Author Archives: C D SWANSON

DEAR GOD: Hear Our Daily Cries For Restoration~

Posted on by

THE GOD OF RESTORATION!

“Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.” –Psalm 51:12

 

The Daily Cry for Restoration and Joy in the Lord

In this tender verse, David’s cry echoes the heart of every believer who has tasted the sweetness of God’s grace and longs to remain in its fullness. It is not merely a request for forgiveness—it is a plea for restoration, for the rekindling of joy that only comes from the assurance of salvation. This joy is not circumstantial; it is rooted in the eternal truth that we are redeemed, loved, and upheld by the Spirit of God.

Christian worship is not confined to a sanctuary or a Sunday morning. It is a daily posture of the heart, a continual offering of ourselves to the Lord in gratitude, reverence, and surrender. Whether in the quiet of dawn or the weariness of midnight, our intentions must remain steadfast: to seek the Lord, to delight in His presence, and to be upheld by His Spirit. The joy of salvation is not a fleeting emotion—it is a spiritual anchor, a wellspring that nourishes us through trials, transitions, and triumphs.

David’s prayer in Psalm 51 was birthed from repentance, but it blossomed into worship. It reminds us that even in our brokenness, we can approach God with confidence, knowing He desires to restore us. This restoration is not passive—it requires our daily participation. We must choose to remember, to rejoice, and to realign our hearts with His truth.

Supporting Scripture (ESV):

  • Lamentations 3:22–23: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — This verse reminds us that restoration is available daily. Each morning is a fresh invitation to receive His mercy and walk in joy.
  • Romans 12:1: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” — Our daily worship is not just song or prayer—it is the offering of our lives, our choices, and our intentions.
  • John 15:11: “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” — Jesus desires that His joy be in us. Fullness of joy is found in abiding in Him, moment by moment.

Reflective Question: What daily rhythms or intentions can I cultivate to remain anchored in the joy of God’s salvation, even when circumstances feel heavy or uncertain?

Closing Prayer:  “LORD, restore to us the joy of Your salvation. Let Your Spirit uphold us in every hour, every season, and every breath. May our worship be constant, our hearts surrendered, and our lives a reflection of Your mercy and grace. Teach us to abide, to rejoice, and to remember. We love You, we trust You, and we offer today and every day to You.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Sacred Friendship & Your Love~

Posted on by

 John 15:13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life ...

“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” — John 15:13 (NKJV)

The Measure of Love: Sacrifice as Sacred Friendship

This verse reveals the sacred weight of love—not as sentiment, but as sacrifice. Jesus spoke these words just before offering His life, not to dramatize His suffering, but to define love by its most profound expression: giving oneself for another.

To “lay down one’s life” isn’t always about physical death. It’s about choosing selflessness in daily moments—advocating for someone’s wellbeing, preparing meals with care, honoring legacy through thoughtful transitions, or simply showing up when it’s inconvenient. It’s the quiet surrender of time, energy, and comfort for the sake of another’s peace.

This kind of love transforms relationships into sanctuaries. It’s the heartbeat of caregiving, the soul of ministry, and the foundation of true friendship. When we live this way, we echo the Divine—becoming vessels of grace in a world that desperately needs it. Oh, how this world needs it…

“LORD-teach me to love with depth and courage. Help me lay down my life in ways that reflect Your heart—in service, in silence, in sacrifice. Let my friendships be marked by grace, my routines by compassion, and my choices by Your wisdom. May every act of love be a testimony of Your Presence. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Hollow time Alone- But Hallowed Time With You~

Posted on by

The Lord’s Prayer: Hallowed Be Your Name - Family Radio

“Pray then like this: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.’” Matthew 6:9 (ESV)

 

Life can seem extremely tough, wearing and “hollow” at times.  However, it is during these times that we should realize we have a constant refuge and sanctuary to seek shelter in. It is the “hallowed grounds” of seeking His face and bowing to His glory.

Times with the LORD is “hallowed” and purposeful. It brings security in the notion that we are not alone. That we in fact have our Father in Heaven who loves us and provides the necessary provisions in which we need at all times.

Frustration can mount during times of “dry” areas in our lives. Such as feeling as if things are going in circles and our souls are searching for answers. But Christ is the Living Water that will quench that thirst and bring the solutions to the answers we seek in earnest dedication.

When we glide through life and suddenly hit a rough spot that brings us to a “snag” and pulls us to a grinding stop – we need to “listen” for the LORD and trust He will provide the course of action and the direction in which we must go.

We cannot rely on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-8) we must trust Him in all ways and lean not on our own decisions. We must acknowledge Him and He WILL direct our paths.  We cannot lean on our own minds; we must seek His and love Him and keep from evil.  It is then that He will give us a healthy spirit, and energy and wisdom to sustain and maintain life in which it was meant to be lived. Fully, completely in His realm of love and providence.

Remember that without God in our lives – we are NOT living – we are merely existing. And that with God in our lives – we thrive – we prosper – and we are able to LIVE fully!

Have you sought Him today in all you do? Have you reached out to our LORD in love and devotion? Have you realized that His direction and will is the only way to go? If not, why not? He love you so much – and He is waiting for you – today and always. His love knows no bounds – and His mercy is unmerited.

“Father, LORD – thank You for Your love, words, promises and blood of Your Son, my Savior, it is because of Your mercy I live, and it is because of Your love, I will never die, thank You in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: From Shadows to Glory—Christ Our Light Forever~

Posted on by

Jesus The Light Of The World Images Fun Express Jesus The Light Of

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” — Isaiah 9:2 (ESV)

In Christ, the shadows flee. What once loomed as fear, sorrow, or confusion is now bathed in holy light. He does not merely illuminate our path—He is the Light. Every valley of grief, every corridor of doubt, every graveyard of memory is transformed in His presence. The darkness we once knew becomes the backdrop for His glory. We are no longer wanderers in shadow—we are children of light, called into radiant communion with the One who overcame the night.

Supportive Scripture: “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” — Ephesians 5:8 (ESV)

 ‘LORD- Light of the world, thank You for piercing the shadows of our lives. Thank You for calling us out of darkness and into Your marvelous light. May we walk boldly, not as those who fear the night, but as those who carry Your radiance within. Let Your light shine through us, illuminating every step and every soul we encounter. In Jesus name, Amen.’

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

Posted on by

"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~

Posted on by

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~

Posted on by

Here's my Heart Lord | Heres my heart lord, Bible quotes, Jesus love images

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~

Posted on by

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~

Posted on by

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~

Posted on by

“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