Pastor Stephen Dedman

June 8, 2025

And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus.
‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭4‬

Mark 9:2-13 captures a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry, the Transfiguration. Peter, James, and John were given a glimpse of Jesus’ divine glory. This extraordinary event reveals Jesus’ identity as the Son of God and foreshadows His ultimate victory over sin and death.

As Peter, James, and John witnessed Jesus’ radiant appearance, they saw Him converse with Moses and Elijah. The presence of Moses and Elijah alongside Jesus is significant. Moses represents the Law, while Elijah represents the prophets, both pointing to Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture. Their appearance underscores Jesus’ role as the long-awaited Messiah.

The Transfiguration reminds us of the importance of recognizing Jesus’ true identity. He is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. The Transfiguration affirms His divine authority and underscores the necessity of faith in Him for salvation.

But the Transfiguration is not just a historical event; it is also a glimpse of our future hope. Just as Jesus was transfigured before His disciples, so too will we be transformed in His likeness when He returns in glory. The Transfiguration serves as a foretaste of the eternal glory that awaits all who believe in Jesus Christ.

May we, like Peter, James, and John, behold Him in all His splendor and bow in worship before Him as the Son of God. And may we live each day in anticipation of the glorious future that awaits us in Christ, where we will be transformed and perfected in His likeness for all eternity.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the revelation of the Transfiguration. Help me to place my faith and trust in You alone for salvation. Let my life be an example of Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

June 7, 2025

I will cry out to God Most High, To God who performs all things for me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭57‬:‭2

Psalm 57 is attributed to David, written during a time of great distress. It seems to indicate that it was written when David fled from Saul and hid in a cave. Despite the danger surrounding him, David’s faith remained steadfast. David expresses his trust in God’s protection and deliverance, declaring his intention to seek refuge in the Most High.

Life often throws us into situations where we feel stressed and overwhelmed, much like David hiding in the cave from Saul’s pursuit. In such moments, it’s natural to seek refuge, to look for a place of safety and security. However, our instinctual response may be to rely on our own strength or to seek refuge in temporary comforts.

Psalm 57:2 presents us with a different approach. Instead of turning to earthly sources for comfort, David directs his cry to God Most High. He recognizes God as the ultimate source. This verse challenges us to shift our focus from our circumstances to the character and power of God.

We are encouraged to cry out to God in prayer, trusting that He hears and answers. Just as David found refuge in God’s faithfulness, we can find comfort in knowing that God is with us in every trial and that He is actively working on our behalf.

Pray

Lord, I come to You today acknowledging You as God Most High, the one who reigns over all creation. In moments of distress, help me to turn to You as my refuge and strength. Give me the faith to trust in Your provision and the courage to cry out to You in prayer. Thank You for Your faithfulness and for the assurance that You are always working for my good. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 6, 2025

Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath,
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭26‬

Anger is a powerful emotion that we all experience at times. It can be triggered by various situations—disappointment, injustice, conflict, or hurt. While anger itself is not sinful, it is what we do with our anger that matters. Paul helps us in managing our anger in a way that aligns with God’s will.

Paul acknowledges the reality of anger: “Be angry.” He doesn’t condemn the emotion itself but acknowledges that it’s a natural response to certain situations. However, he quickly follows this acknowledgment with a caution: “do not sin.” While we may feel anger, we must not allow it to lead us into sinful thoughts, words, or actions. This means controlling our responses and not allowing anger to dictate our behavior.

Paul offers a practical instruction: “do not let the sun go down on your wrath.” In other words, he urges us not to let our anger linger unresolved. Holding onto anger can lead to bitterness, resentment, and relational breakdown. Instead, Paul encourages us to address our anger promptly, seeking reconciliation and forgiveness if necessary. By dealing with our anger in a timely and constructive manner, we prevent it from taking root and causing further harm.

Today, if you find yourself wrestling with anger, take a moment to pause and reflect on Ephesians 4:26. Acknowledge your emotions, but also seek God’s perspective on the situation. Ask Him for wisdom and grace to respond in a way that reflects His love and truth. And remember, as you entrust your anger to God, He is faithful to guide you towards reconciliation, healing, and peace.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your guidance on how to manage anger in a way that honors You. Help me to acknowledge my emotions but to respond in a way that will reflect Your love and truth. Give me grace to address my anger promptly and seek reconciliation and forgiveness when needed. May Your Spirit guide me in all my interactions and relationships. In Jesus’ name, amen.