DEAR GOD: You Are With Me All The Seasons Of My Life~

Posted on May 28, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” –Romans 12:15

When I see this verse from Romans 12:15- immediately the LORD comes to mind. He is the One that rejoices with us, and weeps with us as we go through life. He is the consummate Friend and Protector, and our Almighty Abba Father. And the One who is there for every single second of our lives here on earth, and if we are faithful servants and followers – He will be there when we join Him in Eternity.

Life is a series of ups and downs. A virtual collection of gains and losses. We have good times, and good seasons. Ostensibly, we have bad times, and bad seasons.

We can gather great gains. We can suffer great losses. And in all honestly and reality, we wouldn’t be living if these things didn’t occur. Because LIFE happens to be constantly changing, it doesn’t remain stagnant. If it did – then something is amiss. Because as the water flows, so does life. It swirls, it babbles, it creates waves, it can be placid. So, too are our patterns in life. It is ever moving-ever changing-ever flowing!

If we are fortunate, we get to see many different aspects of life. Including major milestones! Our first birthday! Our sweet 16! Entering adulthood – 21st birthday a major one for me! Then, if we are blessed- marriage, children – careers. And each decade after that, we are in celebration of our life- thanks to the One who made it all possible.

When I lost my dad – 26 years ago. I literally had trouble breathing, I felt like I was suffocating. Like I was moving in slow motion. Like a living nightmare I was unable to awaken from. But – with my siblings, and my beautiful beloved mom, family and friends – I got through the tragic and untimely death of my dad. But the ONE that held me up, the entire time? You got it and guessed it correctly – the LORD!

And He, my LORD wept along with me. He reminded me that I would see my dad again, and that my dad was with Him in heaven. And it brough great relief and comfort to my soul. His Words, His promises, and His Presence all provided soothing balm for my aching broken heart. And anyone who suffered the loss of a parent(s) or a loved one in general – can all relate to that feeling of anguish.

When my mom passed away on another one of my “milestone birthdays” – I was unable to breathe once again…and yet again -the LORD gave me breath from His heart and His love – and got me through it. I recognized mom going home to heaven on my birthday as a gift. She had “delivered me” that very day (all those years ago!) and the LORD “delivered her” back home to His arms. So, consequently I’ve come to think of it as a blessing and a gift from the LORD.

So – the verse I started this post with from Romans – is vital to our existence as Christians. Because when you meditate upon it, you will understand and feel the significance of those very words. Throughout our lifetime, there will always be moments we share with family, friends, colleagues, that all together comprise many components of humanity. That is to say -sadness, happiness, gains, losses, and seasons of joy, and seasons of happiness. And at times, season of stillness. The critically important thing in all of these moments is to remember, that our LORD is with us through it all! And that is what matters. Because with HIM we can survive and go on.

When we cling to Him and hold His hand as He guides us throughout our lifetime and aspire to do all according to His will and purpose in our lives, we will be able to LIVE a LIFE worth LIVING!

Yes!

“Father, God -thank You for holding our hand through it all – good times and bad, we love You always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

^“…teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Matthew 28:20 (NKJV)

DEAR GOD: May I Always Journey With You & For You~

Posted on February 13, 2025 by C D SWANSON

The Journey of Being a Good Christian

Opening Scripture: “And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” —Matthew 22:37-39 (ESV)

The Upside of Being a Good Christian

Being a good Christian brings an abundance of joy and fulfillment. The knowledge that we are loved unconditionally by God and that we are part of His eternal plan provides a sense of peace and purpose that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). We find joy in serving others, knowing that our actions reflect the love of Christ (Galatians 5:13). The fellowship we share with other believers strengthens our faith and creates a supportive community that uplifts us in times of need (Hebrews 10:24-25).

The Challenging Sides

However, the Christian Walk is not without its challenges. Jesus warned us that we would face trials and tribulations in this world (John 16:33). Standing firm in our faith often requires us to go against the grain of society and face opposition or ridicule. The commitment to live a life that honors God can be difficult, especially when we are tempted by worldly desires (1 John 2:15-17). Yet, it is in these moments of struggle that our faith is refined and strengthened.

The Frustrating Sides

Frustration can arise when we see the brokenness of the world and the suffering of those without faith. We may feel helpless as we witness injustice, pain, and the rejection of God’s truth. It’s disheartening to see others searching for meaning and purpose in all the wrong places, unaware of the hope and salvation found in Christ (Romans 1:21-23). In these times, we must remember to lean on God’s strength and trust in His sovereign plan.

The Struggles and Difficulties Facing Those with No Belief

For those without belief, the journey can be even more daunting. Life can feel directionless, and the weight of the world’s troubles can be overwhelming without the anchor of faith. The search for identity and purpose often leads to disappointment and disillusionment. As Christians, we are called to be a light in the darkness, offering hope and guidance to those who are lost (Matthew 5:14-16).

Conducting Ourselves with Grace and Love

Through it all, we must conduct ourselves with grace and love, embodying the teachings of Christ. We are called to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). By displaying the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—we can make a positive impact on the world around us (Galatians 5:22-23).

A Small Poem

In the light of His love, we stand,
Guided by His gentle hand.
Through trials and joy, we find our way,
with faith and hope, we kneel and pray.

Closing Scripture

“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” —Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

Prayer

“LORD-Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible gift of Your love and grace. Help us to live each day as good Christians, reflecting Your love in all that we do. Strengthen us in times of challenge and frustration and guide us to be a beacon of hope for those who are lost. May we always conduct ourselves with grace, embodying the teachings of Christ. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

God Bless You All~

Journey to Faith - KCM Europe

DEAR GOD: The Resilient and Truthful Nature of Love – Which is You LORD!

Posted on February 12, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” -1 Corinthians 13: 6-7

In these verses, the Apostle Paul provides a profound and timeless insight into the nature of true Christian love. This passage is part of the famous “Love Chapter,” which delineates the characteristics of love in its purest form.

Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; True love finds no pleasure in unrighteousness or injustice. It does not delight in the downfall or moral failures of others but celebrates the triumph of truth. In a world often filled with deception and malice, Christian love stands as a beacon of integrity, rejoicing in honesty, transparency, and righteousness.

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Here, Paul emphasizes the resilient and unwavering nature of love. Love “beareth all things,” meaning it is willing to endure hardships and challenges. It “believeth all things,” which speaks to the trust and faith that love instills, always giving the benefit of the doubt. “Hopeth all things” points to love’s optimistic and forward-looking nature, always anticipating good and remaining positive. Lastly, love “endureth all things,” showcasing its strength and perseverance even in the face of trials.

Reflective Questions:

How can we actively ensure that our love for others is grounded in truth and not in unrighteousness?
In what ways can we demonstrate a love that bears, believes, hopes, and endures through the challenges of everyday life?
How do these attributes of love challenge our current understanding and practice of love within our relationships?

Moral Thoughts and Christian Beliefs: As followers of Christ, we are called to embody this selfless and resilient love in our daily interactions. Our love must mirror the love of Christ, who bore our sins, believed in our redemption, hoped for our salvation, and endured the cross for our sake. This passage calls us to a higher standard of love—one that is not fleeting or conditional but is steadfast and eternal.

Prayer:

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your unfailing love, as demonstrated through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to embody the love described in 1 Corinthians 13:6-7. Guide us to rejoice in the truth and to love others selflessly and with enduring faith. May our love reflect Your divine nature, bearing all things, believing all things, hoping all things, and enduring all things. Strengthen our hearts to love as You love, bringing light and hope to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We’re Keeping YOU as Our Ultimate Champion!”

Posted on February 8, 2025 by C D SWANSON

God in Everything

The Super Bowl and Our Love of Sports: A Personal Reflection

As the Super Bowl approaches, the nation gears up for one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year. Fans don their team colors, prepare lavish spreads, and gather with friends and family to cheer on their favorite teams. The excitement is palpable, and the devotion to the game and its players is awe-inspiring.

There’s something uniquely compelling about the world of sports. It unites people across cultures and backgrounds, providing a common ground where differences melt away. Athletes become heroes, their feats of strength and skill leaving us in awe. The Super Bowl, in particular, has grown into more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon, an event that captures the collective attention of millions.

However, amidst this fervor, it’s essential to reflect on the place sports occupy in our lives. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying sports and celebrating the achievements of athletes. Yet, it becomes a problem when these passions overshadow our devotion to God and when the game and its stars are placed above our Creator in our hearts.

Imagine if we channeled just a tenth of the passion we have for sports into our spiritual lives. Imagine if the energy spent memorizing player stats was instead dedicated to studying the Word. Our souls would thrive, and our relationship with God would deepen.

The Bible reminds us of the importance of keeping God first in our lives. In Matthew 6:33 (KJV), we are told, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” This verse highlights the need to prioritize our spiritual journey above all else.

Another scripture that speaks to this balance is 1 Timothy 4:8 (KJV), which says, “For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” While physical pursuits have their place, it is our pursuit of godliness that holds eternal value.

As we cheer for our favorite teams and revel in the excitement of the Super Bowl, let us also take time to reflect on our spiritual priorities. Are we giving God the attention and devotion He deserves? Are we allowing our love for sports to eclipse our love for Him?

Reflective questions to ponder:

Do I spend more time following sports than I do in prayer and reading the Bible?
Is my enthusiasm for the game greater than my enthusiasm for sharing God’s love with others?
How can I better balance my love for sports with my commitment to my faith?

Moral thoughts and attitudes to consider:

Enjoying sports is not inherently wrong, but it should never take precedence over our relationship with God.
We can admire athletes and celebrate their accomplishments, but our ultimate hero and guide should always be Jesus Christ.
By keeping our focus on God, we can find true fulfillment and purpose that transcends the temporary excitement of any game.

In closing, let us remember that God is our quarterback, our team captain, and our star athlete every day. He leads us, guides us, and strengthens us in ways no human can. Let us prioritize our relationship with Him and find joy in His presence. Remember that God is our “everything” and the only One that sustains, maintains, and loves us fully beyond our human comprehension. He is essentially all things to all people. He is our star Quarterback, He is our team Captain, He is our Coach, He is our Manager, He is our Boss, and He is our Father and LORD of lords, King of kings!

“LORD-we thank You for the joy and excitement that sports bring into our lives. Help us to keep our priorities in order and to seek You first in all things. Bless the athletes and teams participating in the Super Bowl, and may they compete with integrity and respect. Guide us to balance our love for sports with our love for You, and may our lives reflect Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Blessings and good wishes to both teams in the Super Bowl. May the best team win, and may we all keep our hearts focused on what truly matters- Our LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ!

God Bless you All~

God in Everything

DEAR GOD: I Embrace Your Multifaceted Grace~

Posted on February 5, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Grace has no But

The LORD’s multifaceted personality and boundless grace are woven throughout the scriptures, revealing His deep love, justice, mercy, and wisdom. His personality is a rich tapestry, reflecting His unwavering commitment to righteousness, His compassion for the brokenhearted, and His desire for a relationship with His creation.

Scriptures:

Psalm 145:8-9: “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.”
James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Reflective Questions:

How can I experience and share the LORD’s grace in my daily interactions?
In what ways can I seek and reflect God’s wisdom in my decisions?
How does trusting in the LORD’s strength change my approach to life’s challenges?

Moral Thoughts: The multifaceted nature of God calls us to live a life of integrity and compassion. As we experience His grace, we are encouraged to extend that grace to others. Reflecting on His justice and mercy, we are reminded to seek fairness and kindness in all our actions. Our purpose as Christians is to walk in His light, to be examples of His love, and to carry His message of hope to the world.

Christian Purpose and Life: Our purpose as followers of Christ is to grow in our relationship with God and to serve others with the love and grace we have received. We are called to be salt and light in the world, to make a difference by living out our faith authentically. This involves not only personal spiritual growth but also actively working towards justice, compassion, and peace in our communities.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your multifaceted personality and boundless grace. We thank You for Your unwavering love, Your profound wisdom, and Your compassionate heart. Help us to grow in our understanding of You and to reflect Your character in all that we do. Guide us to seek Your wisdom, to extend Your grace, and to walk in Your truth. Strengthen us to face life’s challenges with courage and faith, knowing that You are always with us. May our lives be a testament to Your goodness and glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessing: May the LORD’s grace abound in your life, His wisdom guide your steps, and His love surround you always. May you find strength in His presence and joy in His promises. Go forth with the peace and assurance that comes from knowing you are deeply loved and cherished by your Heavenly Father.

Scripture to Ponder: 2 Corinthians 12:9: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

God Bless you all as you reflect on these thoughts, and may they enrich your walk with the LORD today and always – Amen!

7 Beautiful Examples of God's Grace in the Old Testament

DEAR GOD: Seeking Your Kingdom My LORD~

Posted on December 27, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: A Timeless Pursuit

Matthew 6:33 (KJV) “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

A Modern-Day Parable: The Tale of Emily

Once upon a time in a bustling city lived a young woman named Emily. Emily was ambitious, intelligent, and driven by a desire to succeed in her career. She worked tirelessly, hoping to secure a promotion that would signify her success. Despite her efforts, she often felt empty and stressed, unable to find true contentment in her achievements.

One Sunday, feeling particularly overwhelmed, Emily decided to visit a nearby church. During the sermon, the pastor shared the verse from Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

The words struck a chord with Emily. She realized that in her relentless pursuit of worldly success, she had neglected her spiritual life. Emily decided to embark on a new journey, one that prioritized seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness above all else.

Reflective Questions

In what ways might I be prioritizing worldly pursuits over my relationship with God?
How can I incorporate the pursuit of God’s kingdom into my daily routine?
What changes can I make to ensure that my actions and decisions align with God’s righteousness?

Biblical Times vs. Today

In biblical times, the call to seek God’s kingdom first was a radical departure from the prevalent focus on material wealth and social status. The Israelites were often tempted to prioritize their own needs and desires over their spiritual obligations. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:33 served as a powerful reminder to realign their priorities with God’s divine plan.

Today, the pursuit of success, wealth, and status remains a dominant theme in our society. We are constantly bombarded with messages that equate material possessions and achievements with happiness and fulfillment. However, the timeless wisdom of Matthew 6:33 calls us to a higher standard—one that places our relationship with God at the center of our lives.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Deep Thoughts and Analysis

Prioritizing God’s Kingdom Today

Daily Devotion: Start each day with prayer and Bible study, seeking God’s guidance and wisdom. This practice sets the tone for a day focused on His kingdom.
Aligning Goals: Evaluate your personal and professional goals to ensure they reflect God’s righteousness. Consider how your actions can serve His purposes and bring glory to His name.
Serving Others: Emulate Jesus’ example by serving others selflessly. Acts of kindness and compassion not only benefit those around you but also reflect the values of God’s kingdom.
Community Involvement: Engage with your local church and community. Fellowship with other believers strengthens your faith and provides opportunities to grow spiritually.
Trusting God’s Provision: Have faith that God will provide for your needs as you prioritize His kingdom. Trusting in His provision frees you from the anxiety and stress that often accompany worldly pursuits.

Philippians 4:19 (KJV) “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

A Prayer of Dedication

“O gracious and loving Lord, we come before Thee with hearts full of gratitude for Your guidance and provision. Help us to seek Your kingdom and righteousness above all else, trusting in Your promise to provide for our needs. Lord, grant us the strength to prioritize our relationship with You in all aspects of our lives. May we reflect Your love and righteousness in our actions, serving others with humility and compassion. Lord, guide us through the challenges and temptations of this world, and help us to remain steadfast in our faith. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in our lives, now and forever. In Jesus name Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 16:3 (KJV) “Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.”

A Blessing for the Readers

May the Lord bless and keep you; may He shine His face upon you and be gracious unto you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. As you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, may you experience His abundant blessings and provision.

May this reflection inspire you to prioritize your relationship with God and to seek His Kingdom in all that you do.

God Bless You All

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Loving Me~

Posted on December 18, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Commentary on God’s Love and Passion

God’s love is the cornerstone of our faith, an unchanging and unwavering force that guides and sustains us. His passion for us is evident throughout Scripture, showing a deep, abiding love that desires our hearts in return. God’s love is not passive; it is active, intentional, and sacrificial.

God’s Love for Us

God’s love is unconditional and eternal. He loved us first, even before we knew Him. His love is demonstrated most profoundly through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. This ultimate act of love shows the lengths to which God will go to reconcile us to Himself.

John 3:16 (KJV): “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.”

Romans 5:8 (KJV): “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

Living for God and His Love

Living for God means aligning our lives with His will and reflecting His love in our actions. It involves seeking His voice in our daily decisions and striving to embody the values He has set before us. Our love for God is expressed through obedience, worship, and service to others.

1 John 4:19 (KJV): “We love him, because he first loved us.”

Moral Thoughts and Christian Values

Unconditional Love: Just as God loves us unconditionally, we are called to love others without judgment or expectation.
Sacrifice: Following Jesus’ example, we should be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of others and the Kingdom of God.
Service: Serving others is a tangible way to express God’s love and grace. It’s through service that we become the hands and feet of Christ in the world.

Following God’s Voice

To follow God’s voice, we must be attuned to His Word and the promptings of the Holy Spirit. This involves regular prayer, meditation on Scripture, and a willingness to be obedient, even when it’s difficult.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV): “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Living for God Daily

Prayer and Reflection: Start each day with prayer, seeking God’s guidance and strength. Reflect on His Word and let it shape your thoughts and actions.
Scripture Study: Regularly read and meditate on the Bible. Allow its truths to renew your mind and direct your path.
Acting in Love: Show love and kindness in all your interactions. Let your actions be a reflection of God’s love within you.
Community: Engage with a community of believers who can support and encourage you in your faith journey.

Supportive Scriptures

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (KJV): “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.”
Ephesians 3:17-19 (KJV): “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You in awe of Your boundless love and passion for us. Thank You for loving us so deeply, even when we fall short. Help us to understand and embrace Your love fully, allowing it to transform our lives.

Guide us to live in a way that reflects Your love and grace. Give us the strength to follow Your voice and to seek Your will in all things. May our actions and words be a testament to Your love, drawing others closer to You.

We acknowledge our need for You, Lord. Fill our hearts with Your peace, our minds with Your wisdom, and our spirits with Your joy. Help us to be a light in the world, showing Your love through our service to others.

Bless each reader today, Lord, with a deeper understanding of Your love. May they feel Your presence and be encouraged by Your promises.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture to Ponder for Today

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.”

May this reflection inspire you to live each day in the light of God’s love, following His voice and embodying His values.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: You Preserve Humans & Your Animals Too!~

Posted on December 3, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Your righteousness is like the great mountains; Your judgments are a great deep; O LORD, You preserve man and beast. explain what this verse means – is animals in heaven too. Psalm 36:6 (KJV)

This verse, taken from Psalm 36:6 (KJV), beautifully conveys several profound theological truths about God’s righteousness, judgments, and His care for all creation.

Reflective Commentary

Righteousness Like the Great Mountains: “Our righteousness is like the great mountains” likens God’s righteousness to the stability and grandeur of mountains. Just as mountains stand tall and unmovable, God’s righteousness is steadfast, unchangeable, and majestically enduring. It is a powerful reminder of the firm and eternal nature of God’s moral and ethical standards.

Judgments a Great Deep: “Your judgments are a great deep” speaks to the profound and inscrutable nature of God’s judgments. The “great deep” symbolizes the vast and unfathomable depths of the ocean, indicating that God’s decisions and ways are beyond human comprehension. His wisdom and knowledge are infinite, and His judgments are just, even when we cannot fully understand them.

Preservation of Man and Beast: “O LORD, You preserve man and beast” highlights God’s compassionate care for all His creation. This statement reaffirms that God is not only concerned with humanity but also with the well-being of animals. His providence extends to every living creature, showcasing His boundless love and sustaining power.

Animals in Heaven:

Although the Bible doesn’t exactly provide explicit or intricate details about the eternal destiny of animals -there are several passages that suggest and maintain that animals have a significant place in God’s creation and His redemptive plan.

Isaiah 11:6-9 and Revelation 21:1 depict a new heaven and new earth where harmony between all creatures is restored. This offers hope that animals may indeed have a place in the new creation. And those who have loved and love their beautiful fur babies will indeed be there when we are in our eternal home. Our loving God created all His creatures, and loves them all.

Supportive Scriptures:

Psalm 145:9 (KJV): “The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.”
Isaiah 11:6 (KJV): “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid…”
Revelation 21:5 (KJV): “And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new…”

Reflective Questions:

How does understanding God’s steadfast righteousness provide comfort and assurance in your life?
In what ways can you appreciate the depth and wisdom of God’s judgments, even when they are beyond comprehension?
How can recognizing God’s care for all creation inspire you to act with compassion and stewardship towards animals?

Moral Takeaways:

This verse calls us to trust in God’s unwavering righteousness and to find solace in His just and profound judgments. It also invites us to reflect on our role as caretakers of God’s creation, recognizing His love and provision for all living beings. To be respectful and loving and kind to His animals is inherent to being a good Christian. There is no place for cruelty to animals, nor to anyone for that matter – human or animal.

Pray:

“Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your majestic righteousness and the depth of Your wisdom. Thank You for Your unfailing love and care for both humanity and animals. Help us to trust in Your just judgments and to live in accordance with Your righteous standards. May we reflect Your compassion in our actions and steward Your creation with love and respect. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Final Blessing:

May the Lord’s righteousness be your firm foundation, His wisdom guide your steps, and His love inspire you to care for all His creation.

God Bless You All~

Animals in God's Plan!

DEAR GOD: Thankful For You & Another Year~

Posted on November 28, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Thanksgiving Day is not merely a time for feasting and fellowship; it is a sacred moment to reflect on the boundless love and glory of our Almighty God. As we gather around our tables, let us open our hearts to the profound gratitude we owe to Him for His immeasurable blessings.

Thanking God for His Glory and Love

Our Heavenly Father, in His infinite glory, has bestowed upon us the gift of life and the grace to live another year. His love shines upon us through the good times and the challenges, reminding us that His presence is unwavering. The Psalmist declares, “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1). This assurance is a beacon of hope and a testament to God’s unwavering commitment to our well-being.

Reflecting on the Year Past

As we look back on the past year, we see God’s hand in every moment. For the family members who are still with us, we give thanks for the warmth and love they bring into our lives. For those who have been called home to eat at His table, we find solace in the promise of eternal life. Jesus said, “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). This hope comforts us as we remember our loved ones.

Reflective Questions

Have I taken time each day to thank God for His blessings?
How have I shared God’s love with others this past year?
In what ways can I draw closer to God in the coming year?

Moral Thoughts

In today’s world, where materialism and self-centeredness often prevail, Thanksgiving calls us back to a place of humility and gratitude. The simplicity of giving thanks reminds us of our moral duty to acknowledge the source of our blessings. “Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people” (1 Chronicles 16:8).

Biblical Views of Today vs. Biblical Times

In biblical times, thanksgiving was a communal celebration, deeply rooted in the acknowledgment of God’s providence. Today, we must strive to revive this communal spirit, recognizing that our successes and joys are not solely the result of our efforts but are gifts from God. Let us cultivate a spirit of thankfulness that transcends our daily routines and influences our actions and relationships.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

“Dear LORD -We thank You for Your glory and love, which sustain us every day. We thank You for another year of life, for the family and friends who enrich our lives, and for the memories of those who now dine at Your heavenly table. Guide us in Your ways, that we may continue to walk in Your light and share Your love with the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name” (Psalm 100:4). Let this verse resonate within us as we celebrate Thanksgiving, reminding us that our gratitude is a powerful act of worship.

Blessing for the Reader

May you be filled with the peace and joy of God’s presence this Thanksgiving. May His love surround you and your family, bringing comfort and hope. As you reflect on His blessings, may you find renewed strength and faith for the year ahead. “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace” (Numbers 6:24-26).

God Bless You All~

Thanks to God

DEAR GOD: Your Loving Kindness Is My Truth & Reason I LIVE~

Posted on November 26, 2024 by C D SWANSON

“For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.” (Psalm 26:3 KJV)

Biblical Perspective

Psalm 26:3 beautifully encapsulates the psalmist’s heartfelt devotion and unwavering commitment to walking in the path of God’s truth. The verse begins with a poignant acknowledgment of God’s lovingkindness, a term that denotes His steadfast love, mercy, and unwavering loyalty towards His people. The psalmist, David, affirms that this divine lovingkindness is always before his eyes, guiding his actions and thoughts.

The latter part of the verse, “I have walked in thy truth,” reflects a life lived in faithful adherence to God’s word and commandments. Walking in God’s truth signifies a deliberate and ongoing choice to follow His guidance, remain obedient to His laws, and live a life that reflects His character.

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 25:5: “Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.”
Psalm 119:105: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
John 14:6: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Reflective Questions

In what ways can I ensure that God’s lovingkindness is always before my eyes in my daily life?
How can I walk more faithfully in God’s truth, especially when faced with challenges and temptations?
How does acknowledging God’s steadfast love and truth impact my relationship with Him and others?

Moral Takeaways

Constant Reflection: Keeping God’s lovingkindness ever before our eyes helps us to live a life of gratitude and devotion.
Faithful Obedience: Walking in God’s truth requires daily commitment and intentional choices to align our actions with His word.
Living Witnesses: As Christians, we are called to be living witnesses of God’s love and truth, reflecting His character in all that we do.

Being a Christian in Today’s Times

In a world rife with moral ambiguity, relativism, and often open hostility towards faith, the call to love God and defend our faith is as urgent as ever. To love God means to abide in His truth, to let His word govern our actions, and to manifest His love through our interactions with others.

Loving God

Loving God entails more than mere emotional affection; it demands loyalty, obedience, and a heartfelt dedication to His commandments. “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15 KJV) In the face of adversity, loving God also means trusting Him steadfastly and letting His lovingkindness guide us through life’s trials.

Defending Our Faith

Defending our faith does not necessarily mean engaging in confrontational debates; rather, it involves living a life that exemplifies the values and truths we hold dear. “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.” (1 Peter 3:15 KJV)

Reflecting God’s Love

In an increasingly secular world, reflecting God’s love through acts of kindness, compassion, and integrity can be a powerful testimony. By embodying the principles of truth and lovingkindness, we provide a living example of the transformative power of God’s love.

Standing Firm

Remaining steadfast in our faith means holding onto God’s truths even when they are unpopular. It means finding strength in His word and trusting in His promises, knowing that our faith is built upon the unshakeable foundation of His love and truth. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58 KJV)

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unfailing lovingkindness and the truth of Your word that guides our lives. Help us to keep Your love ever before our eyes and to walk faithfully in Your truth. Strengthen us to defend our faith with grace and humility, reflecting Your love in a world that so desperately needs it. Grant us the courage to stand firm in Your word and to be living testimonies of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Blessings for the Reader

May the lovingkindness of the Lord be ever before your eyes, guiding and sustaining you. May His truth illuminate your path, and may you walk steadfastly in His ways. In all your endeavors, may you find strength and peace in His promises, and may His blessings abound in your life

Scripture to Ponder

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105 KJV)

God Bless You All~