Pastor Stephen Dedman

You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭16‬:‭11‬

Question
Where are you seeking direction or satisfaction outside of God’s presence?

Context
Psalm 16 is a psalm of trust and devotion written by David. Surrounded by uncertainty and potential danger, David declares that his security and joy are not found in circumstances but in God Himself. He isn’t just asking for protection; he’s declaring confidence that God alone provides direction, joy, and eternal security. This psalm also has a prophetic layer as the Apostle Peter quotes it in Acts 2:25–28, connecting it to Jesus’ resurrection, showing that the “path of life” ultimately leads through Christ to eternal life.

Application
Maybe you’re standing at a crossroads, unsure of the next step. Psalm 16:11 invites you to seek God’s direction, not just for answers, but for His presence. When you walk with Him, peace and joy follow, even in difficult seasons. The key is not to chase the destination, but to stay close to the Guide.

Truth For The Day
Where the world promises temporary happiness, God gives lasting joy that springs from being close to Him.

Pray
Lord, thank You for making known to me the path of life. Help me to walk closely with You, trusting Your direction even when I can’t see the whole road ahead. Fill my heart with the joy of Your presence, and remind me that true pleasure and peace are found only at Your side. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬

Question
What burden are you carrying today that Jesus is asking you to lay down at His feet?

Context
When Jesus spoke these words, He was addressing people who were exhausted not just physically, but spiritually. The religious leaders of the time had placed heavy burdens on the people: endless rules, rituals, and expectations that made them feel like they could never measure up. Jesus steps into that moment and gives an invitation that changes everything: “Come to Me.” He wasn’t offering another law to follow but was offering Himself. In a world that demanded performance, Jesus promised peace. In a faith filled with rules, He offered relationship.

Application
Jesus’ words still speak directly to our hearts today. We carry different kinds of burdens such as stress, guilt, fear, financial strain, family pressure, even spiritual weariness. But His invitation hasn’t changed: “Come to Me.” Notice what Jesus doesn’t say. He doesn’t say, “Get yourself together first.” He doesn’t say, “Earn your way to peace.” He says, “Come.” The rest He offers isn’t found in a vacation, a nap, or a change in schedule. It’s found in His presence. When we lay our burdens at His feet, we trade anxiety for assurance, and striving for stillness. Rest doesn’t mean everything goes away. It means Jesus carries what you can’t.

Truth For The Day
True rest is not the absence of work, but the presence of Jesus.

Pray
Lord, thank You for inviting me to come to You just as I am. I confess that I’ve tried to carry too much on my own. Teach me to rest in Your presence, to trust in Your strength, and to find peace in Your promises. Today, I lay my burdens at Your feet. Be my rest, my peace, and my refuge. In Jesus’ name, amen.

And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
‭‭1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭17‬

Question
What are you investing in that will fade instead of things that will last forever?

Context
John is writing to believers to remind them of the contrast between the temporary nature of this world and the eternal life promised to those who follow Christ. In the verses leading up to this one, John warns against loving the world of its cravings, pride, and material pursuits. He’s not condemning creation itself, but the sinful systems and desires that pull people away from God. This verse serves as a reminder that everything this world offers will fade, but what is done in obedience to God endures forever.

Application
It’s easy to get caught up chasing what’s popular, successful, or comfortable. But John calls us to live with eternity in mind. Our time, talents, and treasures are temporary gifts meant to serve an eternal purpose. When we choose God’s will over worldly desires, whether that’s forgiving instead of holding a grudge, serving instead of seeking attention, or trusting instead of worrying, we’re investing in what truly lasts.

Truth For The Day
Everything the world has to offer will fade away, but everything done in God’s will lasts forever.

Pray
Lord, thank You for reminding me that this world is passing away. Help me to live with eternity in mind and to seek Your will above all else. Teach me to let go of temporary pursuits and to hold fast to what truly matters which is Your truth, Your love, and Your purpose. May my life reflect what lasts forever. In Jesus’ name, amen.