Pastor Stephen Dedman

February 23, 2025

But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭8‬:‭26‬

The disciples found themselves in the middle of a raging storm, tossed by wind and waves while Jesus slept peacefully in the boat. In their panic, they cried out, fearing for their lives. But Jesus, undisturbed by the storm, simply spoke, and the winds obeyed.

How often do we find ourselves in a storm—overwhelmed by financial struggles, health issues, broken relationships, or the uncertainty of the future? Like the disciples, we may cry out, wondering if God sees our distress. Yet Jesus’ response is both a challenge and an invitation: “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?”

Fear arises when we focus on the storm rather than the Savior. The disciples were in the presence of the One who created the sea, yet they let fear overshadow their faith. Jesus, in His power and authority, calmed the storm, demonstrating that He is sovereign over all things.

What storm are you facing today? Instead of allowing fear to take control, turn your eyes to Jesus. Trust that He is with you, even in the chaos. His Word is powerful, and His presence brings peace. When we place our faith in Him, we can rest in the assurance that no storm is greater than our God.

Pray

Lord, help me to trust You in the midst of life’s storms. Strengthen my faith so that I focus on You rather than my fears. Remind me that You are in control, and in Your presence, I can find peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

February 22, 2025

For every house is built by someone, but He who built all things is God.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭3‬:‭4‬

In every city, you see residential homes and commercial buildings, each a product of careful planning, hard work, and craftsmanship. Every structure has a builder, someone responsible for its design and construction. However, the author of Hebrews reminds us that beyond human effort, God is the ultimate builder of all things.

This verse calls us to recognize that God is not only the Creator of the universe but He is also the architect of our lives. Just as a house needs a solid foundation, we must build our lives on Christ, the chief cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). When we surrender to God’s plans, He shapes us into something far greater than we could ever construct on our own.

Think about your own life—are you trying to build on your own strength, or are you allowing God to be the master builder? When we rely on ourselves, our foundation can be shaky, but when we trust in God, He establishes our steps (Proverbs 16:9).

If you are feeling uncertain or overwhelmed by life’s challenges, take comfort in knowing that God is at work. He sees the full blueprint of your life, and He is faithful to complete what He has started in you (Philippians 1:6).

  • In what areas of your life do you need to trust God’s construction process?
  • Are you building on the foundation of Christ, or relying on your own plans?
  • How can you invite God to be the architect of your daily decisions?

Pray

Lord, You are the master builder of my life. Help me to trust in Your design and to surrender my plans to You. Strengthen my foundation in Christ so that I may stand firm in faith. Guide my steps and shape me according to Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, amen

February 21, 2025

casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬

Worry is something we all experience. It creeps into our minds, weighing us down with thoughts of “what if” and worst-case scenarios. But God never intended for us to carry the burden of worry alone. Instead, He invites us to cast our cares upon Him.

1 Peter 5:7 is a reminder that God is not distant from our concerns—He cares deeply about us. Worry drains our energy, but faith restores our peace. When we release our worries to God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust that He is in control.

Jesus Himself said, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:27). Worry doesn’t change our circumstances, but prayer does. Instead of holding on to fear, let’s choose to place our trust in God’s faithful hands.

Today, take a moment to surrender your worries to Him. Speak them out in prayer and believe that He will take care of you. His peace is greater than any fear you face.

Prayer:
Lord, I give You my worries today. I know that You care for me and are in control. Help me trust You more and rest in Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.