaching Christ, warning, and teaching in wisdom.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the privilege of sharing the Gospel and helping others grow in faith. Help me to be diligent in proclaiming Christ, offering both warning and teaching. Help my efforts contribute to presenting every person mature in Christ Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.

And Joshua said to the people, “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”
‭‭Joshua‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬

The Israelites were standing at the banks of the Jordan River, about to cross over into the Promised Land. Before they were to witness the wonders of God, Joshua delivered a crucial message: “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”

The word “sanctify” means to set apart, to make holy. Joshua was instructing the people to prepare themselves spiritually, to set their hearts and minds on God.

We often find ourselves at crossroads, facing challenges or embarking on new adventures. Just like the Israelites, it’s essential for us to sanctify ourselves before these moments. Here are three key aspects to consider:

1. Surrender: Sanctification begins with surrender. It means letting go of our own plans, fears, and doubts and giving ourselves entirely to God. It’s an acknowledgment that we can’t do it all on our own, but with God’s guidance and strength, we can overcome any obstacle.

2. Holiness: To sanctify ourselves is to strive for holiness. It involves purifying our hearts, repenting of sin, and seeking a closer walk with God. As we draw near to Him, He draws near to us, and His presence becomes evident in our lives.

3. Expectation: Joshua told the Israelites to sanctify themselves because he knew that God was about to perform wonders among them. Similarly, when we sanctify ourselves, we do so with the expectation that God will work wonders in our lives. We trust that He will guide us, protect us, and fulfill His promises.

As you face the “Jordan Rivers” in your life—those moments of transition, challenge, or opportunity—remember Joshua’s words. Sanctify yourself. Set yourself apart for God. Surrender, seek holiness, and maintain an expectant heart. Then, just as the Israelites witnessed God’s wonders, you too will experience His marvelous work in your life.

Pray

Lord, I come before You today, desiring to sanctify myself fully to You. I surrender my plans, my fears, and my doubts into Your hands. Make me holy, Lord, and guide me as I face the challenges and opportunities ahead. I expect Your wonders in my life, knowing that with You, all things are possible. In Jesus’ name, amen.