DEAR GOD: We Find Strength in Scripture~

Posted on February 9, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Should You Work on Your Weakness or Strength?

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

This verse is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and His benevolent plans for our lives. It reassures us that, despite the challenges and uncertainties we may face, God has a purpose for each of us, designed to bring us prosperity, hope, and a promising future. It encourages us to trust in His wisdom and timing, knowing that His plans are ultimately for our good. This divine promise provides comfort and strength, especially in moments of doubt or difficulty, as we are reminded of the unwavering care and guidance of a loving God. We find strength in CHRIST!

Has this verse provided you with encouragement or inspiration in your journey?

Think of how God touches your life each day and how He influences your thinking on a daily basis.

God is with us and has only good things for us in our pathway, should we align with His word and be according to His will and purpose, we will be able to do all things through Christ and in Christ.

You will ultimately and inherently know when it is the “will of God” because things will work out easily and the puzzle pieces will fit together nicely. It will be relatively smooth even through tumultuous times – because His hands will guide you and show you the way each time.

Psalm 34:17-18: “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

These scriptures remind us of God’s unwavering presence and support in times of need. They offer comfort, strength, and peace, encouraging us to turn to Him and trust in His love and guidance.

Do any of these verses resonate with you in particular?

“May the LORD’s Spirit and will provide you guidance and comfort all the days of your Life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Help

Posted on November 23, 2024 by C D SWANSON

41 Bible Verses About Help From God - The Graceful Chapter

God You Are Our Help

1.Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. 2.Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. 3.But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. 4.I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. 5.I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me. 6.I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.7.Arise, O Lord; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly. 8.Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah –

Psalm 3:1-8 (KJV)

Heartfelt Commentary

Psalm 3 is a powerful testament to God’s unwavering protection and the deep faith that King David had in His divine care. This psalm is traditionally believed to have been written by David during the time he fled from his son Absalom, who had rebelled against him. Despite the immense pressure and the numerous enemies surrounding him, David’s faith in God remains unshaken.

Verses 1-2: A Cry for Help

David begins by acknowledging the overwhelming number of adversaries rising against him. These enemies doubt God’s ability to save him, but David’s plea reflects his deep distress and yet his unwavering belief in God’s deliverance.

Supporting Scripture: “In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.” (Psalm 18:6)

Verses 3-4: God as Protector

David proclaims God as his shield, his glory, and the lifter of his head. Despite the circumstances, he has complete trust in God’s protection and sustenance. He cries out to the Lord, who answers him from His holy hill, signifying God’s readiness to hear and respond to His people.

Supporting Scripture: “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)

Verses 5-6: Peace Amidst Turmoil

David speaks of the peace he experiences even in the face of great danger. He is able to lie down and sleep, waking again because the Lord sustains him. His fearlessness in the face of overwhelming odds is a testament to his deep faith in God’s protection.

Supporting Scripture: “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:8)

Verses 7-8: Assurance of Salvation

David calls upon the Lord to arise and deliver him, expressing confidence in God’s ability to defeat his enemies. He ends the psalm with a declaration that salvation belongs to the Lord and a blessing upon His people.

Supporting Scripture: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Protection: Even in the face of overwhelming adversity, trusting in God’s protection can bring peace and confidence.
Persistent Prayer: Like David, we should continuously cry out to God, knowing that He hears and answers our prayers.
Fearlessness Through Faith: Faith in God’s ability to save us removes fear, no matter the circumstances.

Reflective Questions

How do I respond to overwhelming challenges in my life? Do I turn to God in prayer?
What are the “enemies” in my life that make me feel besieged? How can I trust God more to protect me against them?
In what ways can I experience and cultivate peace, even amidst turmoil?

Biblical Views Then and Now

In David’s time, the concept of God as a shield and protector was rooted in the tangible realities of battles and wars. Today, while the context may differ, the metaphor remains powerful. We face spiritual, emotional, and mental battles, and the assurance of God’s protection continues to offer profound comfort and strength.

Serving God with Love and Honor

Serving God means placing our complete trust in Him, just as David did. It means acknowledging His presence in our lives, seeking His guidance in times of trouble, and resting in the peace that only He can provide. Our service to God is not just in our actions, but also in our faith and reliance on Him.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for being our shield and protector. Help us to trust in You completely, even when we face overwhelming challenges. Lift our heads and sustain us with Your peace. Guide us to serve You with faith and love, and to find strength in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture to Ponder

“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

May this reflection on Psalm 3 deepen your faith and bring you closer to the heart of God, knowing that He is always with you, protecting and guiding you.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: You Are The Great Healer For All~

Posted on November 13, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Lamentations 3:13 (ESV):

“He drove into my kidneys the arrows of his quiver.”

Lamentations 3:13 is a vivid and painful metaphor reflecting the intense suffering and anguish experienced by the speaker, traditionally understood to be the prophet Jeremiah. This verse is part of a larger lament where Jeremiah expresses the depth of his affliction and the severity of God’s judgment upon him and his people.

Analysis and Insights

The imagery of arrows being driven into the kidneys conveys a profound sense of pain and devastation. In ancient times, the kidneys were often considered the seat of emotion and moral decision-making, much like the heart is regarded today. Thus, this verse underscores not just physical suffering but also emotional and spiritual torment. The “arrows of his quiver” signify deliberate and targeted acts of judgment, highlighting the personal nature of the suffering Jeremiah describes.

Supportive Scriptures

Job 6:4 (KJV): “For the arrows of the Almighty are within me, the poison whereof drinketh up my spirit: the terrors of God do set themselves in array against me.”

Psalm 38:2 (KJV): “For thine arrows stick fast in me, and thy hand presseth me sore.”

Both Job and the Psalmist use similar imagery to describe their afflictions. These references help to contextualize Jeremiah’s suffering within the broader biblical theme of experiencing God’s discipline and the feelings of being under divine scrutiny and judgment.

Moral Takeaways

Acknowledgment of Suffering: The candid expression of pain in this verse teaches us the importance of acknowledging our suffering. Pretending it doesn’t exist or suppressing it can lead to further emotional and spiritual damage.
Endurance and Faith: Despite the intense suffering, Jeremiah’s laments eventually shift to hope and faith in God’s mercy. This teaches us to hold on to faith even in the darkest times.
Divine Discipline: The verse also reflects the concept of divine discipline. It reminds us that suffering can be a form of correction and growth, and while it is painful, it ultimately leads to a deeper relationship with God.

Reflective Questions

How do I respond to suffering and pain in my own life?
In what ways can I acknowledge and express my pain to God, seeking His comfort and healing?
How can I maintain my faith and hope in God during times of intense suffering and hardship?
What lessons can I learn from Jeremiah’s lament about facing and processing deep anguish?
How does my understanding of divine discipline shape my perspective on suffering?

Purposeful Prayer

“LORD -We come before You with hearts burdened by the sorrows and sufferings we endure in this life. Just as Jeremiah expressed the depth of his pain, we too bring our afflictions before You. Grant us the strength to endure, the courage to acknowledge our pain, and the faith to trust in Your mercy and healing.

Help us to find hope and comfort in Your presence, even when we feel overwhelmed by suffering. Guide us to learn and grow from these experiences, drawing closer to You and relying on Your grace. May we find peace in knowing that You see our pain and are with us in every trial. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Psalm 147:3 (KJV): “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.”

Blessing for the Readers

May the Lord bless you with His comforting presence in times of suffering and sorrow. May you find strength, hope, and healing in Him, knowing that He is with you in every trial. Trust in His love and guidance, and let His peace fill your heart.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: I Live For YOU & You Live In Me~

Posted on October 30, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Christ Lives In Me Galatians 2:20 - Quotes

Commentary on Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

This verse encapsulates the essence of the Christian life—a profound transformation where the old self is crucified with Christ, and a new life begins with Him at the center. Paul’s declaration reveals a deep, personal identification with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He speaks of a radical shift from living for self to living by faith in the Son of God.

Heartfelt Christian Views: Then and Now

Then: In the early days of Christianity, this verse served as a revolutionary concept. The early Christians faced persecution and hardships, and Paul’s words encouraged them to find strength and identity in Christ. The idea of being crucified with Christ meant that their old lives, with all their sins and failures, were put to death. It was a call to live a new life empowered by the presence of Christ within them.

Now: Today, this verse continues to inspire Christians to live a life surrendered to Christ. In a world filled with distractions and temptations, Galatians 2:20 reminds us that our true identity and purpose are found in Christ. It calls us to let go of our ego and self-centeredness and to embrace a life of faith and devotion to Jesus. This transformation is not just a one-time event but a daily walk of faith, continually allowing Christ to live through us.

Moral Takeaways

Identity in Christ: Our identity is rooted in Christ, not in our achievements or failures. We are new creations in Him.

Self-Surrender: True Christian living involves surrendering our will and desires to Christ, allowing Him to guide our actions and decisions.

Faith in Action: Living by faith means trusting in Jesus’ love and sacrifice, letting His love motivate and direct our lives.

Reflective Questions
In what areas of my life do I need to surrender more fully to Christ?
How can I daily remind myself of my identity in Christ and live out that reality?
What actions can I take to demonstrate my faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me?

Supporting Scriptures (NKJV)

2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Romans 6:6: “Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.”

Philippians 1:21: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the transformative power of Your Word and the life-changing sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Help us to truly understand and embrace our identity in Him. May we live by faith, allowing Christ to live through us, guiding our thoughts, words, and actions. Strengthen us to surrender our lives to Your will and to trust in Your love and grace. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may reflect Your love to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder
John 15:5 (NKJV): “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

Blessing
May the presence of Christ fill your heart with peace and guide you in every step. Trust in His love and live each day for His glory –

God Bless You All~

Morning Prayer: Fri, 19 August – Proverbs 3:5-6; Galatians 2:19-20 ...

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Spirit In Your Believers~

Posted on October 29, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Holy Mass images...: HOLY SPIRIT

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (KJV)
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

These powerful verses, penned by the Apostle Paul, remind us of the profound truth that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit. This concept was revolutionary to the Corinthians, who lived in a society where the body was often misused and defiled. Paul emphasizes that as believers, we are not our own; we have been bought with a price—the precious blood of Jesus Christ. This truth calls us to live lives of holiness, honoring God with our bodies and spirits.

Meaning Then and Now
Then: In the first-century Corinthian context, these verses were a stark reminder of the need for sexual purity and respect for one’s body. Corinth was known for its immorality, and the concept of the body being a temple of the Holy Spirit was a radical shift in thinking. Paul wanted the Corinthians to understand that their bodies were not their own to misuse but were sacred, set apart for God’s purposes. They had been redeemed at a great cost, and this redemption called for a life that reflected God’s holiness.

Today: For Christians today, these verses continue to resonate deeply. In a world where the body is often objectified and misused, the call to honor our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit is a timely reminder. It challenges us to live with integrity, purity, and a sense of responsibility toward our bodies. Recognizing that we are bought with a price, we are urged to glorify God in all aspects of our lives—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Moral Takeaways
Holiness and Purity: Our bodies are sacred and should be treated with respect and purity, reflecting the holiness of God.

Stewardship: We are stewards of our bodies, called to care for them and use them in ways that honor God.

Identity in Christ: Our worth and identity come from being God’s temple, redeemed by the sacrifice of Jesus.

Reflective Questions
How can I honor God with my body and spirit in my daily life?

In what ways can I be a better steward of the body God has entrusted to me?

How does understanding that I am bought with a price change my perspective on my actions and decisions?

Supporting Scriptures (NKJV)
Romans 12:1 (NKJV): “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV): “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

1 Peter 1:18-19 (NKJV): “Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

Prayer
“LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Help us to honor our bodies as Your temples, living lives of holiness and purity. Remind us daily of the great price paid for our redemption and guide us to glorify You in all that we do. Strengthen our commitment to live as faithful stewards of the bodies and lives You have entrusted to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Blessing
May the Lord’s presence fill your heart with peace and His Spirit guide you in every step. Trust in His love and live each day honoring Him in body and spirit.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: I Wait, Trust & Love You Forever~

Posted on October 21, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Waiting for God’s Word and Good Tidings

Waiting is often one of the most challenging aspects of our faith journey. Yet, it is also one of the most profound opportunities to deepen our trust in God. As we wait for His word and good
tidings, we learn to place our hope and faith in His perfect timing and wisdom.

Trusting in God while we wait is not a passive activity; it is an active, intentional process of
seeking His presence and leaning on His promises.

It requires a heart that is steadfast and eyes fixed on Him, even when circumstances are uncertain.

During these times, we are called to draw near to God through prayer, meditation, and worship, finding strength and courage in His
unfailing love.

In the waiting, God is at work within us, refining our character and aligning our desires with His will. It is a time of preparation, where we are molded and shaped for the plans He has for us.
Trusting in God’s word means believing that His promises are true and that He will bring about
good in His perfect time.

The act of waiting also cultivates patience and perseverance. It teaches us to rely not on our own understanding but on God’s infinite wisdom. As we wait, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness
throughout Scripture, seeing how He has delivered His people time and again. This gives us
hope and assurance that He will do the same for us.

Reflective Questions

How can I actively seek God’s presence while I wait for His word and good tidings?
What areas of my life require deeper trust and surrender to God’s will?
How can I cultivate patience and perseverance during times of waiting?

Supporting Scriptures

Psalm 27:14 (ESV): “Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the LORD!”
- Encourages us to find strength and courage in the waiting, trusting in God’s timing.
Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): “But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they
shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
- Reminds us that waiting on the Lord renews our strength and gives us the endurance to persevere.
Lamentations 3:25 (ESV): “The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul
who seeks him.”
- Affirms that God is good to those who wait and seek Him earnestly.

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Timing: Believe in God’s perfect timing and trust that His plans are for
our good.
Seek His Presence: Actively seek God’s presence through prayer, meditation, and
worship during times of waiting.
Cultivate Patience: Embrace the waiting as a time to develop patience
and perseverance, knowing that God is at work within us.

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of hope and trust. As we wait for Your word and good tidings, help us to seek Your presence daily, finding strength and courage in Your promises. Grant us the patience and perseverance to wait on Your perfect timing, knowing that You are at work within us. Align our desires with Your will and mold us for the plans You have for us. Thank You for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Blessing

May your heart be filled with peace and assurance as you wait on the Lord. Trust in His perfect timing and may His word and good tidings bring you comfort and joy. May His presence guide you, and His love sustain you every step of the way.

Stay strong in your faith, and remember, God is with you in every moment.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: My Eyes Are Ever Toward You LORD!~

Posted on October 17, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Psalm 25:14-15 (ESV)

“The secret of the LORD is with those who fear him;
and he will show them his covenant. My eyes are ever toward the LORD,
for he will pluck my feet out of the
net.”

This verse speaks profoundly to the intimate relationship between the Lord and those who
revere Him. The “secret of the LORD” refers to the deep, personal revelations and understanding that God shares with those who earnestly seek Him. It emphasizes the idea that God reveals His heart, His plans, and His promises to those who walk in reverent awe of Him.

When I reflect on this, my heart is filled with gratitude and wonder. To think that the Almighty
God, the Creator of the universe, chooses to reveal His secrets to us is overwhelming. It speaks of His love and desire for a close, personal relationship with each of us. This Divine intimacy is
not given lightly but is a treasure for those who respect and honor Him.

The second part of the verse, “My eyes are ever toward the LORD, for he will pluck my feet out of the net,” speaks of our continual reliance on God. In our daily lives, we encounter countless nets traps and snares set by the enemy to entangle us. But when we fix our eyes on the Lord, He promises to rescue us. This divine protection is a testament to His mercy and mighty power.

God’s covenant is a binding promise, a testament of His unwavering commitment to us. When
we live in fear of the Lord, respecting and revering Him, we are in a position to receive His
guidance and revelation. This fear is not about being scared but about having a deep respect and acknowledgment of His majesty and authority. In return, He grants us wisdom and discernment, guiding us through life’s complexities.

Reflective Questions:

How often do I seek God’s guidance and revelations in my life?
Do I truly revere the Lord in my daily actions, reflecting a heart of worship and obedience?
In what ways has God shown His covenant and guidance to me recently?

Supporting Scriptures:

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own
understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
- Emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s guidance and trusting in His plans.
Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV): “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and
hidden things that you have not known.”
- Reaffirms that God reveals His secrets to those who earnestly seek Him.

Moral Takeaways:

Reverence for God: Develop a heart that truly reveres the Lord, reflecting respect and awe in our daily lives.
Constant Vigilance: Keep our eyes fixed on God, trusting in His guidance and protection.
Divine Revelation: Recognize the privilege of receiving God’s revelations and treasure
His covenant promises.

Powerful Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe of Your majesty and love. Thank You for revealing Your secrets and covenant to those who seek You with reverent hearts. Help us to keep our eyes
ever fixed on You, trusting in Your mighty power to rescue us from the snares of life. Fill us with Your wisdom and discernment, and guide us in all our ways. Thank You for being our refuge and strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder:

Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): “But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall
mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Blessing:

May the Lord’s mighty power and mercy be with you always. As you seek His guidance and
treasure His covenant, may your heart be filled with peace and your path made straight. Trust in His protection and wisdom, knowing that He is with you every step of the way.

God Bless You All~

“Mine eyes are ever toward the #Lord; for he shall pluck my feet out of ...

DEAR GOD: Your Word Is Sweet & Pure~

Posted on August 3, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Psalm 119:103 states, “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” This verse beautifully captures the essence of the Psalmist’s deep love and reverence for God’s Word. It is a vivid metaphor that compares the sweetness of God’s teachings to the most delightful substance known in ancient times—honey. It is a taste that is truly unique and such a treat to the senses. And that is only second to the ONE and Only Sweet – which is to say – the WORD of the LORD. It is satisfying and like none other, and so purely soothing to the soul.

Scriptural Support

The Bible frequently uses the imagery of sweetness to describe the Word of God. For instance, in Psalm 19:10, it is written, “They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb.” Similarly, Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” These verses reinforce the idea that God’s words are not only valuable but also bring joy and healing to those who embrace them. Those who indulge in this sweetness are able to be a reflective light of that sweetness. What you ingest and digest is pivotal to the outcome in which you are – and ingesting and digesting the WORD is fundamentally who we are, and all we do.

Moral Takeaways

Value of God’s Word: Just as honey is cherished for its sweetness, we should cherish God’s Word for its wisdom and guidance.
Spiritual Nourishment: Just as honey provides physical nourishment, God’s Word provides spiritual nourishment, strengthening our faith and guiding our actions.
Joy and Delight: Embracing God’s teachings brings joy and delight to our lives, much like the taste of honey brings pleasure to our palate.

Meditative Thoughts

Reflect on the times when God’s Word has brought comfort and guidance to your life. How did it feel to receive that divine wisdom?
Consider the ways in which you can make God’s Word a more integral part of your daily routine. How can you savor its sweetness more fully?
Meditate on the transformative power of God’s Word. How has it changed your perspective, actions, and relationships?

Story Inspired by Psalm 119:103

In a small village nestled among rolling hills, lived a young girl named Eliana. Every morning, she would visit the village beekeeper, Mr. Amos, to taste the fresh honey he harvested. The sweetness of the honey was a daily delight that Eliana cherished.

One day, Mr. Amos noticed Eliana’s joy and asked, “Why do you love honey so much, Eliana?”

She replied, “It makes me happy and gives me energy for the day.”

Mr. Amos smiled and handed her a small, worn-out book. “This is the Bible,” he said. “Its words are sweeter than honey and will nourish your soul.”

Curious, Eliana began to read the Bible each day. She found stories of love, wisdom, and hope. The more she read, the more she felt a deep sense of peace and joy, much like the sweetness of honey.

Years passed, and Eliana grew into a wise and compassionate woman. She often shared the Bible’s teachings with others, spreading the sweetness of God’s Word throughout the village. Just as honey had nourished her body, God’s Word had nourished her soul, guiding her through life’s challenges and joys.

Unified Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the sweetness of Your Word, which nourishes our souls and brings joy to our hearts. Help us to cherish Your teachings and make them an integral part of our lives. May Your Word guide us, comfort us, and transform us into vessels of Your love and wisdom. As we meditate on Your promises, fill us with peace and strength to face each day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thoughts for the Day

Morning Reflection: Begin your day by reading a verse from the Bible. Let its sweetness fill your heart and guide your actions.
Midday Meditation: Take a moment to reflect on how God’s Word has impacted your life. How can you share its sweetness with others?
Evening Gratitude: Before you sleep, thank God for the guidance and comfort His Word has provided throughout the day.

May the sweetness of God’s Word be a constant source of joy and strength in your life…

Psalm 119:103 How sweet are Your words to my taste!Yes, sweeter than ...

DEAR GOD: You Say It All & You Are My All~

Posted on December 28, 2023 by C D SWANSON

Pin by Loloww Lori on BIBLE | Peace meaning, Peace, Bible

Jeremiah 33:6 (NLT)-

Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security.

In the midst of darkness, death, and despair, the love of God is like a guiding light, leading His people to safety. This is the spirit and message of Jeremiah 33:6. The prophet received a vision from God foretelling the death, destruction, and devastation that would fall on the city.

It is important to remember that God’s love and mercy can guide us through even the most difficult times. God is with us, even when we have difficulty “hearing” at times. It’s a matter of seeking Him and taking the time to meditate and think, “what would You have me do LORD? – What is it I am supposed to be doing at this time? – How can I apply Your Word to my situation at this very moment in time?” When we delve into His Word, and ask for guidance and His wisdom, He will respond in kind.

It may not be instantaneous, but He will provide the answers and direction according to His timetable, not ours. So, patience is an important component and aspect to finding answers.

Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

He will never disappoint, and He is why we live and breathe. He is giving us a commandment to “be strong and of good courage” in Deuteronomy 31:6, and that should be good enough for us, HIS WORD, and His promise. We are never alone!

Psalms 23:4 – Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

No matter the circumstances we never walk alone. Perhaps the most memorable example was in the book of Daniel concerning the three Hebrew children that were thrown into the furnace (Daniel 3:16-28). The LORD walked with them and protected them, when they exited the fires, not even one hair on them was singed, and their clothing was intact! Amen!

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.

God continuously throughout His Holy Bible tells us and commands us not to fear, that He is with us, and He will strengthen us, and will uphold us. How can we possibly do otherwise? If our God is telling us to be courageous, have no fear and we need to realize that He is always nearby.

Zephaniah 3:17 – The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

God’s love for us is unapparelled and surpasses anything and anyone in the Universe (that He Created) and knowing that He loves us that much (John 3:16) is the best gift of all. And along with that gift should be a strong reassurance and comfort for His children.

His Word is truth.
His Love is real.
His ways are perfect.

When you are in need of company, He is there. When you are in need of a shoulder to lean on, He is there. When you are in need of comfort, He is there. When you are in need of guidance, He is there. When you are in need of help, He is there. When you are in need of love, He is there…

Do you have Him in Your life? Do you seek Him in all you do? If not, what are you waiting for?

A life with our LORD and Savior is the only life worth living!

“Father, thank You for Your promises, love, and guidance and all You do and say, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: LOVE & THANKS FOR YOUR HELP~

Posted on December 5, 2023 by C D SWANSON

Praise ye the LORD, and keep His way, and He shall exhalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it. (Psalm 112:1 KJV)

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And, if children, then heirs; heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:16-17 KJV)

I realize that God is with us through all kinds of scenarios and have discovered that to be true too numerous to count and today I had a moment where I was exceedingly frustrated. My computer wasn’t recognizing my password and therefore wasn’t allowing me to get in. After several attempts “login failed…password unknown” I took a deep breath. I shut down and tried to get by safe mode and go into recovery, but my keyboard wasn’t allowing me to choose! This went on for about an hour. I asked God for help, and His wisdom. I called a “geek” squad, and they told me to bring in the computer and for about one hundred dollars they’d try to recover and make an attempt to get in. However, if that failed, they’d have to install windows from scratch, and I’d lose all of my info. I knew that myself-that is why I wanted to see if there was a way to get in without the process of reinstalling a new window.

Anyhow, to make a long story short, I remembered I had another keyboard in my garage. I went to retrieve it, connected the old keyboard, shut down the computer and lo and behold, I was able to choose safe mode and go into recovery default!!! Hallelujah, and praise GOD! He helped me again.

I felt His presence with me the entire time very strongly in fact. It was His wisdom that led me to all of the circumstances to figure this out. And behold, it was done. So, Thank You God for fixing my computer!

Which brings me to the message for this post, “no matter the circumstances, God is with us.” He is with us and will never desert us. No matter how big or how small. Nothing is too big or too small for our God.

“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9 KJV)

The significance of His Spirit and His wisdom is what keeps us “going” in all that we undertake and oversee on a daily basis. We should never believe “we do it on our own”–He empowers us with His presence from within and guides us through all aspects thereof.

So thank You Lord for once again being there…how absolutely amazing You are! I love you so much.

Computer giving you trouble? –No problem, call God, after all who do you think taught that computer geek?

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And, if children, then heirs; heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:16-17 KJV)

“Father, thank You for all You are and do, and thank You for Your guidance and strength, and Your wisdom and love that pours over me like a warm soothing balm, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”