Author Archives: C D SWANSON

DEAR GOD: Your Rain Brings Growth & Renewal~

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What’s behind the behaviour? There’s always something. - Hannah Beach

“Into every life a little rain must and will fall.”  Thus, the saying about life and challenges and hardship.  There are storms that will lurk literally and figuratively throughout our lives. And sometimes — a life challenge will require enormous strength in order to get through it.  Strength as humans we cannot and would not achieve were it not for the Holy Spirit who provides the supernatural fundamentals in order for us to achieve and survive each storm we encounter.

Jesus Christ, and His power is released when we acknowledge our weakness and submit to Him and accept His help.  When we surrender, we can and will endure suffering and adversity while maintaining and preserving internal joy and His perfect peace.

When the ground is extremely dry you can see virtual cracks in the foundation.  When we strive to do things on our own it’s our “foundation” that’ll crack and dry up. We need the life force of our Lord to keep it from crumbling around us. Our souls are like the soil we need to keep it watered and nourished. We need His living water to sustain and nourish our souls.

When the sun comes out after a storm the aftermath is serene, tranquil, a sight to behold.  Dew seemingly sparkles like diamonds on the leaves of trees, on the grass, and on the flowers. A rainbow oft times will be present to further declare the power of God and His love.

We’ll all go through times of grief, sorrow and valleys of woe.  It’s faith and His love that’ll provide us the ability to catapult over the hurdles thrust in our paths.

It’s His strength that’ll pick us up when we are weak, it’s His hands of grace that’ll wipe our tears away and replace it with gladness and joy. He will deliver us from the suffocating grief or depressive circumstances we’re going through. He defeated death for us to give us eternal life. He raises us up at all times as we exalt Him and love Him and trust Him.

Turn to Him every day, acknowledge His greatness, and give Him continuous praise and glory. Seek His face daily and accept Him openly. God doesn’t promise that we won’t experience sadness and loss or hard times – however He does promise that He’ll uphold us with His right hand of righteousness, and He will bring us through it each and every single time.

The result?  The ability to be a vessel for the Lord as we attempt to soothe others as they’re going through similar circumstances we went through. All the while glorifying God and giving Him the praise and the victory!

“Dear God, thank You for all You are, all You do, and all You continue to do all the days of my life, may I glorify You in all I endeavor to do, today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;-  2 Corinthians 1:9-10 

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.   Proverbs 3:5-6

How Heavy Rainfall Can Affect Your Plumbing - Miller's Services

 

DEAR GOD: Is It A Sin Wishing To Die?

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I’ll Forgive (feat. Becky Willard)Suzanne Hodson – Music From Suzanne

To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born,And a time to die; 
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NKJV)

I have known several people in my lifetime who have wished “to die” and prayed for death. Mainly in nursing homes, which was my entire career. My patients who were sick, riddled with excruciating pain were the ones most likely wishing for death.

Some screaming for it. And I’ve been in witness of others outside of the nursing home who have wished for death – and not from being ill, but from being lonely, bored, or depressed. All very sad – but not fatal in their physical sense – but spiritual sense.

Which brings me to what many Christians have asked – Is it a sin to pray to God for death?  Well -God has chosen to leave you here on this planet in order to accomplish something for Him. The scriptures remind us that God has determined the length of our days. –Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.”  James 4:15 (NKJV)

We must recognize that it is His will and not ours when we die. We must be willing to submit to His plan for how long we live on this earth. God uses the difficult events of life to grow us and mature us spiritually. He uses these events in our lives to motivate us to seek Him with all our hearts.

When we know Jesus, we can readily accept the joy that comes from being in an intimate relationship with Him, and all that entails. Hearing His voice, listening with ears perked at all times, and steadfastly staying in His Word and adhering to it day and night, all the days of our lives. And when it’s over, it’s His call not ours.

With Jesus as your Lord, peace and joy will most definitely come to fruition -as you spend time in prayer and the scriptures, and dwell on Him. The following two examples are perfect verses to meditate and dwell upon as we seek His face wishing to grow closer still to Him.

I have inherited Your testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart-
Psalms 119:111 (NASB)

Those who love Your law have great peace- Psalms 119:165 (NASB)

As faithful Christians- we serve a Holy pure and loving God- who works all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). I would encourage you to ask God to reveal His will and purpose for you over the remaining days of your life, and readily accept His will, His timing, and His control in all areas of life, including when the time is to be called home.

God our mighty Father has a plan and purpose for your life. He has brought you here on this planet in order to accomplish things for Him. Scripture always reminds us that the LORD has determined the length of our days. And until that time and length has expired – it won’t happen until it happens by God’s hands alone.

I therefore leave you to answer the question yourself after praying and spending time with the LORD – Is it a sin to pray for death? After reading scripture and asking for wisdom I think you will find your answers – Amen.

“Father, I pray for those who are in the grips of depression, grief, loneliness, and longing for death, may they be touched in spirit and heart by Your hands of mercy and grace, may they come ‘alive’ in the Presence of Your Spirit and willingly submit to Your will and purpose for their lives, and may they survive in a mode of optimism knowing if they believe, they shall live forever, all to all things there is a purpose, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: What Is Gossiping?

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19 ways to accidentally make everyone think you’re pregnant – SheKnows

Psalm 31:18
Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.

Gossip is ugly. Gossip can be inhumane and cruel. And most importantly – God frowns upon gossip. You might say, He abominates it with a passion.

Talking about someone or sharing in with a group of naysayers speaking boldly and harshly about someone is just downright wrong on so many levels. It can have devastating repercussions on the person that is being gossiped about. And again, it can wreak lots of harm on your status with God – and it may even start to unravel a piece of your heart and soul if you continue to do so.

There are so many types of gossip. There those who can’t wait to share to others about something they “know” exclusively about, “said individual.”  It can be a minor account of what the person said. However, most times it turns out to be a long story and then others join in, and before you know it- it’s become a feeding frenzy on who knows more and what the person did and has done.  Not good!

There are extenuating circumstances that can happen. Where someone thinks that another should be “warned” about an individual – due to some extreme outrageous behavioral issue – and is trying to basically give a warning of sorts. And the warning is in truth and good faith. That’s not gossiping.

The Bible teaches that gossip is a sin that can harm others and consequently, us as well. Gossip is speaking or listening to words about others, be it false or negative. The Bible does warn us against gossip because it can create strife, separation of friends. It can cause quarreling, keep people in trouble, lead to ungodliness, and cause much bitterness and anger. The Bible advises us to avoid spreading rumors, lying, and slander – but instead to speak in truth and in love!

The Bible labels gossips as untrustworthy and meddlesome (Proverbs 11:13; 20:19; 26:20; 1 Timothy 5:13) — and even as worthy of death (Romans 1:29, 32) So being One body in Christ, you don’t want to be among the gossipers, or in a group of such.

The book of Proverbs suggests gossip is like “delicious morsels,” a tasty treat that promises delight to those who indulge (Proverbs 18:8; 26:22).

I see gossip as the polar opposite of the Gospel. Why? Well simple really. We know that gossip is bad – whereas we know the Gospel is good. One could be lies – the other only truth.

And if the story is false – you may not just be gossiping you’re slandering someone and undermining and disparaging their reputation. Slander is a very wicked thing.  (Leviticus 19:16; Psalm 15:3; Proverbs 19:5)

 Gossip is usually always behind the victim’s back. By definition, gossip occurs only when the subject of the story is not present. It’s easier and more interesting that way when others aren’t there to “defend” themselves. And when people gossip, they usually lower their voices, look around to see if anyone is within ear shot, and then let it rip forth- “Psst-I know something you don’t know!” You know its gossip if you wouldn’t be saying it if the person that you’re speaking about was present. At least a good majority of times that is the case.
Gossip is clandestine, hidden, furtive, stealthy, sly (Proverbs 25:23; Psalm 101:4–5). In other words – it’s sneaky and underhanded and gutless!
There are frilly “so called innocent gossipers. Then there are those who are intent on destroying someone out of a warp sense of revenge. Mean vicious gossip bent on revenge is birthed in malice and threatens to sink whole fellowships (2 Corinthians 12:19–13:2; 3 John 9–10). This my friend is the kind of gossip that is a gazillion times worse than being a busybody, who is too interested in other peoples’ business (2 Thessalonians 3:11; 1 Peter 4:15). Yet Jesus said that we will give an account for every careless word we have spoken (Matthew 12:36), not just for the malicious ones.

The Gospel and doctrine of Christ offers pure and fulfilling promises and peace. It is my overall clothing of choice (Ephesians 6 – Gospel Armor) all the days of my life. Whereas gossip is grossly inadequate and has nothing to offer but a dark cloud of suffocation to those who choose to engage in its nastiness (2 Peter 1:3–4).

The Gospel provides all the resources you need to regularly resist Gossip in real time (1 Corinthians 10:13)- God protects you and what you are experiencing isn’t uncommon and has happened to others. God provides a way to escape and will always show you a way out.

Eventually the temptations to gossip and be at the circle of such back biting vapid nonsense will ease off.  There is a battle going on daily in our lives. Spiritual verses the flesh. We need to walk in the spirit and light, and in time – even the most delectable morsel of gossip you may want to share will drop away.

As you trust in God’s love and His grace – you will be strong through Christ to walk away and turn your back on gossiping for good!

“Father may I be a vessel for Your purpose and not be apprehended or tempted by gossip, whether listening or adding to it, may I be strong through Christ, and provide encouragement and inspiration and bring You all the glory, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

*Definitions according to online google.
Gossip –
(Noun) -Casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true: “He became the subject of much local gossip.”
Gossip
(Verb)Engage in gossip: “They would start gossiping about her as soon as she left.”
Slander
 (Noun) – The action or crime of making a false spoken statement damaging to a person’s reputation.  “He is suing his neighbor for slander.”

DEAR GOD: I Trust You & Will Never Leave You

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Trust in God in the Midst of Everything Going On | AirMaria.com

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” –Romans 8:35-37

Firmly holding on to the LORD in all we do or say is a sign of a “mature Christian.” It is the dedication and introspect of His Word and knowing Christ intimately that gives us our forbearance and strength to endure all things, and still cling to our faith.

  • Psalm 28:7 – The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him

When turbulence threatens to upset your way of life or an untimely incident appears on your doorway – that is when the roots of our Christian faith are put to the “test” as we express our believe and trust in God.

  • Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

Knowing He is there for us at all times is comforting and is one of the best things of accepting Jesus as our LORD and Savior. Knowing we are covered by His blood and that He ransomed us and redeemed us, and we are His, and He is ours!

No matter what circumstances you may be facing today, tomorrow or any day thereafter, have courage and be at peace – for the LORD God is with You. He will never leave you, or disappoint you. He is there for all the days of your life, and thereafter into the eternity.

  • Hebrews 13:8 – Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever

Trust Him. Love Him. Talk to Him. Read His Word. It will make all the difference in your life. His promises are real, and so too is His love for you!

  • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”.

“Father, thank You for being with me all the days of my life, may I be pleasing in Your eyes as I do all things unto You and give You all the glory now and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD:I Hear Your Love In The Ocean’s Roar~

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When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
–Isaiah 43:2

God’s mercy and power encompass all things. The Universe responds to His mighty Omnipotence and His Promises reach all that embrace them.  “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” –
Isaiah 55:8-9.

The King reigns and is in control of all. When we accomplish something in our lives, it is because of a dual effect. We essentially made the right choice and worked hard for it, but we only attained it – because fundamentally God was in control, and made it happen. Our choices have dire consequences when they’re outside the parameters of God’s will and purpose. Ostensibly, when we make the right choices, we will invariably excel at all we do, by God’s hands of grace and love.

People who don’t know of God and His love are limited in their ability to thrive. Oh, yeah, they may appear to be prosperous by outside measures, but what is inside? There is no fuel or purpose to their folly – for it lacks all wisdom or moral compass.

Instead, most times their “acts of moral turpitude” are repulsive to those who stand with God – and there really isn’t much substance to their overall structure in their lives.  It’s actually quite inept and seemingly sad. They may have troubles inwardly, and not know how to tune into the best Being ever, JESUS!

We are called to help those in the dark. To be judicious in our choices, and to turn from evil – but at the same time to spread seeds of the truth to those who wish to hear.

Blessed is those who know Him and accept Him. For their lives, although may not be completely free of heartaches, loss, and troubles – but rest assured, with God in their lives it will be easier to navigate rough waters and be lulled into the safe harbor of His arms, each and every time – He is there!

How are you fixed with Jesus? Do you know Him personally? Do you know about His love for you? Open His book – His love letter written to us – and learn about Him and accept Him as Your LORD and Savior – and He promises a life well worth living!

“Father, thank You for Your promises, Your ways, Your love, Your endless path to peace and harmony, may I always ascribe to Your commandments, and always stand in faith, in Your precious name Jesus, Amen.”

 

“The boundless beauty of the ocean and its roaring peace, eclipse my soul as Your love covers me with Your promises and Your Word…”

❤️
 (c) C D SWANSON 

 

DEAR GOD: Keep Talking To Me-I Hear You

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When God Speaks, Do We Listen? - P.I.C.C., Inc. - People In Charge of ...

The Bible is filled with captivating narratives, all depicting God’s unchanging faithfulness in upholding His promises. Let’s explore some of these comforting reassurances. I thought today I’d share some beautiful scripture and God’s Word to help those in need of encouragement in some situation they might be facing, or fighting – or for someone who needs to help a loved one who is in need of God’s love and promises at this very moment.  I know that whenever I open His Word, I hear His voice speaking to me.

D.L. Moody said – “When I pray, I talk to God. When I read the Bible, God talks to me…”  That is the truth, because I do Hear His voice speaking to me as I read. So – when reading the verses I’ve put here today – Listen to His Words – because He is speaking to you!

Promises of Salvation:

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Romans 10:9: “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Promises of Eternal Life:

1 John 5:11: “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”

John 11:25-26: “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?’”

John 6:47: “Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life.”

Promises of Peace and Comfort:

Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.”

Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Promises of Guidance and Wisdom:

Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”

Promises of God’s Presence:

Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Matthew 28:20: “…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Hebrews 13:5: “…God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”

May these verses remind you of God’s unwavering commitment and love, and that He is still speaking to you this very moment in time – Are you listening?

“Father, thank You for talking to me through Your Word, may I adhere to Your commandments, may I ease into Your way of direction and purpose, and may I always acknowledge You in all I do and say, each day of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Are My Umbrella & More~

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~Psalm 3:3~
 But You, O Lord, are a shield about me,
My glory, and the One who lifts my head.

So, the rain poured down from the Heavens and I reach for my umbrella – and it shields me from harsh elements- and I am protected!

LORD – You are my umbrella of fortune and blessings and I know You are with me in all kinds of weather. In fact, You control the weather patterns, and it “listens” to You!

When we are aligned in God’s word and pull away from the insignificance of the World, and all its ugly enticements – we are assured of rewards to come here and most especially in the eternity.

Some may say, “why can’t I indulge in some pleasurable things – if I’m good and do good things, what’s the big deal?”  Well, it is a big deal if you’re not adhering to His Word and are doing ungodly things that are not favorable in His sight. God doesn’t want His children to partake in insignificant things or indulge in idolatry. Idolatry is anything that takes you away from the LORD and His Word. No matter how small you may think it is, if it’s an abomination in God’s eyes, and not godly – then it isn’t as “small” as you think it is.

Idolatry is not acceptable in His eyes. This can run the gamut from addictions, possessions, materialistic items, anything that leads to the eviction of God in your life.

We need to concentrate on “living” but staying within the confines and parameters of being C child of Christ and living a life that suits Christians.

He is the provider for all our needs and His provisions are never ending, and His love is free flowing. Nothing and no one can compare to His magnificence, and His Omnipotence.

Do you feel God is your umbrella? Can you recall any time in your life where God protected you fully? Do you have idols in your life you need to be rid of?

“Father, thank You for Your continuous Presence in my life, may I always be in obedience to You and Your Word, may I never stray, and if I do – as I am human- please gently guide me back onto Your path of righteousness, as that is the only path I wish to walk upon, in Jesus’ name I thank You, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Handling The Evil In The World~

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God's protection -Franz Hasel and Nicholai Panchuk (Part 2 of 2) - YouTube

Fret not yourself because of evildoers; be not envious of wrongdoers! For they will soon fade like the grass
and wither like the green herb. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:1-4 (ESV)

Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm that teaches us how to trust in God and live righteously in a world where the wicked seem to prosper and flourish without repercussions. Suffice to say, the LORD has eyes and ears over all in the Universe, and He knows what and who is accountable for evildoings, and He will hold them to judgement eventually.

The main theme of the psalm is to not fret or be envious of the evildoers, but to delight in the Lord and commit our ways to Him. The psalmist assures us that God will reward the righteous and punish the wicked in His time and His way. And everything is in His control. No matter how “out of control” the world seems to be at any given time. The LORD is watching and weighing in on all circumstances and reprehensible acts of violence, iniquities, debauchery, evil lusts and deeds, and all else that are an abominable in His righteous eyes and ways.

Some verses to bring encouragement to those who are in despair at this moment will follow. May they enlighten you, fill you with hope and build your confidence in the LORD, knowing He goes before us, and the battle is the LORDS. Amen.

Here is a breakdown of some of the verses in Psalm 37.

  • Verse 1: Do not fret because of evildoers, Do not be envious of wrongdoers. This verse tells us to avoid anxiety and jealousy when we see the wicked prospering. Fretting and envying only leads to anger, bitterness, and sin. Instead, we should focus on God and His promises.
  • Verse 4: Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. This verse tells us to find our joy and satisfaction in God, not in the things of the world. When we delight in God, He will align our desires with His will and grant them according to His wisdom and love.
  • Verse 5: Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. This verse tells us to surrender our plans and actions to God, and to rely on Him to accomplish His purposes. When we commit our way to God, He will guide our steps and bless our endeavors.
  • Verse 7: Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. This verse tells us to be still and trust in God’s sovereignty and justice. We should not worry or be impatient when we see the wicked succeeding, because God will eventually bring them to account.
  • Verse 23: The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way. This verse tells us that God ordains and directs the path of the righteous, and He takes pleasure in their obedience. God is not indifferent or distant from His people, but He is intimately involved and interested in their lives.
  • Verse 39: But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble. This verse tells us that God is the source and protector of the righteous. He delivers them from their enemies and supports them in their difficulties. God is faithful and powerful to save those who trust in Him.

Some other scriptures that relate to the message of Psalm 37 that are there for our eyes and for us to grow strong in the fact of God’s Omnipotence are the following:

  • Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.
  • Matthew 6:33: But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
  • Romans 8:28: And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.Hebrews 10:36-37: For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. FOR YET IN A VERY LITTLE WHILE, HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME, AND WILL NOT DELAY.
  • 1 Peter 5:6-7: Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Do these verses bring immediate comfort to your souls? Are you trusting God in the way He wants you to? Do you love Him fully? What are some of the ways these verses help you and your loved ones in troubled times?

“Father, I am filled with confidence knowing You are over me in all I do, I am humbly and securely filled with peace and assurance that You alone are the One in complete control. Not me, or anyone else, but You, may I submit to Your hands of mercy, and may I be guided by Your voice alone, may I always realize that no matter how the evil seem to be getting ahead, that You have the victory, and we are victorious in You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How Do We Help Someone To Forgive?

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Matthew 6:12 Forgive us our sins as we have forgiven those who sin ...Forgiveness is not easy, especially when someone has hurt us deeply. We may feel angry, betrayed, or resentful, and we may want to retaliate or seek justice. But the Bible teaches us a different way of responding to those who hurt us. It teaches us to forgive, as God has forgiven us.

Forgiveness is not a feeling, but a decision. It is not condoning or forgetting what happened but releasing the offender from our debt. It is not denying or minimizing our pain but choosing to heal and move on. Forgiveness is not a one-time act, but a process that may take time and effort. It is not a sign of weakness, but a mark of strength and maturity.

Forgiveness is a gift that we give to ourselves and to others. It frees us from bitterness, anger, and resentment, and restores our peace and joy. It opens the door for reconciliation, restoration, and renewal. It reflects the character and love of God, who forgave us while we were still sinners. It honors the sacrifice of Jesus, who died on the cross to pay for our sins. It follows the example of Jesus, who prayed for his enemies and forgave those who crucified him.

The Bible is full of verses that encourage us to forgive those who hurt us. Here are some of them:

– “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13)

– “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15)

– “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37)

– “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

– “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” (Mark 11:25)

– “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:44-45)

– “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
(1 Peter 3:9)

Forgiving those who hurt us is not easy, but it is possible with God’s help. He gives us the grace, the strength, and the motivation to forgive. He heals our wounds and restores our relationships. He blesses us when we obey his command and follow his example. He makes us more like him, as we forgive as he forgave us. So, for those of you who need to hear/read this today, because you may be going through a similar circumstance, or know someone going through this, please let go, choose to forgive, and move on in Christ’ Light and Grace.

“Father, should I encounter a wrongdoing, may I be of Jesus’ Spirit in terms of forgiving and praying for the individual, may I be tolerant and humble in moving forward, and may I be a witness to Your commandments and Your doctrine in all I do and say, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: I believe In Your Goodness~

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1 Corinthians 15:55 –“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”

I really believe that there are more “good” than “bad” in the world. I personally think that the news likes to show sensationalism and not sweet peaceful stories. People tend to seek the “abnormal” more than the “norm.”

A friend of mine was stating how evil everyone is in the world today. She was on a roll that lasted for about 25 minutes. I mean she was going on and on. It was negative and dark and didn’t look like there was any stopping her caustic dialogue. Until I said, “Please-enough!” She stopped on a dime.  I then said, “There is still good in the world. God is good all the time, and all those who follow Him – His light is in them, and they are inherently good.”  She didn’t say anything for a while then realized she was caught up in a negative energy of the prince of the air – and was forgetting about the King of the Universe! The devil likes to whisper and entice you to spread negativity and anger and disgust, and that was my friend. For a moment she was caught up in it.

When we take the time to realize that Jesus is victorious- we can get back on the track of reality. Yes- the harsh reality right now is that the world is in kind of a chaotic mode, and the dark is seemingly overtaking the light. However, Stop! And know that Jesus Reigns Supreme and conquered the grave!  The sting of death – is non-existent! Praise Him! He gets the victory all the time.

We need to reinforce His Word and let it mesh within our being. The Word should be in our brain, heart and soul. It is there to reach and bring us back to the joyous fact that Jesus is King of kings and LORD of lords, and He Reigns forever!

So – if you get melancholy about the sight of the world as it stands, look up and embrace His Word to fill you with inspiration and hope, and courage to face the day and days ahead.

Here are just a few of inspirational verses for you to meditate upon, to give you hope and solidify how Great the Great I AM is! Never forget – The One and only King -and the One we owe our lives and all things!

Remember, no matter how harsh the winds that seem to be blowing in your face, God is there to be a buffer for us. He is the One who controls all things, including the weather, and our breath that we breathe! Amen! Thank You Sweet LORD!

Deuteronomy 20:4 For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.”

John 16:33 –“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Ephesians 6:10 –Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

1 John 5:4 –for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.

Joshua 10:8 –  The LORD said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand. Not one of them will be able to withstand you.”

Proverbs 21:31–The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.

1 Corinthians 15:57 -But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

“Father, thank You, I know You are victorious and through Your blood and the name of Christ, I am able to withstand in Your name all things, and know that I am protected by Your promises and Your love and Your grace, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”