Pastor Stephen Dedman

July 20, 2025

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭58‬

Jesus reveals to us a profound truth about His identity. He didn’t claim to be older than Abraham; He declared His divinity with the words “I AM.” This phrase harkens back to God’s revelation of Himself to Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3:14. It’s a declaration of eternality and deity.

As we reflect on this truth, we are reminded of the timeless nature of Christ, the “I AM.” He existed before Abraham, before time itself, and He continues to exist as the eternal God.

In our own lives, we often face situations that seem insurmountable, challenges that test our faith, and uncertainties that weigh heavily on our hearts. In those moments, we can find peace in knowing that the great “I AM” is with us. Jesus, who is before all things, is by our side, offering His guidance, comfort, and strength.

When we face our biggest doubt and fears, we can trust in Jesus to give us what we need to endure all things. He is unchanging and eternal. Let the great “I AM” guide your thoughts and actions today. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for the assurance of Your presence in my life. Grant me strength to trust in You, the great “I AM,” and to find refuge in Your everlasting love. I pray for wisdom to follow Your teachings and the courage to live out Your example in my daily walk. In Jesus’ name, amen.

July 19, 2025

And the Lord said to me, “Amos, what do you see?” And I said, “A plumb line.” Then the Lord said: “Behold, I am setting a plumb line In the midst of My people Israel; I will not pass by them anymore.“
‭‭Amos‬ ‭7‬:‭8‬

The prophet Amos received a vision from the Lord in which God showed him a plumb line—a tool used in construction to ensure that walls are straight and level. The plumb line represents God’s standard of justice and righteousness, which He used to measure the nation of Israel. Through this vision, God revealed His judgment upon Israel for their disobedience and sin.

The vision of the plumb line serves as a reminder of God’s holiness and His expectations for His people. Just as a plumb line reveals any crookedness, so too does God’s standard of righteousness expose the shortcomings of His people. Despite His patience and long-suffering, God cannot overlook sin indefinitely, and His judgment is sure.

Amos interceded on behalf of the people, pleading with God to relent from His judgment. Amos recognized the severity of the situation and the consequences of God’s judgment, and he stood in the gap, advocating for the people before God.

Just as Amos stood in the gap for the nation of Israel, we are called to stand in the gap for our families, communities, and nations. We must be willing to align our hearts with God’s purposes and to boldly approach His throne of grace on behalf of others, trusting in His mercy and compassion.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the example of Amos and the power of intercession. Help me to be a faithful intercessor, standing in the gap for those in need. Give me a heart of compassion and humility, that I may fervently plead for Your mercy and grace to be poured out upon others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

July 18, 2025

“My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.”
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭29‬

In the midst of life’s uncertainties and trials, there is one constant source of security and comfort for believers – the unwavering love and protection of our Heavenly Father. Jesus reassures His followers of this truth, emphasizing the immeasurable security found in being held in the hands of the Father.

The assurance is twofold. First, Jesus affirms the greatness of the Father, emphasizing His sovereignty and power over all things. The One who has given believers to Jesus is greater than any force or enemy that may seek to harm them. Nothing and no one can stand against the omnipotence of God.

Second, Jesus declares the absolute security of those who belong to the Father. Just as no one is able to snatch the sheep out of the hands of the shepherd, so too is no one able to snatch believers out of the hands of the Father. His grip is firm, His love is unwavering, and His protection is unyielding.

Rest in the assurance that His love never fails, His promises are true, and His protection is absolute. And let us live each day with boldness and faith, knowing that we are secure in the hands of our Heavenly Father, who is greater than all.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the immeasurable security and comfort found in Your loving embrace. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty and Your goodness, knowing that no one can snatch me out of Your hands. Help me to live each day with confidence and faith, knowing that I am secure in Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, amen.