Pastor Stephen Dedman

“Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding.”
‭‭Job‬ ‭38‬:‭4‬

This verse invites humility and trust, acknowledging that God’s ways surpass our comprehension. As you face the challenges of life, find peace in surrendering to the Creator who intricately designed the foundations of the world. Embrace the truth that you are held secure in the hands of the One who spoke the universe into existence.

Instead of relying solely on personal understanding, actively seek God’s wisdom through prayer, meditation, and studying scriptures. Trust that God’s guidance surpasses human wisdom, and align your decisions with His revealed truth.

Apply this verse during times of suffering. Remember that just as God’s wisdom laid the foundations of the earth, His wisdom is at work in your life’s foundation.

Pray

Lord, Your works are beautiful and amazing. Help me to trust Your infinite wisdom. Give me strength to understand Your ways and purpose for my life. in Jesus’ name, amen.

And He was casting out a demon, and it was mute. So it was, when the demon had gone out, that the mute spoke; and the multitudes marveled.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭14‬

In Luke 11:14, we encounter a powerful moment in the ministry of Jesus. He was in the midst of a crowd, and there was a man who had been unable to speak. But Jesus, in His divine authority, cast out the demon afflicting this man, and the result was astonishing—the mute man spoke, and the crowd was amazed.

This encounter reveals several profound truths about the power of God’s kingdom at work in our lives.

Just as the demon had bound the man’s ability to speak, there may be areas in our lives where we feel bound or silenced—whether it’s by fear, doubt, guilt, or any other form of oppression. The good news is that through Christ, we can find freedom from these chains.

Notice that Jesus didn’t use an elaborate ritual or a formula to free the man. He simply spoke with authority, and the demon had to obey. In our own lives, we can rely on the authority of Jesus to break the strongholds that hold us back.

The man who had been mute gained a voice and the ability to communicate. When we encounter Jesus, we too can experience transformation and restoration. He can heal our brokenness, mend our wounds, and give us a voice to declare His goodness.

The crowd’s reaction was one of amazement. When we witness the power of God at work, it should evoke wonder and amazement in us as well. These moments become opportunities for us to share our faith and testify to the incredible works of Jesus in our lives.

Remember that the same power that drove out the demon and restored the mute man is available to us today through our faith in Jesus Christ. Whatever silence or bondage you may be experiencing, know that Christ can bring freedom, healing, and transformation.

Pray

Lord, thank you for the power of your kingdom at work in my life. Just as you freed the mute man and amazed the crowd, I pray for your transformative power to break any bondage in my life. Help me to trust in your authority and be a witness to your incredible works. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬

This is a short but profound verse. It warns us of the danger of allowing the fear of others to control our lives and the importance of placing our trust in God.

Fear is a powerful force that can control our decision-making process and prevent us from experiencing the abundant life that God has planned for us. When we worry about what others think or say about us, we become trapped in a snare of insecurity and self-doubt. The fear of man will paralyze us and prevent us from stepping out in faith to pursue God’s calling on our lives.

However, God invites us to trust in Him. When we place our trust in God, we are assured of His faithfulness, His wisdom, and His protection. Trusting in the Lord means that we have an assurance that God is with us every step of the way.

Trusting in the Lord empowers us to live boldly and courageously. When we trust in God, we are kept safe in His loving arms, shielded from the damaging effects of fear.

Are you allowing the fear of man to control your life? Are you seeking the approval of others, rather than placing your trust in God?

Fully trusting God will remove all fear!

Pray

Lord, I place my full trust in You. I trust You will keep me safe and protected from all evil. Help me to resist the thoughts of fear and anxiety that keep me from living the abundant life you have planned for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.