Pastor Stephen Dedman

May 22, 2025

So the Lord spoke to the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.
‭‭Jonah‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬

The story of Jonah is one of rebellion, repentance, and redemption—a story that resonates with us on many levels. Like Jonah, we often find ourselves running from God’s call, seeking to escape His presence and evade His will for our lives. Yet, no matter how far we may stray, God’s pursuit of us never wavers.

In Jonah’s moment of desperation, trapped within the belly of the great fish, he cries out to God for mercy. His prayer, recorded in Jonah 2, is an expression of repentance and surrender—a turning point in his journey back to God. And in response to Jonah’s cry, God intervenes miraculously, commanding the fish to vomit Jonah onto dry land.

God’s deliverance of Jonah serves as a powerful reminder of His unfailing love and faithfulness towards His children. Even in our moments of disobedience and rebellion, God is always ready to extend His hand of mercy and rescue us from the depths of despair. His grace knows no bounds, and His desire is for all to come to repentance and experience His salvation.

Today, let us reflect on God’s deliverance of Jonah and the lessons it holds for us. May we recognize our own need for repentance and surrender, acknowledging our dependence on God’s mercy and grace. And may we respond with obedience and faithfulness, trusting in God’s faithfulness to lead us on the path of righteousness and fulfill His purposes in and through us.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your mercy and grace that reaches down to rescue me from the depths of despair. Help me to recognize the need for repentance and surrender, and to trust in Your unfailing love. May I respond with obedience and faithfulness to Your call. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 21, 2025

For we walk by faith, not by sight.
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭7

The biblical definition of faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Yet, living by faith can feel like walking in the dark. The uncertainties of life challenge our trust in God’s promises, and when we cannot see the full picture, it’s tempting to rely on our own understanding.

But God calls us to fully trust Him, even when the path is unclear. He sees the end from the beginning and works out every detail for our good and for His glory (Romans 8:28). When we walk in faith, we honor God and open ourselves to His guidance.

We have the examples of Abraham, who left his homeland not knowing where God was leading him, and Peter, who stepped out of the boat and walked on water. Their walk in faith led to experiences that revealed God’s power.

As you live out today, reflect on areas of your life where you are being called to trust God without knowing all the details. It may be a relationship, a career decision, or a health concern. Remember, God’s vision for your life far exceeds what you can imagine. Trust Him with the unseen.

Pray

Lord, thank You for reminding me that I don’t need to see the whole picture to trust You. Help me walk by faith, not by sight. Strengthen my heart to follow You, even in uncertainty, knowing that You are faithful and good. Lead me today and always. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 20, 2025

The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!”
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭19‬

After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, many people started following Jesus. In response, the Pharisees were frustrated because of the increasing popularity of Jesus. They said, “the world has gone after Him.” This statement, though made by the Pharisees with a sense of alarm, holds a profound truth about the impact of Jesus on the world.

This truth reminds us of the powerful draw that Jesus has. His teachings of love, grace, and salvation have an appeal that goes beyond cultural, geographical, and societal boundaries. People from all backgrounds and walks of life are drawn to His transformative power and message of hope.

What is your response to Jesus? Are you drawn to His teachings, recognizing that He is the answer to our deepest longings? Do you follow Him and share His love with the world around us? 

Jesus’s influence continues to be felt across the globe, and we are called to be part of the world that follows Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the profound impact You have on the world. Help me to draw closer to You and share the wonderful message of love and hope with others. Empower me to live out Your example of love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.