Pastor Stephen Dedman

September 11, 2025

The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬

This is a short but profound verse. It warns us of the danger of allowing the fear of others to control our lives and the importance of placing our trust in God.

Fear is a powerful force that can control our decision-making process and prevent us from experiencing the abundant life that God has planned for us. When we worry about what others think or say about us, we become trapped in a snare of insecurity and self-doubt. The fear of man will paralyze us and prevent us from stepping out in faith to pursue God’s calling on our lives.

However, God invites us to trust in Him. When we place our trust in God, we are assured of His faithfulness, His wisdom, and His protection. Trusting in the Lord means that we have an assurance that God is with us every step of the way.

Trusting in the Lord empowers us to live boldly and courageously. When we trust in God, we are kept safe in His loving arms, shielded from the damaging effects of fear.

Are you allowing the fear of man to control your life? Are you seeking the approval of others, rather than placing your trust in God?

Fully trusting God will remove all fear!

Pray

Lord, I place my full trust in You. I trust You will keep me safe and protected from all evil. Help me to resist the thoughts of fear and anxiety that keep me from living the abundant life you have planned for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

September 10, 2025

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.”
‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭1

These words from Jesus are a reminder that we can find peace and comfort in Him. He encourages us not to let our hearts to be consumed with fear annd anxiety. Why? Because He is our refuge and our source of peace and comfort.

In times of trouble, Jesus invites us to take refuge in our faith, to remember the promises of God, and to trust in Him wholeheartedly. It’s a call to anchor our hearts in the belief that God is in control, even when circumstances seem to be out of control.

Jesus emphasized the importance of placing our faith in Him, just as we trust in God. He is not only our Savior but also our Prince of Peace. When we fully trust in Him, we acknowledge His power to bring calmness to our troubled hearts.

So, how can we apply this verse to our daily lives?

  1. Whenever anxiety creeps in, let’s choose faith over fear. Instead of dwelling on our worries, let’s remember that God is with us, and we can trust in Him to navigate life’s challenges.
  2. Spend time in prayer and meditate on God’s Word. Seek His presence and ask for His peace to fill your heart. Meditate on the promises found in Scripture. Ask God to reveal Himself to you through His Word. 
  3. Share your concerns and burdens with fellow believers. In times of trouble, a supportive spiritual community can provide encouragement, prayer, and a listening ear. Don’t neglect participating in worship services. 
  4. As you trust in Jesus and His promises, take action in your faith. Step out with courage, knowing that He goes before you.

Pray

Lord, when troubles come and my heart is troubled, remind me of John 14:1. Help me to find peace in You, to believe in Your power to calm my fears, and to anchor my faith firmly in Your love. May I choose faith over fear and trust in Your guidance. In Jesus’ name, amen.

September 9, 2025

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭30‬

One of the blessings we have as a believer in Christ is that we have been sealed with the Holy Spirit of God. It is our identity as children of God. In today’s verse, Paul urges us not to grieve the Holy Spirit but to embrace Him with joy and gratitude.

When a person accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior, the Spirit comes to dwell within their heart. This divine seal is an assurance of salvation and a promise to protect and guide us until the day we meet Jesus face to face. 

When we yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit, we produce the fruits of His presence in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Our actions and attitudes should reflect the presence of the Spirit living within us.

However, we must be careful not to grieve the Holy Spirit through acts of sin and disobedience. Deliberate sin grieves the very presence of God dwelling within us. The only way to break the rebellion is to repent and turn back to God. The Holy Spirit will not let us go until we confess and repent. 

When we repent of our sin, God is faithful and just to forgive us. This is the amazing grace that we are given through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. We should be encouraged to keep a close walk and fellowship with Lord to keep from grieving His presence. We will not live perfectly, but we can experience the power of His presence in our life.

Can you say that you are experiencing the power of a close fellowship with our Heavenly Father? If so, keep enjoying the blessings. But if not, I invite you to repent and allow the Spirit of God to comfort you and renew a right spirit with in you. It’s your decision. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for sealing me with the presence of the Holy Spirit. Help me to walk in alignment with Your will, yielding to the guidance of the Spirit. May Your Spirit’s seal be a constant encouragement and reminder of Your faithfulness in my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.