Pastor Stephen Dedman

July 14, 2026

“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.”
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Are you striving to open your own doors, or are you patiently trusting the doors that Christ opens?

Context
The church in Philadelphia was not known for its size, wealth, or influence. In fact, Jesus pointed out that they had “little strength.” Yet they possessed something far greater. They were faithful. They held tightly to God’s Word and refused to deny His name, even in difficult circumstances. Because of their faithfulness, Jesus promised them an open door that no one could close.

Application
We often think God only uses the strong, talented, or well-connected. But throughout Scripture, God delights in using ordinary people who simply trust Him. Faithfulness matters more than fame. Obedience is more important than ability.

Perhaps today you feel weak, overlooked, or discouraged. You may wonder if your labor is making any difference. Remember that your opportunities are not determined by your strength but by God’s sovereignty. When He opens a door for ministry, service, or blessing, no person, obstacle, or circumstance can ultimately prevent His purpose from being accomplished.

Your responsibility is not to force doors open but to remain faithful where God has placed you. Trust Him, obey His Word, and walk through the doors He opens in His perfect timing.

Truth For The Day
God does not require great strength to use you—He simply asks for faithful obedience.

Pray
Lord, thank You for opening doors that only You can open. Help me remain faithful even when I feel weak or unnoticed. Teach me to trust Your timing instead of relying on my own strength. Give me the courage to walk through every opportunity You place before me, always seeking to glorify You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

July 12, 2026

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
What circumstance are you facing that you need to place into the hands of the unchanging God?

Context
The writer of Hebrews reminds believers that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His character never fluctuates. His promises never expire. His love never fades. The same Savior who calmed the storm, healed the brokenhearted, forgave sinners, and conquered the grave is the same Savior who walks with us today.

Application
Life is constantly changing. Seasons come and go. Jobs change. Relationships change. Our health, finances, and circumstances can shift in a moment. Living in an ever-changing world can leave us feeling uncertain and anxious. Yet amid all the uncertainty, there is one unshakable truth: God never changes.

When circumstances are unstable, our confidence is not found in what we see but in who God is. His faithfulness in the past gives us confidence for the present and hope for the future. If He has never failed His people before, He will not begin with you.

Truth For The Day
Because God never changes, you can trust Him in every changing season of life.

Pray
Lord, thank You that You are constant when everything around me seems uncertain. Help me to trust Your unchanging character more than my changing circumstances. Strengthen my faith, remind me of Your promises, and give me peace as I rest in Your faithful care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

July 11, 2026

Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.
‭‭I John‬ ‭2‬:‭3‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Question
Does your daily life reveal a growing desire to obey Christ because you love Him?

Context
The apostle John wrote his first epistle to strengthen believers in their assurance of salvation and to guard them against false teaching. Throughout the letter, John emphasizes that genuine faith produces visible evidence. In chapter 2, he explains that obedience is not what earns our salvation, but it is the natural result of truly knowing Jesus Christ. A transformed heart desires to follow the One who has redeemed it.

Application
In a world that often defines faith as merely believing certain truths or attending church, John reminds us that authentic faith is demonstrated through obedience. Keeping God’s commandments is not about legalism or trying to gain His acceptance. Instead, it is a loving response to His grace. When we love Christ, we seek to honor Him in our words, attitudes, relationships, and daily decisions. While none of us obey perfectly, a growing desire to please God is evidence that He is at work within us.

Truth For The Day
A life that increasingly reflects obedience to Christ provides assurance that we truly know Him.

Pray
Lord, thank You for saving me through Your grace. Help me to demonstrate my love for You through faithful obedience. When I stumble, remind me of Your mercy and lead me to repentance. May my life reflect a genuine relationship with Jesus, bringing glory to Your name in all I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.