Pastor Stephen Dedman

April 6, 2025

I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬

In the introduction of this psalm, David expresses feelings of abandonment, sorrow, and distress. However, as he progresses, his focus shifts, and by the end, we see a change of perspective.

Psalm 13:6 is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can find a reason to rejoice. David’s heart, once heavy with doubt and despair, is now singing praises. He declares, “I will sing to the Lord because He has dealt bountifully with me.”

This change in perspective reminds us of the faithfulness of God. He may allow us to walk through valleys, but ultimately, His desire is to deal bountifully with us. He provides us with strength and comfort. When we take a step back and reflect on His goodness, we can’t help but break out in songs of gratitude.

So, when you find yourself in a struggle, remember the promise of Psalm 13:6. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and He continues to deal bountifully with His children. In those moments when you wonder if you can sing through your trials, let God’s Word inspire you to lift your voice in praise, for the Lord is indeed worthy of our songs of thanksgiving.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the reminder that You deal bountifully with me. In times of trial and difficulty, help me to shift my perspective and remember Your faithfulness. Let my heart be filled with gratitude and praise for Your abundant goodness and salvation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

April 5, 2025

For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬

The author of Hebrews urges us to “consider Him.” To consider means to think deeply, to reflect upon, and to meditate. So, let us consider Jesus, the ultimate example of endurance and faith.

Jesus endured unimaginable hostility during His earthly ministry. He was ridiculed, mocked, and betrayed by those He came to save. He faced persecution, false accusations, and even death on a cross. Yet, He endured it all with faith in His Father’s plan.

When we face our own trials and challenges, we can find encouragement in Jesus’ example. His endurance teaches us that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can press on in faith, knowing that He is with us.

The verse also warns us against becoming weary and discouraged in our souls. Weariness can cause us to lose heart and give up. But by fixing our focus on Jesus, we can find renewed strength and hope.

When we focus solely on our problems and hardships, they can seem overwhelming. But when we shift our focus to Jesus, our problems are put into proper perspective. He is greater than any challenge we face. (Thank You, Jesus!)

So, as we face life’s ups and downs, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. When we consider His endurance in the face of hostility, we find the inspiration to endure our own trials with faith and perseverance.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the example of endurance and strength to keep going. No matter the challenges that come my way I will remember focus more on You and less on my troubles. Help me to endure and overcome every challenge and trial. In Jesus’ name, amen.

April 4, 2025

Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭7‬:‭25‬

There is such a beautiful truth in today’s verse that brings comfort and assurance to every believer’s heart. It reminds us that Jesus Christ, our Savior and High Priest, not only saved us but continues to intercede on our behalf. His intercession is a testament to His eternal love and care for His children.

As our Savior, Jesus accomplished the work of redemption on the cross, providing salvation for all who come to God through Him. As our Intercessor, He continues to stand before the Father on our behalf, representing us and advocating for us.

The assurance that Jesus is able to save us provides us with great comfort. His salvation isn’t limited by time, circumstances, or the depth of our sins. His grace reaches to the depth of our need, offering complete and everlasting salvation.

What a powerful statement—Jesus always lives to make intercession for us. His ministry of intercession isn’t occasional or sporadic; it’s constant and unending. His presence before the Father is a reminder that we are never alone, and His prayers on our behalf are always present.

The concept of intercession speaks to the oneness between the Son and the Father. Jesus, who knows us intimately, intercedes for us personally. His prayers are specific to our needs, fears, and aspirations.

Let this wonderful truth impact your perspective on your relationship with God through Jesus Christ. How can you lean into the comfort of His intercession in your daily life?

Pray

Lord, I’m grateful for the assurance that You always intercede for me. Thank You for Your unending love and care. Help me to draw closer to You, knowing that my prayers are heard by You. In Jesus’ name, amen.