Pastor Stephen Dedman

February 12, 2025

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭14‬

In the closing words of his second letter to the Corinthians, the apostle Paul prays a blessing upon the believers, invoking the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit. This triune blessing is the essence of the Christian faith.

First, Paul invokes the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace is defined as God’s undeserved favor. It is through the grace of Jesus Christ that we are forgiven, redeemed, and reconciled to God. His grace is freely given, available to all who believe, and it empowers us to live transformed lives.

Second, Paul speaks of the love of God. God’s love is unconditional, unfailing, and incomprehensible. It is a love that surpasses human understanding. It was out of love that God sent His Son into the world to save us (John 3:16), and it is His love that sustains us through every circumstance. Knowing that we are loved by God gives us strength, comfort, and assurance.

Finally, Paul mentions the communion of the Holy Spirit. Communion refers to an intimate fellowship with God, made possible through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit not only guides and empowers us but also enables us to experience a friendship with God and with one another. Through the communion of the Holy Spirit, we are united as the body of Christ, sharing in a common faith and purpose.

As we meditate on this triune blessing, may we be reminded of the richness and depth of our relationship with God. May we embrace the grace of Jesus Christ, rejoice in the love of God, and cultivate a communion with the Holy Spirit. And may this blessing be upon us all, now and forevermore.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the triune blessing of Your grace, love, and fellowship. Help me to fully embrace the depth of Your love, to walk in the grace of Jesus Christ, and to live in agreement with Your Holy Spirit. May Your presence be with me always, guiding me, strengthening me, and filling me with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

February 11, 2025

Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.”
‭‭I Samuel‬ ‭3‬:‭10

Samuel was just a boy when he first heard God’s voice, yet his response was one of humility and readiness: “Speak, for your servant is listening.” This moment marked the beginning of his prophetic calling and a life dedicated to serving God.

How often do we position ourselves to hear God’s voice? In our busy lives, God may be speaking, but distractions drown out His call. Samuel’s story reminds us that God desires to speak to His people. The question is—are we listening?

The Lord called Samuel by name, showing that He is a personal God who desires a relationship with us. He still calls us today—through His Word, prayer, and the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

Samuel didn’t recognize God’s voice at first, but once Eli guided him, he was ready to listen. We, too, need spiritual discernment to recognize God’s voice, which comes through spending time in His presence.

Samuel’s response wasn’t just about hearing; it was about being ready to act. True worship and devotion are demonstrated in our obedience to what God speaks.

Are there any distractions that are keeping you from listening to His voice?

    Pray

    Lord, I want to hear Your voice. Speak to me, and help me to recognize when You are calling. Give me a heart that listens and a spirit that obeys. Let my life be a reflection of my devotion to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    February 10, 2025

    Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.
    ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭7‬

    In a world that often rushes for immediate results, the idea of waiting patiently might seem counterintuitive. Yet, the Bible encourages us to find rest in the Lord and teaches us the beauty in being patient.

    Often we may be tempted to become anxious, to fret, or to question why it seems that the unrighteous are succeeding. But God’s word offers a different perspective.

    To “rest in the Lord” means to surrender all of our anxieties and to find peace within His presence. It means acknowledging that God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our own desires or expectations.

    “Wait patiently for Him” is an act of faith and humility. It means recognizing that God’s plan unfolds in His own time, and our role is to just trust His plan. Waiting patiently allows us to grow in faith and to learn valuable lessons along the way.

    When we see others around us prospering through wicked schemes, we must not be discouraged. God’s justice prevails and the rewards of the righteous endure. Our duty is to remain faithful and obedient to God.

    Are there any anxieties that you need to surrender to the Lord? Take a moment to rest in the Lord. Let go of your anxieties and concerns, and wait patiently for Him. And while you wait for the Lord, just enjoy being in His presence. 

    Pray

    Lord, I surrender my deepest concerns and anxieties to You. I know You are in control of all things and everything fits within your perfect plan. Thank You for taking care of me. In Jesus’ name, amen.