Category Archives: commandments

DEAR GOD: Doing It All For YOU!~

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“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31, KJV

Living Every Moment Unto the Lord
by C D SWANSON~

This verse is deceptively simple, yet it carries a profound challenge for modern life. In a world that constantly pulls our attention in a thousand directions—notifications, deadlines, errands, responsibilities—it’s easy to compartmentalize our faith. We treat “spiritual life” as something that happens during prayer, church, or moments of crisis. But Scripture insists that everything—even eating, drinking, commuting, cleaning, working, resting—can be an act of worship.

Today’s culture often measures value by visibility. If it’s not impressive, posted, or praised, it feels insignificant. But God’s economy is different. He sees the unseen. He honors the quiet faithfulness of a heart that chooses Him in the ordinary. When you wash dishes with gratitude, when you speak kindly in a stressful moment, when you choose integrity at work, when you vacuum your living room with a peaceful spirit—these are not small things. They are offerings.

Living for God daily doesn’t require dramatic gestures. It requires intention. It requires remembering that God is present in the mundane, not just the monumental. When we shift our mindset from “I have to do this” to “I get to honor God through this,” the ordinary becomes sacred. The routine becomes meaningful. The day becomes holy ground.

This verse invites us to live with spiritual coherence—one heart, one purpose, one devotion—woven through every moment. Not perfection, but presence. Not performance, but surrender. Not striving, but abiding.

Lord, teach me to live each moment with You in mind. Help me to see my daily tasks not as burdens but as opportunities to honor You. Fill my heart with gratitude, my hands with purpose, and my spirit with peace. Let my choices, my work, my words, and my quiet moments reflect Your goodness. Shape my days so that everything I do—seen or unseen—brings glory to Your name. Amen.

Reflective Thought

What would change in my day if I truly believed every moment could honor God?

DEAR GOD: Walking Your Way All The Day~

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Beautiful Paths

“Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.” — Jeremiah 6:16

The Ancient Path That Leads to Him
by C D SWANSON~

 

This verse is often overlooked, yet it carries a quiet, powerful invitation. God calls His people to pause, to look around, and to intentionally choose the “old paths”—the timeless, holy ways that lead straight to Him.

These are not outdated roads but sacred ones, marked by obedience, humility, and trust. When everything around us feels noisy or uncertain, the Lord gently points us back to the path He has always blessed. Walking in His way brings clarity, rest, and a deep sense of belonging that only His presence can give.

Closing Prayer

Lord, guide my feet to Your ancient and holy path. Help me recognize the way that leads to You and give me the courage to walk it faithfully. Quiet my heart so I can hear Your direction, and steady my steps so I never wander from Your presence. Lead me into Your rest and into the fullness of Your will. Amen.

DEAR GOD: I Am Rooted In What Endures Forever~

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The Grass Withers The Flower Fades But The Word Of Our God Stands ...Being born again not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which liveth and bideth forever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man asthe flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof faileth away, but the Word of the LORD endureth forever. And this is the world which by the gospel is preached unto you.  1 Peter 1:23, 24, 25 (KJV)

These verses should speak directly to our very soul, as this is the substance of which we are to live and abide as Christian followers. The world is corrupt, and filled with so many dark moments, and scenarios, but we are to put on the “incorruptible” which is to say the “WORD” of the LORD.

All things are subject to “perish” – all have a season and time to live here on earth.  The grass, flowers, even automobiles have a time limit until they are no longer useful. But our spirit and being born again is “forever alive” and not subject to death. For it is said, in Romans, 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our LORD.”

We will never “die” we are going on to eternal life once we leave these “flesh bodies.”  But until such time, we need to be diligent in all aspects of our life, in what we do, take on, and choose. We are to be respectful of others, but to adhere to the LORD and His will and commandments, over everything – and everyone.  For He is what matters, and He is the nucleus of our existence.

Peter reminds us that our new life in Christ isn’t fragile or temporary. We were reborn through the incorruptible Word of God, something that doesn’t fade, wrinkle, or wither like human strength does. Everything earthly eventually dries up, but God’s Word — and the life it produces in us — remains steady, eternal, and untouched by time.

This incredible truth is what drives Christians to devotion, worship and passion for our LORD. The fact that His WORD (which Jesus is the living Word – John 1:1) – Incorporate the Word into every detail of life and obey Him with a fiery spirit of devotion. 

He came for us, to save us. To redeem us from sin, and to bring us ever lasting life.

  • Those who believe in Him shall never die!   
  • Those who drink from His Water, shall never thirst!  

No matter how innocent something may seem, if it is NOT of the LORD, don’t fluff it off thinking “oh well it’s harmless, how bad can this be?”  Rather -Instead, turn from it – no matter the consequences, even if it “offends someone” or someone is not in agreement with it. 

Jesus said, “anyone who is against us is not of us“(Matthew 12:30). And ostensibly, He warns us in Mark 9:40, and Luke 9:50  – “Whoever is not against us is for us.”  

Today as you go about your daily activities of living – are you ready to defend and guard your heart, soul and mind in the name of the LORD?

“Father, thank You for giving me a new life that cannot decay or be taken away. Let Your Word take deeper root in my heart, shaping my thoughts, my choices, and my peace. Help me stand on what is eternal, not on what fades. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Lamp Lord Is In Each Of Us ~

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Proverbs 20:27 — “The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly.”

This verse is often overlooked, yet it carries profound depth. It tells us that our very spirit — the breath of life within us — is God’s lamp. A lamp does not exist for itself; it shines to reveal, to guide, and to uncover hidden places. In the same way, the Lord uses our spirit to illuminate the deepest corners of our hearts, exposing what is hidden and bringing clarity to what is confused.

In today’s world, where distractions cloud our vision and fear often darkens our path, this verse reminds us that God has placed His searching light within us. We are not left wandering in shadows. His lamp burns in our spirit, guiding us toward truth, convicting us with love, and comforting us with assurance.

To live with this verse inside us is to embrace transparency before God. It means allowing His Spirit to search us, not with condemnation, but with the tender purpose of healing and renewal. When we yield to His lamp, we discover freedom: freedom from hidden burdens, freedom from self-deception, and freedom to walk in the radiant clarity of His presence.

This is not a harsh light but a loving one — a light that reveals so we may be restored, a light that searches so we may be set free. In the Lord, our spirit becomes both a vessel and a witness of His glory, shining into the world with hope and truth.

“LORD, You are the Light that dwells within us. Thank You for placing Your lamp in our spirit, searching us with love and guiding us with truth. May we welcome Your illumination, surrendering every hidden place to Your healing touch. Let our lives shine as reflections of Your glory, bringing hope to others and peace to our own hearts. Keep us faithful to walk in Your light, today and always. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Guide Our Steps Always~

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“The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?” — Proverbs 20:24 (NLT)

 “Guided Steps: A Word for Your Journey”

This verse reminds us that life is not about mastering every detail or solving every mystery. Our steps are directed by the Lord, even when the path feels confusing. Each reader can rest in knowing that their journey is not random — it is guided, purposeful, and held in divine hands.

 Statement of Life Itself

Life is not about perfect clarity, but about trust. The beauty of existence lies in walking forward with faith, knowing that even when we cannot see the full map, the One who guides us sees it all.

“LORD- thank You for directing our steps even when we cannot understand the path. Teach us to trust You more deeply, to walk with courage, and to rest in Your wisdom. May our lives reflect peace in the unknown and joy in Your guidance. In Jesus name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: I’m Safe Under Your Wings Of Love~

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“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
—Isaiah 40:31

“The Strength of Stillness: Soaring in Surrender”

This verse is not a call to strive harder—it is a divine invitation to wait, to trust, and to anchor ourselves in the Lord’s timing and strength. In a world that glorifies urgency and self-sufficiency, Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that true power is born in stillness, not in striving.

To “wait upon the Lord” is not passive idleness—it is active trust, a posture of worshipful expectancy. It means we lean not on our own understanding, but on the unsearchable wisdom of God, who never grows weary, never forgets, and never fails.

When we wait on Him, He renews us—not with recycled energy, but with divine vitality. We are lifted above the chaos like eagles, whose strength is not in frantic flapping but in riding the wind. We run with purpose, not panic. We walk with peace, not pressure.

This is the rhythm of the servant of God: soaring in surrender, running in obedience, walking in faithfulness. We serve not out of exhaustion, but out of overflow. We love because He first loved us. We give because He gave all. We endure because He is our endurance.

And how amazing is this God—who does not demand strength from us but gives it. Who does not require perfection but offers Presence. Who does not abandon us in weakness but meets us there with wings.

Reflective Question:

Where in your life is God inviting you to stop striving and start soaring—by waiting on Him?

Supportive Verse 

“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” —2 Corinthians 12:9

“LORD -teach us to wait with wonder, to serve with joy, and to walk with You in every season. When we are weary, lift us. When we are afraid, steady us. Let our lives be a quiet testimony of Your strength made perfect in surrender.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We Trust Beyond Circumstances~

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“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10 (NLT)

 

Life can be filled with all kinds of surprises – some good, some not so good. And the surprises can be life altering in both good and bad. The timing is unexpected, and the circumstances can be delightfully welcome, or devastating.  How do we handle both good and bad?  – there is only one correct answer for that – there is no “multiple choice” responses – the only answer is “God.”

There are times when I feel too numb to “feel anything” and begin to wonder if I’ve somehow lost my sense of ability to react to emotions – good or otherwise. But that is a component of life that many will encounter. It’s the invariable ups and downs and all arounds of LIFE.

But during all of these moments, and sensations or lack thereof – the only One that gets me through the cycle of life – is LIFE itself – which is to say my LORD and Savior.

  • Times are unsettled. Our LORD is anything but – He is constant.
  • Times can be chaotic. Our LORD is anything but- He is Peace.
  • Times can be scary. Our LORD is anything but – He is soothing.
  • Times can be painful. Our LORD is anything but – He is painless.

It’s okay to feel three dimensional – or one dimensional, after all we are humans. Within our flesh bodies come cascades of varying degrees of emotions and events that we react to.  But it’s so much better with a person of faith than those who have no baseline or hope or trust or love or God. I’ve seen both sides of the coin, especially in my past career working in the nursing home industry.  First, as the social worker, then as the Administrator of our nursing home. And I’ve seen all sides of humans, behavior and otherwise. The good sides. The bad sides. The beautiful sides. And the ugly sides. And I tell you this with full certainty – those with faith were able to withstand all sides of life including those surprises, both good and bad.

For those who didn’t believe, well they languished in an abysmal vortex of nothingness. They were seemingly waiting for “nothing” and didn’t care about “anything.” All hope gone, perishing and clinging to a vapor and mist of existence.

I write this not to depress my readers, but to bring comfort and uplift those of faith to even greater heights if possible.  And to those readers who are here for the first time, perhaps to elevate their circumstances and let them wonder what “Christ is all about.” Perhaps to pick up a Bible and read. Or to reach out to someone and ask questions about life with God in it.  A friend, a pastor, a teacher – a neighbor – anyone who follows the LORD and knows Him intimately can bring about a current of understanding and knowledge of how GREAT He is!

LIFE is a moving phenomenon.  It keeps going irrespective of our circumstances, and it revolves around a 24-hour cycle. –  Within those hours we can be devoted to a God that loves us more than we could ever possibly begin to fathom or imagine. And trust Him to guide us. And love Him because of who He is and what He does and continues to do for us, 24/7, non-stop.

Are you a follower? Have you reached out to Him today no matter what you are going through? Of course, He sees and knows, you and your heart – but He wants to hear it from you directly.

Go to Him – it really makes Life – LIFE!

“LORD, thank You for Your Presence in our lives, for Your continuous show of love, and for Your Word, Your promises, and for the blood of Christ, we are ever faithful, ever grateful, and love You now and always, in Jesus name, Amen.

  • Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
  • Psalm 56:3-4 (NLT) “But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. I praise God for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?”  
  • Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.
  • Deuteronomy 31:6 (NLT) “So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

DEAR GOD: We Honor and Obey You And Your Commandments~

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“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” — Exodus 20:12 (ESV)

 The Gentle Reward of Obedience

Obedience, in its truest form, is not rigid compliance but a tender alignment with divine wisdom. It is the quiet yes whispered in the heart, the pause before reaction, the choice to walk in light even when shadows beckon. Scripture does not promise ease for the obedient—it promises longevity, peace, and spiritual inheritance.

The command to honor father and mother is not merely about familial respect; it is a gateway to understanding reverence, humility, and the sacred rhythm of submission. When we obey—not out of fear, but out of love—we participate in a divine choreography. Each step of obedience becomes a seed planted in the soil of eternity.

Long life, then, is not measured only in years but in depth. It is the richness of days lived in peace, the clarity of conscience, the legacy of gentle choices. For those who obey, life stretches—not just forward in time, but outward in impact. Their presence becomes a sanctuary, their words a balm, their routines a quiet ministry.

Obedience is not perfection. It is the willingness to be taught, to be corrected, to be led. It is the daily surrender of control in exchange for divine companionship. And in this surrender, we find not loss, but life—abundant, anchored, and enduring.

Reflective Question

What small act of obedience today might become a seed of peace tomorrow?

Supporting Scripture

“If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land.” — Isaiah 1:19 (ESV)

“LORD- thank You for the gentle path of obedience. Thank You for guiding with grace, correcting with compassion, and rewarding with peace. May each choice today reflect Your wisdom and draw me closer to the life You’ve prepared. I trust You with my steps, my days, and my becoming all that is according to Your will and purpose in my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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DEAR GOD: You Are Our Eternal Anchoring in a Fading World~

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Isaiah 40:8 (ESV) “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

In Isaiah 40:8, the prophet offers a striking contrast between the fleeting nature of earthly beauty and the enduring truth of God’s Word. Grass and flowers—symbols of vitality and splendor—are subject to time, decay, and change. Yet, in the midst of this transience, Isaiah declares a profound truth: God’s Word is eternal, unchanging, and steadfast.

This verse is nestled within a chapter that speaks comfort to a weary people. Israel, exiled and burdened, needed reassurance that despite their circumstances, God’s promises remained firm. Isaiah reminds them—and us—that while human strength, beauty, and even institutions may falter, the Word of God is a foundation that cannot be shaken.

In today’s world, where trends shift rapidly and truth is often treated as subjective, Isaiah 40:8 calls us to anchor ourselves in something eternal. Social media, news cycles, and cultural movements can feel like wild winds blowing through the grass. But Scripture offers a stillness, a rootedness. It speaks of love that never fails, justice that rolls like a river, and grace that renews each morning.

For caregivers, artists, advocates, and seekers of truths- this verse affirms that our efforts—when aligned with God’s Word—carry eternal weight. Whether preparing meals, writing devotionals, fully engaged in caregiving, taking care of a household with children and aging parents, or mapping sanctuaries, or whatever your circumstances or situation may be-the Word infuses each act with purpose beyond the moment. It’s not the fading flower of recognition we seek, but the enduring bloom of spiritual resonance.

Reflectively, Isaiah 40:8 invites us to ask: What am I building my life upon? Am I chasing the wind, or planting seeds in eternal soil? It’s a call to return to Scripture not just for knowledge, but for anchoring, for peace, for clarity in the storm. And embracing the love of the One that loves us more than anyone or anybody on this earth possibly can.

“LORD -in a world that withers and fades, anchor me in Your Word. Let Your truth be my compass, Your promises my shelter. Teach me to see beyond the fleeting and to invest in the eternal. May my life reflect Your enduring love, and may I find peace in Your unchanging Presence. In Jesus name, Amen.”

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DEAR GOD: We Are Fully Equpped Fully Equipped With Your Word~

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“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
–2 Timothy 3:16-17

 

Fully Equipped: The Living Power of Scripture in Our Daily Walk

In a world of shifting values and uncertain voices, this passage from 2 Timothy offers a timeless anchor. Paul, writing to his spiritual son Timothy, reminds us that scripture is not merely a historical record or poetic inspiration—it is divinely breathed, alive with purpose, and essential for spiritual maturity.

Together let’s gently unpack what each phrase is telling us:

  • “All scripture is given by inspiration of God” — The Greek word for “inspiration” here is theopneustos, meaning “God-breathed.” This affirms that scripture is not man’s invention but God’s revelation. It carries His breath, His essence, His authority. Whether it comforts, convicts, or clarifies, it is infused with Divine life.
  • “Profitable for doctrine” — Scripture teaches us truth. It shapes our understanding of who God is, who we are, and how we are called to live. Doctrine is not cold theology—it’s the warm framework that holds our faith steady.
  • “For reproof” — Scripture lovingly confronts us. It shines light on error, not to shame us, but to guide us back to truth. Reproof is a sacred act of love—a Divine nudge toward alignment.
  • “For correction” — Beyond pointing out what’s wrong, scripture offers the path to restoration. It doesn’t leave us broken; it rebuilds us. Correction is the gentle hand of the Shepherd, redirecting our steps.
  • “For instruction in righteousness” — Scripture trains us in Holy living. It’s not just about avoiding sin—it’s about cultivating virtue, walking in peace, and embodying grace. It teaches us how to live as citizens of Heaven while walking on earth.
  • “That the man of God may be perfect” — The word “perfect” here means complete, mature, whole. Scripture is the tool God uses to shape us into vessels of His glory—not flawless, but faithful.
  • “Thoroughly furnished unto all good works” — Scripture equips us. It’s our spiritual toolkit, preparing us to serve, love, advocate, and build. Whether we’re caregiving, discerning legacy transitions, or offering devotional encouragement, scripture supplies what we need.

In today’s context, this verse reminds us that scripture is not outdated—it’s our daily bread. It speaks into caregiving routines, financial stewardship, legacy decisions, and ministry outreach. It helps us discern sanctuary-like spaces, advocate with dignity, and release tension through spiritual clarity. It is the voice that steadies us when the world feels and sounds loud.

Prayer

“LORD – thank You for Your Word—alive, Holy, and healing. Breathe fresh understanding into our hearts today. Let scripture be our compass, our comfort, and our courage. Teach us through Your truth, correct us with Your love, and equip us for every good work You’ve prepared. May we walk in righteousness, anchored in grace, and radiant with Your light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”