Pastor Stephen Dedman

March 31, 2025

A man’s steps are of the Lord; How then can a man understand his own way?
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭20‬:‭24‬

This proverb reminds us that our steps are ultimately directed by the Lord, and His divine plan often surpasses our own understanding.

It reminds us that God is the ultimate guide of our lives. Our human nature often leads us to make plans, set goals, and try to understand every detail of our path. While planning is important, we must always remember that God’s wisdom and sovereignty far exceeds our own. He knows the best way for us, even when we can’t understand it.

It’s a challenge to relinquish control and trust in God’s guidance, especially when we face uncertainty or difficulty. However, we are encouraged to release our grip on our own understanding and lean on God’s wisdom and providence. It’s an invitation to place our trust in the One who knows the end from the beginning.

Pray

Lord, I acknowledge that my steps are ultimately directed by You. Help me to trust in Your guidance and sovereignty, even when I can’t comprehend the path before me. Grant me the wisdom to seek Your will in all that I do, knowing that Your plan is far greater than my own. In Jesus’ name, amen.

March 30, 2025

I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet,
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭1‬:‭10‬

John’s experience in Revelation 1:10 is a remarkable one. He tells us that he was “in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day.” This statement holds a powerful message for us as believers. 

The “Lord’s Day” refers to Sunday, the day of the Lord’s resurrection. It’s a day when we can gather as a community to worship and seek God’s presence.

John’s experience reminds us of the importance of when we come together to worship on the Lord’s Day. As we celebrate the Lord’s Day, let us come with open hearts, expecting to encounter the living God and to be guided by His voice.

Take time today to seek the Lord, both in your private devotion and in corporate worship. Be open to experiencing the presence of God and hearing His voice.

Pray

Lord, just as John was “in the Spirit” and heard Your voice, I long to be in a deep communion with You. Open my heart and mind to receive Your guidance and speak to me through Your Word and in worship. May the Lord’s Day be a day of spiritual renewal and encounter with Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

March 29, 2025

Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,
‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭1

Jesus shared a parable (an earthly story with a heavenly meaning) to teach about the importance of persistent prayer. This verse reminds us that, in the midst of our challenges, we should remain steadfast in our commitment to prayer. 

Life often presents us with difficulties, obstacles, and moments of despair. In those times, it’s easy to become discouraged and lose hope. But Jesus encourages us to do the opposite – to persist in prayer. Why? Because prayer is not just a means to an end; it’s a way to draw near to God, to find peace in His presence, and to align our hearts with His will.

Jesus desires that we continually seek Him in prayer and never give up. When our life is persistently seeking the Lord, we will be blessed with guidance, encouragement and peace. Are you diligently seeking the Lord in prayer?

Pray

Lord, thank You for teaching me to always pray and to never give up. Help me to be committed to prayer and to seek You for all things. Give me comfort and peace knowing You answer my prayers and provide only the best. In Jesus’ name, amen.