Author Archives: C D SWANSON

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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“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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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.“

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For loving Us Non-Stop 24/7~

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 “The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” —Jeremiah 31:3 

Never Off Duty: The Unceasing Love of God

 Jeremiah 31:3 is a radiant declaration of God’s unwavering affection. Spoken to a people in exile, burdened by their own failures, this verse pierces through despair with a promise that transcends time: “I have loved thee with an everlasting love.”

Let’s break that down:

  • “The LORD hath appeared of old unto me…” This phrase reminds us that God’s love is not a recent impulse or a fleeting emotion. It is ancient, rooted in eternity, and consistent across generations. Even when we feel forgotten, God’s presence is never absent.
  • “Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love…” The Hebrew word for “everlasting” is olam – implies a love that stretches beyond the boundaries of time. It is not seasonal, conditional, or dependent on our performance. God doesn’t clock out, take breaks, or grow weary of loving us. His love is infinite, patient, and fiercely loyal.
  • “Therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” God’s love is not passive—it pursues. “Lovingkindness”- hesed-is a covenantal term, rich with mercy, grace, and faithfulness. He draws us gently, not with force or fear, but with kindness that heals and restores. Even in our wandering, He beckons us home.

This verse is a balm for the weary soul. It assures us that no matter the season, the silence, or the struggle, God’s love remains active, intentional, and tender. He is never off duty. Never distracted. Never distant.

Reflective Questions:

  • When have you felt drawn by God’s lovingkindness, even in hardship?
  • How does the idea of “everlasting love” shift your view of divine presence?
  • Are there areas in your life where you’ve assumed God has stepped away?
  • What would change if you truly believed God never takes time off from loving you?
  • How can you respond to this love today—with trust, gratitude, or surrender?

 “LORD- Thank You for loving me with a love that never fades, never fails, and never takes a day off. In moments when I feel forgotten or overwhelmed, remind me of Your ancient promise—that You have drawn me with lovingkindness and held me with everlasting care. Help me rest in that truth. Let Your love be the rhythm of my days and the anchor of my soul. Teach me to trust Your pursuit, even when I wander. May I reflect Your faithfulness in how I love others.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD:

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"WE ARE REDEEMED........."REDEMPTION: That which was once owned, LOST ...

“Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;” –Ephesians 2:19

 

This verse signifies in great magnitudes of how there is a complete shift in perspective.  It means to say that everyone is equal in God’s house. That the spiritual family of Christ are all one household of God. That ALL believers irrespective of their background, are ONE in His house.  When we are ALL doing the unifying work of Christ – we are essentially ONE body in Christ.

This spiritual citizen suggests we all have the same standing in the eyes of the LORD. That there is not one better than the other. If we are all performing and extending our every breath into working and promoting the LORD and His glory, then we in fact – are all on equal grounding and all living within the realm of “spiritual oneness” in Christ.

The focus is that Christ breaks down all barriers making us ONE in God.  His blood covered us and His redemption of those who accept Him as LORD and Savior – is grafted in us. Each one of us has His Spirit living within us. He lives in us. He walks with us. He guides us. He transforms us.  Our filthy rags are washed clean in His blood.  We are sinners who were saved and given grace through His blood and sacrifice.

Our new status is NOT EARNED – but instead is the result of God’s grace and Christ’s reconciliation and His act and work which brings us “near” and close to the LORD. Amen – The following scriptures will supply more insight into what I’ve just written.

Unity in Christ and Equality in God’s Household

  • Ephesians 2:19 “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God.”
  • Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
  • Romans 12:5 “So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.”
  • 1 Corinthians 12:13 “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”

 Redemption and Grace Not Earned

  • Ephesians 2:8–9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
  • Titus 3:5 “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.”
  • Romans 5:8–9 “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.”

 Indwelling of the Holy Spirit and Transformation

  • 1 Corinthians 6:19 “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?”
  • Galatians 2:20 “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…”
  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

 Brought Near by Christ’s Blood

  • Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.”

 

“LORD my King of kings, and everything – thank You for fully restoring what was rotten and filthy and making us new and washing us clean in Your blood, may we serve you fully with humility while promoting and proclaiming Your glory and grace, in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Light and Stronghold

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Psalm 27:1 (ESV):
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

 

The Light, Salvation, and Stronghold of Our Souls

In this single verse, David offers a triumphant declaration that has echoed through centuries of fear, uncertainty, and longing. It is not merely poetic—it is profoundly theological, deeply personal, and spiritually liberating.

To say “The Lord is my light” is to proclaim that God Himself pierces the darkness. His light is not just illumination—it is revelation, guidance, and comfort. In Scripture, light often symbolizes purity, truth, and divine presence. When David calls God his light, he is acknowledging that every step forward, every moment of clarity, and every ounce of hope comes from the Lord’s radiant presence.

God is also our salvation—not just in the eternal sense, but in the daily rescues from despair, danger, and sin. David, who faced enemies, betrayal, and isolation, knew that salvation was not abstract. It was personal. It was the hand that lifted him from the pit, the voice that calmed his soul, and the shield that guarded his heart.

And finally, “The Lord is the stronghold of my life.” A stronghold is a fortress, a place of safety and defense. In calling God his stronghold, David is declaring that his life is anchored in divine protection. No enemy, no fear, no circumstance can breach the walls of God’s providential care.

God’s Light and Goodness Over His Children

God’s light is not reserved for the worthy—it is poured out upon His children because of His goodness. He leads us through valleys, not because we are strong, but because He is faithful. His light exposes lies, heals wounds, and reveals paths of righteousness.

His goodness is not passive—it pursues us (Psalm 23:6). It lifts our heads when we are bowed low (Psalm 3:3). It restores our souls when we are weary (Psalm 19:7). His providence orchestrates every detail, even the ones we don’t understand, for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).

His protection is not just physical—it is emotional, spiritual, and eternal. He is our Rock (Psalm 18:2), our hiding place (Psalm 32:7), our refuge in times of trouble (Nahum 1:7). He does not promise a life without storms, but He does promise to be our anchor within them.

Supporting Scriptures

  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.”
  • John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
  • Psalm 18:2 – “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge.”
  • Psalm 3:3 – “But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.”
  • Romans 8:31 – “If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Reflective Question

Where in your life do you need to invite God’s light—to expose fear, to guide your steps, or to remind you that you are never alone?

Prayer

O Lord, my Light and my Salvation, I come before You with a heart that longs for Your presence. Shine into every shadowed place within me. Be my stronghold when I feel weak, my refuge when I feel exposed, and my Rock when the ground beneath me trembles. Lift my head, Lord, when I am weary. Remind me that I am Yours, and that Your goodness and mercy follow me all the days of my life. I trust You to guide, protect, and provide. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

DEAR GOD: I find Joy In You & Your Love~

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The Joy of the Lord Is My Strength!

  “The joy of the LORD is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10

Loving the LORD in Today’s Times and Always

In Nehemiah’s day, the people had just rediscovered the law of God after years of exile and spiritual drought. Their hearts were pierced with conviction, yet the prophet reminded them that sorrow was not the final word—joy in the LORD was their refuge and renewal.

Today, in a world of shifting values, noise, and uncertainty, this truth remains unshaken. Joy in the LORD is not fleeting happiness or circumstantial ease—it is a deep, abiding gladness anchored in His presence, promises, and peace. To love the LORD in modern times is to choose sacred stillness over chaos, truth over trends, and grace over grievance. It is to delight in Him not just when life is gentle, but especially when it is not.

Loving the LORD always means remembering that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His joy is not a luxury—it is our lifeline. It strengthens us to endure, to forgive, to hope, and to worship even when the world feels heavy.

Reflective Meditation  

O my soul, rejoice in thy Maker. Though the earth be troubled and the nations roar, The LORD is thy portion and thy praise. He hath clothed thee with gladness and girded thee with peace. Let not thy heart be cast down, for the joy of the LORD is thy strength. Lift up thine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh thy help. Thy help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. In His presence is fullness of joy; at His right hand are pleasures forevermore. Rest in Him, delight in Him, and be glad in thy God.

“Heavenly Father, I thank Thee for the joy that is found in Thee alone. When my heart is weary and my path uncertain, Thou art my strength and my song. Teach me to delight in Thy Word, To rejoice in Thy goodness, And to abide in Thy peace. Let Thy joy be my shield and my song, That I may walk uprightly and worship Thee with gladness. Bless my household with Thy presence, And let Thy joy overflow in every room, every heart, and every day. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Call Of Grace This New Day~

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What is the first thing you do when you open your eyes after a nights’ sleep?  And what is the first thing that comes to mind when you open your eyes after a nights’ sleep?  And then – afterwards – what is the first thing you do? I mean besides perhaps visiting the “tinkle” room (LOL). Think long and hard – or quickly to these questions.

Now hopefully, many of you answered that you “praise God” and give a huge hearty thanks for His grace and His protection throughout the night.  And praise Him for another day. Another day to love Him, serve Him and invariably “work all things for Him” and Him alone!   And of course – read scripture from His Holy Book.  Because even “one scripture to meditate upon – is better than none at all. Amen!

You see as Christians, and God’s children- we all need to be prepared for what comes our way.  Our Father knows the overall picture. He sees things we cannot see. His thoughts are higher than our thoughts, and His mercy and strength far exceed anything or anyone here or anywhere in this universe.  How do we prepare for what comes? What do we do each day while here on earth? Well, you might consider engaging in the following:

1-Read the Word
2- Put on the full armor of God.
3-Trust in the LORD, always.
4-Stay in communication with Him.
5-Pray.
6-Meditate
7-Honor Him in all you do.
8-Show compassion.
9-Be watchful.
10- Love Him with all your mind heart strength and soul.

When we rise, we don’t just awaken to light—we awaken to purpose. The breath in our lungs is not random; it’s a divine invitation to walk in His will. Scripture reminds us:

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” —Psalm 150:6
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” —Lamentations 3:22–23

Each new day is a sacred assignment. Whether we face joy or trial, we are called to clothe ourselves in His strength:

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” —Ephesians 6:11
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” —Proverbs 3:5

We don’t prepare with fear—we prepare with faith. We don’t walk alone—we walk with the One who sees the end from the beginning. His Word is our compass, His Spirit our comfort, and His mercy our shield.

🙏 A Prayer of Thanks from Heart and Soul

O Lord, my God—thank You for the breath in my body and the light in this day. Thank You for watching over me through the night, for shielding me from harm, and for whispering peace into my soul. I rise not in my own strength, but in Yours. I praise You for Your mercy, Your wisdom, and Your unfailing love.

Today, I choose to walk in Your truth. I put on Your armor. I seek Your face. I surrender my plans and embrace Your purpose. Let my words honor You, my actions reflect You, and my heart remain tethered to Yours. May I love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength—and may I serve You with joy, compassion, and courage.

In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.