Pastor Stephen Dedman

And Jesus cried out with a loud voice, and breathed His last.
‭‭Mark‬ ‭15‬:‭37‬

Good Friday is a day of reflection and deep reverence for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Mark 15:37 captures the profound moment when Jesus, after enduring agonizing suffering and bearing the weight of the world’s sin, breathed His last breath. In His death, Jesus demonstrated His love for humanity, willingly laying down His life to reconcile us to God.

As we reflect on the significance of Good Friday, we are reminded of the cost of our salvation. Jesus’ death on the cross was not a mere historical event but the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. It was the ultimate expression of God’s love and mercy, as He took upon Himself the punishment that we deserved, offering forgiveness and reconciliation to all who would believe in Him.

Today, as we reflect on Good Friday, let us pause to contemplate Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. May we be humbled by the depth of His love for us and inspired to live lives of devotion and obedience to Him. And may we never forget the incredible gift of salvation that we have received through His death and resurrection.

Pray

Lord, I am overwhelmed by the depth of Your love for me. Thank You for willingly laying down Your life to redeem me from sin and death. Help me to respond with a heart full of gratitude. May I never forget the price that was paid for my sins. In Jesus’ name, amen.

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭38‬-‭39‬

Paul listed a series of potential obstacles and challenges—death, life, angels, principalities, powers, present circumstances, future uncertainties, height, depth, and any other created thing—and declared that none of them have the power to separate us from God’s love.

This assurance of God’s unshakeable love provides comfort and security to believers in every season of life. In times of trial and tribulation, we can take refuge in the knowledge that God’s love for us remains constant and unwavering.

The love of God transcends all human understanding and surpasses all earthly bounds. It is a love that knows no limits and reaches to the deepest depths and highest heights. It is a love that extends beyond time and space.

Take a moment to reflect on the unbreakable love of God as expressed in Romans 8:38-39. Allow the truth of these verses to penetrate your heart and fill you with confidence and peace. And may you be strengthened and encouraged to live boldly and confidently in the love of Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the unbreakable love. Help me to grasp the depth and breadth of Your love, and to live each day in the assurance of Your unfailing faithfulness. May Your love be my anchor in the storms of life, and may it empower me to live as bold witnesses of Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭30‬

Psalm 18:30 serves as a powerful declaration of the unchanging faithfulness of God. In a world marked by uncertainty and change, God’s character remains constant. His ways are perfect, and His Word is proven true through the ages.

First, David affirms that God’s way is perfect. Unlike human plans and strategies that are flawed and subject to error, God’s ways are flawless and beyond reproach. He orchestrates every detail of our lives with wisdom and precision, leading us along paths of righteousness and blessing.

Second, David declares that the word of the Lord is proven. Throughout history, God has faithfully fulfilled His promises and upheld His Word. His faithfulness in the past gives us confidence to trust in Him for the future. We can rely on His promises with unwavering certainty, knowing that He is faithful to His word.

Lastly, David proclaims that God is a shield to all who trust in Him. God not only guides and directs our steps but also protects us from harm and danger. He is our defender and refuge, shielding us from the attacks of the enemy and preserving us in times of trouble.

Today, let us reaffirm our trust in God’s perfect ways and proven word. As we face the challenges and uncertainties of life, may we find refuge and strength in the unchanging faithfulness of our God.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your perfect ways and proven word. Help me to trust in Your unfailing faithfulness, knowing that You are my shield and protector. Strengthen my faith and guide me along paths of righteousness, that I may honor You in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, amen.