DEAR GOD: Your Presence & Love Sustains Us All~

Posted on June 1, 2025 by C D SWANSON

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Revelation 21:2-3 (NKJV)

“Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.’”

The Eternal Dwelling of God Among His People

This passage is a declaration of hope, a vision of completion, and a fulfillment of God’s promise that He would one day dwell among His people fully and eternally. John, witnessing this moment, describes New Jerusalem descending from heaven, radiant as a bride adorned for her husband, a scene of absolute beauty and preparation. This is not just the establishment of a heavenly city, but the arrival of God’s presence in its most complete and unrestricted form.

From the beginning, God has longed to be near His creation. In the Old Testament, His Presence was seen in the tabernacle, a structure built by Israel where He dwelled in a limited way. It was a place of meeting but not of full unity. Later, the temple stood as a physical representation of His dwelling, but still, access was restricted. Even when Jesus walked on earth, He was God in flesh, dwelling among men, yet only temporarily.

This passage shows the fulfillment of God’s desire. No longer separated, no longer distant, He comes to live fully among His redeemed people. The barriers are gone, the longing is satisfied, and His presence is forever.

What This Means for Christians Today

While the full reality of New Jerusalem is yet to come, the truth of God’s dwelling is already alive in the hearts of believers.

God is not waiting for eternity to be with His people. He dwells among them now through His Holy Spirit. The temple, once made of stone, has become the believer’s own body, a place where He resides. Scripture confirms this truth

Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 1 Corinthians 3:16

Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27

Every prayer, every moment of faith, is an interaction with a God who is near, not distant. He is present in suffering, joy, doubt, and victory.

This passage also reminds believers that no matter how difficult the present world may seem, it is not the final chapter.

God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. Revelation 21:4

And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life. 1 John 2:25

This promise shapes how a believer faces life’s trials. Knowing that His presence will one day be fully revealed, we can endure with hope.

Lastly, it is a call to live in expectation. If God prepares a dwelling place, then believers must prepare themselves to meet Him. The bride does not wait passively, but she adorns herself with readiness, purity, and devotion.

Be holy, for I am holy 1 Peter 1:16

Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8

Reflective Questions

How does knowing that God dwells within me shape my daily life Am I preparing my heart as a bride prepares for her wedding day Do I live in the certainty of God’s presence, or do I hold onto fear How does this promise change the way I endure suffering

Prayer

“Father, Your Presence is a gift beyond measure. You have always desired to dwell among Your people, and Your promise is unfolding even now. Help me to live in expectation, preparing my heart as a bride adorned for her husband. Let me feel Your nearness, know Your love, and trust in Your eternal plan. Until the day I stand before You in fullness, let me remain faithful. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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: 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: I Hear Your Whispers & Feel Your Love~

Posted on May 21, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” —
Jeremiah 33:3 (NKJV)

The Whisper of His Presence

The Lord, in His infinite mercy and love, calls out to us—not in thunder or spectacle but in the quiet places, in moments where the heart longs for peace. His Presence is woven into the sunrise that speaks of new beginnings, in the cool breeze that refreshes the weary soul, in the stillness where anxious thoughts are quieted by His embrace. He is near, whispering His love, His guidance, His truth to every heart willing to seek and listen.

His Word is a light unto our feet, (Psalm 119:105) illuminating the path of righteousness. Through scripture, He teaches us to lean not on our own understanding but to trust in Him fully.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” —Proverbs 3:5-6

We honor Him by walking in obedience, by seeking Him in both joy and sorrow, by turning to Him in prayer and trusting His promises. Obedience is not simply a duty—it is a response to His unfailing love, a desire to follow where He leads. This can be seen in daily acts of faith:

Choosing kindness when faced with hostility
Seeking forgiveness rather than holding onto bitterness
Turning to scripture when faced with uncertainty
Offering encouragement to those who struggle
Waiting patiently on the Lord rather than rushing ahead

Each step taken in faith is an act of worship, an acknowledgment that His ways are higher, His plans perfect. We are not alone—God is ever near, speaking through His creation, through His Word, through the gentle stirrings in our spirit. His presence is a gift, a constant reminder that we are known, loved, and held in His grace.

Prayer: “LORD-let my heart be tuned to hear Your voice in all things. Give me wisdom to walk in obedience, strength to trust in Your ways, and a spirit that seeks You with all my being. May I never take Your presence for granted. Thank You for always drawing near. In Jesus name, Amen.”

Question for Reflection: What areas of my life do I need to surrender more fully to God so that I may walk in His will?

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: 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: Thank You For Our Mom’s~

Posted on May 11, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” — Isaiah 66:13 (KJV)

A mother’s love is one of the most profound illustrations of Christ’s unwavering devotion to His children. Her embrace carries warmth, her voice soothes fears, and her wisdom nurtures both body and soul. In many ways, motherhood mirrors the heart of Jesus, reflecting His tender compassion, His relentless pursuit of our well-being, and His sacrificial love.

The bond between a mother and child is not merely biological—it is spiritual, woven by the Creator into the fabric of life itself. Throughout scripture, we see the presence of mothers who embody faith, strength, and an enduring commitment to raising children in righteousness. From Hannah’s prayers for Samuel to Mary’s obedience in nurturing the Savior of the world, God has consistently used mothers as vessels of His divine purpose.

The nurturing hand of a mother is a living testimony to Christ’s love. Just as He comforts His people, a mother cradles her child through sickness, heartbreak, and moments of uncertainty, offering reassurance when the world feels overwhelming. A mother’s love does not falter with time—it endures, perseveres, and grows ever deeper, echoing the promise of God’s love that never fades.

Through sleepless nights, whispered prayers, and quiet sacrifices, mothers carry an immeasurable burden with joy in their hearts. This willingness to pour themselves out for the well-being of another is a direct reflection of the way Christ gave Himself on the cross—freely, wholly, and with unfathomable love. Just as Jesus intercedes for us, mothers continually lift their children before the Lord, praying for guidance, protection, and the strength to shape their children’s hearts with wisdom.

A godly mother imparts biblical truth, planting seeds of faith that bloom over time. Her gentle teaching echoes the words of Christ, instilling values of kindness, humility, and unwavering devotion to God. Even in moments when her children falter, she remains steadfast pointing them toward redemption, grace, and the mercy of a Father who never turns away.

As we celebrate mothers today, let us honor not only their love but the sacred reflection of Christ within them. Their work is not in vain; their sacrifices do not go unseen. They are the hands of Christ extended, shaping generations, covering their families in prayer, and embodying the essence of divine love.

Prayer:

“LORD -thank You for the gift of mothers who reflect Your love so beautifully. Bless them abundantly, strengthen them in weary moments, and fill their hearts with Your Presence. May they continue to be sources of wisdom, comfort, and faith, pointing their children toward Your truth. Lord, grant them peace and reassurance that their labor is never in vain, and let them find joy in the legacy of love they create. May their homes be filled with grace, their words be led by wisdom, and their hearts rest securely in Your embrace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

This reflection is meant to uplift and honor mothers in their sacred calling, offering encouragement as they embody Christ’s love in their families.

And for all those who are experiencing the “First Mother’s Day without their beloved Mother” my heart and prayers go out to you-(his will be the 10th without my beautiful mom, I miss her always- but know where she is-in eternal bliss)- Remember, that you will one day see her again at which time you will be reunited and never have to say goodbye again!

Wishing all mothers a blessed and joyful day!

mothers love by del parson mother mary with baby jesus holding him in ...

DEAR GOD: You Are My Everlasting Arms Of GraceA~

Posted on May 10, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee, and shall say, Destroy them.” — Deuteronomy 33:27

This verse is a profound declaration of God’s unwavering protection and support. The imagery of “everlasting arms” speaks of a love and strength that never falters—a refuge that transcends time and circumstances. In moments of uncertainty, this scripture serves as a powerful reminder that we are upheld by a God whose strength is eternal, whose grace is boundless, and whose presence is unshakable.

God as our refuge is not merely a poetic notion—it is the reality of every believer who has surrendered their burdens to Him. Throughout scripture, we see His faithfulness, His power to sustain, and His ability to shield His children from harm. The phrase “everlasting arms” emphasizes an unchanging, steady foundation that cannot be shaken.

There was a time in my life when fear threatened to paralyze me—when doubt whispered louder than faith. But in my weakness, I found refuge in God’s promises. I clung to the truth that His arms do not let go, that He does not leave us vulnerable to the schemes of the enemy. And I witnessed His deliverance firsthand. My burdens were lifted, and my heart found peace that surpassed understanding.

The Lord’s promise in this verse is not abstract—it is deeply personal. He does not merely stand beside us; He carries us. He is the refuge that does not fail, the fortress that is impenetrable, the loving Father whose arms will never drop us in despair. When the enemy comes against us, whether in the form of temptation, fear, or hardship, God goes before us, saying, “Destroy them.” He commands victory in our battles before we even step into them.

Prayer

Lord, I thank You for being my refuge, my strength, and my shield. In You, I find rest, safety, and the assurance that I am never alone. Your everlasting arms uphold me when I am weary and lift me when I stumble. When the enemy rises against me, I trust in Your power to defeat every fear, every doubt, and every attack on my soul. May my faith be steadfast, anchored in Your unfailing love. Teach me to trust in Your strength and to dwell in the safety of Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Reflective Question

In what ways have you seen God’s everlasting arms carry you through life’s trials?

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Strength & Shield~

Posted on May 9, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” — Psalm 28:7

The love and strength of God are unwavering, immovable, and eternal. Psalm 28:7 encapsulates a profound truth—God is not only a source of power, but He is also our protector, defender, and encourager in times of distress. When David wrote this psalm, he was likely reflecting on moments of deep hardship, seeking refuge in the Lord amidst trials. He did not speak of strength as something that belonged to him but as something found entirely in God.

The Shield of Protection

Scripture frequently likens God to a shield—this means He does not simply assist us in our battles, but He actively guards us from harm. Psalm 91:4 reminds us that “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.” In life, temptations, doubts, and attacks from the enemy may arise, but God’s truth shields us from destruction. It is not our own strength that preserves us; rather, it is the divine power of God that sustains us through every storm.

Strength Through Trust

David speaks of trusting in God—what does that truly mean? Trusting in Him is not merely acknowledging His presence but fully surrendering the burdens of life into His care. Proverbs 3:5-6 states, “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.” The moment we shift our reliance away from human wisdom and onto divine wisdom, we find strength beyond what we can ever attain on our own.