Author Archives: C D SWANSON

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Keeper of Light, Victor Over Darkness~

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The Light of Christ in a World of Darkness

My heart and spirit are highly grieved by the state of affairs in this world today.  My soul is crying and my heart aches from this suffocating evil that is swirling around today. It is an amass of sadness. It is horrifying and it is beyond human comprehension. It is traumatic and it can be overwhelming even to the most faithful. But it is our faith – that keeps us going – through it all.

  Jesus warned us – Matthew 10:15:

“Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.”

Jesus said this to His disciples as He sent them out—warning that towns rejecting the Gospel would face a harsher judgment than even Sodom and Gomorrah. There are so many who are “rejecting” the gospel openly and defiantly.  Those who have no regard for humanity, and who cheer in the face of egregious wrongs, and violent killings and senseless monstrosities of action.

Luke 17:28–30

“It was the same in the days of Lot: People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed.”

Jesus compares the end times to the days of Noah and Lot—times of worldly distraction, moral decay, and sudden judgment, with prolific non feeling and indifference to all of their brothers and sisters – and His creatures as well.

What Mirrors These Warnings Today?

We see echoes of these warnings in our world now:

  • Moral confusion and inversion—where what is evil is called good, and what is good is mocked or silenced.
  • Rampant materialism and distraction—just as in the days of Lot, people are “planting and building,” yet spiritually asleep.
  • Rejection of truth—even in places where the Gospel is freely preached, hearts grow cold, and miracles are dismissed.
  • Violence, division, and desecration of sacred things—from the land to the womb to the sanctuary.
  • Open and careless destruction of human beings – and laughing and mocking in the aftermath of such evil perversion.

Jesus is victorious. He reigns now, not just in heaven, but over every shadow that tries to rise. No matter how dark the world may seem—how twisted, how desecrated, how wearying—His light is not dimmed. His promises are not broken. His return is not delayed by chaos. It is drawing near.

The days may echo Sodom, the nights may tremble with uncertainty, but we are not abandoned. We are the remnant, the watchful, the faithful. And we hold fast to this grain of hope:

“Behold, I am making all things new.” — Revelation 21:5 “Your reward will be great in heaven.” — Luke 6:23 “He who endures to the end will be saved.” — Matthew 24:13

One day, every injustice will be overturned. Every tear will be wiped away. Every act of stewardship—every prayer over the world, every defense of sacred land, every quiet obedience—will be remembered and rewarded.

So, we wait, not in despair, but in Holy expectation. Because Jesus reigns. Because He is coming. Because the victory is already won!

“LORD – We look to You knowing You are in control and that You defeated death, and You reign victorious now and always, may we cling to You and follow You through all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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The Lord Delights in You!

Micah 7:18 (KJV)
Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.

“He Delights in Mercy”

 This verse from Micah is a gentle thunder—declaring the Lord’s love not as a distant concept, but as a living, breathing mercy that chooses compassion over wrath. It begins with awe: “Who is a God like unto thee?”—a rhetorical cry that echoes through the ages. There is none like Him. No one forgives as He does. No one holds back judgment with such grace. No one delights in mercy the way our Lord does.

Micah speaks to a remnant—a people who have faltered, wandered, and wear the dust of their own failures. And yet, the Lord does not abandon them. He passes by transgression, not because He ignores sin, but because He chooses to cover it with love. His anger is not eternal; His mercy is.

To say that God delights in mercy is to say that it brings Him joy to forgive, to restore, to heal. Mercy is not a reluctant concession—it is His pleasure. His love is not earned; it is poured out. This is the heartbeat of the Gospel, even in the Old Testament: a God who bends low to lift us up.

Reflective Questions

  1. When have you felt the Lord “pass by” your transgression with mercy instead of judgment?
  2. Do you believe He delights in showing you compassion—not just tolerates it?
  3. What would change in your life if you truly rested in His mercy?
  4. How can you reflect His mercy to others, especially those who’ve wounded you?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 103:8 – The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
  • Lamentations 3:22–23 – It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed… they are new every morning.
  • Isaiah 55:7 – Let the wicked forsake his way… and He will have mercy upon him.
  • Luke 15:20 – But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him… and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
  • Ephesians 2:4–5 – But God, who is rich in mercy… hath quickened us together with Christ.

Prayer of Mercy and Restoration

Lord, You are not like us. You do not hold grudges. You do not delight in punishment. You delight in mercy. You see our brokenness and still call us beloved. You pass over our failures and draw us near. Teach us to rest in Your compassion, to trust Your forgiveness, and to reflect Your love to others. May Your mercy be our rhythm, our refuge, and our reason to rise again.

 

DEAR GOD: We Delight In Your Law & Word~

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Meditation Images Hd

But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night.  -Psalm 1:2 

 

This verse describes King David’s lament and frustration over the widespread deceit, flatter, arrogance of wicked evil people in society, contrasting their corrupt words with the pure trustworthy words of God. 

This verse lets us see and “hear” David crying out to His LORD – for intervention, against those who are in opposition to both him and to God. He seems to be delighting in the fact that “it’s a blessing for those who reflect, meditate and ingest” the Word daily- then reflect and infuse the Word into all aspects of life.  And that God promises to bless those who inherently align with Him and His word, irrespective of circumstances or any given scenario.

When we seek the LORD in all we do, He will intervene on our behalf and help us through whatever we are facing. When we trust in His power realizing that He is in control – we are able to fasten our faith and harness power through Him and Him alone.  When we don’t seek Him or take any kind of interest in His Word – we are left in a barren cold land that is subject to darkness and vast evil.

God’s love and His umbrella of protection is a shield to those seeking Him, loving Him, and following His commandments. He is the Rock, He is the foundation of our footsteps, and the Master of our lives.

Even in this broken and deceptive world, where cruelty and mocking of Christians seems to be the norm, we have hope and are stable in His love – because God’s promise remains true and everlasting. It doesn’t break, mold, or disappear.  

Believe in God, trust the purity and perfection of Him and His Word, especially His promises to the vulnerable.  Even when the world is stinking with evil and displays repulsive actions, God is still in control, and His will WILL ultimately prevail.

After all, Jesus Christ swallowed up death – and defeated it – and He reigns victorious – so don’t despair, please have faith.  Just know and believe – no matter how it seems, or what is happening all around – God is in CONTROL And Christ has the victory.

Because Greater is He in you than the one in the world!  (1 John 4:4)

“LORD thank You for Your unmerited grace and love, for Your protection, for Your arms that are open wide, and for Your promises that never fade, I am Yours, today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Watching the Blossoms We Know~

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Almond Tree Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

 

 “Moreover the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said, I see a rod of an almond tree. Then said the Lord unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.” — Jeremiah 1:11–12

  

“The Secret of the Almond Tree”

 This quiet moment in Jeremiah’s calling holds a rich, symbolic beauty. The almond tree, known in Hebrew as shaqed, shares its root with the word “watchful.” It was the first tree to awaken after winter, blooming early while others still slept. In this vision, God uses the almond branch to affirm His vigilance—He is awake, alert, and actively watching over His promises.

The image is subtle but profound: a rod of almond, not dramatic or thunderous, but quietly blooming with assurance. It reminds us that divine timing is never passive. Even when life feels dormant or uncertain, God is hastening His word—tending it, guarding it, preparing it to blossom. The almond branch is a sacred whisper: “I see. I act. I fulfill.”

“LORD -In the quiet places where hope feels delayed, let Your almond blossoms bloom. Teach us to trust Your watchfulness, even when answers seem slow or hidden. Awaken our hearts to Your timing, Your presence, and Your promise. May we see what You show us and believe that You are hastening Your word to perform it. Let Your faithfulness be our peace.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: May We Gain Patience Through Your Mercy~

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Patience is Grace Fueled by Love

“That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.” -Titus 2:2

 

Anchored Elders: A Call to Steadfast Grace”

Titus 2:2 offers a timeless blueprint for elderhood—not just in age, but in spiritual maturity. In today’s world, where youth is often idolized and aging can feel invisible, this verse reclaims the dignity of seasoned individuals as pillars of wisdom, restraint, and enduring faith. It calls older individuals to be sober—not just free from intoxication, but clear-minded and discerning. Grave—not joyless but deeply rooted in reverence. Temperate—not rigid, but balanced. And above all, sound in faith, love, and patience.

In our modern communities—whether church, family, or neighborhood—this verse reminds us that elderhood is not retirement from spiritual responsibility. It’s a sacred charge to model integrity, compassion, and endurance. These individuals become living testimonies of grace under pressure, love without condition, and faith that has weathered storms.

🙏 Prayer

“LORD– We thank You for the elders among us—those whose lives echo Your faithfulness. Strengthen them to walk in sobriety, dignity, and self-control. Let their faith be unwavering, their love expansive, and their patience enduring. May they be anchors in our communities, guiding us with wisdom and grace. Help us honor their legacy and learn from their quiet strength. And for those stepping into elderhood, may they embrace this calling with joy, humility, and holy purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Compassion~

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Jesus Wept - Christian Genesis - Daily Devotional

 

  John 11:35 (KJV) –
“Jesus wept.”

💧 The Tears of God: Compassion in Its Purest Form

Two words. One eternal truth. “Jesus wept.” In this moment, the Son of God—who holds power over death—stood beside grieving friends and let His tears fall. Not because He lacked strength, but because He possessed perfect love. Jesus knew He would raise Lazarus, yet He chose to enter the sorrow of others. His tears were not weakness—they were divine empathy.

This is the heart of our Savior: not distant, not indifferent, but deeply moved by human pain. He weeps with us. He walks with us. He understands our grief, our confusion, our longing. And in His compassion, He shows us how to live.

To follow Jesus is to carry this same heart. A heart that pauses for others. That listens. That weeps. That lifts. Whether in joy or sorrow, we are called to reflect His love—not just in words, but in presence. In every act of kindness, every moment of understanding, we echo the tears of Christ.

Supportive Scriptures (KJV)

  • Hebrews 4:15 — “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities…”
  • Psalm 34:18 — “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart…”
  • Romans 12:15 — “Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.”
  • Matthew 5:7 — “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”

Reflective Question

When was the last time I allowed myself to feel deeply for someone else—not to fix, but simply to be present?

🙏 Prayer

“LORD-Thank You for showing us that compassion is holy. That tears are sacred. That love is not distant, but near. Help us to carry Your heart into every moment—to weep with those who weep, to rejoice with those who rejoice, and to walk gently with those in pain. May we never be too busy to care, too proud to feel, or too hardened to love. Shape us into vessels of Your mercy and let our lives reflect the tenderness of Your tears. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Plans & Love Are My Main Focus~

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Plan Of Salvation For Kids Printable Free

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” —
Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)

 

Do you sometimes feel like you wish you could really speak to Jesus at a gathering? I mean, we know that He has assured us, “where two or three are gathered, there I will be in the midst” – and of course we know that to be true.  However – sometimes the thought of Him sitting at a dinner with us, or sitting alongside us on a bench – would be beyond anything anyone can imagine, don’t you agree?  

We Have Victory Through Christ!

In the future – when we’re called home – we won’t have to imagine any longer, cause it will become a reality, one in which we can barely grasp in our human minds at this time. But suffice it to say, for the followers of Christ – it will be our “permanent home” one day.  Until such a day and time – how “do we speak to Jesus?”  How do we commune with Him?  Below is some of the ways to being “in touch” with Him:

  • Read His message/Word :  Communicating with Him this way is an intimate way of being “one” with Christ. We adhere to His doctrine, His gospel. And we hold fast to His promises.
  • Be an example: Representing Jesus in all facets of our lives. By showing compassion, understanding. Recognizing those in need, and helping. Promoting encouragement to others, while offering the Word offering seeds and wisdom.
  • Meditating: Sitting alone – praying quietly while “listening” actively for what He wishes to express to us. Sometimes, we need to sit and “listen.”  Without saying one words, or having one thought. Just our eyes and heart focused on Him.
  • Put Him First: By placing Him above all things, and everyone else – we are solidifying our love and trust and faith in Him and Him alone. Him first. Everything else second.

We Have Victory Through Christ!

Our life as it is – is truly just a temporary journey. We are here for a purpose, and the purpose of our life is according to His will.  We are here to do a job for the LORD and to carry ourselves as Christians, with respect for the Holy Spirit that resides in each one of us, and to “listen and act” according to that will and purpose so designed by the LORD for each one of us. 

We have Victory Through Christ!

When we encounter things of “this world” we can be jarred, albeit temporarily – because our LORD will carry us through and place us on the path of righteousness, when we are for Him, and with Him. And honestly – who would want to be on any other path than the one that leads straight to Him?  

We have Victory Through Christ!

So although many of us wonder, “what it would be like to sit with Jesus openly” -we know that is a distant reality one day – so for now – keep doing all according to His beautiful plan, and promote His glory, while staying faithful to Him with every single breath we breathe, each and every second of our days and nights!

We have Victory Through Christ!

“LORD- may we do all things according to Your plans, and Your will, show us the paths we should be walking upon, lead us to always performing Your will here on earth, and may we glorify You in all we say, do, and feel, in Jesus precious name, Amen.”

“Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world…” 1 John 4:4 (KJV) 

DEAR GOD: Your Truth & Righteousness Is My Compass~

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100,000+ Free God Light & God Images - Pixabay

Psalm 85:11 (KJV)
“Truth shall spring out of the earth;
and righteousness shall look down from heaven.”

“Where Heaven Meets Earth”

This verse paints a poetic and prophetic picture of divine harmony. “Truth shall spring out of the earth” suggests a flourishing of honesty, integrity, and divine revelation among humanity—like seeds of righteousness blooming in soil once barren.

It evokes the image of Christ Himself, the embodiment of truth, entering the world in human form.

“Righteousness shall look down from heaven” reveals God’s watchful, approving gaze. It’s not passive observation—it’s Divine engagement. Heaven responds to earth’s awakening with grace, justice, and spiritual favor. Together, these lines reflect a sacred reunion: humanity reaching upward in truth, and God leaning down in righteousness.

This verse is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy, pointing to Jesus as the truth who came from the earth (born of a woman), and righteousness as the Divine approval of His mission. It’s also a call to live in such a way that truth becomes visible in our lives, inviting heaven’s righteousness to dwell among us.

“LORD of truth and righteousness, Let Your truth spring forth in my heart like living water. May my life reflect integrity, compassion, and grace. Look down upon me with Your righteousness, And guide me in paths that honor Your name. Let heaven and earth meet in me— That I may be a vessel of Your peace, A witness to Your mercy, And a reflection of Your glory. in Jesus’ name, Amen.”
❤️

DEAR GOD: Led By Your Love & Taught by Your Grace~

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Expressions of Grace In the Ministry of Jesus (2), By Femi Aribisala ...Isaiah 48:17 (KJV): “Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.”

  This verse is a tender declaration of divine mentorship. God is not a distant observer—He is our Redeemer, our Holy One, and our personal instructor in all things that bring true gain. The word profit here isn’t merely financial—it speaks to spiritual fruitfulness, emotional healing, and purposeful living. He teaches us not just to survive, but to flourish. And He doesn’t leave us wandering—He leads us, step by step, in the way we should go, not the way we might impulsively choose.

This is the kind of leadership that honors our dignity. It’s not coercive—it’s invitational. God’s guidance is rooted in love, not control. He sees the full terrain of our lives: the bruised places, the sacred longings, the detours we regret. And still, He says, “Come—I’ll show you the way.”

This echoes Proverbs 3:5–6 (KJV): “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” It’s a divine promise of direction—not just in grand decisions, but in daily steps.

 Where in your life do you feel unsure or weary—and how might you invite God to teach and lead you there, not just toward resolution, but toward restoration?

 LORD- You are my Redeemer and my Teacher. In every season of confusion or transition, You offer wisdom that heals and direction that restores. Lead me not by force, but by Your gentle hand. Teach me to profit in ways that honor Your heart—through peace, integrity, and grace. May I follow not just the path that seems easy, but the one You’ve lovingly prepared. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Grafted Into Grace By Holding Us In Place~

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Jesus True VineJohn 15:5 “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

🌿 Grafted Into Grace 🌿
Inspired by John 15:5 (KJV)

I love You, Lord, my Vine divine,
Your life flows deep through roots of mine.
No branch alone can stand or grow,
But grafted in, Your love I know.

You found me dry, with leaves grown thin,
Yet drew me close and pulled me in.
You healed my wounds, restored my frame,
And wrote upon my heart Your name.

I cling to You through storm and sun,
When days are bright or battles run.
Your Spirit whispers, soft and true,
“My child, I live and breathe in you.”

Each fruit I bear is not my own,
But proof that I am not alone.
Your mercy feeds my every leaf,
Your grace outshines my deepest grief.

When pruning comes, I will not fear,
For You are close, and always near.
You cut with care, You shape with love,
To lift my gaze to things above.

I love You, Lord, my soul’s delight,
You turn my ashes into light.
You grafted me with holy thread,
And raised me from the silent dead.

No earthly vine could hold me fast,
But Yours is strong, and built to last.
You wrap me in eternal ties,
And teach my heart to rise and rise.

I bloom because You chose me first,
You quenched my soul when I was thirst.
Now every breath and every song
Belongs to You, where I belong.

So let me dwell in sacred peace,
Where striving fades and doubts release.
Abiding in Your love so true,
Forever grafted, Lord, to You.

I love You, Lord, my Vine, my stay,
In You I walk the narrow way.
And when I reach the final shore,
I’ll cling to You forever more.

************

“LORD- thank You For Your grace, thank You for being the Vine and for grafting me to You in place, I love You, may I forever more be planted and rooted in Your love, and may Your branches sustain me as I humbly serve You in all I do, now and always, in Jesus name, Amen.“