Pastor Stephen Dedman

March 28, 2025

For great is Your mercy toward me, And You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭86‬:‭13‬

These words from the psalmist invite us to join in the praise of thanksgiving for the mercy and grace that God has extended toward us, His children.

There is an acknowledgment of the greatness of God’s mercy that reminds us that we stand on holy ground when we consider that which we have been rescued and redeemed from. It is a mercy that reaches into our souls, lifting us from death and delivering us into the light of His grace.

We find peace that God’s mercy reaches the darkest corners of our existence. It is a mercy that surpasses our shortcomings, offering redemption and renewal.

Let us anchor our hearts in the assurance of God’s enduring mercy. In the face of trials, let Psalm 86:13 be a a declaration of victory over adversity. For in acknowledging the greatness of His mercy, we find strength, hope, and refuge.

Pray

Lord, I bow before You with a heart of gratitude for the great mercy You have bestowed upon me. Your compassion has rescued me from death, and Your love has delivered my soul. May Your mercy be a guiding light, illuminating my path and filling my life with the brilliance of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 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.

May 26, 2025

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬

Life often doesn’t always go the way we expect or within the timeline we desire. Waiting can feel frustrating, especially when we’re praying for answers, direction, or breakthroughs. However, God’s timing is always perfect, and His plans for us are greater than anything we could imagine.

Think of a seed planted soil. It doesn’t sprout into a full plant overnight. Beneath the surface, unseen to the human eye, roots are growing, strengthening, and preparing the plant for the fruit it will bear. In the same way, in seasons of waiting, God is working in ways we cannot see, preparing us for His purpose and blessings.

When we trust God’s timing, we demonstrate our faith in His sovereignty and His goodness. He knows what we need and when we need it. Instead of rushing ahead or becoming discouraged, we are called to rest in His promises, knowing He is faithful.

Take a moment to reflect on an area of your life where you’re waiting for God’s direction or provision. Surrender that situation to Him in prayer, asking for patience and trust in His perfect timing.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your perfect plan for my life. Help me to trust in Your timing, even when I feel impatient or uncertain. Remind me that You are always working for my good, even in seasons of waiting. Strengthen my faith and help me rest in Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.