Pastor Stephen Dedman

But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭9‬:‭11‬

Hebrews 9:11 paints a picture of Jesus as our High Priest. In the Old Testament, the high priest held the honor and responsibility of entering the Most Holy Place of the temple to make atonement for the sins of the people. However, Jesus is described as the High Priest of the “good things to come,” and His tabernacle is “greater and more perfect.”

This verse is a reminder of the extraordinary nature of Christ’s priesthood. He doesn’t enter an earthly sanctuary but the heavenly one, not made by human hands. His work is not confined to temporary rituals but secures eternal salvation for those who believe in Him. In Christ, we have a High Priest who mediates for us before God, ensuring that the “good things to come” are ours to inherit.

We should be grateful for the perfect High Priest we have in Jesus. He has accomplished what no other high priest could—eternal redemption. We can approach God with confidence, knowing that Christ’s work is complete, and we are welcomed into the presence of God. May this truth fill us with hope and assurance as we live out our faith in Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the perfect High Priest and entering the heavenly tabernacle to secure my eternity. Help me to grasp the significance of this wonderful work. Give me confidence and assurance as I anticipate the “good things to come” that You have promised. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Oh, that my ways were directed To keep Your statutes!
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭5‬

This verse is a reminder that our true delight is found in following the path God has set before us.

In a world full of distractions and temptations, it’s easy to stray from the righteous path. In moments of weakness we can be led astray. The psalmist’s expresses a deep yearning to remain steadfast in obedience so that we don’t get off path. 

The desire to follow God’s way is a powerful mindset. When we make a conscious effort to align our lives with God’s will, we find a profound sense of purpose and contentment.

What path do you see yourself on today? Are you being guided by the Spirit of God? 

If you find yourself off track or going down the wrong path, make a u-turn today. Allow God to guide your steps and put you back where you belong. 

Pray

Lord, I long to be steadfast in obeying Your decrees and to live according to Your wisdom. Strengthen me to remain obedient to Your commandments. Help me to seek Your will and way for my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Then he said, “O Lord God of my master Abraham, please give me success this day, and show kindness to my master Abraham.”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭24‬:‭12‬

In the 24th chapter of Genesis, we are given a special story. It’s the story of Abraham sending his servant, Eliezer, on a mission to find a wife for Isaac. Abraham trusted Eliezer to find the perfect woman. 

Interestingly enough, Abraham thought his inheritance and blessing would fall upon Eliezer according to Genesis 15:2. Now, Eliezer was replaced with Isaac and yet through the years, he remained a faithful servant. On this mission, we see the attitude and heart of a servant who pleases God. 

As he prayed, he asked God to show him the perfect woman that would be just right for Isaac. He stayed focussed until he accomplished what he set out to do. He even praisesGod when he finds her. 

Have you ever prayed and askedGod to give you a servants heart? Have you prayed and asked God how you might be a blessing to someone else? Ask God to use you in a powerful way. 

Pray

Lord, give me the heart and attitude of a true servant. Allow me to be a blessing to someone today. Let my actions prove that I belong to You. In Jesus’ name amen.