DEAR GOD: Your Love Transforms & Offers Salvation~

Posted on September 15, 2024 by C D SWANSON

PPT - Wonderful Love of Jesus PowerPoint Presentation - ID:2447255

LOVE of CHRIST

The verse from 1 John 4:16, “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him,” is a profound declaration of the nature of God and the relationship between God and believers.

This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian faith, emphasizing the centrality of love in the life of a believer.

Understanding God’s Love

The first part of the verse speaks to the experiential and intellectual acknowledgment of God’s love. This love is not just a concept but a reality that believers have experienced and come to trust.

The Bible is replete with examples of God’s love, from the creation of the world to the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This verse underscores the magnitude of God’s love, which is both sacrificial and redemptive.

God is Love

The declaration “God is love” is one of the most profound theological statements in the Bible. It means that love is not just an attribute of God but the very essence of His being. Everything God does is motivated by love.

This is further supported by 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which describes the characteristics of love: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” These attributes reflect the nature of God Himself.

Dwelling in Love

The latter part of the verse, “he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him,” speaks to the intimate relationship between God and the believer. To dwell in love means to live a life characterized by love. This is not merely an emotional feeling but a deliberate choice to act in love towards others.

Jesus emphasized this in John 13:34-35, where He said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” This love is the hallmark of a true disciple of Christ.

Moral Takeaways

Love as a Reflection of God: Our love for others is a reflection of God’s love in us. When we love others, we are manifesting God’s presence in our lives.
Love as a Commandment: Loving others is not optional for believers; it is a commandment from Jesus Himself.
Love as a Witness: Our love for others serves as a testimony to the world of our relationship with God.

Reflective Personal Questions

How have I experienced God’s love in my life?
In what ways can I better reflect God’s love to those around me?
Are there areas in my life where I struggle to show love? How can I address these challenges?

Christianity Today

In today’s world, the message of love is more relevant than ever. With so much division, hatred, and strife, the call to love one another stands as a beacon of hope. Christians are called to be ambassadors of God’s love, showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness in a world that desperately needs it. The church must lead by example, demonstrating love in action through service, advocacy, and community building.

Personal Prayer

“LORD thank You for Your boundless love that You have lavished upon us. Help us to truly know and believe in this love, and to reflect it in our daily lives. Teach us to dwell in love, so that we may dwell in You and You in us. Give us the strength to love others as You have loved us, and to be a light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7

May this verse guide you throughout the day, reminding you of the profound love that God has for you and the call to share that love with others.

God Bless~

Love Like Jesus - Christ's Commission Fellowship

DEAR GOD: We Are Here To Glorify You In One Body~

Posted on August 26, 2024 by C D SWANSON

The Body of Christ – Gospel Light Bible Baptist Church, Auckland, New ...

“For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one member one of another.” Romans 12:4-5

This verse beautifully illustrates the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, emphasizing the importance of each member’s unique role and contribution.

Supportive Scriptures

1 Corinthians 12:12-14: “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit, we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. For the body does not consist of one member but of many.”
Ephesians 4:16: “From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.”

Moral Reflections

The metaphor of the body teaches us several moral lessons:

Unity in Diversity: Just as a body has different parts with different functions, the church is composed of individuals with diverse gifts and roles. This diversity should be celebrated, not cause for division.
Interdependence: Each member of the body relies on the others. No one part can function effectively in isolation. This interdependence fosters a sense of community and mutual support.
Value of Every Member: Every part of the body, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is essential. Similarly, every person in the church has value and a purpose.

Spiritual Questions

How can I better appreciate the unique gifts and roles of others in my community?
In what ways can I contribute to the unity and growth of the body of Christ?
Do I recognize and value my own role within the body, no matter how small it may seem?

Meditative Takeaways

Reflect on the ways you can support and uplift others in your community.
Consider how your unique gifts can be used to serve others and glorify God.
Meditate on the interconnectedness of the body of Christ and how each member’s well-being affects the whole.

Powerful Prayer

“LORD, we thank You for the beautiful diversity within the body of Christ. Help us to recognize and appreciate the unique gifts and roles You have given each of us. Teach us to work together in unity, supporting and uplifting one another. May we always remember that we are one body in Christ, and that each member is valuable and essential. Guide us to use our gifts for Your glory and the growth of Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thought for the Day

“Just as each part of the body is essential for its proper functioning, so too is each member of the body of Christ indispensable. Embrace your unique role(s) that the good LORD has gifted you with and celebrate the diversity within the community of believers all to the glory and witness to our LORD God Almighty.”

Blessings to all of you~

One Body in Christ | Romans 12:4-5 - Tricia Goyer | Christ quotes ...

DEAR GOD: Losing Myself & Finding You In All I Do~

Posted on June 27, 2024 by C D SWANSON

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“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” –Matthew 16:25

This verse from Matthew 16:25 -encapsulates a powerful paradox—one that challenges our understanding of life, sacrifice, and purpose. Let’s delve into its layers of meaning and see if we can embrace the true purpose and overall reason for Christ’s Powerful Word!

1. The Paradox of Self-Preservation and Self-Sacrifice

At first glance, it seems counterintuitive: saving one’s life leads to loss, while losing it for Christ’s sake results in finding it. But this paradox invites us to consider deeper truths. It’s a way of following Christ. It is an inherent part of who we are as Christians, and what we are called to do in this lifetime, according to His will and purpose for us. “Losing our life” means to leave behind our former self – and to experience a “new spiritual birth” and to become one with Christ! In other words, “He must increase, but I must decrease,” as it so eloquently states in John 3:30. Meaning “loss of our former selves” to decrease and the LORD increases in us.

Moral Reflections:

How do we balance self-preservation with selflessness?
Are there moments when we cling to safety at the expense of greater purpose?
Do we do things out of an obligatory reasoning?
Or do we do things with our heart while honoring the LORD always?

2. The Call to Radical Discipleship

Jesus often called His followers to radical commitment. He didn’t promise an easy path; instead, He invited them to lay down their lives for His cause. He tells us that we are to emulate Him in the best way we can. Given that we are mortals and nothing more – we will experience difficult paths and moments in our lives. When we do – we know that we have a “higher authority” and Divine LORD who guides us through each moments in our lives.

Ethical Consideration:

What does it mean to be a disciple today?
How can we live out this radical commitment in our daily choices?

3. Christianity Today: A Journey of Surrender

In our contemporary context, the paradox remains relevant. Christianity isn’t about mere survival; it’s about surrendering to God’s will. It’s about giving yourself fully and openly accepting Him as LORD and Savior over your life.

It is an acknowledgment of acquiescing to Him and His Word-and His voice- and His commandments- and His doctrine – every single day of our lives, here and now and to come – for all eternity!

Christian Reflection:

How can we embrace surrender without fear?
What areas of our lives need a deeper surrender to Christ?

4. Meditative Takeaways

When have you experienced the tension between self-preservation and self-sacrifice?
What does losing your life for Christ’s sake look like in practical terms?
Seek moments of surrender—whether in small acts of kindness or significant life choices. Trust that in losing, you’ll find true life, with Christ as the sole purpose of such life.

We as brothers and sisters are one, bound by faith and love. In this moment, we set aside our differences, our worries, and our burdens. We stand together, recognizing that we are part of a greater whole. The LORD unites us with a commonality which is to say, “His Spirit” and “His blood” which washed us clean. Let’s navigate the world together as Christ intended His followers to do. Let’s ask the LORD for His Presence in all things we endeavor to take on.

LORD we ask that You help us in our daily walks in life, especially the following:

May we be united in compassion, that we may see the pain of others as our own.
In forgiveness, that we may release grudges and embrace reconciliation. In hope, that we may find strength even in adversity.
In love, that we may extend grace to those around us.
May our hearts beat in rhythm with Yours, O God.
May our prayers rise like incense, weaving a tapestry of unity across time and space.
We pray for our world: for healing, for peace, for justice.
May Your light pierce the darkness, and may our actions reflect Your love.

Unity Prayer

“Lord, help us navigate this paradox. May we willingly lose our lives for Your sake, knowing that true fulfillment lies in surrendering to Your purpose. That we lose our former selves and commit to the new Creature we became through your blood that washed us clean, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May these reflections deepen your faith and heartfelt journey…

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DEAR GOD: Thank You For The Word & Life Eternal~

Posted on June 24, 2024 by C D SWANSON

The Purpose of Christ’s Life: A Story

In the Beginning

In the quietude of eternity past, before galaxies spun into existence and stars ignited, there was a divine whisper—a purpose. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit danced in harmonious love, their essence intertwined. Yet, in this cosmic symphony, a longing emerged—a longing to redeem, restore, and reconcile.

The Incarnation

And so it began. The Word, the Logos, clothed Himself in fragile flesh. The infinite squeezed into the finite, divinity veiled by humanity. Bethlehem’s stable cradled the hope of ages—the Savior, Jesus Christ. His purpose? Not merely to teach or perform miracles, but to bridge the chasm between God and humanity.

The Journey

Scripture: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Moral Insight: Love compels sacrifice. Christ’s purpose was love incarnate—a love that would bleed, suffer, and die. His life echoed the Father’s heartbeat: redemption.

The Cross

Calvary’s hill bore witness to agony and grace. Nails pierced hands that flung stars into space. The Lamb of God, sinless and blameless, bore our guilt. Why? To fulfill prophecy, yes, but more profoundly—to rescue lost souls.

Scripture: “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.” (1 Peter 2:24)

Moral Insight: Sacrifice transforms. Christ’s purpose wasn’t just to die; it was to resurrect hope, to birth new life within us.

The Resurrection

The tomb yielded to life. Death’s chains shattered. Christ emerged victorious, scars etched with love’s story. His purpose? Not merely to conquer death, but to invite us into resurrection life.

Scripture: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.” (John 11:25)

Moral Insight: Hope defies despair. Christ’s resurrection beckons us beyond the grave, promising eternal purpose.

The Commission

On a mountain’s crest, scarred hands extended, Christ entrusted His purpose to us. “Go,” He said, “make disciples.” Not mere converts, but followers who embody love, grace, and truth.

Scripture: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)

Moral Insight: Purpose is contagious. Christ’s commission echoes through generations, urging us to share His love.

The Unfolding Story

And so, the purpose of Christ’s life reverberates across time. It’s in the whispered prayers of a child, the compassion of a stranger, the forgiveness offered to enemies. It’s in the quiet moments when we choose love over bitterness, grace over judgment.

Dear brother and sister – you are part of this grand narrative. Your life, too, holds purpose—a purpose woven into the fabric of eternity. Embrace it. Live it. For in doing so, you mirror the One who walked dusty roads, bore a cross, and conquered death. May your days echo the heartbeat of Christ—the purpose that transforms, redeems, and invites us into abundant life!

“Dear LORD -In this sacred moment, we gather as one—a tapestry of souls woven by grace. Our voices blend, rising like incense, reaching Your throne. Bind us together, as One Body in Christ, O Lord, in purpose and love, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Scripture: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1, KJV)

May your days echo the heartbeat of Christ—the purpose that transforms, redeems, and invites us into abundant life

DEAR GOD: I Love To Serve You Daily~

Posted on May 9, 2024 by C D SWANSON

God’s Righteous Anger & His Unfailing Love

Introduction

The concept of God’s righteous anger is deeply embedded in Christian theology, reflecting His perfect justice and holiness. Unlike human anger, which is often tainted by selfishness and sin, God’s anger is always justified, pure, and directed towards evil and injustice.

And Yet His Love is the other side of the coin – and it is a LOVE above all the rest!

The Boundless Love of God

God’s love for us is an unending ocean, a boundless sky that stretches beyond the horizons of our understanding. It is a love that is deep, wide, and all-encompassing, a love that embraces us in our entirety—flaws and all.

Scriptural Foundations

Eternal Love: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you” (Jeremiah 31:3). God’s love is not transient or conditional; it is eternal and unwavering.
Sacrificial Love: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). The ultimate expression of God’s love was the sacrifice of His only Son for our redemption.
Victorious Love: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:37-39). In God’s love, we find the victory over every trial and tribulation.
Adoptive Love: “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are” (1 John 3:1). We are not just creations or subjects, but children of the Most High, adopted into His family through love.
Abiding Love: “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him” (1 John 4:16). To dwell in love is to dwell in God Himself, for He is the very essence of love.

Reflective Thoughts

How does the knowledge of God’s eternal love shape our identity and purpose?
What does it mean to live as conquerors through God’s love in our daily lives?
How can we reflect God’s adoptive love in our relationships with others?

The Nature of God’s Anger

In the Scriptures, God’s anger is not a capricious or irrational burst of emotion, but a consistent response to sin and rebellion. For instance, in Romans 1:18, it is written, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.”

Reflective Questions

How does understanding God’s righteous anger change our view of sin?
In what ways can we align our own sense of justice with God’s?

God’s Anger in Action Throughout the Bible, there are numerous instances where God’s anger leads to action. The flood in the time of Noah (Genesis 6-8), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19), and the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-11) are all examples of God’s righteous judgment against sin.

Supportive Scripture

Nahum 1:2: “The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord is avenging and wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on His adversaries and keeps wrath for His enemies.”

Thoughts to Take Away About His Anger

God’s anger reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the importance of living righteously. It also assures us that God is just and will ultimately right all wrongs.

Takeaway About His Love

The love of God is not just a theological concept; it is a living, breathing reality that sustains, empowers, and transforms us. It is the foundation upon which we stand and the force that propels us forward. Let us rest in the assurance of His love and extend that love to the world around us.

Conclusion

God’s righteous anger is not something to be feared by those who are in Christ, for “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Instead, it is a reminder of God’s perfect holiness and the ultimate victory over sin and death.

And His Love is a balm for our souls, and an umbrella that deflects all evil and harm from those who follow Him. For those who trust in Him, for those who love Him, and for those who accept Him as LORD and Savior over their lives.

A United Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we acknowledge Your holy and righteous anger towards sin. Teach us to hate evil as You do and to seek Your righteousness in our lives. May we be instruments of Your justice and love in this world, today and all the days of our lives, may we be humble servants in Your righteous army, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

The Bible offers us a glimpse into the complex yet perfect nature of God’s righteous anger, and His uncompromised love encouraging believers to reflect on their own lives and align with God’s will. May it serve as a guide to understanding the depth of God’s justice and love.

DEAR GOD: Your Enduring Presence Comforts Me~

Posted on May 2, 2024 by C D SWANSON

What Does Falling in Love With Jesus Actually Mean?

“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” – Matthew 28:20

Enduring Presence

In the closing verses of the Gospel of Matthew, we find the resurrected Christ imparting a final commission to His disciples. This passage, often referred to as the Great Commission, encapsulates the mission of the church and the enduring Presence of Christ.

The Command to Teach

Christ’s directive to “teach all nations” is a call to discipleship that extends beyond the mere transmission of knowledge. It is an invitation to a life-transforming journey that aligns one’s actions with the teachings of Jesus.

What does it mean for us to observe all that Christ has commanded
How does this shape our daily lives?

The Assurance of Presence

Perhaps the most comforting aspect of this verse is the promise that follows the command: “I am with you alway.” In a world fraught with uncertainty and change, the constancy of Christ’s presence offers an anchor for the soul. How do we experience this presence in our lives? In what ways does it sustain us through trials and tribulations?

The Scope of the Promise

The phrase “even unto the end of the world” speaks to the timeless nature of Christ’s commitment to His followers. It is a promise that transcends generations, cultures, and epochs. As we face the challenges of our own era, how does this assurance shape our perspective on the future?

A Moral Reflection

The moral imperative embedded in this scripture is clear: to live out the teachings of Christ and to share them with others. It calls us to a higher standard of conduct, one that reflects the love and grace of the One we follow. Are we living up to this calling? Are our lives a testament to the teachings we have received?

A Reflective Close

As we ponder the depth of Christ’s commission and the promise of His presence, let us take a moment to reflect on our role in this divine narrative. Are we active participants in the mission of teaching and sharing the Gospel? Do we find solace in the promise of Christ’s enduring presence?

Unity Prayer

“Dear LORD, we are humbled by Your great commission and the promise of Your eternal presence. Grant us the wisdom to teach Your ways and the courage to live them out. May we feel Your presence guiding us at every step, and may our lives be a reflection of Your love until the end of time, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Let’s embrace the teachings of Christ and find comfort in His everlasting presence all the days of our lives…

DEAR GOD: I Have No Fear – YOU Are Here!

Posted on May 1, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Fear, Faith, and the Love of God

Fear is a common human emotion that can be both protective and paralyzing at once. It arises from the anticipation of danger, whether real or imagined. Yet, in the spiritual realm, fear often stems from uncertainty and the feeling of being alone in the face of life’s trials. However, the love of God is presented in the Holy Bible through scriptures as our ultimate antidote to fear. It is through Christ and His love and His power we can assume our lives in peace, free from fear – or wrestle ourselves away from those emotions, through His love and His promises.

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.” – 1 John 4:18 (ESV)

This scripture encapsulates the transformative power of His Holy and Divine love. It suggests that fear is linked to the expectation of judgment, but God’s love, being perfect and complete, dispels all traces of fear. It’s not just the absence of fear but the presence of something much greater love. It is His Presence in our life, and His Spirit that dwells within each of us as believers to overcome and to forge forward with resilience and confidence.

The Moral of Divine Love

The moral lesson here is that embracing the love of God encourages us to move beyond our fears, and through His strength and His Power we are set free from it. It teaches us that we are not alone, that we are loved unconditionally, and that there is a higher purpose to our lives, through God our Father Almighty. He has a plan and will for each of us while we are here on earth. This understanding will liberate us from the chains of fear, allowing us to live more fully and courageously, but only through Christ, and Christ alone can this be done, not by ourselves.

Reflective Questions

How can we cultivate a deeper sense of God’s love in our daily lives?
In what ways does fear affect our relationship with God and others?
What steps can we take to replace fear with faith in God’s plan for us?

Prayer In Unity

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You to seek refuge from our fears. May Your perfect love fill our hearts and cast away the shadows of doubt and all of our anxiety. Guide us with Your wisdom, and let Your presence be our constant comfort, while You protect, and love us all unconditionally in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

——————————————————————————————–

Final Pondering Thoughts

As mortals -fear is a natural part of the human experience, but it doesn’t and shouldn’t overtake any of us. Through faith and the love of God, we always will overcome our fears and live with a sense of peace and purpose. Let us hold onto the promise that God’s love is powerful, and He alone can and will wipe out all fear, leading us into a life of freedom and joy, by His Love, Blood and His promise in the Word!

DEAR GOD: I Will Always Follow Your Doctrine~

Posted on January 24, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Doctrine - Living Hope Bible Church

The book of Galatians is a letter written by the apostle Paul to the churches in Galatia. In this letter, Paul addresses the issue of false teachings that had infiltrated the church. The false teachings were coming from a group of people known as Judaizers, who were trying to convince the Galatians that they needed to follow Jewish customs and laws in order to be saved. Paul refutes this idea and emphasizes that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone.

In Galatians 1:6-10, Paul expresses his concern that the Galatians are abandoning Jesus’ grace and turning to a different gospel – a false gospel. He doesn’t mince words when it comes to Judaizers coming in and undermining the work he has done in Galatia. Paul feels so strongly about the good news that has been preached to the Galatians that he calls down a curse upon anyone who would dare to proffer an alternative gospel.

In Galatians 2:4, Paul talks about false brothers who had come in under false pretenses to spy on their freedom in Christ Jesus, in order to enslave them. Paul emphasizes that there is no room for a gospel that strays from the grace of Christ.

This warning still applies to this very day in time. Those that are following another gospel are in danger of losing their salvation bought and paid for by Jesus Christ. They are tampering with their existence and eternal life. The good news is it’s never too late. When we accept and willingly follow Jesus and His doctrine, and commandments we are fulfilling our roles as Christians. We are inherently moving onto a path of righteousness that is a gift from above (James 1:17) and we are acknowledging Him as our LORD and Savior.

Jesus is the way to LIFE.

Jesus is the way to FREEDOM.

Jesus is the way to SALVATION.

JESUS is the way for EVERYTHING.

Do you follow Jesus? When you do things will become easier to navigate as He will guide you through it all, both good and bad times.

Galatians 2:16: “yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.”

Galatians 3:10-11: “For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, ‘Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.’ Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’”

Galatians 5:1: “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”

Galatians 5:4-6: “You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.”

The above verses show that Paul was adamant that the Galatians should not be deceived by the false teachers who were trying to impose the law on them. He wanted them to understand that they were saved by grace through faith in Christ alone, and that nothing else mattered.

Remember Jesus said in Matthew 28:20 saying to preach His gospel and “… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

The Gospel Christ tells us to teach is His- none other! And ignoring His commandments can prove detrimental to your soul.

Obeying it and following Him and accepting Him as your LORD and Savior, quite the contrary.

Your blessings will overflow, and your soul will not be in danger of the second death–no–instead it will live forever!

“Father, thank You for Your Word and Your promises, may I do all to promote Your Word, in my actions, thoughts, behavior, and heart, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Protecting Me~

Posted on January 11, 2024 by C D SWANSON

GOD’S PROMISES OF PROTECTION, HEALING AND DELIVERANCE - HOREMOWNA.ORG

“I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?” –Psalm 118:5-6

The passage is from Psalm 118, which is a song of thanksgiving and praise to God for his steadfast love and salvation. The psalmist recounts how God delivered him from his enemies and troubles, and how he trusts in God’s protection and power.

The passage begins with the psalmist calling upon the LORD in distress. This implies that he was in a situation of danger, suffering, or hardship, and that he had no other source of help or hope. He turned to God in prayer, seeking his intervention and mercy.

The passage then says that the LORD answered him and set him in a large place. This means that God responded to his prayer and rescued him from his distress. He gave him a spacious and secure place to dwell, free from the threats and pressures of his enemies. He also gave him room to grow and flourish in his relationship with God and others.

The passage continues with the psalmist declaring that the LORD is on his side, and that he will not fear. This shows that he has a strong confidence and trust in God’s presence and favor. He knows that God is his ally and defender, and that nothing can harm him as long as God is with him.

The passage ends with the psalmist asking rhetorically, what can man do unto me? This implies that he has no fear of human opposition or hostility, because he knows that God is greater and more powerful than any human force. He also knows that God has a good plan and purpose for his life, and that no one can thwart or hinder God’s will.

The passage, therefore, expresses a faithful and joyful attitude towards God, who is the source of deliverance, security, and peace. It also invites the reader to share in the same trust and praise of God, who is faithful and loving to those who call upon him.

When we are followers and faithful to the LORD, we can always count on His protection, provisions, and nearness. He is a steady and constant source of energy. We are infused with His Spirit, and thereby led, and guided on paths of righteousness.

When we study and meditate on His Word and understand His ways, we can then endeavor to be good followers and Christians in all we are and do.

Have you read His Word recently?

“Father, my LORD and Shepherd thank You for Your Presence and Your love, may I be an obedient servant today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: My Faithful God-You Have My Heart~

Posted on January 5, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Faithful God - YouTube

Revelation 22:12- “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.”

When a Christian is totally connected with the LORD many things begin to become transparent on their journey. There is a “lighter” feeling inwardly and a self-confidence begins to soar where it ordinarily wouldn’t have before their journey with God.

As we read His Word and begin to incorporate His commandments and His doctrine into our way of living, things have a way of “opening” up in a seemingly easy manner, as opposed to not being a believer.

Matthew 16:27 -For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and will then repay every man according to his deeds.

How do I know this? Where do I get such information? From firsthand experience in life! Having worked in the Medical/Social Services field mainly in the Nursing Home Industry as Director of these facilities, I have witnessed many bedside “deaths.” And I can assure you this, as my personal in-depth analysis…those who believed in God and had an intimate and close relationship with Christ died a peaceful death, compared to those who did not know God.

Hebrews 10:35 -Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.

For one thing those who knew and followed God… they weren’t fearful, and they were at “peace” with knowing where they were going once, they left this earth. They were anxious to meet God and happy to know their days in pain and anguish were almost over. Even those who aged naturally without painful maladies or diseases, they were looking forward to “collecting their crown” along with the LORD’s promises and rewards in Heaven.

Matthew 5:12- Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

They also shared another very common characteristic; they had a calm demeanor/countenance that was very welcoming to all those they encountered. They never spoke harshly about others, held no malice towards any particular person or place, and offered words of love about God and Jesus’ Gospel. Plus, they had a “real inner light” that glowed when you spoke to each of these individuals. You know why that is? Because God had their heart in His hands…they gave it willingly…and they loved Him openly.

Isaiah 40:10 -Behold, the Lord God will come with might, With His arm ruling for Him. Behold, His reward is with Him And His recompense before Him.

It all comes down to commitment and love for God. When we apply the character of Christ into what we do, where we go, who we speak with, and our personal choices. The choices we make in this lifetime follow us into the next! It’s that simple—really.

Does your light shine when you meet others? Do you have a peaceful demeanor/countenance? Do you believe in the LORD and His Word, promises and His love? I tell you this my brothers and sisters, it makes all the difference in this world, and it will make ALL the difference in the NEXT world.

Luke 6:23 -Be glad in that day and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven. For in the same way their fathers used to treat the prophets.

“Father God, may I choose You in all I do, say and go, may I be ever faithful to You night and day, all the days of my life, here on earth and into the eternity, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

~Dear God With Love~

C D Swanson

Tag Archives: Christ