Author Archives: C D SWANSON

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

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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.”

 

DEAR GOD: We Love Living In Your Love~

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“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.” –Philippians 1:9-10

Overflowing Love with Discernment: A Prayer for Sincere Living

 Paul’s prayer in Philippians 1:9–10 is a profound invitation to a love that is not blind or vague but deeply rooted in knowledge and discernment. He’s not merely asking that believers feel more affection or kindness—he’s praying for a love that grows in wisdom, clarity, and spiritual insight. This is love that sees clearly, chooses wisely, and walks sincerely.

Let’s break it down:

  • “That your love may abound yet more and more…” Paul begins with abundance. Love is not static—it’s meant to overflow, to stretch, to deepen. But this isn’t sentimentalism. It’s love that matures through truth.
  • “…in knowledge and in all judgment.” Here, Paul anchors love in two pillars: knowledge (epignosis—deep, experiential understanding of God) and judgment (aisthēsis—moral insight, discernment). This is love that knows what is good, what is harmful, what is holy. It’s the kind of love that can say “no” to compromise and “yes” to excellence.
  • “That ye may approve things that are excellent…” The word “approve” implies testing, discerning, and choosing what is best—not just what is permissible. In today’s world, flooded with options, opinions, and distractions, this verse calls us to spiritual clarity. Excellence here isn’t perfectionism—it’s choosing what aligns with God’s heart.
  • “…that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.” Sincerity (literally “sun-tested”) means being pure, transparent, without hidden agendas. “Without offence” means not causing others to stumble, nor stumbling ourselves. Paul’s vision is for believers to live in such a way that their lives shine with integrity until Christ returns.

Application Today:

In our modern Christian walk, this passage is a call to:

  • Discernment in love: Not every act labeled “love” is godly. We must love with truth, boundaries, and clarity.
  • Spiritual maturity: As we grow, our love should become more wise, not just more emotional.
  • Choosing excellence: In media, relationships, work, and worship—are we choosing what is excellent or what is merely acceptable?
  • Living sincerely: In a world of filters and facades, sincerity is radical. It’s living in the light, with nothing to hide.
  • Preparing for Christ’s return: This isn’t just about today—it’s about eternity. Our choices now shape our readiness for the day of Christ.

Prayer:

Lord, may our love abound—not just in feeling, but in truth. Teach us to love with wisdom, to discern what is excellent, and to walk sincerely. Purify our motives, sharpen our judgment, and help us live lives that reflect Your holiness. May we be found without offence, radiant in Your grace, until the day You return. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflective Question:

What does it mean for your love to grow in wisdom today?

 

DEAR GOD: You Are The Still Waters in a Rushing World

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  “He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” —Psalm 23:3

🌿 Devotional Commentary

In a world that rushes, demands, and forgets, this verse is a whisper of divine steadiness. “He restoreth my soul”—not just repairs but restores. The Hebrew root implies bringing back to original beauty, to wholeness. It’s not a patch job. It’s a sacred revival.

In our daily activities of life, such as our caregiving, our portioning routines, our spiritual stewardship, we can pour out so much. And yet here is the promise: He restores. Not because we’ve earned it. Not because the world finally noticed. But “for His name’s sake”—because it is His nature to love, to guide, to gently lead.

The paths of righteousness aren’t paved with perfection. They’re often quiet, winding, and hidden from the world’s applause. But they are sacred. And He leads you there—not pushes, not rushes—but leads. Like a shepherd who knows our pace, our heart, our need for stillness.

This morning, as you seek clarity in your routines, peace in your transitions, and dignity in your work, let this verse be your anchor. You are not forgotten. You are being led.

💭 Reflective Questions

  1. Where in my life do I feel spiritually depleted—and how might God be restoring me?
  2. What “paths of righteousness” am I being gently invited to walk today?
  3. How can I honor His name in my caregiving, my work, and my rest?

📖 Supportive Scriptures

  • Isaiah 40:11 — “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd…”
  • Matthew 11:28 — “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden…”
  • John 10:3 — “He calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.”
  • Psalm 46:10 — “Be still, and know that I am God…”
  • Jeremiah 31:25 — “For I have satiated the weary soul…”

🙏 Prayer

“LORD- in this rushing world, be my stillness. Restore my soul where it has been poured out in quiet service. Lead me gently, not with force, but with love. Let my routines become rituals of righteousness. Let my caregiving be a path of peace. I trust Your name, Your nature, Your nearness. Thank You for seeing me, for guiding me, for restoring me. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We Have Strength In You~

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Philippians 4:13 

 “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

This verse is not a boast—it’s a surrender. The strength spoken of here is not self-made, but Christ-given. It’s a quiet power that flows from abiding in Him. Whether in caregiving, advocacy, or daily trials, this strength is sufficient, sacred, and sustaining.

This verse is a sanctuary for the weary soul. It reminds us that hope in Christ is not passive—it is a sacred waiting, a trusting, a leaning into divine timing. In that waiting, strength is not just restored—it is transformed. We rise, we run, we walk—held by grace, not drained by effort.

“LORD- Strengthen me today—not by might, nor by power, but by Your Spirit. Let Your presence be my endurance, Your word my anchor, and Your love my rest. In Jesus name. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Anchored In Your Peace~

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Peace Of God

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” — Isaiah 26:3

Anchored in Peace

  In a world that trembles with uncertainty, this verse offers a sanctuary. Perfect peace isn’t found in circumstances—it’s found in trust. When the mind is fixed on God, not drifting with fear or distraction, peace becomes more than a feeling; it becomes a promise. This is not passive quiet—it’s active refuge, a soul held steady by Divine Presence.

 “LORD- in the noise and weight of this world, help me anchor my thoughts in You. When fear rises and judgment surrounds, remind me that Your peace is not earned—it is gifted. Keep my heart steady, my mind clear, and my spirit open to Your calming voice. Let trust be my rhythm and Your Presence my home.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We Are Forgiven To FORGIVE~

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Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32 (ESV)

 

This verse is a gentle command wrapped in grace. It reminds us that forgiveness isn’t just a virtue—it’s a reflection of Christ’s love. To be tenderhearted is to allow compassion to soften the edges of our pain. Forgiveness doesn’t erase the past, but it releases its grip. When we forgive, we echo the mercy we’ve received, and in doing so, we become vessels of peace.

It is a Christian act to “forgive” and it is a Divine connection to the LORD and all He represents. When we take on the strength – provided to us by Christ – we are following His doctrine and His example. We are able to assume and assimilate into a living witness of what Christ represents and shine His light to others.

We will NEVER be anything “in the near vicinity of Who He is” – but we try and give thanks to Him for affording us the opportunity in His mercy, and redemption of our souls – to do so.

Forgive others – as you forgave us, a process that isn’t too easily accomplished at times. However, it is required of us as Christians to do so. Christ commanded it.

 

“LORD, You forgave me when I least deserved it. Teach me to forgive with that same mercy— not because it’s easy, but because it’s holy. Let my heart be tender, not bitter. Let my words be gentle, not sharp. Let my spirit reflect Your grace, even when the wound still aches. I choose to forgive, because You forgave me first.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Grace & Love Wraps Around Our Heart~

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God’s Grace, Love and Favour Aren’t Based on our Performance – they are ...

 

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.” –2 Corinthians 13:14

This verse is a beautiful benediction—a triune embrace of grace, love, and fellowship. It reminds us that we are not alone: Christ offers us grace to heal and restore, God surrounds us with unwavering love, and the Holy Spirit draws us into divine communion. It’s a sacred invitation to live in harmony with heaven’s presence, every moment of every day.

“LORD -Thank You for the grace of Jesus, the love You pour out, and the gentle communion of Your Spirit. Let this divine blessing rest upon me and those I care for. May Your presence guide our steps, soften our hearts, and unite us in peace. Keep us anchored in Your truth and wrapped in Your eternal embrace. In Jesus name,  Amen.”