Pastor Stephen Dedman

May 10, 2025

If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭26‬

Jesus speaks these words to His disciples during the final days of His earthly ministry, just before He is to suffer on the cross. Jesus emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the connection between service, following Him, and divine honor.

As His followers, Jesus invites us into a life of service and discipleship. True service involves following Christ closely, aligning our actions with His teachings, and being where He is—both in physical presence and spiritual alignment. This involves sacrificial love, humility, and a commitment to living out the principles of God’s kingdom. In doing so, we receive the promise that the Father will honor us.

Today, consciously choose to serve Christ. This may manifest in acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness. It may require you to step out of your comfort zone, just as Christ did during His earthly ministry.

Pray

Lord, I come before You with a heart open to Your guidance. Teach me to be a true servant, following closely in Your footsteps. Grant me the strength to serve selflessly, the humility to follow obediently, and the grace to embody the values of Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 9, 2025

Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭14‬

Waiting is hard. In a world that craves instant gratification, the idea of patience and trusting God’s timing can feel countercultural and even frustrating. Yet, throughout Scripture, we see God working in the waiting. Abraham waited decades for God’s promise of a son to be fulfilled. Joseph waited years in prison before stepping into his calling. Even Jesus waited until the appointed time to begin His ministry.

Waiting doesn’t mean inactivity or passivity—it’s an opportunity to grow in faith and obedience. When we wait on God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust that He is working for our good, even when we can’t see the full picture.

The waiting seasons often teach us more than the moments when our prayers are answered. They refine our character, deepen our dependence on God, and help us cultivate gratitude when His blessings finally come.

Are you in a season of waiting right now? How can you actively trust God while you wait?

Pray

Lord, waiting can be so difficult, especially when I don’t see how everything will work out. Help me to trust Your timing and Your plan. Strengthen my heart and teach me to rely on You during this season. Thank You for the work You are doing, even when I cannot see it. I surrender my timeline to You and ask for Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May 8, 2025

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to let urgent matters overshadow what’s truly important. Work deadlines, family obligations, and personal goals can quickly fill our minds and schedules, leaving little room for the things of God. But Jesus calls us to a different way of living—one where His kingdom is our first priority.

Seeking God’s kingdom first means aligning our hearts with His will, placing our relationship with Him above all else. It’s not about neglecting our responsibilities but about inviting God into every area of our lives. When we prioritize prayer, worship, and obedience, we’re acknowledging that everything we have and need comes from Him.

God promises that when we make Him our first priority, He will provide for our needs. This doesn’t mean life will be without challenges, but it does mean we can trust Him to care for us as we walk in faith.

Pray

Lord, help me to put You first in everything I do. Teach me to seek Your kingdom and Your righteousness above my own desires and distractions. I surrender my plans, my time, and my priorities to You. May my life reflect Your love and purpose as I trust You to provide for all my needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.