Pastor Stephen Dedman

The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭2‬

Question
Where in your life right now do you need to remember that God is your rock and fortress?

Context
Psalm 18 was written by David after the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, including Saul. It is a song of victory and thanksgiving, celebrating God’s protection, strength, and faithfulness. David reflects on his many trials and seasons when danger and despair surrounded him and how God consistently proved Himself to be his sure foundation.

Application
In your moments of fear, weakness, or weariness, you can make David’s declaration your own. When you feel surrounded by problems or pressed by life’s pressures, remind yourself: “The Lord is my rock.” He has not changed. The same God who delivered David still defends His people today. Take refuge in Him. Speak these truths aloud over your situation and let His strength become your stability.

Truth For The Day
God is my unwavering foundation and unbreakable defense. In Him, I am safe, secure, and strong.

Pray
Lord, thank You for being my rock and my fortress. When life feels uncertain, remind me that You are my steady foundation. Deliver me from fear, strengthen me with Your power, and keep me secure in Your presence. I place my trust fully in You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭8‬:‭10‬

Question
What are you depending on right now to give you joy, your circumstances, or your Savior?

Context
When Nehemiah spoke these words, the people of Israel had just returned from exile. They were rebuilding their city and their faith, hearing God’s Word for the first time in generations. As they listened, they were convicted of their sin and began to weep. But Nehemiah reminded them that their story wasn’t over and that even in repentance and rebuilding, God’s grace was still present. Their strength wasn’t found in perfect circumstances, but in the joy that comes from knowing the Lord.

Application
Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness depends on what happens. It rises and falls with circumstances. But joy is rooted in who God is, not in what we’re going through. True joy doesn’t deny pain but it does declare that pain doesn’t have the final word. It is choosing to say, “God, I trust You,” even when you can’t see the full picture.

Truth For The Day
My joy is not found in what happens to me, but in the One who holds me.

Prayer
Lord, thank You that Your joy is my strength. Help me to see beyond what’s temporary and to rest in Your presence, Your promises, and Your power. When my spirit feels weary, remind me that You are my reason to rejoice. Fill me with Your joy today, that others may see Your goodness through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬

Question
What would change in your life if you saw giving not as a duty, but as an act of worship and trust?

Context
Paul reminded the Corinthians that giving should be purposeful, personal, and joyful. He encourages the church to give generously and willingly as they prepare to send an offering to help the struggling Christians in Jerusalem. He reminds them that giving should come from the heart, not out of pressure or obligation because God values the attitude behind the gift more than the amount. True Christian giving is an act of love, faith, and gratitude, reflecting God’s own generosity toward us.

Application
When we give, we mirror the very nature of God Himself. From the beginning of time, God has been a giver. He gave us life, creation, daily provision, and most importantly, His Son, Jesus Christ. The act of giving transforms us because it breaks the grip of greed and selfishness. It reminds us that everything we have belongs to God, and we are simply stewards. Generosity shifts our focus from what we lack to how much we’ve been given.

Truth For The Day
We don’t give because we have to; we give because we get to.

Pray
Lord, thank You for being the ultimate Giver. You have blessed me with more than I deserve. Teach me to give freely, cheerfully, and from a heart of gratitude. Help me to trust that what I place in Your hands will accomplish more than what I could ever do on my own. Let my generosity reflect Your love to those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.