DEAR GOD: HAPPY NEW YEAR WITH LOVE~

by C D SWANSON // December 31, 2023 // No Comments

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Psalm 90:12: -“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”

Anno Domini: This is the Latin term for “in the year of the Lord” or “in the year of our Lord Jesus Christ”. It is used to mark the years after the birth of Christ in the Gregorian calendar, which is the most widely used calendar system in the world today ¹. Christians can use this term to acknowledge that every year belongs to the Lord and that He is the center of history and time.

Every day is a day with the LORD for those of faith. And certainly, so it goes, every “year” is a day with the LORD. Of course there is also the verse in which we need to conceive and realize the depth of its content. – 2 Peter 3:8 (KJV)-But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.

We are all new creations in Christ (Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new- 2 Corinthians 5:17). So actually, we are new all the time, in Christ. Firmly holding on to our resolve and our inner convictions of loving God fully and completely, and trying to accomplish, through Christ, all we can to attain those rewards and promises He sets before us in His Kingdom, we look forward to another year to do so!

New Creation: This is the ultimate hope of every Christian that God will make all things new and restore His perfect kingdom on earth. It is the fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem and renew His creation from the effects of sin and death. It is the final and glorious new year that will never end. Christians can live in light of this hope and seek to reflect God’s image and will in their lives.

Isaiah 65:17: “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.”
Revelation 21:1-: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.”

Think about what more you can do this upcoming year that could have done last year. Is there someone or something you overlooked without awareness? Is there some way you might be able to shine God’s light to someone in need?

“I wish you all a Happy New Year from here in the USA–to all those overseas, and beyond, may God’s light shine in you and through you to all you encounter along the way, may God continue to be a huge Presence in your lives and in your families, and may those who don’t quite know Him, come to realize His love (John 3:16) and just how much He loves us all, in Jesus, name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Are My Father of Light & Love~

by C D SWANSON // December 30, 2023 // No Comments

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning –
James 1:17

He never changes, there is no shadow or room for obscurity. Our Father in Heaven is openly “visible” in all areas of our lives, if we take the time to look and seek. He is not a vapor or a mere illusion, He is real and perfect in every way. He is the Father of Light.

James 1:18 -Of His own will begat He us with the Word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.

We are His and follow Him and he gives us the knowledge of wisdom and repentance and being a first fruit showing others the way. The Word and His truth enlightens us, and the Holy Spirit provides the guidance and instruction in the way we ought to live and be an example to others along the way.

James – 1:19 – Therefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;

If you can follow those three words of advice from James 1:19 – we will be able to provide for others while following the doctrine and tenets of how we can be productive according to the LORD’s will and purpose for our lives. Don’t be double minded, be patient, and understanding. In all we do, do for the LORD.

James 1:20 – For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

There is no connection whatsoever. If you are angry and angry at the world or yourself, or angry all the time…then that is not serving God. We cannot have that type of temperament or attitude and expect God to bless us, nor will we be able to live a fulfilling life here on earth. Or have the LORD be pleased with us. But most especially, cannot do that if we want to walk the path of righteousness and follow God.

Accept the Father of Light and His Gifts He lays upon us from above and adhere to all He wants us to be. When we do this, we can be blessed and live the life worth living.

Walk in the Light and shine, shine, shine…

“Father, thank You for Your love, gifts and will for my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Wisdom Comes From You Alone~

by C D SWANSON // December 29, 2023 // No Comments

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Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.
-Proverbs 18:4 (NLT)

Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgement. – Proverbs 9:16 (NLT)— Many interpretations of this particular verse have been at the center of discussion at a lot of gatherings. I find that its meaning suggests having utmost respect and reverence for the LORD and it’s the first primary step towards gaining wisdom and understanding of “all things” pertaining to our lifetime.

As I’ve said this verse has been analyzed and preached in various ways. I keep it simple; it means wisdom comes from a deep understanding of God’s teachings and principles. I also believe emphatically that it also reflects our own limitations, that we need to seek His guidance, no matter how little the circumstances are.

I believe it emphasizes the importance of humility, respect and a willingness/eagerness to learn as the key components of gaining and receiving wisdom.

Under the guidance of the LORD and being under His Wings of surveillance and protection, we are able to be all we are purposed to be, according to the Word and His will for our lives.

So how do we gain knowledge then? By reading the Word. It has been called by some a “Life Manual” and a “Life Preserver” for all the days of our lives.

Do you have wisdom? Do you have the “Life Manual” in hand? If not—why not?

“Father, thank You for Your Word, and the Wisdom You impart on all of Your Children who seek You, and adhere to Your Word, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Say It All & You Are My All~

by C D SWANSON // December 28, 2023 // No Comments

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Jeremiah 33:6 (NLT)-

Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security.

In the midst of darkness, death, and despair, the love of God is like a guiding light, leading His people to safety. This is the spirit and message of Jeremiah 33:6. The prophet received a vision from God foretelling the death, destruction, and devastation that would fall on the city.

It is important to remember that God’s love and mercy can guide us through even the most difficult times. God is with us, even when we have difficulty “hearing” at times. It’s a matter of seeking Him and taking the time to meditate and think, “what would You have me do LORD? – What is it I am supposed to be doing at this time? – How can I apply Your Word to my situation at this very moment in time?” When we delve into His Word, and ask for guidance and His wisdom, He will respond in kind.

It may not be instantaneous, but He will provide the answers and direction according to His timetable, not ours. So, patience is an important component and aspect to finding answers.

Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

He will never disappoint, and He is why we live and breathe. He is giving us a commandment to “be strong and of good courage” in Deuteronomy 31:6, and that should be good enough for us, HIS WORD, and His promise. We are never alone!

Psalms 23:4 – Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

No matter the circumstances we never walk alone. Perhaps the most memorable example was in the book of Daniel concerning the three Hebrew children that were thrown into the furnace (Daniel 3:16-28). The LORD walked with them and protected them, when they exited the fires, not even one hair on them was singed, and their clothing was intact! Amen!

Isaiah 41:10 – Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

God continuously throughout His Holy Bible tells us and commands us not to fear, that He is with us, and He will strengthen us, and will uphold us. How can we possibly do otherwise? If our God is telling us to be courageous, have no fear and we need to realize that He is always nearby.

Zephaniah 3:17 – The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

God’s love for us is unapparelled and surpasses anything and anyone in the Universe (that He Created) and knowing that He loves us that much (John 3:16) is the best gift of all. And along with that gift should be a strong reassurance and comfort for His children.

His Word is truth.
His Love is real.
His ways are perfect.

When you are in need of company, He is there. When you are in need of a shoulder to lean on, He is there. When you are in need of comfort, He is there. When you are in need of guidance, He is there. When you are in need of help, He is there. When you are in need of love, He is there…

Do you have Him in Your life? Do you seek Him in all you do? If not, what are you waiting for?

A life with our LORD and Savior is the only life worth living!

“Father, thank You for Your promises, love, and guidance and all You do and say, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: I AM INFUSED BY YOUR SPIRIT~

by C D SWANSON // December 26, 2023 // No Comments

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The Bible offers many lessons on how to make a difference in life. We are called to resist conformity to worldly patterns and renew our minds according to God’s Word. By seeking His guidance and transforming our way of thinking, we can then completely discern God’s good, acceptable, and perfect will for each of us.

Standing with and by God’s Word and will for our lives enables us to make choices and take actions that align with His purpose, and inherently will make a positive impact on others, as well as our lives. But only when it is according to HIS will, not ours.

You see when we rely on God and trust Him fully in all we do and acknowledge Him— He will direct our paths. And when we realize we need Him and aren’t using our “own wisdom” or devices, and love Him fully and keep from evil, it will be health for us inside and out (Proverbs 3:5-8).

The Bible teaches us that to make a difference, we should read the Bible, connect with God, serve others selflessly, and renew our minds according to God’s Word. Each session we spend with God on an intimate basis, that is getting to know Him, understand His word and how to apply it to our lives, we gain introspection into how we should live. We gain access into living life successfully while adhering to His commandments.

The Bible is a perfect testimony of who God is and what He’s like. After all, it’s inspired by God and it’s profitable for teaching, admonishing, rebuking, training us to be disciplined and walk in righteousness.

Plus, through His Word, God shows us and gives us everything in His book required of us to lead a life of goodness and demonstrate love towards each other.

Each of us are unique, yet all have the impact to make a difference in the world. The Holy Spirit will guide us and teach us as we go along in this world. The Spirit isn’t stagnant. Instead, the Spirit will continuously move and flow effortlessly when we are aware, open and engaged with the Word on a daily basis. He is given to us as a “gift” when we accept the LORD readily. We are given that wonderful and glorious gift from the Father, and He is infused within us always.

Luke 24:49 (NLT) – “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.”

“Father, may I always be connected to You on every level in my life, may I consult with You before I go about my tasks in early morning, may I seek Your face in all I do, and may I please You in all of my ways, all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE~

by C D SWANSON // December 23, 2023 // No Comments

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For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Luke 2:11-14 (KJV)

Hallelujah! The King of kings and LORD of lords and The Savior of the World is here!!!! Merry Christ-mas to all!

May His Light shine upon you and your family
Christ-mas live in your hearts every single day of the year. Never forget how much He loved us and LOVES us to this very day.

I thought you’d enjoy this Christmas classic that gives me chills every single time, especially the part about “The Baby Boy you delivered will soon deliver you.”

OH my GOSH! Powerful, true and my heart beats so fast when I hear that line.

God Bless you all.

See you all back here on Tuesday.

Enjoy your holiday and be blessed~

OUR KING & REDEEMER IS BORN~

by C D SWANSON // December 22, 2023 // No Comments

What it is REALLY all about | Nativity painting, Greg olsen art, Lds art

Matthew 1:23 – Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

The light of the World born over two thousand years ago. The One who came into the world for us, still significant, still powerfully moving, and still has followers to this day.

When we take time to embrace and honor Him at what He represents to us, His children—our mere mortals minds have trouble comprehending the significance of His coming to reside with us, as He was born of the Virgin Mary.

He a Royal King, came into our world in a lowly place, a barn in a little wooden manger. Instead of a kindly bed. He was clothes with material that merely swaddled His body. He didn’t have on robes of gold or jewels adorning His crown. Instead–He was going be wearing an entirely different crown altogether, some 33 years later. A crown of thorns that He gladly accepted so He could redeem and save us all from the ugly sin of the world. The True Light of the World, JESUS CHRIST, THE KING!

“…I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 12

The unblemished Lamb who was led to slaughter, suffering the worst kind of death being crucified, for us! This King was born for us. The Father—our Holy Almighty God, Adonai, Elohim, Jehovah, the Great I Am– giving His Son as a sacrifice for us.

The scene at the nativity that glorious night is one that has been told for over two thousand years. One that was predicted in the Old Testament years before Christ’s miraculous birth.

Therefore, the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14).

How do we honor Him, or how can we possibly thank Him for all He has done, and continues to do?

We can start by spreading His Gospel, worshipping Him daily, walking in obedience to His commandments. And loving one another as Jesus loved and still loves us. That is just for starters.

Honor Him in your heart wherever you go and whatever you do. Not only at Christ-mas time. But all the days of your life. Spread cheer, bring comfort to those in need, offer help to those who are alone, and be a friend to those who have none. These are all life affirming choices and things that please the Father and honor His Son.

His book still one of the bestselling books of all time and is the reason for who we are, and why we are here. He is our purpose, and we are His purpose according to His will in all we do each day of our life.

The Light shines in the darkness and brings comfort to those who seek it.

The Light brings awareness to our being and energizes us for what we need to do, as we follow His light and path of righteousness.

This week marks the time when the Light of the world came to reside with us. We celebrate His birth and give thanks to God for His Son and His sacrifice.

The Light is our redeemer, and we share our spiritual faith with others to bring glory to Him and to bring others out of the darkness, and into the Light of lights.

As it nears the day of His miraculous birth, please let’s adore Him and honor Him through your love for others, shining your light as an example of His, and enjoy the wonder of His love.

May all of you have a Blessed Christmas and feel the joy of His Presence and love. God Bless~

“Lord, thank You for being our Light and for coming for us as our Redeemer, and Savior, Your Glory and Your love for us is everlasting, and we thank You for it, in Jesus name, Amen.”

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the LORD appeared to them, and the glory of the LORD shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the LORD.
Luke 2:8-11

DEAR GOD: You Forgave Him & All Else~

by C D SWANSON // December 20, 2023 // No Comments

Hallelujah by Kelley Mooney - YouTube

As Jesus stated in the Gospel of Matthew 28:20…He will never leave us, and He hasn’t. Jesus keeps all of His promises, as does His Father, God. Jesus is with us today in the person of the Holy Spirit.

He continues to love us, guide us, hold us in times of trouble, and be an ever presence in our lives. His love keeps us alive. For it was God’s love that sent His Son to redeem us, and give us salvation, by His blood which we were saved. Thank you, Lord. Thank you, Jesus, for your supreme sacrifice.

Again, this is a story based on an account of what happened and what the Centurion may have been thinking as he took part in the crucifixion of Christ.

The Task –

“Out of my way…I want to see them pay.” One voice declared with abject and fiendish delight.

“Hey- Where have you been?” One of his peers yelled out.

“Just getting everything prepared.” He answered with a quiet yet shaken demeanor.

“Why are you acting so strange? You knew about this appointment for a while, what is going on with you?” His good friend asked.

“I know. It’s just…” He stared at his sack he managed to get before his mount fled.

“What?” His friend insisted.

Before he could answer he observed “them” ascending the hill. “What am I going to do?” There was no answer for him, he had an appointment and orders to follow. His hands began to shake as he opened the sack by his sandaled feet.

“Hey, what is going on with you?” His friend pulled his arm and glared into his eyes with a fierce determination to understand his reticent behavior.

He yanked his arm away from his friend’s paralyzing grip, “Go about your business-nothing is wrong.”

They locked eyes for a moment, until his friend backed away, “Okay.”

He took a deep breath. He watched the men approaching. It was unusually hot. The sun was searing his skin. He felt like he was on fire…or in the gates of hell. “What was going on?”

An acrid stench was in the still air. He was perspiring copiously. He didn’t want to accept this appointment. To disobey was not an option. He tossed and turned all night, not realizing why he was experiencing torment, and pain. He was in pure anguish!

“Okay, here you go. This is the one you are supposed to handle. I will take care of this one on the left, and your friend will take care of the one on the right.” The handler said systematically.

He turned his head and saw him. He was unrecognizable! His face bloodied and bruised. His body had open wounds from being whipped and scourged. A crown of thorns atop his matted hair intermingled with blood and dirt. He was placed upon the cross and roped with his arms spread wide…stretched to unbearable lengths. He heard his shoulders pop and felt vomit fill his mouth, as he gazed at him through tears.

He took the “items” out of the sack. Three huge tent nails. He brought the first one to his feet. His hands shaking, he looked at the man they called Jesus.

Jesus looked at him with love and compassion, “You are fulfilling the scriptures, but I feel your compassion…I have taken note of this and so has my Father.”

He wailed, “Forgive me!” as he hammered the first of three nails into Jesus. “My Lord, forgive me.” When he completed the abominable task- the wooden cross was hoisted high on Golgotha.

He glanced up sickened to witness his “handiwork” on Jesus’ feet and hands…then collapsed in a wretched heap on the ground.

He declared in sincerity, his voice quivering, “This is truly the Son of God, this is the Christ.”

DEAR GOD: You Fill Me With Your Joy~

by C D SWANSON // December 17, 2023 // No Comments

Psalm 103:1-5, ESV Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

The LORD gives me strength and guides me each day of my life, My soul and my heart are His, and I surrender to His will all the days of my life and beyond.

When we celebrate His love for us we are confident in our abilities as a child of Christ. We can be joyous knowing that our journey here on earth will be resilient in His cords of love that bind us with His Spirit. We are all united as one Body of Christ, and it is cause for continuous thanks and jubilation.

Do you celebrate your life that has purpose and meaning in Christ? Do you have joy in knowing that He is with you always? And do you take time to thank Him daily?

“Father, thank You for Your love, Your protection, and Your harness of security that surrounds me constantly, every second and minute of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Never Let Me Down~

by C D SWANSON // December 14, 2023 // No Comments

No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you-
Joshua 1:5 (NKJV)

God and His glorious Light is always shining down upon us. His warmth and capacity to love us is beyond our understanding. And He helps us with anything we may need. He especially helps us through adversity.

Adversity is a benign enough word, but the true course of its meaning can be staggering to many. Most individuals will face trials and adversity at some point in their lives During adversity an individual’s true light and character will be exposed. It is at that time when the rubber meets the road and true signs of the inner spirit will either emerge…or submerge. People can disappoint, but God never will.

Recently an issue came to the surface that allowed a snapshot of a person whom I trusted, and respected, to appear… and the snapshot was a gross distortion of what I firmly believed all along. It was truly an enlightening experience, and a sad one at that. Without going into details, suffice it to say…it was a great upheaval and a large disappointment. But I’ve prayed for this individual’s peace of mind, and for strength in the adversity that this person is facing at this time. I know I have to step back from this person, and it is with a heavy heart I do so, but there is no other recourse. Because even Jesus said, and whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet as a testimony against them” Luke 9:5 (NKJV).

Although this individual disappointed me and let me down—and others may have done the same to all of you reading this post now. Be of good cheer, know that GOD WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN, and GOD WILL NEVER DISAPPOINT. For He is the same as He was from the beginning, and still sitting on the throne and in control. That in itself is reward for our souls and our very foundation of life.

We live in the great day when God is pouring out His Spirit on all believers in Christ, filling them and empowering them to serve Him in holiness and great joy. Have you asked the Lord to fill you today? Do so, and believe…because when adversity comes calling, you’ll be filled with His Light and peace to help you through.

“Father, thank You for Your unwavering love, promises, and truth, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

~Dear God With Love~

C D Swanson

Month: December 2023