Pastor Stephen Dedman

January 13, 2025

For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.
‭‭I Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭2‬

Just as a thief comes unexpectedly in the night, so too will the day of the Lord arrive without warning. This truth calls us to live each day in readiness and anticipation of Christ’s coming. Let’s explore how we can apply this verse to our lives today:

Paul emphasizes that the Thessalonian believers were already aware of the imminent return of Christ. Similarly, as followers of Christ today, we too should be conscious of the reality that His return could happen at any moment. This awareness should shape our perspective on life, prompting us to prioritize eternal matters over temporal concerns.

Just as a thief’s arrival prompts immediate action to protect one’s belongings, the imminent return of Christ should motivate us to be spiritually prepared. We must examine our hearts, confessing and repenting of sin, and drawing near to God in prayer and devotion. Living with a sense of urgency, we seek to live holy and righteous lives, pleasing to the Lord.

Rather than living in fear or anxiety about the unknown timing of Christ’s return, we are called to live in readiness and anticipation. This means faithfully fulfilling our calling as disciples of Christ, serving others in love, and proclaiming the gospel to those who have yet to hear. Each day is an opportunity to live out our faith boldly and intentionally, knowing that we may not have tomorrow.

Let us embrace each day as a gift from God, using our time, talents, and resources to honor Him and advance His kingdom until He comes again.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the assurance of Your return. Help me to live each day with a sense of readiness and anticipation, knowing that You could come at any moment. May I be found faithful and diligent in service to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

January 12, 2025

For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
‭‭James‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬

In a world marked by division, prejudice, and injustice, the call to show mercy and compassion is more relevant than ever. James reminds us that our actions towards others have eternal consequences. Just as God extends His mercy and forgiveness to us, He expects us to reflect His character by showing mercy to those around us.

Mercy is more than just a feeling of pity or sympathy; it is an expression of love and compassion towards those who are in need. It involves extending grace and forgiveness to others, even when they don’t deserve it. When we choose to show mercy, we reflect the heart of God and participate in His redemptive work in the world.

The promise that “mercy triumphs over judgment” is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and compassion towards us. Despite our failures and shortcomings, God extends His mercy to us, offering forgiveness and redemption through Jesus Christ. As recipients of His mercy, we are called to extend that same mercy to others.

Today, let’s show mercy to others. As we do so, we will experience the abundant mercy and grace of God overflowing in our own lives.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your abundant mercy and forgiveness. Help me to reflect Your character by showing mercy and compassion to others. Give me a heart of love and grace, that I may be an agent of reconciliation and healing in this broken world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

January 11, 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.