DEAR GOD: Great Is Your Faithfulness~

Posted on July 6, 2025 by C D SWANSON

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“Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” -Matthew 24:35

His love is non-stop – and never ending. His Word is powerful and soul fulfilling. When we meet Him daily in the Word – we are fully armed with weapons that no one can stand against. The power of Jesus Christ has no limits. His name is the name about all else. He is the redeemer and our salvation – He is our anchor, our refuge, and our Rock.

The way we speak and the way we act – let it all be to the Glory of the LORD Jesus Christ!

Have a blessed day brothers and sisters~

DEAR GOD: Promises Made & Promises Kept~

Posted on June 28, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” –2 Peter 3:9

💛 A Loving Tribute: The Patient Pursuit of God

LORD, You are not slow. You are steady. You are not forgetful. You are faithful. In a world that rushes toward quick fixes and instant gratification, Your timing feels like mercy misunderstood.

But oh—how wise, how compassionate, how lovingly intentional You are.

Your delays are not denial; they are Divine invitations—moments pregnant with grace, as You wait, ache, and long for all to turn and be healed.

In 2 Peter 3:9, we glimpse not only Your Omnipotence but also Your astounding patience. You are not willing that anyone should perish. Your heart beats with a desire for repentance, not retribution. You could have wrapped history long ago, but You wait—because love waits. Because eternity is too precious for You to rush it.

Even when we falter, mock, doubt, or grow cold, Your heart remains warm—calling us back with a whisper louder than the world’s clamor. As Hosea 11:8 reveals, “How can I give you up, O Ephraim? How can I hand you over, O Israel?…My compassion is aroused.” Your love restrains judgment; Your mercy outpaces our sin.

Romans 2:4 echoes this truth: “Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Can’t you see that His kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?” It is not threats but tenderness that bring us home.

You, LORD, are not passive.

You are pursuing.

Every delay is a doorway of possibility—for repentance, renewal, redemption.

You are the Father scanning the horizon, the Shepherd leaving the ninety-nine, the Potter reshaping the marred clay.

Reflective Question:

Where in my life have I mistaken God’s patience for absence, rather than His persistent love calling me closer?

Prayer: “

Gracious God, Thank You for not giving up on us—for holding out hope when we’d already walked away. Forgive us for labeling Your mercy as delay. Open our eyes to the depth of Your patience, And lead our hearts into a deeper repentance—a surrender not from fear, but from love. Your promise still stands, and Your love still calls. We come home again. In Jesus’ holy name, Amen.”

Peace of the LORD Jesus Christ be with you all~

DEAR GOD: I’m Overjoyed That I’m The Apple Of Your Eye~

Posted on June 18, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings.” — Psalm 17:8

The phrase “apple of Your eye” is a deeply personal and affectionate metaphor. In ancient Hebrew, it refers to the pupil, the most sensitive and protected part of the eye. To be the apple of God’s eye means to be cherished, guarded, and intimately known by Him.

David, the psalmist, pleads for God’s protection, recognizing that God’s love is not distant but deeply personal. This verse reassures us that we are precious to Him, watched over with unwavering care.

How This Is True

God’s Covenant Love – Throughout scripture, God repeatedly calls His people chosen, beloved, and protected. In Zechariah 2:8, He warns that anyone who harms His people is touching the apple of His eye—a direct statement of His fierce protection.
Christ’s Sacrifice – Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection prove that God values us beyond measure. He did not withhold His Son but gave Him up for our redemption, demonstrating that we are worth everything to Him.
Divine Guidance – Like a parent shielding a child, God guides, corrects, and nurtures us. His Spirit dwells within us, ensuring that we are never abandoned.

How We Can Be More Favorable in His Eyes

Seek Him Daily – A heart that longs for God is a heart He delights in. Spending time in prayer, scripture, and worship deepens our relationship with Him.
Live in Obedience – Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Walking in righteousness, humility, and love aligns us with His will.
Trust His Protection – Instead of fearing the world, we should rest in His promises, knowing that He shields those who trust in Him.
Reflect His Love – We are called to love others as He loves us. Extending grace, kindness, and forgiveness makes us true reflections of His heart.

Prayer

“Father, Thank You for calling us the apple of Your eye—for cherishing us beyond measure. Help us to walk in Your love, to seek You with all our hearts, and to trust in Your unfailing protection. May we reflect Your goodness in our words and actions, living as true children of Your kingdom. Keep us close, shield us from harm, and guide us in Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: I Love Being Rooted in Your Presence~

Posted on June 15, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Psalm 92:13 (NKJV)

Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.

Rooted in His Presence, Flourishing in His Love

There is something deeply reassuring about the imagery in this verse. To be planted in the house of the Lord is not just about attending church or reading scripture—it is about being firmly rooted in His presence, allowing His truth to nourish us, and growing in the richness of His love.

A tree that is planted in good soil does not struggle to survive. It does not fear the changing seasons or the storms that come. It stands firm, drawing strength from its roots, flourishing because it is connected to the source of life. This is the promise for those who dwell in the presence of God.

When we make our home in Him—when we seek Him daily, trust Him fully, and surrender our hearts—our lives begin to reflect His goodness. We flourish not because life is easy, but because His grace sustains us. We bear fruit in seasons of joy and in seasons of trial, knowing that He is our foundation.

To flourish in His courts means to live in the fullness of His love, to walk in His peace, and to reflect His light to the world. It means that no matter what comes our way, we are secure in Him.

It becomes as natural as our breath, when we commune with Him daily. When we seek Him eagerly, and honor Him in all we do. It becomes seemingly profound when we realize He is behind all we do, say, and are!

Reach out to Him and love Him – because I can say this – HE LOVES YOU!

Prayer “LORD, plant me deeply in Your Presence. Let my roots grow strong in Your truth, and may my life flourish in Your love. Help me to trust You in every season, knowing that You sustain me. May I reflect Your goodness and bear fruit that glorifies You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Reflective Question What does it mean for you to be planted in God’s Presence, and how can you deepen your connection with Him today?

DEAR GOD: My True Citizenship Is With You My LORD~

Posted on June 14, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:” -Philippians 3:20

Our True Citizenship: A Reflection on Philippians 3:20

Philippians 3:20 reminds us of a profound truth: our conversation—our citizenship—is in heaven. This verse is a call to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that while we walk this earth, our true home is with Christ.

Understanding the Verse

Paul, writing to the Philippians, contrasts the mindset of those who are consumed by earthly desires with those who eagerly await the return of Jesus. The word “conversation” in the King James Version refers to citizenship—our belonging to a kingdom not of this world. Just as a traveler in a foreign land does not adopt its customs permanently, we, as believers, must not anchor our hearts in the fleeting concerns of this life.

Applying This Truth Today

In modern terms, this verse speaks to the tension between living in the world and not being of the world. Imagine someone who holds dual citizenship—one in a temporary land and another in their true homeland. They may respect the laws of the place they reside, but their heart, their allegiance, remains with their true country.

Likewise, as followers of Christ, we engage in daily life—working, building relationships, making decisions—but our ultimate loyalty is to the kingdom of God. This means:

We do not chase after material wealth as our highest goal (Matthew 6:19-20).
We do not conform to the world’s standards but seek transformation through Christ (Romans 12:2).
We live with hope, knowing that Jesus will return and restore all things (Titus 2:13).

Scriptural Support

John 18:36 – Jesus declares, “My kingdom is not of this world.”
Colossians 3:1-2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Hebrews 13:14 – “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.”

Reflective Questions

Do I live as though my true citizenship is in heaven, or am I overly attached to earthly concerns?
How does my daily life reflect my anticipation of Christ’s return?
Am I investing in eternal things—love, faith, and righteousness—rather than temporary pleasures?

A Personal Prayer

“LORD- remind me daily that my true home is with You. Help me to live with an eternal perspective, making choices that reflect my heavenly citizenship. Let my heart be anchored in Your promises, and may I eagerly await Your return with faith and joy. Strengthen me to walk in righteousness, to love deeply, and to serve with purpose. In Jesus name, Amen.”

Meditative Thought for the Day

“I am a citizen of heaven. My hope is not in this world, but in Christ, who will return and make all things new.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Presence And Your Life~

Posted on May 24, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“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.” —
Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)

– A Reflection on Faith, Tenacity, and the Christian Walk –

God’s Presence Through Time

In Biblical days, these words of reassurance from Isaiah were spoken to the Israelites, a people often faced with battles, captivity, and trials that tested their faith. God promised to uphold them, providing strength in their weakest moments. Fast forward to today, and though our battles are different—sickness, loss, uncertainty, spiritual warfare—the promise remains steadfast. This verse reminds us that the same God who walked with His people through the wilderness, through exile, and through trials is the same God who walks with us now.

Supporting Scripture:

Malachi 3:6 – “For I am the Lord, I change not…”
Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.”

God is unchanging, and so is His promise of strength and deliverance.

What It Means to Be a Christian Today

Being a Christian isn’t just about belief—it is about living a life surrendered to Christ, through good times and bad. In today’s world, we face moral dilemmas, spiritual battles, and challenges that test our faith. Some may question if God is truly near when pain and suffering seem unending. Yet, the Christian walk isn’t about a life free of hardship—it is about endurance, tenacity, and the assurance that God is our refuge.

Jesus taught perseverance:

John 16:33 – “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
Romans 5:3-4 – “Tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.”

True faith isn’t just professed—it is lived. To be a follower of Christ means to hold onto His word, His promises, and His presence, even when the road is difficult.

The Armor of God – Our Strength to Forge Ahead

The world can be overwhelming, but God equips His people with tools for spiritual endurance. Ephesians 6:11-18 speaks of the armor of God, a powerful metaphor reminding us that faith is not passive—it requires action, vigilance, and preparation.

Helmet of Salvation – Guarding our thoughts, keeping our focus on Christ.
Breastplate of Righteousness – Walking in integrity, resisting temptation.
Shield of Faith – Blocking fear and doubt, trusting in His promises.
Sword of the Spirit – The Word of God, which strengthens and guides us.
Feet shod with the Gospel of Peace – Moving forward in faith, not retreating in fear.

Each piece of spiritual armor reinforces the truth in Isaiah 41:10—we do not stand alone. We stand equipped, strengthened, and upheld by the righteousness of God.

A Prayer for Strength and Tenacity

“LORD- In moments of weakness, remind me that I am never alone. Your presence is unwavering, Your love unfailing. Lord, strengthen me as I walk this journey of faith. When doubt creeps in, let Your Word be my anchor. When trials press upon me, uphold me with Your righteousness. Clothe me in Your armor, that I may stand firm against adversity. Help me forge ahead with tenacity, unwavering in my trust in You. Through every season, may I reflect the light of Christ, carrying the Gospel with boldness and humility. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Reflective Question for the Day:

What area of my life am I holding onto fear instead of trusting in God’s promise? How can I surrender it fully to Him 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: Your Crown of Sacrifice and Triumph~

Posted on April 20, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Christ’s Sacrifice and Resurrection

Upon the cross, His arms outstretched wide, “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows” (Isaiah 53:4), by love applied. For sin and shame, the Lamb was slain, “He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities” (Isaiah 53:5), our souls sustain.

The earth grew dark, the heavens wept, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son” (John 3:16), this truth is kept. His blood poured forth to make us whole, “With his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5), salvation for the soul.

Three days He lay in the tomb so still, “But God raised him from the dead” (Acts 13:30), by heaven’s will. The stone rolled back, the grave could not bind, “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said” (Matthew 28:6), for all mankind.

From the depths of sorrow to eternal light, “I am the resurrection, and the life” (John 11:25), dispelling night. O death, thy sting, O grave, thy snare, “Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57), none can compare.

Through sacrifice divine, through holy gain, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13), our hearts remain. Jesus, our Redeemer, risen and crowned, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8), love unbound.

With hearts brimming with gratitude, we come before Thee, Thanking Thee for the precious gift of Thy Son, Our Savior, Jesus Christ, who bore our sins upon the cross.

We stand in awe of His love so vast, Of His willingness to suffer in our place, That we might know forgiveness, redemption, and grace.

Thank Thee for the victory over the grave, For the risen Lord who lives forevermore, And for the hope eternal that His resurrection brings.

Let our lives be a testament to this love, that we may walk in His light and share His truth, Reflecting His mercy and kindness in all that we do.

In humble adoration and endless praise, we offer this prayer in the name of Jesus, Our Savior, Redeemer, and King. Amen.

DEAR GOD: Thank You For The Sacred Stillness of Silent Saturday

Posted on April 19, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Silent Saturday: Counting the Cost of the Cross — The YES Adventure

“And they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.” –
Luke 23:56

“The Sacred Stillness of Silent Saturday”

Silent Saturday is a day of profound pause, a sacred interlude between the agony of the cross and the triumph of the resurrection. It is a day marked by waiting, uncertainty, and quiet obedience. The disciples, overwhelmed by grief and fear, retreated into the shadows, while the women who followed Jesus rested, honoring the Sabbath. This stillness is not emptiness but a space where faith is tested and trust is forged. It reminds us that even in the silence, God is at work, weaving redemption into the fabric of time. Silent Saturday teaches us to embrace the in-between moments, to trust in the unseen, and to find peace in the waiting.

Reflective Questions:

How do you respond to seasons of silence in your life?
What does it mean to rest in God’s promises, even when they seem distant?
How can you honor God in the waiting, as the women did on Silent Saturday?
What lessons can you draw from the disciples’ fear and the women’s faith?
How does Silent Saturday prepare your heart for the joy of resurrection?

Moral Thoughts and Views:

Christianity is a faith that embraces both the cross and the empty tomb, the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday. Silent Saturday stands as a bridge between these two realities, a day that calls us to trust in God’s timing and sovereignty. It is a reminder that God’s plans often unfold in ways we cannot see or understand. As Christians, we are called to live in the tension of the now and the not-yet, to hold fast to hope even in the darkest moments. Silent Saturday invites us to rest in the assurance that God’s promises are true and His purposes are good.

Prayer:“

LORD -Thank You for the lessons of Silent Saturday. Teach me to trust in Your timing and to rest in Your promises, even when the path ahead is unclear. Help me to find peace in the waiting and to honor You in the stillness. May my faith be strengthened in the silence, and may my heart be prepared for the joy of resurrection. In Jesus name, Amen.”

Supportive Scriptures:

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.”
Lamentations 3:25-26 – “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”
Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”
Hebrews 11:1 – “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.”

Meditative Question: How can you embrace the stillness of Silent Saturday as a sacred space to deepen your trust in God’s unseen work?

Plantilla de SILENT SATURDAY EASTER | PosterMyWall

DEAR GOD: Our King Your Son – Cometh to Fulfill Thy Promise~

Posted on April 13, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt.” — John 12:15 (KJV)

“Behold, Thy King: A Promise Fulfilled”

Palm Sunday captures one of the most profound moments in the life of Christ—His triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The crowd, proclaiming “Hosanna,” laid palm branches and their garments along His path, signifying honor and praise. Jesus’ choice to ride a donkey rather than a warhorse was a deliberate and poignant act, demonstrating His kingship as one of humility, peace, and servanthood, rather than domination and conquest. This act fulfilled Zechariah’s prophecy (Zechariah 9:9) and served as a reminder that the Kingdom of God operates not through worldly power but through love, sacrifice, and redemption.

As Christians, this moment invites us to reflect on the duality of Christ’s mission: the joy and celebration of His kingship interwoven with the looming shadow of the cross. Palm Sunday is not merely a historical event; it is a living reminder of our own spiritual journey. We are called to lay down our “palms”—our pride, fears, and worldly desires—at the feet of Jesus, allowing Him to reign fully in our hearts. It challenges us to echo His humility and surrender ourselves in service to others, just as He surrendered Himself for the salvation of mankind.

Moral Thoughts:

Humility Over Power: Jesus’ entry on a donkey teaches us to value humility, a virtue often overlooked in a world seeking status and power.
Faith in Prophecy: His actions remind us that God’s promises are always fulfilled, even when His plans are beyond our understanding.
A Call to Worship: The joy of Palm Sunday urges us to worship Christ with sincerity, not only in moments of celebration but also in times of trial.

Reflective Questions:

What “palms” in your life can you lay down at the feet of Christ to let Him reign more fully?
How does Christ’s example of humility inspire your own interactions and choices?
Are you ready to embrace His peace and carry it into the world, even when it requires sacrifice?

Biblical Views and Analysis: The entry into Jerusalem was a moment saturated with meaning. It proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah, affirmed God’s faithfulness, and set the stage for His ultimate sacrifice. For believers, this event underscores the heart of Christian theology: that salvation is a gift of grace, bought at the cost of Christ’s life. It challenges us to trust in God’s plan, even when it diverges from our expectations, and to live with the same selflessness and purpose that Christ embodied.

True Worship for Christ: True worship arises from recognizing Christ as both Savior and Lord. On Palm Sunday, we join the multitudes in exclaiming, “Hosanna!” But beyond words, true worship is a life surrendered to His will—a life of love, service, and devotion to His teachings.

Prayer of Thanks: “O Lord Jesus, we humbly thank Thee for Thy incredible love and sacrifice. On this Palm Sunday, we lift our voices in adoration, proclaiming, “Hosanna to the King of kings!” May we always honor Thy humility and follow in Thy footsteps, surrendering ourselves to Thy perfect will. Amen.”

Question for Reflection: How can you honor Christ’s kingship in your daily life and allow Him to shape your heart with His humility?

Verse for the Day: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.” — Philippians 2:5-7 (KJV)

I hope this inspires a meaningful reflection for your Palm Sunday,

God Bless You All~

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~Dear God With Love~