Pastor Stephen Dedman

“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭37‬

Question
Do your words consistently reflect the truth and character of Christ?

Context
In Matthew 5, Jesus is preaching the Sermon on the Mount, addressing how believers are to live. In verses 33–37, He confronts the common practice of making oaths or vows to prove honesty. People in that time would swear “by heaven” or “by earth” to give weight to their promises, but often used such oaths to manipulate or deceive. Jesus teaches that His followers should not need oaths at all. Their simple, truthful word should be enough. This reveals that real righteousness begins in the heart and is demonstrated through integrity.

Application
As believers, our words matter. In a world filled with exaggeration, excuses, and empty promises, Jesus calls us to live with honesty and consistency. When we say “yes,” we should mean it. When we say “no,” we should stand by it. Living this way builds trust with others and reflects the truth of Christ in us. Integrity doesn’t just protect our reputation, it honors God and strengthens our witness.

Truth For The Day
A heart anchored in truth speaks words that can be trusted.

Pray
Lord, help me to speak with honesty and integrity in all that I do. Let my words be trustworthy and my actions consistent with my faith. May my “yes” and “no” reflect Your truth and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, The crawling locust, The consuming locust, And the chewing locust, My great army which I sent among you.”
‭‭Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬

Question
Have you ever looked back on a season of your life and wondered if the time, opportunities, or blessings you lost could ever be restored?

Context
The book of Joel opens with devastation. A plague of locusts swept through Judah, destroying crops, livelihoods, and hope. The land was bare, the people were desperate, and Joel called them to repent and return to God.

But the story doesn’t end with judgment. Through Joel, God promises restoration, renewal, and revival for His people when they turn back to Him with sincere hearts.

Application
We’ve all had “locust years” or times when sin, hardship, or circumstances have robbed us of peace, joy, or purpose. Joel reminds us that God is not finished with us even after loss. When we humble ourselves and return to Him, God steps in not only to forgive, but to restore and to give back more than what was taken. The same God who allowed the locusts to come is the One who promises, “I will restore.”

That’s the nature of grace. God takes what’s broken, barren, or wasted, and brings beauty, abundance, and fruit again.

Truth For The Day
God can restore years of loss in a moment of grace.

Pray
Lord, thank You that You are the God who restores. Even when life feels stripped bare, You promise to bring new fruit. Forgive me for the times I’ve turned away, and help me to trust Your power to redeem what has been lost. Bring restoration to my heart, home, and faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭18‬:‭9‬

Question
What area of your life has fear tried to silence your witness for Christ?

Context
In Acts 18, Paul was ministering in the city of Corinth, a place known for its immorality, idolatry, and opposition to the gospel. Paul had already faced rejection and persecution in several cities, and Corinth presented much of the same. The Lord appeared to him in a vision with a simple but powerful message: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.” This divine encouragement came at a moment when Paul may have been weary, uncertain, or even tempted to stop. God reminded him that his mission still mattered and that He was with him.

Application
There will be times when fear whispers, “Stop speaking. It’s not worth it.” But God says, “Keep going. I’m with you.” Maybe your “Corinth” is your workplace, your family, your community, or even your own heart. Wherever discouragement threatens to silence your faith, remember that God’s Spirit strengthens your voice. You never speak alone when you speak for Him.

Truth For The Day
God’s presence encourages you to speak His truth with boldness, even when fear tries to silence you.

Pray
Lord, thank You for reminding me that I do not walk or speak alone. When fear or opposition rises up, give me the courage to keep speaking truth in love. Fill me with Your Spirit so that my words and actions reflect Your power and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.