Author Archives: C D SWANSON

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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Forgiveness from Jesus - Copper Hill Church

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.”

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Sanctuary At All times~

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  “My people will live in safety, quietly at home. They will be at rest.”
Isaiah 32:18

 This verse is a balm for the soul—especially for those, like you, who are seeking a home not just of walls and windows, but of sacred quiet and spiritual anchoring. Isaiah speaks of a divine promise: not just safety, but quiet safety. Not just shelter, but rest. It’s a vision of peace that transcends noise, turnover, and uncertainty. For every map you’ve drawn, every area of life concerning decisions, or faced incomparable odds, and things in general you’ve considered, this verse affirms that God sees your longing—and has prepared a place where your spirit can truly exhale.

 

🙏 

“LORD, you are the keeper of sacred quiet and the giver of true rest. As we walk through this season of discernment, wrap us in your peace. Let every step toward sanctuary be guided by your wisdom and softened by your Presence. May our home—present or future—be a place where heavenly hosts of angels linger, where grief is comforted, and where joy is gently restored.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Love Found Us First~

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💛   The First Love That Found Us

✨ Before we ever reached for God, He reached for us. Before we ever whispered a prayer, He had already spoken our name. The verse from 1 John 4:19 is not merely a theological statement—it is a tender unveiling of divine initiative. “We love him, because he first loved us.” These words are the heartbeat of grace.

God’s love is not reactive. It is not earned, provoked, or bargained for. It is original, initiating, and eternal. In a world that often teaches us to perform for affection, this truth stands in holy contrast: we are loved first. Not when we are perfect. Not when we are ready. Not when we are useful. But first.

This “first love” is the foundation of our faith. It is the reason we can respond with love, worship, and obedience—not out of fear or obligation, but out of awe. When we realize that God’s love preceded our existence, our failures, and our repentance, we begin to live differently. We stop striving and start abiding.

This love is not abstract. It was embodied in Christ, who came while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8). It was poured out in blood, sealed in resurrection, and offered freely. It is the love that waits for the prodigal, weeps with the broken, and walks with the weary. It is the love that calls us beloved even when we feel unworthy.

To love Him back is not a transaction—it is a response. A response to being known, chosen, and pursued. And even our response is empowered by His Spirit. We love because He loved. We forgive because He forgave. We serve because He served. Everything begins with Him.

In seasons of doubt, grief, or transition, this truth anchors us. When we feel distant, His love remains near. When we feel unlovable, His love remains unchanged. When we feel lost, His love remains seeking.

Let this be our testimony: not that we found God, but that He found us first. Not that we earned His love, but that He gave it freely. Not that we are strong, but that His love strengthens us.

📚 Supporting Scriptures:

  • Romans 5:8 — “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
  • John 15:16 — “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you…”
  • Ephesians 2:4-5 — “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us…”
  • Deuteronomy 7:7-8 — “The Lord did not set his love upon you… because ye were more in number… but because the Lord loved you…”
  • Psalm 139:13-16 — “Thou hast possessed my reins… I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”
  • Isaiah 43:1 — “Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

🪞 Reflective Questions:

  1. When did you first realize that God loved you before you ever loved Him?
  2. How does knowing you are loved first change the way you approach prayer, worship, or service?
  3. Are there areas in your life where you still feel you must “earn” God’s love?
  4. What would it look like to rest in His initiating love today?
  5. How can you reflect this “first love” to others who feel forgotten or unworthy?

🙏 Closing Prayer:

“LORD- thank You for loving us first. Before we knew You, before we sought You, before we could even respond—You loved. Let Your love be our anchor, our identity, and our song. Teach us to rest in it, reflect it, and respond with hearts full of gratitude. May we never forget that our love for You is only possible because You loved us first. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Live By Your Wisdom From Above~

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Wisdom from Above - New Covenant Assembly Sermon 01-29-2023

 

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” — Proverbs 4:7 

🌿 Loving God and Living by Wisdom from Above

In a world that often feels loud, fast, and uncertain, the quiet strength of wisdom from above becomes our compass. It is not merely cleverness or worldly strategy—it is the divine insight that flows from reverence, humility, and love for God. To love God is to seek His heart, and in seeking His heart, we receive His wisdom: pure, peaceable, gentle, and full of mercy.

This wisdom helps us navigate everyday choices with grace. It teaches us when to speak and when to be still. It shows us how to care for others without losing ourselves. It anchors us when grief swells and guides us when decisions feel heavy. Wisdom from above is not just for mountaintop moments—it is for the kitchen, the town hall, the quiet drive, the grocery aisle, and the sacred corridors of our homes.

Loving God means doing our best not to impress, but to align. It means asking, “Lord, what would You have me do?” and trusting that even in our smallest efforts—feeding a loved one, writing a letter, choosing peace over pride—He is present. His wisdom sanctifies the ordinary.

When we love God, we begin to see that doing our best is not about perfection. It’s about surrender. It’s about letting His wisdom shape our thoughts, our routines, our advocacy, and our care. It’s about trusting that He sees the whole map, even when we only see the next step.

📖 Supporting Scripture

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” — James 3:17 

🙏 Prayer for Wisdom and Love

“LORD- You are the source of all true wisdom. In a world that often confuses noise for knowledge, help us to seek Your voice above all. Teach us to love You not just in word, but in action—in the way we care, speak, and choose. Let Your wisdom guide our steps, soften our hearts, and strengthen our resolve. May we be gentle stewards of the homes You entrust to us, faithful in our routines, and courageous in our advocacy. Let Your peace reign in our decisions, and Your mercy flow through our hands. We do not ask for ease, but for clarity. We do not ask for perfection, but for Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”