Pastor Stephen Dedman

June 29, 2025

So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us,
‭‭Acts‬ ‭15‬:‭8‬

In the book of Acts, we find a profound truth that should bring comfort and assurance to our hearts: God’s perfect plan has always been in motion. Acts 15:18 reminds us that God has known all His works from eternity. This means that every event, every twist and turn in our lives, and the entire course of human history are within His divine knowledge and control.

Often, we may question why certain things happen, or we may struggle with uncertainty about the future. In these moments, Acts 15:18 serves as a reminder that God’s understanding is far beyond our own. He has seen all things in existence from beginning to end, and every part, no matter how seemingly insignificant, plays a part in His masterful design.

As we reflect on this verse, it’s an invitation to trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. Even when we cannot comprehend the reasons behind our circumstances, we can rest assured that God’s plan is unfolding perfectly. Our role is to have faith, to seek His guidance, and to align our lives with His purposes.

So, take a moment to pray and surrender your worries, doubts, and uncertainties to the One who knows the end from the beginning. Trust that God’s plan is far greater than anything we can fathom, and His ways are always perfect. May this truth bring you peace and confidence in your journey of faith.

Pray

Lord, in times of uncertainty and when I cannot see the full picture, help me to trust in Your sovereignty. I surrender my worries and doubts to You, knowing that You know all things from eternity. Thank you for being a God who holds the future and for loving me unconditionally. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 28, 2025

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬

There’s something deeply personal about the word “workmanship.” It speaks of intentional design, craftsmanship, and care. The Greek word used here is poiēma, from which we get the English word poem. That means you’re not just a random creation, you’re a masterpiece, a divine composition, written by the hand of God.

Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:10 that we were not only saved by grace but also saved for a purpose. God didn’t just rescue us from sin, He redeemed us for good works, things He already prepared in advance for us to walk in.

That changes how we see our daily lives.

Your work matters. Your service matters. Your kindness, your integrity, your generosity, your prayers, your presence, all of it has been crafted into God’s plan for your life. You’re not wandering through life aimlessly; you’re on a divinely assigned path.

And the best part? You’re not left to figure it out on your own. The Holy Spirit guides you. The Word of God equips you. The body of Christ encourages you. And grace sustains you.

Pray

Lord, thank You for making me with purpose and intention. I am Your workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works. Help me to walk daily in the path You have prepared for me. Open my eyes to see opportunities to serve, love, and glorify You. Remind me that I am not alone and that Your Spirit empowers me to do what You’ve called me to do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 27, 2025

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭7‬

In a world that often rushes for immediate results, the idea of waiting patiently might seem counterintuitive. Yet, the Bible encourages us to find rest in the Lord and teaches us the beauty in being patient.

Often we may be tempted to become anxious, to fret, or to question why it seems that the unrighteous are succeeding. But God’s word offers a different perspective.

To “rest in the Lord” means to surrender all of our anxieties and to find peace within His presence. It means acknowledging that God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our own desires or expectations.

“Wait patiently for Him” is an act of faith and humility. It means recognizing that God’s plan unfolds in His own time, and our role is to just trust His plan. Waiting patiently allows us to grow in faith and to learn valuable lessons along the way.

When we see others around us prospering through wicked schemes, we must not be discouraged. God’s justice prevails and the rewards of the righteous endure. Our duty is to remain faithful and obedient to God.

Are there any anxieties that you need to surrender to the Lord? Take a moment to rest in the Lord. Let go of your anxieties and concerns, and wait patiently for Him. And while you wait for the Lord, just enjoy being in His presence. 

Pray

Lord, I surrender my deepest concerns and anxieties to You. I know You are in control of all things and everything fits within your perfect plan. Thank You for taking care of me. In Jesus’ name, amen.