Author Archives: C D SWANSON

DEAR GOD: May My Words Be Acceptable In Your Sight~

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"May My Words Be Acceptable" - The Abundant Life Center

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.” -Psalm 19:14

“Sanctified Speech, Consecrated Heart”

Psalm 19:14 is a quiet plea wrapped in reverence—a prayer that our inner and outer expressions would be pleasing to God. David, the psalmist, does not merely ask for his actions to be acceptable; he asks that his words and meditations—those often hidden, often spontaneous—would align with divine holiness.

This verse reminds us that worship is not confined to temples or songs. It is found in the tone of our speech, the honesty of our thoughts, and the posture of our hearts. “Let the words of my mouth…” speaks to our influence, our testimony, our daily interactions. “…and the meditation of my heart…” speaks to our inner world, our quiet reflections, our spiritual anchoring.

To call God “my strength and my redeemer” is to acknowledge both dependence and deliverance. It is the recognition that we cannot purify our words or thoughts alone. We need divine help to speak life, to think truth, and to live in a way that honors the One who sees all.

Psalm 19 is a poetic masterpiece that begins with the grandeur of creation and ends with the intimacy of personal devotion. Verse 14 is its closing prayer—a shift from cosmic awe to personal surrender. It reflects the Hebrew understanding that holiness is not just ritual, but relational. The psalmist moves from observing the heavens to examining his own heart.

This verse is often quoted in liturgies, sermons, and personal devotions because it encapsulates the essence of spiritual integrity. It is a call to live transparently before God, to let our inner life and outer expressions be unified in righteousness. In a world of noise and distraction, Psalm 19:14 invites us to pause and ask: Are my words healing? Are my thoughts holy? Is my heart aligned with heaven?

🪞 Reflective Question & Thoughts:

  • What words have I spoken today that I wish I could take back?
  • What thoughts have I entertained that do not reflect God’s truth?
  • How can I invite God into my inner meditations before they become outward expressions?

Let this verse be a daily mirror—a gentle invitation to consecrate both speech and silence.

📚 Supportive Scripture:

  • Proverbs 4:23 — “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
  • Matthew 12:34 — “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
  • Colossians 3:17 — “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus…”
  • Philippians 4:8 — “Whatever is true… think about these things.”

🙏 Prayer:

“LORD-, Sanctify my speech and purify my thoughts. Let my words be gentle, truthful, and healing. Let my heart be still, surrendered, and anchored in You. May every meditation be a song of devotion, And every sentence a reflection of Your grace. You are my strength when I falter, My redeemer when I fall. Receive my inner and outer offerings And make them holy in Your sight. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: It Is Your Voice We Hear Through It All~

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Listening to God | White Mills Christian Church - KY

“And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.” — 1 Samuel 3:10

 

The Posture of Listening in a Noisy World

This verse is a gentle thunder—a moment where heaven bends low and a child responds with reverence. Samuel’s posture wasn’t one of ambition or noise, but of availability. In a world that often prizes volume, speed, and certainty, this verse invites us into the sacred art of listening. Not passive hearing, but attentive surrender.

The LORD didn’t shout. He called as He had before. And Samuel, trained not by perfection but by proximity to Eli and the tabernacle, finally recognized the voice that had been whispering all along.

Today, we are called to prepare not just our schedules, but our spirits. To clear space for divine interruption. To say, “Speak, LORD,” not with fear, but with readiness. Whether we are in the kitchen, the hospital, the boardroom, or the quiet of our bedroom, God still calls. And He still stands near.

To hear Him, we must cultivate silence—not just around us, but within us. We must unclutter our hearts from the noise of comparison, fear, and distraction. We must become servants again—willing, humble, and expectant. 

We must!

🙏 Prayer

“LORD, -speak. Your servant is listening. Quiet the noise within me and around me. Let me hear Your whisper in the ordinary and Your call in the sacred. Train my heart to respond with reverence, not resistance. May I be found ready, not perfect. May I be found available, not busy. I surrender this day to Your voice, Your timing, and Your presence. In Jesus name, Amen.”

🕊️ Meditative Question

What noise must I release today to hear the whisper of God?

DEAR GOD: 🌿You’re Known and Loved: Psalm 139 A Poem~

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Known and Loved: A Psalm 139 Poem

You searched me, Lord, before I knew
The breath You gave, the path I’d choose.
In secret places, You formed my frame,
Each heartbeat etched with holy name.
No shadow hides me from Your sight—
Your gaze is mercy, fierce and bright.

You hem me in, behind, before,
Your Spirit whispers, “I am more.”
When fear would bind me to the night,
Your hand still leads me into light.
I rise, I fall, I speak, I sigh—
Yet still You stay, You never fly.

If I should flee to distant shore
Or hide where stars refuse to soar,
Your presence finds me, wraps me whole,
A sacred keeper of my soul.
No depth too dark, no height too high—
You hold me close, You hear my cry.

You wove me with a tender thread,
Each thought You knew before it spread.
My days were written, sealed with grace,
Before I saw one morning’s face.
How precious are Your thoughts of me—
More vast than sand beside the sea.

So search me, Lord, and make me true,
Remove the ways that grieve You too.
Lead me in paths of life and peace,
Where trust and holy love increase.
I give You all—my heart, my breath—
My soul is Yours in life and death.

“LORD- You know me fully and love me still. You are my refuge, my origin, my destiny. Search my heart and cleanse what does not reflect You. Lead me in everlasting ways, That I may walk in trust, in love, in holy dedication. Let my life be a psalm of surrender, A testimony of Your faithful presence. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Peace Is My Armor In This Chaotic World~

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Plans to prosper | God's plans, I know the plans, How to plan

 

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
-Jeremiah 29:11

 

Anchored in His Intentions

This verse reminds me that even in seasons of uncertainty, God’s thoughts toward us are never chaotic or cruel—they are peaceful, purposeful, and full of promise. It’s not just a verse to memorize; it’s a truth to rest in. When everything feels like it’s shifting, this scripture becomes a steady whisper: “I’ve already seen your ending, and it’s good.”

Prayer: Lord, thank You for thinking of me with peace and purpose. When I feel lost or unsure, help me remember that Your plans are never random. You see the whole picture, and You are guiding me toward a future filled with hope. Let Your peace settles over my heart today and let Your promises anchor my steps. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Guiding Us Today And Always~

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Wait On God - The Witness

The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him –Lamentations 3:25 (ESV )

Waiting on God requires faith, and the ability to trust and listen for “His voice” and direction at any given moment. It is the ability to do what is being “asked” of you, and willingly going forward without question, knowing it is from God and His will for us is always for our good.

It is the ability to recognize that no matter what kindly friends are suggesting and pushing you to do – if it isn’t of God – then it is a “NO” go!  Because although friends and family alike are trying to be helpful, and there is nothing wrong with consulting with friends and family.  The final decision and choice should be directed by God and His wisdom, His love, His direction and His WILL It’s a no brainer as they say!

If you’re on the brink of a major decision, or even a “small one” go to the source that will provide your answers.  The One who never gives up on you, or will abandon you.  The One who loves you with the veracity of ten thousand suns, and the One who willingly went to the cross for you!

When you put your faith, trust and heart and soul in the LORD – Your life will change drastically. You will be able to maneuver in all kinds of situations, big small and all the in between.

Brothers and sisters, put your trust and faith in the ONE that matters most!

“LORD-thank You for Your love and direction, for Your Word, Your promises Your willingness to save us for a lifetime in eternity with You, may we do all we can to honor You, obey You, and follow You all the days on earth, and beyond, in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Counsel Is My Fortress & Foundation~

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“The counsel of Yahweh [the Lord] stands forever, the plans of his ...

“Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.” –Proverbs 19:20-21

Commentary on Proverbs 19:20–21

“Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.”

These verses speak to the quiet tension between human planning and divine wisdom. They invite a posture of humility—one that listens, receives, and surrenders.

🕊️ “Hear counsel, and receive instruction…”

This is more than advice—it is an invitation to transformation. To “hear” is to open the ears, but to “receive” is to open the heart. Instruction, especially when it corrects or redirects, can feel uncomfortable. Yet it is the very soil in which wisdom grows.

The phrase “that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end” reminds us that wisdom is not a moment—it is a journey. It is cultivated over time, through surrender, through listening, through the quiet acceptance of God’s shaping hand. This is especially comforting for those in seasons of transition, stewardship, or healing. Wisdom is not rushed—it is revealed.

💡 “There are many devices in a man’s heart…”

The heart is a workshop of plans, dreams, fears, and strategies. We map out futures, rehearse conversations, and weigh options. Some plans are noble, others reactive. But all are subject to the refining fire of divine counsel.

  • “Nevertheless, the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.” This is the anchor. Amid all our planning, it is God’s wisdom that endures. His counsel is not shaken by circumstance, emotion, or uncertainty. It stands.

This verse does not dismiss our plans—it sanctifies them. It invites us to hold our strategies loosely and our trust in God tightly. It reminds us that peace is not found in perfect planning, but in perfect surrender.

🙏 Prayer of Wisdom and Surrender

Holy One, Keeper of wisdom and Giver of peace,

We come with open hands and listening hearts. We acknowledge the many plans within us—the hopes we carry, the fears we face, the paths we’ve tried to map. We thank You for the gift of counsel, for the wisdom that comes not from striving, but from surrender.

Teach us to receive instruction with humility. Let Your Word be our compass, Your Spirit our guide. In every decision, every transition, every sacred routine, let Your counsel stand.

Refine our plans with Your presence. Anchor our hearts in Your truth. And let our latter days be marked by peace, clarity, and holy wisdom.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Counsel of The LORD - YouTube

DEAR GOD: I Lift My Eyes To You – Where My Help Comes~

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The cross of God in the rays of the sun. Cross on the hill. Religious ...

 

Psalm 121 (KJV) – I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help!

 

When we take time to really absorb that verse from Psalm 121 and truly digest the meaning – we will begin to form a deeper connection and growth in the LORD.  This verse has always been a favorite of mine, but never more significant than the last several months in my life. So many things have transpired in a seemingly endless loop of events – that surrounded family, friends, and acquaintances – and in the world itself- that made me stop and think about that verse in a more profound fashion.

Knowing that our LORD is there seeing all, hearing all, and also “feeling” alongside you the pain, anguish, and the joy and triumphant celebrations – brings an immediate sense of relief and comfort that embraces the soul warmly and distinctly.

Being a follower and a Christian is a pathway that others who don’t have a relationship with God can’t begin to understand. They may sense it, or see it on those who have intimate relationships with the LORD, but alas, they can’t experience it first hand like those of us who do.

It can be tough staying on a path which leads to God at times.  But the resilience and the fortitude needed are given to us readily through His Spirit, and His guidance and His strength to endure and press forward and onward, to finishing this race He has set us on.

I cannot fully begin to understand how others who don’t know Him can even “exist” in this world of chaos and evil in epic proportions.  We have the ability to withstand forces that come against us in the spiritual realm, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, who has given us authority to do so.  It is through Him and Him alone that we can shake off the evil grip of the enemy, and sashay into His light and love.  We have confidence that we are able to fine tune the “static” of the evil one…seemingly effortless with Christ. Amen!

Today as you go forward – bow down and give extra special thanks and praise to the only ONE worthy and the only ONE capable of such magnificence, both big and small. To the One who gave it all for US!  

For those who are reading this and haven’t fully accepted the LORD as Savior – or want to know Him further, I pray that you will delve into the Word, and accept Him as your Lord and Savior- and then you will begin to see and feel what those of us who have been born of the Spirit are all about.  And then you too will begin to reap the rewards and benefits of being a part of His family – a big royal and united family- of the One who will never leave us or forsake us.

“Father, LORD – thank You for being faithful to us, and for caring so much You gave Your life for us so that we may live forever, we look to You for all things, and to You we surrender All things, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Isaiah 41:10 (KJV) “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.”

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DEAR GOD: Generations Continue In Your Name~

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“But from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” —
2 Timothy 3:15 (CSB)

The Light That Lingers: A Mother’s Legacy in the Word

There is a quiet power in a mother’s love—a sacred rhythm that begins in lullabies and lingers in legacy. She may not preach from pulpits, but her kitchen prayers and whispered scriptures shape eternity. Her hands may be weary, but they cradle the Word with reverence, planting seeds in the soul of her child.

As the child grows, the Word becomes their compass. The verses once tucked into lunchboxes now rise in boardrooms, classrooms, and quiet moments of decision. The child walks forward, not just with memory—but with mission. The light of the mother does not fade; it travels. It becomes the child’s own flame, illuminating paths she may never walk, reaching hearts she may never meet.

This is the beauty of generational faith: the Word does not end with one voice. It echoes. It continues. It multiplies.

Supporting Scriptures

  • Proverbs 22:6 — “Train up a child in the way he should go…”
  • Deuteronomy 6:6–7 — “Impress them on your children…”
  • Psalm 78:4 — “We will tell the next generation…”
  • Isaiah 59:21 — “My words… will not depart from your children…”
  • 3 John 1:4 — “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”

 Prayer

“LORD thank You for the sacred legacy of a mother’s love. For every whispered prayer, every verse spoken over sleepy heads, every moment of quiet teaching—may it bear fruit in generations to come. Let Your Word be the inheritance that never fades, the light that never dims. Bless every mother who sows in faith, and every child who walks in truth. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Mercy & Grace Cover Me~

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God’s Grace – Reasoned Cases For Christ

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” —1 John 1:9

 Washed Clean: The Sacred Work of Mercy

There is something deeply humbling about being washed clean—not just physically, but spiritually. We know the feeling of rinsing dirt from our hands, scrubbing away the residue of a long day. But the stains of the soul? The guilt, the shame, the regrets? These cannot be removed by soap or water. They require something far more powerful: the mercy of God.

Scripture tells us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful—not just willing, but faithful—to forgive and cleanse us. This cleansing is not partial. It’s not cosmetic. It’s complete. It’s the kind of washing that reaches into the deepest corners of our being and restores what was broken.

To be washed clean is to be renewed. It’s to stand before the Lord without blemish, not because we are perfect, but because He is. Jesus, the Lamb without spot, took on our stains so that we could be made white as snow. His blood was not spilled in vain—it was poured out with purpose, to blot out every transgression and restore every soul that turns to Him.

This cleansing is not a one-time event. It’s a rhythm of grace. Every time we fall, every time we confess, every time we return, He washes us again. Not with judgment, but with love. Not with condemnation, but with compassion.

To be washed clean is to be invited back into intimacy with God. It’s to walk in freedom, knowing that our past no longer defines us. It’s to live with the quiet confidence that we are loved, forgiven, and made new.

So when the world tries to remind you of your stains, point to the cross. When your heart feels heavy with guilt, open your hands to receive His mercy. You are not what you’ve done. You are who He says you are: redeemed, restored, and washed clean.

🙏 Closing Prayer

“Lord, thank You for Your mercy that washes me clean. Thank You for the blood of Jesus that blots out every stain. I confess my sins and lay them at Your feet. Cleanse me, renew me, and restore me to Your presence. Let me walk in the freedom of forgiveness and the joy of redemption. May my life reflect Your grace, and may my heart remain open to Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Help Us In Our Holding Positions In This Lifetime~

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JESUS GOES BEFORE US – AIMING FOR JESUS

John 14:3 – “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself…”

Were you ever in a “holding position?”  I mean to say waiting for an event to transpire or- waiting for troubles to disappear?  That could encompass many areas in your life. Things such as marriage troubles, financial distress, family issues crumbling, health woes, grief, and just feeling “out of sorts and anxiously waiting for improvement.”

These can all be referred to as “holding periods or holding positions” in our lives.  The thing is as it states in 1 Corinthians 10:13-I will attempt to paraphrase the meaning of that particular scripture. – “What’s happening in your life right now is not uncommon to others, whether it’s temptations or difficulties – Others have gone through it and others are struggling with it right now.  But the important matter of this message is- God will never bring you to something you can’t handle, and He will bring you through it, plus show you a way out of whatever is troubling you.” 

When we realize that we are not alone and have the faith of a mustard seed (Matthew 17:20) there isn’t anything we can’t do or accomplish – but only through Jesus Christ.

  • He is the anchor in our storm. 
  • He is the balm for the pain in our hearts. 
  • He is the peace through the chaotic avenues of life.
  • He is the love that binds to our souls. 
  • He is the Master of the Universe and the satiety center in our brains. 
  • He is the only ONE that is capable of ALL things.
  • And nothing is impossible with God.

Whoever needs to hear this today – please know what is happening in your life is temporary. And that there is a solution. It may not be today, or tomorrow or the day after that – but there is a solution. God knows your pain, and He will guide you through it – and He is with you always. He never leaves your side. (Matthew 28:20)

Sometimes the solution isn’t what we expected. Prayers not answered, may be answered in another way. A way in which God deems is necessary and part of His plan and will in our lives. Through our pain, suffering and grief and anxiety – We need Him more than ever. Our physical stamina may be lacking – but our spiritual strength is fortified by His Spirit and His love. 

It’s okay to be “angry” or “questioning” that is the human side of Christians – but it’s times like that we need to gird ourselves with the Word and His truth. It’s these times that we stand on the Rock and grip the foundation of His awesome power and promises. That’s when our spiritual growth intensifies.  That is when we become more mature in the Word and His love.  That’s when we move up the rank in the army of Christ. 

Please trust in God. Open His book of love written for us – the Holy Bible – and delve into it. Learn it. Obey it. And have faith in the fact that He goes before us in all we do. As he has said so many times in the Bible – “Be of good courage and have no fear…”

Key Instances Where God Reassures us:

  • Joshua 1:6–9 – God tells Joshua three times to “be strong and of good courage” as he prepares to lead Israel into the Promised Land. Verse 9 adds: “Do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you.”
  • Deuteronomy 31:6–8 – Moses encourages Joshua and the Israelites: “Be strong and of good courage… do not fear nor be afraid of them.” God repeats this directly to Joshua.
  • Psalm 27:14 – “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart.” Though “fear not” isn’t explicit here, the context is one of trusting God amid danger.
  • Mark 6:50 – Jesus tells His disciples, frightened by His walking on water: “Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.” This echoes the same divine reassurance.
  • Luke 1:30 – Angel Gabriel tells Mary: “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.” While “courage” isn’t named, the sentiment is deeply aligned.
  • Genesis 21:17 – God tells Hagar not to fear when she’s in the wilderness with her son Ishmael.
  • Deuteronomy 31:8 -“It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”

Please try to grasp the enormity of the situation – we have a GOD who is watching over us. Even if we are lost in a moment of despair. Or days of anguish. He is with us.

The hands of time are moving. Although at times it may seem the sands of time stand still during a crisis in life – which can be overwhelming and seemingly endless!  He is with you, with me, with us. 

His promises are like dewdrops on the most beautiful delicate petals of a gorgeous rose. Like a rose as it glistens – He is there resting upon us, gently, refreshing us, and glimmering in our heart and soul.

I pray for peace to those reading this. That the peace of Jesus Christ rest with you all. And I pray for those to really engage Him daily in prayer, scripture and practice. 

A life with CHRIST is so much easier to handle and navigate the hairpin curves on the road in our lives, than to try and steer the wheel without Him.  

A life with Christ is a LIFE worth living.  Without Him – there is NO life.

“LORD, Father God, I just ask that those reading this will realize the extent of Your love and sacrifice, that whatever is troubling them at this moment in time, that You will guide them to a resolution, and that their hearts, will be comforted by Your love and Your promises, and may Your light shine upon them today and always, in Jesus, name, Amen.”