Pastor Stephen Dedman

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬

Jesus contrasts the evil and destructive intentions of the devil with His own purpose—to bring abundant and eternal life to all who believe in Him.

Jesus offers us more than just existence; He offers us abundant life—a life marked by joy, purpose, and peace. However, the enemy tries to steal, kill, and destroy this abundant life by tempting us with sin and doubt. He seeks to rob us of the joy, purpose and peace that come from knowing and walking with Christ.

Living abundantly in Christ means actively pursuing the purposes and plans that He has for our lives. It involves using our gifts, talents, and resources to glorify God and bless others. Whether it’s serving in ministry, sharing the gospel with others, or simply showing love and kindness to those around us, every act of obedience and faithfulness contributes to the abundant life that Jesus offers.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the abundant life that only comes from You. Help me to fully embrace this life by surrendering myself to You completely and following You wholeheartedly. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may experience the joy, peace, and purpose that come from walking with You. Guide me in living out Your purposes for my life, and empower me to be a light in the darkness, pointing others to the abundant life found only in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭25‬

How often do you rely on our own wisdom and understanding to navigate life’s challenges and decisions? We trust in our own judgment, believing that we know what’s best for ourselves. Yet, as today’s verse reminds us, this self-reliance can lead us astray.

The world is filled with countless voices begging for our attention, offering their own ideas of what constitutes success, happiness, and fulfillment. It’s easy to be swayed by popular opinion or our own desires. We may pursue paths that promise pleasure, wealth, or power, only to find ourselves disillusioned and empty in the end.

But God offers us a different way—a way that leads to true life and fulfillment. He invites us to trust in Him and His wisdom, to seek His guidance in all that we do. For His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). When we acknowledge Him in all our ways, He promises to direct our paths (Proverbs 3:6).

Choosing to follow God’s way may not always be easy or popular, but it is the path that leads to true life and freedom. It is a path marked by love, righteousness, and obedience to God’s Word. It is a path that leads us into deeper intimacy with our Creator and Savior.

Are we relying solely on our own understanding, or are we seeking God’s wisdom and guidance in all that we do? Let us trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, knowing that He will make our paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Pray

Lord, forgive me for the times when I have relied on my own understanding and walked down paths that led to destruction. Help me to trust in You with all my heart and to seek Your wisdom and guidance in all that I do. Lead me in the path of righteousness for Your name’s sake, and help me to walk in obedience to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, They have done abominable works, There is none who does good.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬

The denial of God, whether explicit or implicit, leads to a life disconnected from the ultimate source of morality and purpose. When people reject God, they often set their own standards, which can lead to corruption and abominable works. Without acknowledging God’s authority and guidance, human beings tend to follow their own desires, resulting in actions that are harmful to themselves and others.

Today’s verse challenges us to examine our own hearts and lives. Do we acknowledge God’s presence and sovereignty in our daily actions and decisions? Are there areas where we live as though God is not involved or does not matter? Recognizing God’s existence and His rightful place in our lives is crucial for living with integrity and righteousness.

This verse serves as a reminder to pray for those who deny God’s existence. It calls us to intercede for them, asking God to open their hearts and minds to His reality and love. Our prayers and witness can be instruments through which God reveals Himself to those who live in denial of Him.

Today, let us affirm our belief in God not only with our words but also through our actions. Let our lives reflect the reality of His existence and His influence over everything we do. In a world that often denies or ignores God, may we be shining examples of His truth, love, and righteousness.

Pray

Lord, I acknowledge that You are the true and living God. Forgive me for the times I have lived as though You do not matter or exist. Help me to recognize Your presence and sovereignty in every aspect of my life. I pray for those who deny Your existence; open their hearts and minds to Your truth and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.