DEAR GOD: I Walk In Your Light -Darkness No More~

Posted on September 9, 2024 by C D SWANSON

John 8:12 (NLT)

“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”

This verse is a profound declaration by Jesus, emphasizing His role as the Spiritual light that guides humanity out of darkness. The imagery of light and darkness is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing the contrast between good and evil, truth and falsehood, life and death.

Jesus, as the light of the world, offers clarity, direction, and hope to those who choose to follow Him.

Supportive Scriptures:

Psalm 27:1 (NLT): “The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?”

1 John 1:5 (NLT): “This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.”

Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT): “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

Moral Thoughts:

The moral implications of this verse are profound. By declaring Himself as the light of the world, Jesus invites us to live in truth and righteousness. Following Jesus means rejecting the darkness of sin and embracing a life of integrity, compassion, and love. It is a call to be a tower of hope and goodness in a world that often feels overshadowed by despair and evil, and continuous chaos.

Meditative Thoughts:

As we meditate on this verse, we can reflect on the ways Jesus has illuminated our own lives. How has His light guided us through difficult times? How has it revealed truths about ourselves and the world around us? Meditating on Jesus as the light of the world can bring a sense of peace and assurance, knowing that we are never alone in our journey.

Reflective Questions:

In what areas of my life do I need the light of Jesus to shine more brightly?
How can I be a light to others, reflecting the love and truth of Jesus in my daily interactions?
What steps can I take to ensure that I am walking in the light and not in darkness?

Heartfelt Love for the Lord:

Our love for the Lord is deepened by recognizing His unwavering love for us. Jesus, the light of the world, willingly entered our darkness to bring us into His marvelous light. His love is sacrificial, pure, and eternal. As we grow in our relationship with Him, our hearts overflow with gratitude and love for the One who has redeemed us.

Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the light of the world, to guide us out of darkness and into Your glorious light. Help us to follow Him faithfully, allowing His light to transform our lives and shine through us to others. May we be beacons of hope, love, and truth in a world that desperately needs Your light. Strengthen our hearts and deepen our love for You each day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day:

Psalm 119:105 (NLT): “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”

May this verse remind you of the guiding light of God’s word in your life today, God Bless you~

Walking in the Light - Fellowship - Cornerstone Community Church

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Never Leaving Me~

Posted on September 5, 2024 by C D SWANSON

“…and lo, I will never leave you, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:20

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus delivers a powerful message to His disciples, known as the Great Commission. This passage encapsulates His divine authority, His command to spread the Gospel, and His enduring presence with His followers. Let’s delve into the profound implications of this passage, supported by other scriptures, meditative thoughts, moral takeaways, reflective questions, and a closing prayer.

Divine Authority

Jesus begins by asserting His authority: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” This declaration is a reminder of His Sovereignty over all creation. It echoes the words of Daniel 7:14, where it is prophesied that the Son of Man will have dominion over all nations. Jesus’ authority is not limited to the spiritual realm but extends to every aspect of existence.

The Call to Evangelize

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” This command is a call to action for all believers. It emphasizes the importance of spreading the Gospel to every corner of the world. Acts 1:8 reinforces this mission: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

Teaching and Discipleship

Jesus instructs His followers to teach others to observe His commandments. This aspect of the Great Commission highlights the importance of discipleship. It is not enough to simply share the Gospel; we must also nurture and guide new believers in their faith. 2 Timothy 2:2 encourages this practice: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”

The Promise of His Presence

“And, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Jesus’ promise of His continual presence is a source of comfort and strength for believers. Hebrews 13:5 echoes this assurance: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” No matter the challenges we face, we can trust that Jesus is with us, guiding and supporting us.

Meditative Thoughts

Reflect on the authority of Jesus and what it means for your life.
Consider the global mission of the Church and your role in it.
Contemplate the importance of teaching and nurturing new believers.
Find comfort in the promise of Jesus’ presence in your daily life.

Moral Takeaways

Obedience: Follow Jesus’ command to spread the Gospel and make disciples.
Faithfulness: Trust in Jesus’ authority and His promise to be with you always.
Commitment: Dedicate yourself to teaching and guiding others in their faith journey.
Courage: Be bold in sharing the Gospel, knowing that Jesus is with you.

Reflective Questions

How can I actively participate in the Great Commission in my community?
What steps can I take to deepen my understanding of Jesus’ teachings?
How can I support and mentor new believers in their faith?
In what ways can I remind myself of Jesus’ presence in my daily life?

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the authority and power given to Jesus, our Savior. Help us to embrace the Great Commission with courage and dedication. Guide us as we share the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. Strengthen our faith and remind us of Your constant Presence in our lives. May we be faithful in teaching and nurturing others and may Your love shine through us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture for the Day

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” –

Joshua 1:9

#great-things on Tumblr

DEAR GOD: Hope Everlasting In Your Promises And Word~

Posted on September 3, 2024 by C D SWANSON

God’s Hope and Everlasting Word

In a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, the hope and everlasting word of God stand as a beacon of light and assurance. God’s love for His children is unwavering, and His promises are eternal. Through His word, we find guidance, comfort, and the promise of salvation. This essay explores the profound hope found in God’s word, His enduring love, and the light and salvation He offers to all who believe.

God’s Love for His Children

God’s love for His children is a central theme throughout the Bible. In John 3:16, we read, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse encapsulates the depth of God’s love, a love so profound that He sacrificed His only Son for our salvation. God’s love is not conditional; it is a steadfast and unchanging love that embraces us in our moments of joy and sorrow.

God’s Promises That Never End

The promises of God are a source of hope and strength. In Jeremiah 29:11, God declares, “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.” This promise reassures us that God has a purpose for our lives, and His plans are for our good. God’s promises are not fleeting; they are eternal and trustworthy. In Isaiah 40:8, we are reminded, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

God’s Light and Salvation

God’s word is a light that guides us through the darkest times. In Psalm 119:105, it is written, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God’s word illuminates our path, providing direction and clarity. Through His word, we find the promise of salvation. In Romans 10:9, we are assured, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” This promise of salvation is a testament to God’s grace and mercy.

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Love: God’s love is unwavering and unconditional. Trust in His love, knowing that He cares for you deeply.
Hold on to God’s Promises: God’s promises are eternal and trustworthy. Hold on to them, especially in times of uncertainty.
Seek God’s Light: Let God’s word guide you. In moments of darkness, seek His light and find comfort in His guidance.

Reflective Questions

How have you experienced God’s love in your life?
What promises of God have given you hope and strength?
How can you let God’s word be a light in your daily walk?

Meditative Thoughts

Take a moment to meditate on Psalm 23:1-3: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” Reflect on how God provides, leads, and restores you.

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unwavering love and eternal promises. In times of uncertainty, help us to trust in Your word and find hope in Your promises. Guide us with Your light and lead us on the path of righteousness. May we always remember Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thoughts to Ponder

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105. How can you let God’s word illuminate your path today?

May this post bring you comfort and encouragement, reminding you of God’s everlasting love and the hope found exclusively in His Holy Word…

God’s Everlasting Word!

DEAR GOD: Pastures & Sheep In Your Meadow LORD~

Posted on August 31, 2024 by C D SWANSON

“O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today if ye will hear his voice.” – Psalm 95:6-7

Psalm 95:6-7 is a beautiful invitation to worship and recognize our relationship with God. It calls us to humble ourselves before our Creator, acknowledging His sovereignty and our dependence on Him. This passage is a reminder of the intimate and caring relationship we have with God, who is not only our Creator but also our Shepherd.

Heartfelt Thoughts

When we read, “O come, let us worship and bow down,” we are reminded of the importance of humility in our relationship with God. Worship is not just about singing songs or attending church services; it is about recognizing God’s greatness and our need for Him. Bowing down signifies our submission to His will and our reverence for His majesty.

The phrase “let us kneel before the Lord our maker” emphasizes the act of physically and spiritually humbling ourselves before God. Kneeling is a posture of surrender and devotion, symbolizing our acknowledgment of God’s authority over our lives.

“For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand” speaks to the personal and caring nature of God. As our Shepherd, He guides, protects, and provides for us. This imagery of being the sheep of His hand highlights our dependence on Him for sustenance and direction.

“Today if ye will hear his voice” is a call to attentiveness and obedience. It reminds us that God is always speaking to us, but we must be willing to listen and respond to His guidance.

Supportive Scriptures

John 10:27-28: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
Isaiah 40:11: “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.”
Psalm 23:1-3: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

Moral Thoughts

This passage encourages us to live a life of humility, recognizing our need for God’s guidance and provision. It calls us to be attentive to His voice and to follow His leading. In a world that often values self-sufficiency and independence, Psalm 95:6-7 reminds us of the importance of relying on God and submitting to His will.

Meditative Thoughts

As we meditate on this passage, let us consider the ways in which we can humble ourselves before God in our daily lives. How can we make worship a central part of our relationship with Him? How can we be more attentive to His voice and responsive to His guidance?

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life do I need to humble myself before God?
How can I make worship a more integral part of my daily routine?
Am I truly listening for God’s voice, and how can I be more attentive to His guidance?

Prayer

“Dear LORD, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. We bow down and kneel before You, acknowledging You as our Creator and Shepherd. Thank You for Your constant guidance, protection, and provision. Help us to humble ourselves before You and to be attentive to Your voice. May we live our lives in a way that honors You and reflects Your love to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thought for the Day

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1

May this verse remind us of God’s constant care and provisions, and may we find peace and comfort in His loving Presence, and follow Him always~

Jesus Christ with lamb svg, shepherd with sheep clipart, png, dxf By ...

DEAR GOD: You Are My Sovereign Omnipotent LORD~

Posted on August 27, 2024 by C D SWANSON

What is God’s omnipotence? – ouestny.com

Deuteronomy 32:39 – “See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand,” is a powerful declaration of God’s sovereignty and omnipotence. This verse, spoken by Moses, emphasizes the unique and unparalleled nature of God. In today’s world, this verse holds significant relevance as it speaks to the core of Christian faith and moral values.

Christianity Today

In contemporary Christianity, this verse serves as a reminder of God’s ultimate authority and control over all aspects of life. It reassures believers that God is the supreme being who governs life and death, healing and suffering. This understanding fosters a sense of trust and reliance on God, especially in times of uncertainty and hardship. In a world where people often seek control and certainty, this verse calls Christians to surrender to God’s will and trust in His divine plan.

Moral Views and Thoughts

From a moral perspective, this verse challenges believers to reflect on the nature of life and death, suffering and healing. It encourages Christians to recognize that these experiences are within God’s domain and that He has a purpose for everything. This understanding can lead to a more compassionate and empathetic approach to others’ suffering, knowing that it is part of a larger divine plan. It also calls for humility, as humans are reminded of their limitations and the need to rely on God’s wisdom and guidance.

Meditative Takeaways

Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Reflect on the assurance that God is in control of all aspects of life. This can bring peace and comfort in times of uncertainty.
Embrace Humility: Recognize human limitations and the need to rely on God’s wisdom and guidance.
Compassion and Empathy: Understand that suffering and healing are part of God’s plan, leading to a more compassionate approach to others’ struggles.
Surrender to God’s Will: Let go of the need for control and trust in God’s divine plan for your life.

Reflective Questions

How does understanding God’s sovereignty impact your daily life and decisions?
In what ways can you practice humility and reliance on God in your current circumstances?
How can you show compassion and empathy to those who are suffering, knowing that it is part of God’s plan?
What areas of your life do you need to surrender to God’s will and trust in His divine plan?

Colossians 1:16: “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”
Psalm 115:3: “Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.”
Romans 11:33: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!”
Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.”
Job 42:2: “I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee.”
Isaiah 61:1: “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.”
Ephesians 1:4-6: “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.”

Closing Prayer

“Dear LORD – we come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging Your supreme authority over all creation. We thank You for the assurance that You are in control of life and death, healing and suffering. Help us to trust in Your divine plan and surrender our need for control. Grant us the wisdom to rely on Your guidance and the compassion to support those who are suffering. May we always remember that You are with us, and there is no one who can deliver us from Your hand. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

May we all reflect upon the LORD and His Word and His mighty Omnipotence and Magnificence in this Universe. Blessings to you all…

Good scriptures, Omnipotent, Verses

DEAR GOD: I Find Joy In Your Presence~

Posted on August 2, 2024 by C D SWANSON

The Path of Life: Finding Joy in God’s Presence

Introduction

Psalm 16:10-11 (ESV) states, “For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” These verses offer profound insights into the nature of God’s guidance and the joy that comes from being in His presence. They remind us that even in the face of life’s challenges, we can find hope and fulfillment through our faith.

Supportive Scriptures

The theme of God’s unwavering presence and guidance is echoed throughout the Bible. In Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV), we are encouraged to “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.” This scripture reinforces the idea that when we place our trust in God, He will lead us on the right path.

Similarly, in John 14:6 (ESV), Jesus declares, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This verse underscores the importance of following Jesus as the ultimate guide to a fulfilling and eternal life.

Moral Thoughts

The path of life that God reveals to us is not always easy, but it is filled with purpose and meaning. When we align our lives with His will, we experience a deep sense of joy and contentment that transcends our circumstances. This joy is not dependent on external factors but is rooted in the assurance of God’s presence and love.

Moreover, the promise of eternal pleasures at God’s right hand reminds us that our ultimate reward is not in this world but in the life to come. This perspective helps us to endure hardships with hope and perseverance, knowing that our faithfulness will be rewarded.

Takeaways

Trust in God’s Guidance: Even when the path seems uncertain, trust that God is leading you towards a greater purpose. His plans for you are filled with hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
Find Joy in His Presence: True joy comes from being in God’s presence. Spend time in prayer, worship, and reading His Word to cultivate a deeper relationship with Him.
Live with Eternal Perspective: Remember that our time on earth is temporary. Focus on living a life that honors God and looks forward to the eternal pleasures He has promised.
Persevere Through Challenges: Life’s difficulties are opportunities to grow in faith and character. Trust that God is with you every step of the way, providing strength and comfort.

Prayer and Meditative Thoughts

“Dear LORD, we thank You for the assurance of Your Presence and the promise of eternal joy. Help us to trust in Your guidance and to find our deepest joy in You. Strengthen our faith as we navigate the challenges of life and remind us of the eternal pleasures that await us in Your Presence, we trust You and we know that You are always with us, guiding us towards a life filled with purpose, and Your will and eternal joy, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

______________________________________________

Psalm 16:10-11 offers a powerful reminder of the joy and fulfillment that come from following God’s path. By trusting in His guidance, finding joy in His presence, and living with an eternal perspective, we can navigate life’s challenges with hope and confidence. Let us embrace these truths and strive to live a life that reflects the joy and peace found in God’s presence.

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: Keep Me From Evil & Temptations~

Posted on April 9, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Jesus’ Temptations in the Desert: A Modern Reflection

The narrative of Jesus’ temptations in the desert, as recounted in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, presents a profound examination of human vulnerability and divine faithfulness. This story, while ancient, speaks volumes to our contemporary struggles with temptation and the pursuit of integrity.

The Wilderness Experience

After fasting for forty days and nights, Jesus was physically weakened and vulnerable, an embodiment of human frailty. It was in this state that the devil approached Him, presenting three temptations: to turn stones into bread, to throw Himself from the temple’s pinnacle, and to worship Satan in exchange for the kingdoms of the world (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13). These temptations were not merely tests of Jesus’ resolve but were profound challenges to His identity and mission.

The Relevance Today

The temptations Jesus faced in the desert are emblematic of the choices we confront daily. The temptation to turn stones into bread represents our struggle with materialism and the desire to satisfy our immediate needs and wants, often at the expense of our spiritual well-being. The temptation to throw Himself from the temple reflects our yearning for recognition and the lure of testing God’s promises. The final temptation, to gain worldly power, symbolizes the seductive appeal of authority and control, which can lead us away from serving God’s purpose.

Scripture as Support

Jesus’ responses to the devil’s temptations were rooted in scripture, demonstrating the power of God’s Word in overcoming challenges. He countered each temptation with passages from Deuteronomy, affirming His reliance on God and His commitment to His mission (Deuteronomy 8:3; 6:16; 6:13)

Questions for Reflection

How do the temptations Jesus faced in the desert mirror the challenges we encounter in our lives?
In what ways can scripture guide us when we face our own wilderness experiences?
How can we cultivate a reliance on God’s Word to strengthen us against the allure of immediate gratification, recognition, and power?

“Dear Lord, in our moments of temptation and trial, remind us of Your steadfast presence. Grant us the wisdom to discern the transient from the eternal and the courage to choose the path of righteousness. May Your Word be a lamp unto our feet, guiding us through all the deserts of our lives. Amen.”

May this post invite you to contemplate the enduring relevance of Jesus’ temptations and encourage us to seek solace and strength in the scriptures, just as He did.

Dear GOD: I Give All To You~

Posted on December 12, 2023 by C D SWANSON

We can turn to God in prayers for peace whenever overwhelmed by the chaos and difficulty of life. As Philippians 4:6 tells us,

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

When we look to God and turn to Him in earnest and seek Him daily in all that we do, we can be assured that we will be able to live life with purpose and meaning. When we acknowledge Him as a constant source and the empirical force in our lives, we are able to navigate life seemingly with an ease that those without God in their lives cannot be capable of doing. We as followers are given opportunities to delve into His mind by His Word that will enlighten our paths, by giving us the Wisdom we need in order to gain perspective on any of life’s challenging highways along the way.

Finding time to sit and meditate and operate on a godly outlet will enable us to fully engage His positive Light and love that will be a reflection in all we do. It will be a sign to all we encounter in our lives. We will be a representative and a willing servant for the LORD to all around us. We may often hear along the way, “How do you find the answers? How do you stay so calm? How can you be so sure?” And the response each and every time will be a resounding, “GOD.”

The Bible is a tool for life. It is a guide to understanding life. It is an impactful statement, and it is His love letter to us, His children. Showing all sides of life. The good. The bad. The ugly. The beautiful. The bloody battles. The consummate peace. The light. The dark. All of it as it was then, and as it is today, a guide for what to do. What to expect if you don’t do it. And what happens when you do according to His will.

Have you read a chapter today? Have you read the Bible at all? Do you know His voice? He is here today as He was then, and always will be. Go to Him, open His book that was written for us, and tell Him how much you love Him. After all, He sent His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to redeem us, isn’t that one of the biggest reasons to open your Bible? (John 3:16)

“Father, thank You for Your love, Your peace, Your Word, Your will, and Your Presence in my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: YOUR LOVE IS REFRESHING~

Posted on November 30, 2023 by C D SWANSON

I will refresh those who are weary and will satisfy with food everyone who is weak from hunger.
Jeremiah 31:25 (GNT)

Turn at my rebuke; Surely I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.
Proverbs 1:23 (KJV)

His love is reviving and refreshing and is a banquet of joy in and of itself. And it’s fully satisfying having knowledge of such things in our hearts. When a soul realized the depths of His love and realizes His pardoning grace and providence in our lives, it is well within and without in all we do.

With Christ, there is an abundance of life. He offers us unmerited favor and grace in His love and sacrifice, which provided our salvation, as we can rest in Him, with peace, joy and hope.

Our day-to-day struggles may vary, and like the tides, invariably will ebb and flow, and so it goes. But Christ’s love is ever steady. A powerful presence in our life. His resurrection an ever-constant reminder of the promise of eternal rewards, and our redemption in which He gave willingly on the cross.

The battle of good versus evil has been going on since the beginning of time, and rages on this very moment all across the world. But rest easy in Christ, take His yoke because it is easy and light. Shake off the yoke of the “world” as it is treacherous, suffocating, and hard.

When we rest in Christ and follow His footsteps of love we are qualifying for a higher promotion in our spiritual growth and depositing dividends into our eternal rewards.

Have you made a deposit today in His name?

“Father God, thank You for Your love that is never ending, and love which is ever faithful, may I praise You in all I do, this day and always, in Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”