DEAR GOD: You Are With Me All The Seasons Of My Life~

Posted on May 28, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” –Romans 12:15

When I see this verse from Romans 12:15- immediately the LORD comes to mind. He is the One that rejoices with us, and weeps with us as we go through life. He is the consummate Friend and Protector, and our Almighty Abba Father. And the One who is there for every single second of our lives here on earth, and if we are faithful servants and followers – He will be there when we join Him in Eternity.

Life is a series of ups and downs. A virtual collection of gains and losses. We have good times, and good seasons. Ostensibly, we have bad times, and bad seasons.

We can gather great gains. We can suffer great losses. And in all honestly and reality, we wouldn’t be living if these things didn’t occur. Because LIFE happens to be constantly changing, it doesn’t remain stagnant. If it did – then something is amiss. Because as the water flows, so does life. It swirls, it babbles, it creates waves, it can be placid. So, too are our patterns in life. It is ever moving-ever changing-ever flowing!

If we are fortunate, we get to see many different aspects of life. Including major milestones! Our first birthday! Our sweet 16! Entering adulthood – 21st birthday a major one for me! Then, if we are blessed- marriage, children – careers. And each decade after that, we are in celebration of our life- thanks to the One who made it all possible.

When I lost my dad – 26 years ago. I literally had trouble breathing, I felt like I was suffocating. Like I was moving in slow motion. Like a living nightmare I was unable to awaken from. But – with my siblings, and my beautiful beloved mom, family and friends – I got through the tragic and untimely death of my dad. But the ONE that held me up, the entire time? You got it and guessed it correctly – the LORD!

And He, my LORD wept along with me. He reminded me that I would see my dad again, and that my dad was with Him in heaven. And it brough great relief and comfort to my soul. His Words, His promises, and His Presence all provided soothing balm for my aching broken heart. And anyone who suffered the loss of a parent(s) or a loved one in general – can all relate to that feeling of anguish.

When my mom passed away on another one of my “milestone birthdays” – I was unable to breathe once again…and yet again -the LORD gave me breath from His heart and His love – and got me through it. I recognized mom going home to heaven on my birthday as a gift. She had “delivered me” that very day (all those years ago!) and the LORD “delivered her” back home to His arms. So, consequently I’ve come to think of it as a blessing and a gift from the LORD.

So – the verse I started this post with from Romans – is vital to our existence as Christians. Because when you meditate upon it, you will understand and feel the significance of those very words. Throughout our lifetime, there will always be moments we share with family, friends, colleagues, that all together comprise many components of humanity. That is to say -sadness, happiness, gains, losses, and seasons of joy, and seasons of happiness. And at times, season of stillness. The critically important thing in all of these moments is to remember, that our LORD is with us through it all! And that is what matters. Because with HIM we can survive and go on.

When we cling to Him and hold His hand as He guides us throughout our lifetime and aspire to do all according to His will and purpose in our lives, we will be able to LIVE a LIFE worth LIVING!

Yes!

“Father, God -thank You for holding our hand through it all – good times and bad, we love You always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

^“…teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Matthew 28:20 (NKJV)

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Finish The Course With Joy~

Posted on May 27, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” —Acts 20:24

Paul’s words here encapsulate the essence of what it means to live a life fully surrendered to Christ. His mission was clear: to proclaim the gospel of grace regardless of trials, suffering, or even the cost of his own life. These words resonate as powerfully today as they did in Biblical times, calling Christians to reexamine how they prioritize their faith, their purpose, and their endurance in the journey of discipleship.

A Life That Cannot Be Moved

Paul faced great affliction, yet he was immovable. The threats against his life, the rejection, the persecution—none of it shook his resolve. In today’s world, believers face different challenges, but the spiritual principle remains the same: to walk unwaveringly in faith despite obstacles. Financial struggles, health concerns, societal pressures, and personal conflicts can all try to wear down our spiritual endurance. Yet Paul’s declaration serves as a guidepost: our lives are not defined by external challenges but by the unshakable foundation of Christ.

Consider Philippians 1:21: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Paul understood that his earthly life was but a tool for God’s work, not something to cling to for personal comfort or security. This perspective challenges Christians today to loosen their grip on personal ambitions that may conflict with the calling of God.

Joy in the Course

Paul’s statement also emphasizes joy—not just endurance or obligation, but true joy in fulfilling his mission. Serving God is not merely about perseverance but about experiencing deep, abiding joy in His presence and His work. Too often, believers see faithfulness as a burden when it should be the source of greatest joy. Psalm 16:11 reminds us, “Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore.”

We must ask ourselves: Do we treat Christian living as a duty or as the highest joy? Are our days spent in worship, service, and love with the same excitement that Paul expresses here?

The Ministry We Have Received

Paul was aware that his mission was given to him by the Lord, not self-initiated. Likewise, our faith is not a personal invention, but a Divine calling placed upon us. Christianity is not confined to church services or occasional acts of charity but is meant to saturate every second of our lives. Each moment, each breath, and each interaction is an opportunity to reflect Christ’s grace.

Supporting scripture:

2 Corinthians 5:20 — “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us…”
Colossians 3:17 — “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus…”

Reflective Questions

Are there circumstances in your life that cause you to hesitate in your faith?
How can you shift your perspective to see joy in serving God daily?
What specific ways can you testify to the gospel of grace in your current season?
Are you clinging too tightly to personal ambitions at the cost of God’s mission?

“Lord, we thank You for Your calling upon our lives. We acknowledge that our course is not our own, but it is Yours. May we, like Paul, be unwavering, immovable, and joyful in our service to You. Teach us to count nothing dearer than the privilege of carrying the gospel of grace. May we walk daily in devotion, love, and truth, surrendering ourselves fully to You. Let our testimonies be living reflections of Your mercy, and may our hearts remain steadfast until we reach the finish the line You have set before us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Mercy, Love, & Compassion Is Thy Name~

Posted on May 25, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Anchored in Christ on Behance

“But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children.” —Psalm 103:17

Anchored in His Love: A Call to Righteousness

Reflection: The world we walk in is filled with deception. It paints illusions of success, pleasure, and power, whispering enticing lies that pull hearts away from truth. Every day, Christians face temptations wrapped in beautiful disguises—sin that presents itself as freedom, selfishness disguised as independence, and worldliness camouflaged as wisdom. But Scripture reminds us that God’s love is everlasting, His righteousness unshaken, and His mercy beyond measure.

Our calling is clear: we must remain steadfast. The enemy is cunning, laying traps in entertainment, conversation, culture, and even in moments of exhaustion when our guard is weak. But we have a defense that no force can penetrate—the helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:17), protecting our minds from deceit and reminding us of our identity in Christ. This armor shields us from the world’s false promises, reminding us that our hope is not in fleeting rewards but in eternal glory with our Savior.

To stay focused, we must saturate our hearts with God’s word (Joshua 1:8). What we feed our spirits will shape our thoughts, our choices, and our endurance. If we feast on the scriptures daily, if we call upon the Lord earnestly in prayer, if we allow the Holy Spirit to fill the empty places in our hearts, we will stand firm. The world cannot steal what is rooted in God’s truth.

We must also guard our eyes and ears, rejecting the voices that glorify sin. Psalm 101:3 says, “I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes.” What we expose ourselves to matters—whether it be entertainment, media, conversations, or influences. The enemy plants seeds of distraction through small compromises, slowly dulling our sensitivity to sin. But we are not called to blend in; we are called to stand out, set apart for God’s purpose (Romans 12:2).

Keep your eyes on the prize—eternal life with Jesus Christ. The sufferings of this world are temporary, but the rewards of heaven are everlasting (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Do not grow weary, for the Lord is our strength, our sustainer, our refuge in times of battle. Every morning is a new opportunity to recommit to walking in righteousness. Every challenge is a moment to declare, “I will serve the Lord.” Let nothing shake your faith, let no darkness extinguish your light, and let the love of God anchor you in truth.

Supporting Scriptures:

- Ephesians 6:11 — Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
- Romans 8:38-39 — Nothing can separate us from God’s love.
- Matthew 7:13-14 — The path to righteousness is narrow but leads to life.
- Hebrews 12:2 — Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.
- John 17:14-16 — We are in the world, but not of the world.

Reflective Questions:

What distractions in my daily life pull my focus away from God?
How can I reinforce my spiritual armor today?
Where do I need to be more intentional in avoiding worldly influences?
What scriptures can I memorize to strengthen my heart against temptation?
How can I make my life a testimony that glorifies Christ?

Prayer: Lord Almighty, I thank You for Your love that never fades, Your mercy that never ends, and Your righteousness that stands firm. Keep me steadfast in my walk, unwavering in my faith, and vigilant against the temptations of this world. Let my thoughts be pure, my heart be strong, and my spirit be filled with Your presence. Help me to fix my eyes on You, to run my race with endurance, and to stand boldly in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Question for the Day: What step can I take today to deepen my commitment to righteousness?

DEAR GOD: Your Unfailing Love For All Creation -Thank You~

Posted on May 22, 2025 by C D SWANSON

the everlasting kingdom of god | God's Love for You is Everlasting ...

“Your unfailing love, O Lord, is as vast as the heavens; your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O Lord.”

Psalm 36:5-6 (NLT)

A Loving Tribute to the Lord

O Lord, Your love is beyond measure, stretching across the heavens and filling the earth with Your mercy. You are the foundation upon which I stand, the refuge in whom I find peace. Your faithfulness never wavers, and Your righteousness is a light that guides my steps.

You have called me to trust in You, to surrender my worries, my fears, and my uncertainties into Your hands. In Your Presence, I find rest. In Your love, I find purpose. You are the Keeper of my soul, the One who lifts me when I stumble and strengthens me when I grow weary.

I praise You, Lord, for Your goodness, for Your kindness, and for the grace that sustains me. You are my rock, my salvation, my eternal hope.

Moral Thoughts and Messages

Christianity is not just a belief—it is a way of life, a journey of surrender, trust, and unwavering faith in the One who holds all things together. To love God is to place our lives in His hands, knowing that His plans are greater than our own.

Trusting Him means walking forward even when the path is unclear, believing that His love will guide us. It means surrendering our burdens, knowing that His mercy is enough to carry us through. It means choosing righteousness, even when the world tempts us to stray.

God’s love is not conditional. It does not falter, nor does it fade. It is steadfast, enduring, and eternal. When we surrender to His goodness, we are transformed. We are renewed. We are made whole.

Let today be a day of surrender—a day to place every worry, every fear, and every doubt into His hands. Let His love be the anchor of your soul, the light that leads you, and the peace that fills your heart.

Romans 5:8 (NLT) – “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”
1 John 4:9 (NLT) – “God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him.”
John 13:34 (NLT) – “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.”
1 John 4:16 (NLT) – “We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.”
Psalm 136:26 (NLT) – “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.”

A Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude, surrendering all that I am into Your loving hands. You are my refuge, my strength, my everlasting hope.

Teach me to trust You more, to walk in faith, and to rest in Your promises. Let Your love be the foundation of my life, guiding me in righteousness and filling me with peace.

Lord, I surrender my worries, my fears, and my uncertainties to You. I place my life in Your hands, knowing that Your mercy is greater than my doubts. May I live each day in devotion to You, reflecting Your love in all I do.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Dear Faithful Ones,

May your love for God increase each moment, and may you always seek Him in all you do, for He is the key to our existence here and for all Eternity, and He is the reason for our joy and purpose, love Him, seek Him, and embrace Him. Open your heart, and His book of love (Bible) and accept Him fully and unconditionally as your LORD and Savior – you will never be the same again, just wait and see!
Amen

DEAR GOD: Your Mercy & Love Is My Breath & LIFE~

Posted on May 18, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Lamentations 3:22-23

It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

The Sovereign Love of the Lord

The love of the Lord is a steadfast and enduring force, unshaken by the frailty of mankind. From the beginning of time, He has woven His mercy into the fabric of creation, ensuring that His presence is never absent from those who seek Him. His power stretches beyond comprehension, holding the heavens in their place, commanding the seas, and setting the stars upon their courses.

In His love, there is security, an unshaken assurance that He is always in control. While the world wrestles with uncertainty and fear, His hand remains steady, guiding the affairs of men, turning the hearts of kings, and directing the paths of His people. Nothing moves outside His sovereign will, and even in affliction, His purposes remain steadfast.

His morals and judgments are pure, untainted by the corruption of human frailty. He is righteous in all His ways, a King whose throne is established upon justice and truth. No wickedness dwells in His thoughts, nor does deceit stain His intentions. He commands holiness, calling His people to walk uprightly before Him, to love mercy, to act justly, and to remain steadfast in faith. His thoughts towards His children are those of peace, not of destruction. He desires restoration and redemption, extending His grace that men may turn from their ways and find life in Him.

Reflecting upon His love and power, one cannot help but marvel at the depth of His mercy. How often do we falter, yet He remains patient? How often do we doubt, yet He reassures? His compassions fail not, they are new every morning. Even when the storms rage, His promises remain true, and His faithfulness is unwavering.

Supporting Scriptures:

Psalm 136:26 – O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Isaiah 55:8-9 – For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
Romans 8:38-39 – For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Prayer:

“O Lord, my God, thy love is boundless and thy mercies are new every morning. In thee is all strength, all power, and all wisdom. Thou dost rule in the heavens, and the earth is thy footstool. Thy ways are higher than my ways, and thy thoughts far beyond my understanding. Yet thou hast drawn near unto thy people, calling us to trust in thee, to rest in thy promises, and to walk in thy truth.

Let thy love be my comfort and thy power my refuge. Teach me to fear thee in reverence and to trust thee without wavering. Guide my steps according to thy righteousness, and let my heart remain steadfast in thy truth. When trials arise, remind me of thy sovereignty. When doubts cloud my mind, let thy Word be my foundation.

Thou art faithful, O Lord, and in thy faithfulness, I find my peace. I bless thee for thy lovingkindness, and I lift my voice in thanksgiving, knowing that thou art ever near. Keep me in thy will, and let my life bring glory unto thy name. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”

May His love and power bring peace to your heart today.

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Eternity Through Christ~

Posted on May 16, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Eternal Light Photograph by Jeffrey Ewig - Fine Art America

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” — Romans 6:23 (KJV)

The Gift of Life and the Promise Beyond

This scripture beautifully encapsulates the contrast between two paths—the inevitability of death due to sin and the magnificent promise of eternal life through Christ. It reminds us that while all have fallen short, God’s mercy triumphs over judgment. He offers not just forgiveness, but the greatest gift: life everlasting through His Son.

Exalting the LORD

Praise be to the Almighty, whose love is boundless and whose grace is freely given! The Lord is not one who desires destruction, but salvation. He has provided a way through Christ, who bore the weight of our transgressions so that we might live eternally. What a glorious and undeserved kindness He has bestowed upon us! Hallelujah to the King who reigns forever!

Moral Thoughts & Reflective Questions

Do we recognize the severity of sin in our lives, and how it separates us from God?
How do we respond to the immense love of God that offers redemption freely?
Are we living with the hope of eternity, or are we consumed by temporary matters?
Have we accepted the gift of salvation, knowing that Christ alone is our way to life eternal?
In what ways can we reflect God’s mercy and grace to others in daily living?

Christ’s Light and Love

Jesus Christ is the bridge between mortality and eternity. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life—by Him alone we are reconciled with the Father. His light shines into the darkest corners, and His love restores what sin has broken. The cross was not the end but the triumphant beginning of redemption. Those who place their trust in Him will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love and for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. We acknowledge our shortcomings and the weight of sin, but we rejoice in Your mercy. Help us to walk in faith, embracing the eternal life You have promised. Strengthen our hearts, that we may reflect Your goodness and lead others to Your truth. May we live each day with gratitude, knowing that through Your Son, we have victory over death. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

DEAR GOD: Wake Up Our Hearts So We May Glorify You Always~

Posted on May 16, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Psalm 57:8 (NLT)
Wake up, my heart! Wake up, O lyre and harp! I will wake the dawn with my song.

Awakened to Praise

Oh, how beautiful it is to rise and declare the majesty of the Lord! This verse speaks to the stirring of the soul, a call to awaken not just physically, but spiritually—to shake off the heaviness and lift our voices in praise before the dawn. It is a reminder that no matter the trials of yesterday, today is a new opportunity to glorify God. Before the sun graces the sky, let the song of our hearts proclaim His goodness! He is worthy of our unceasing worship, our unshaken devotion, and our unwavering trust.

Lord, I will not let the morning pass in silence. My heart will awaken to exalt You, my spirit will rejoice in Your faithfulness, and my lips will sing of Your mighty works! All creation waits for You, and I will lead the dawn in praise. Hallelujah!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You alone are worthy of my highest praise. I lift my voice to You in thanksgiving, declaring Your goodness before the dawn breaks. Awaken my heart to worship You freely—without hesitation or reservation. Let my soul rejoice in Your Presence, knowing that You are my refuge, my strength, and my salvation. Let my worship rise as an offering to You, a sweet fragrance before Your throne. Lord, be glorified in my life, in my words, and in my song. I surrender to Your will, trusting in Your plan. May Your name be exalted in all the earth! In Jesus’ precious name, I pray, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For The Milk Of Righteousness~

Posted on May 15, 2025 by C D SWANSON

4,000+ Free Uht Milk & Milk Images - Pixabay

“As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” —1 Peter 2:2 (KJV)

Milk is the first and most essential nourishment for a newborn. It provides strength, sustenance, and growth, sustaining life as the body develops. In this same manner, God calls His children to desire the “sincere milk of the word”—the pure, uncontaminated truth of Scripture that strengthens the soul. Just as an infant instinctively longs for milk without doubt or hesitation, believers should crave the Word of God with unwavering faith, knowing that it alone can sustain spiritual maturity.

This passage echoes a recurring theme throughout Scripture, showing the necessity of spiritual sustenance for growth in righteousness. Paul, in Hebrews 5:12-14, speaks of believers transitioning from milk to meat—first absorbing foundational truths before advancing to deeper revelations. Just as in physical life, spiritual growth must begin with nourishment in its purest form before maturity in understanding can take place.

“For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” —Hebrews 5:13-14

Yet, the sincere milk of the Word remains fundamental. A child does not begin life with solid food, and neither does the believer in faith. The Lord desires that His people continually seek and depend upon His truth with the same eager hunger as newborns craving milk. This posture of humility—knowing that one cannot grow without God’s nourishment—keeps believers rooted in righteousness.

The nature of milk in Scripture speaks of purity, gentleness, and essential provision. In Isaiah 55:1, God calls upon His people: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

Here, milk is a representation of God’s freely given sustenance. It costs nothing to receive His provision—only a willingness to drink of His grace. It is not earned through human effort but granted by His unfailing love.

Morally, this lesson reminds believers to reject worldly corruption and seek only what is sincere and true. There are many voices that attempt to distort God’s Word, offering diluted or false teachings that do not nourish the soul. It is essential to seek the Lord’s wisdom as He has provided it—not as the world interprets it, but as it stands in eternal truth. In doing so, faith is strengthened, discernment is sharpened, and righteousness is maintained.

Questions for Reflection:

Do you desire the sincere milk of the Word with the eagerness of a newborn, or has distraction diluted your hunger for truth?
How can you remove worldly influences and focus more intently on the purity of God’s wisdom?
Are you allowing God’s nourishment to strengthen your faith, or are you relying on human understanding?

Prayer: Lord God Almighty, thank You for the sincere milk of Your Word. Your truth nourishes the soul, strengthens the spirit, and leads us in righteousness. May we hunger for Your wisdom with a deep and unwavering thirst, never turning to the diluted influences of the world. Help us grow in faith, seeking only what is pure and holy. Strengthen our hearts to desire You above all else, and lead us in truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Meditative Thought for the Day: As milk is to the body, so is God’s Word to the soul. Without it, growth ceases, strength fades, and truth is lost. Yet, with His nourishment, faith flourishes, wisdom increases, and life is sustained in righteousness. Seek the sincere milk of His Word daily, for in it is purity, life, and eternal sustenance.

DEAR GOD: You Are The Tower That Never Fails To Save~

Posted on May 14, 2025 by C D SWANSON

The name of the Lord is a strong tower:
the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. —
Proverbs 18:10

The Tower That Never Fails: God’s Power To Save

Testimony & Witness
Throughout history, mankind has stumbled, fallen, and lost its way. We have sought refuge in our own strength, leaned on worldly wisdom, and trusted in fleeting treasures. But when the storms come, when our foundations crack, when our failures rise up against us, we find ourselves desperate for salvation, longing for something greater than ourselves.

There is only one unfailing refuge, one unshakable stronghold: the name of the Lord. He is our tower, our shelter, our shield in battle. I have seen His saving power firsthand. In my darkest moments, when regret weighed heavy, when shame whispered lies, when the world seemed deaf to my cries, He heard me. He lifted me. He restored me. His mercy was not measured by my failures. His grace did not depend on my worthiness. His love reached into the depths and drew me out, covering me in His righteousness.

Psalm 61:3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
2 Corinthians 12:9 My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

Moral Thoughts & Testimonies
We live in a world where people search for security in wealth, power, success, and relationships. But these things, no matter how promising they seem, will never save us. They shift like sand, they crumble under pressure, they fail to hold the weight of our burdens. God alone is our refuge. His salvation is unwavering, His strength eternal, His mercy boundless.

Biblical Views & Practice In Today’s Society
We see brokenness everywhere. People suffering under addiction, injustice, loneliness, and doubt. But the message of the Gospel is that salvation is not only possible, it is promised to those who seek Him. Society teaches self-sufficiency, but the Word teaches surrender. When we acknowledge our need for Him, when we run to His name, He lifts us up. His power restores families, strengthens the weak, and calls sinners into righteousness. We must practice this by turning to Him daily, trusting Him beyond our understanding, and living as vessels of His truth.

Human Failure & God’s Healing & Forgiveness
We are prone to sin, to doubt, to run from the very God who longs to save us. But He is faithful. He does not cast us aside. His mercy is deeper than our failures, His forgiveness greater than our shame. Like the prodigal son, we may wander, but our Father watches, waits, and calls us home. He mends broken hearts, restores shattered souls, and rewrites our stories with grace.

Prayer
Father, You are my refuge, my strong tower, my salvation. I come before You in need, knowing that Your strength is greater than my weakness. Forgive me for the times I have sought safety in things that could never satisfy. Teach me to run to You first, to call on Your name, to trust in Your power. Heal the wounds of my past, redeem the failures that have weighed me down, and let my life be a testimony of Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Question
Where have you placed your trust, and how is God calling you to run into His strong tower today?

DEAR GOD: My Heart Is In Peace By Your Peace~

Posted on May 12, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Commentary and Reflection

There is a tenderness in Jesus’ words that goes beyond mere comfort. This verse, spoken just before His crucifixion, is not simply a promise—it is an inheritance. He does not give fleeting relief nor temporary calm, but instead offers His own peace, a peace that surpasses worldly circumstances and remains unbroken by hardship.

Christ understands the turmoil of the human heart. He knows our tendencies toward anxiety, fear, and unrest, especially when faced with uncertainty and suffering. He speaks this verse in a moment when His disciples are on the brink of deep distress, knowing that He will soon depart. Yet rather than leaving them in despair, He assures them that the peace He gives is far greater than anything the world can offer.

The world’s peace is conditional, unstable, and dependent on external factors—success, health, relationships, financial security. But Christ’s peace is anchored in something deeper, something eternal. It is the peace of knowing that we are held, that nothing can separate us from His love, and that even in the worst storms of life, He remains present.

Philippians 4:7 NKJV echoes this truth And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

This peace is not based on the absence of trouble but on the Presence of Christ. He does not tell us that life will be without struggles, but He does tell us that we do not have to be afraid because He has overcome the world.

John 16:33 –These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

The Moral Call to Live in Christ’s Peace

If Jesus has given us His peace, how then should we live? His peace is not simply meant to be received—it must be walked in, reflected in how we treat others, how we respond to adversity, and how we trust in Him.

We are called to trust rather than fear. Faith is the foundation of peace. When our circumstances shake us, we must remember that our security is not in earthly things but in Christ.
We are called to be peacemakers. Matthew 5:9 – Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
We are called to rest in His sovereignty. Isaiah 26:3 –You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.
We are called to spread His peace in a world filled with turmoil.Romans 12:18- If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.

Why We Love Christ and Walk in Faith Today and Forever

The peace Jesus gives is a reminder of His love, His faithfulness, and His desire for us to walk in the fullness of His Presence. In a chaotic world, His words remain a beacon of hope. To be a Christian is not simply to believe in Christ, but to follow Him, to carry His love and peace into the lives of others, and to stand firm knowing that He is our foundation.

He has already made the way. We need only to trust.

Reflective Questions

Am I truly walking in the peace Christ has given, or am I still relying on worldly security?
How can I be a vessel of Christ’s peace to others?
When fear arises, do I turn to Jesus first, or do I seek external solutions?
What areas of my life still need surrender so that I may fully rest in His promises?

~Dear God With Love~

C D Swanson

Category Archives: hope

DEAR GOD: You Are With Me All The Seasons Of My Life~

“Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” –Romans 12:15

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Finish The Course With Joy~