DEAR GOD: The Wonder Of You~

Posted on February 3, 2026 by C D SWANSON

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Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.” — Psalm 145:3

The Wonder of the LORD
by C D SWANSON~

There are moments when the soul simply stops and stares — not with the eyes, but with the heart — at the sheer wonder of the LORD. His greatness is not something we measure; it is something we behold. Scripture tells us His greatness is unsearchable, not because He hides it, but because it is too vast, too radiant, too eternal for the human mind to contain.

Every sunrise is a brushstroke of His imagination. Every breath we take is a quiet reminder that He sustains us. Every creature, from the smallest sparrow to the mighty whale, moves according to a design older than time. And woven into all of this is His love — a love that shapes galaxies yet bends low enough to comfort a single heart.

When we look at the world through this lens, even the simplest things become sacred. The way light dances on water. The hush of morning air. The rhythm of our own heartbeat. These are not accidents; they are invitations. Invitations to remember that the LORD is not distant. He is present, active, intentional, and endlessly creative.

His wonder is not only in what He made — it is in who He is. A God who forms stars with His word yet forms our hearts with His hands. A God whose power is limitless, yet whose gentleness is personal. A God who governs the universe yet listens when we whisper His name.

To live aware of His wonder is to live awake. Awake to beauty. Awake to purpose. Awake to the truth that we are part of His masterpiece, crafted with the same care as the heavens above. And when we recognize this, praise becomes natural — not forced, not formal, but flowing from a heart overwhelmed by His goodness.

LORD, open my eyes to Your wonder today. Let me see Your greatness in the world around me and in the quiet places of my own life. Teach me to pause, to notice, to worship. Fill my heart with awe, and let my life reflect the beauty of Your presence. Thank You for being both mighty and near, both Creator and Father. In Jesus name, Amen.

DEAR GOD: Joy Comes From Knowing You & Being Loved By You~

Posted on December 28, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Joy That Springs From Being Known & loved by God
by C D Swanson~

“I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities.”— Psalm 31:7 (KJV) –(A lesser‑quoted verse of deep contentment and joy in the Lord.)

Reflective Questions

What does it mean to you that God knows your soul in adversity?
How does His mercy shape your sense of contentment today?
Where might you be seeking joy outside of God’s presence?
How does being “considered” by God change the way you face uncertainty?
What would it look like to rejoice before circumstances change?

Supportive Scriptures

Nahum 1:7 — “The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble…”
Psalm 16:11 — “In thy presence is fulness of joy…”
Habakkuk 3:18 — “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD…”
Philippians 4:11 — “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”

Psalm 31:7 is a quiet gem tucked inside David’s cries for deliverance. It is not a verse often quoted in sermons or devotionals, yet it carries a profound truth that speaks directly into the heart of the 21st‑century believer: joy and contentment are not rooted in circumstances, but in being fully known by God.

David says, “Thou hast known my soul in adversities.” This is not merely God observing David’s trouble — it is God understanding the deepest layers of his inner life. In a world where people feel increasingly unseen, unheard, and overwhelmed, this truth lands with extraordinary comfort. God does not simply see our situations; He knows our souls within them.

We live in an age of noise, speed, and constant comparison. Contentment feels elusive, joy feels fragile, and peace often seems like something we chase rather than something we carry. Yet David’s words remind us that joy is not something we manufacture — it is something we receive when we rest in the mercy of a God who knows us intimately.

David says, “I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy.” Notice the choice: I will be glad. Not because the trouble is gone. Not because the path is clear. But because God’s mercy is present.

This is the kind of joy that transcends the 21st century’s anxieties. It is a joy anchored in relationship, not results. It is contentment that flows from being held, not from having control.

In a culture that tells us to curate our lives, optimize our productivity, and chase constant improvement, this verse invites us to something radically different: resting in the God who already knows us completely and loves us fully.

To be “considered” by God — to have Him take our trouble into account — is to be wrapped in a mercy that steadies the soul. It means we are never navigating life alone. It means our pain is never wasted. It means our joy is not dependent on the world’s shifting sands.

This ancient verse speaks with modern clarity: True contentment is found not in what changes, but in Who remains. True joy is found not in what we achieve, but in the God who knows us.

And in that knowing, we find rest.

🙏 Prayer of Praise

“LORD I praise You for knowing my soul in every season and for filling my heart with joy that circumstances cannot steal. Thank You for Your mercy, Your Presence, and Your unchanging love. You are my contentment and my delight. In Jesus sweet name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: I find Joy In You & Your Love~

Posted on August 28, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“The joy of the LORD is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10

Loving the LORD in Today’s Times and Always

In Nehemiah’s day, the people had just rediscovered the law of God after years of exile and spiritual drought. Their hearts were pierced with conviction, yet the prophet reminded them that sorrow was not the final word—joy in the LORD was their refuge and renewal.

Today, in a world of shifting values, noise, and uncertainty, this truth remains unshaken. Joy in the LORD is not fleeting happiness or circumstantial ease—it is a deep, abiding gladness anchored in His presence, promises, and peace. To love the LORD in modern times is to choose sacred stillness over chaos, truth over trends, and grace over grievance. It is to delight in Him not just when life is gentle, but especially when it is not.

Loving the LORD always means remembering that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His joy is not a luxury—it is our lifeline. It strengthens us to endure, to forgive, to hope, and to worship even when the world feels heavy.

Reflective Meditation

O my soul, rejoice in thy Maker. Though the earth be troubled and the nations roar, The LORD is thy portion and thy praise. He hath clothed thee with gladness and girded thee with peace. Let not thy heart be cast down, for the joy of the LORD is thy strength. Lift up thine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh thy help. Thy help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. In His presence is fullness of joy; at His right hand are pleasures forevermore. Rest in Him, delight in Him, and be glad in thy God.

“Heavenly Father, I thank Thee for the joy that is found in Thee alone. When my heart is weary and my path uncertain, Thou art my strength and my song. Teach me to delight in Thy Word, To rejoice in Thy goodness, And to abide in Thy peace. Let Thy joy be my shield and my song, That I may walk uprightly and worship Thee with gladness. Bless my household with Thy presence, And let Thy joy overflow in every room, every heart, and every day. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Call Of Grace This New Day~

Posted on August 26, 2025 by C D SWANSON

What is the first thing you do when you open your eyes after a nights’ sleep? And what is the first thing that comes to mind when you open your eyes after a nights’ sleep? And then – afterwards – what is the first thing you do? I mean besides perhaps visiting the “tinkle” room (LOL). Think long and hard – or quickly to these questions.

Now hopefully, many of you answered that you “praise God” and give a huge hearty thanks for His grace and His protection throughout the night. And praise Him for another day. Another day to love Him, serve Him and invariably “work all things for Him” and Him alone! And of course – read scripture from His Holy Book. Because even “one scripture to meditate upon – is better than none at all. Amen!

You see as Christians, and God’s children- we all need to be prepared for what comes our way. Our Father knows the overall picture. He sees things we cannot see. His thoughts are higher than our thoughts, and His mercy and strength far exceed anything or anyone here or anywhere in this universe. How do we prepare for what comes? What do we do each day while here on earth? Well, you might consider engaging in the following:

1-Read the Word
2- Put on the full armor of God.
3-Trust in the LORD, always.
4-Stay in communication with Him.
5-Pray.
6-Meditate
7-Honor Him in all you do.
8-Show compassion.
9-Be watchful.
10- Love Him with all your mind heart strength and soul.

When we rise, we don’t just awaken to light—we awaken to purpose. The breath in our lungs is not random; it’s a divine invitation to walk in His will. Scripture reminds us:

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” —Psalm 150:6
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” —Lamentations 3:22–23

Each new day is a sacred assignment. Whether we face joy or trial, we are called to clothe ourselves in His strength:

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” —Ephesians 6:11
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” —Proverbs 3:5

We don’t prepare with fear—we prepare with faith. We don’t walk alone—we walk with the One who sees the end from the beginning. His Word is our compass, His Spirit our comfort, and His mercy our shield.

🙏 A Prayer of Thanks from Heart and Soul

O Lord, my God—thank You for the breath in my body and the light in this day. Thank You for watching over me through the night, for shielding me from harm, and for whispering peace into my soul. I rise not in my own strength, but in Yours. I praise You for Your mercy, Your wisdom, and Your unfailing love.

Today, I choose to walk in Your truth. I put on Your armor. I seek Your face. I surrender my plans and embrace Your purpose. Let my words honor You, my actions reflect You, and my heart remain tethered to Yours. May I love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength—and may I serve You with joy, compassion, and courage.

In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

DEAR GOD: We Are Truly Healed, Truly Yours~

Posted on June 24, 2025 by C D SWANSON

O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; if you save me, I will be truly saved. My praises are for you alone!” — Jeremiah 17:14 (NLT)

Truly Healed, Truly His

This verse is a soul’s cry wrapped in trust. It doesn’t ask for partial healing or temporary relief—it longs for the kind of restoration that only the Lord can give. It’s a declaration that healing is not just physical, but spiritual and relational. When God heals, He doesn’t just mend the body—He renews the heart, restores the soul, and reclaims the weary for His glory.

Moral Reflection & Contemplation In a world that offers quick fixes and shallow comforts, this verse reminds us to seek the deeper healing that comes from surrender. It challenges us to examine what we truly believe about God’s power and goodness. Do we trust Him enough to say, “If You heal me, I will be healed”? Or are we still clinging to our own remedies, our own timing?

Healing is not always immediate, but it is always intimate. God sees the wounds we hide, the ones that ache in silence. And He invites us to bring them to Him—not just for relief, but for transformation.

Supporting Scriptures

“He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.” — Psalm 147:3 (NLT)
“By his wounds you are healed.” — 1 Peter 2:24 (NLT)
“The prayer of faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well.” — James 5:15 (NLT)

A Prayer for Healing

“Loving Father, You are the Great Physician, the Mender of what no one else can touch. I come to You not just for healing, but for wholeness. Heal the places in me that ache with sorrow, fear, or fatigue. Restore what has been lost and renew what has grown weary. I trust You to do what only You can do. Let my healing be a testimony of Your mercy, and my life a song of praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Wisdom Tracts: JESUS THE GREAT HEALER

DEAR GOD: Simple Grains Of Food Laced With Love~

Posted on June 23, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“You must present all grain offerings to the Lord. Make these offerings from the finest flour, and pour olive oil on them; sprinkle them with incense.” — Leviticus 2:1

Morning Reflection: This morning, as I stir a pot of warm buckwheat and drizzle it with golden honey and a pat of butter, I’m reminded that even the simplest grains are sacred when offered with love. The Bible speaks of grain offerings not just as food, but as fragrant gifts—symbols of devotion, gratitude, and covenant. And I think: how beautiful that God receives even the humblest things when they’re given from the heart.

I begin my day with Scripture and coffee not out of routine, but reverence. The Word steadies me. It reminds me that I am not alone in the labor of love, in caregiving, in the quiet sacrifices that no one sees but God. Just as the Israelites brought their finest flour, I bring my finest moments—my attention, my praise, my willingness to serve.

Throughout the Day: From sunrise to sunset, I want my life to be a living offering. Whether I’m preparing a meal, comforting a friend, or simply pausing to breathe, I want to season each moment with praise. Not because life is always easy, but because God is always present. His provision is not just in the food on my table, but in the strength to rise, the grace to forgive, and the peace that surpasses understanding.

Evening Reflection: As the day winds down, I return to the Word like a child curling up in a parent’s arms. I reflect on the small victories, the quiet mercies, the unexpected joys. I give thanks for the grains of His goodness scattered throughout my day—each one a reminder that I am held, nourished, and deeply loved.

Supporting Scriptures:

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” — Psalm 24:1
“Taste and see that the Lord is good.” — Psalm 34:8
“Give us today the food we need.” — Matthew 6:11
“Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him.” — Colossians 2:7
“Let everything you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

Prayer: LORD, thank You for the grains that nourish my body and the Word that feeds my soul. Thank You for the quiet strength You give me to love, to serve, to keep going. May my day begin and end with You, and may every moment in between be seasoned with praise. Let my life be a fragrant offering, a reflection of Your goodness and grace. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We Sing Praises Unto You My LORD~

Posted on June 17, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him. A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.” -Psalm 68:4-5

The Glory of God and His Grace

The psalmist’s words echo with grandeur, portraying God as sovereign, majestic, and deeply compassionate. He is the One who rides upon the heavens—higher than the earth, unbound by limitations, and enthroned in power. Yet, within His majesty is an undeniable tenderness: He is the Father to the fatherless and the defender of the widows. This juxtaposition of might and mercy reveals the heart of God, one that is both omnipotent and intimate.

From the beginning of scripture, God’s character is revealed through His acts of provision, justice, and care. He led the Israelites through the wilderness, shielding them with a cloud by day and fire by night (Exodus 13:21). He sustained Elijah through drought, sending ravens to feed him (1 Kings 17:6). He answered Hannah’s sorrow, granting her a son when her womb had been closed (1 Samuel 1:20). In every instance, God was not distant; He was profoundly present, intervening with grace, justice, and restoration.

God’s Power and Compassion

To extol God is to acknowledge both His supremacy and His goodness. He is the King who governs the heavens, yet He bends down to hear the cry of the lowly. Psalm 68 is a song of triumph—a declaration that God is victorious over His enemies, yet compassionate toward His children.

This tension between divine power and loving grace is at the core of the Christian faith. The same God who spoke the world into existence also stooped to wash the feet of His disciples (John 13:5). Jesus, fully God yet fully man, demonstrated this principle in His ministry, constantly drawing near to those whom society had forsaken—the sick, the sinners, the forgotten.

The moral weight of this truth is profound: If God is the defender of the oppressed, then His followers must also reflect His heart. To worship Him is not only to sing praises but to live in a way that upholds His justice and mercy. James 1:27 reminds us that pure religion is found in caring for widows and orphans, just as Psalm 68 affirms God’s concern for them.

A Call to Worship and Trust

When we sing praises to God, we are declaring our faith in His unfailing power and grace. Worship is not just an act of reverence but of surrender, trusting that He reigns over our circumstances. Whether in seasons of joy or trial, our praise reminds us that He is both enthroned in majesty and near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).

There is no burden too great, no sorrow too deep, that escapes His notice. He is the defender of the defenseless, the provider for the needy, the fortress for those who seek refuge. To know Him is to rest in the assurance that His reign is one of righteousness and mercy.

A Prayer for Divine Presence

Heavenly Father, we lift our voices in praise to Your holy name. You are enthroned above the heavens, yet You dwell among us with tenderness and grace. You are the defender of the fatherless, the protector of the widows, and the refuge for all who seek You.

Teach us to worship You not only with our voices but with our lives. May we reflect Your justice and mercy, standing for those in need and extending compassion as You have shown us. Strengthen our hearts with faith, that in all circumstances we may rejoice in Your unfailing goodness.

May our lives be an offering of praise, glorifying You in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

DEAR GOD: You Steady Our Steps in Uncertain Times~

Posted on May 2, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Habakkuk 3:19

“The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.”

This verse comes from the prophet Habakkuk’s closing words in a prayer spoken during a time of uncertainty and hardship. Despite the challenges surrounding him, Habakkuk does not waver in his faith. Instead, he boldly affirms that God is his strength, the One who sustains and steadies him.

The imagery of hinds’ feet refers to the swift and sure-footed movements of a deer that navigates rocky terrain without stumbling. This powerful metaphor reveals God’s ability to equip us with stability even when life feels treacherous. He does not simply offer strength—He shapes us to endure, giving us the capability to rise above difficulty.

The phrase “walk upon mine high places” signifies elevation beyond struggle. This is not an escape from hardship but a transformation through it. God’s presence enables us to ascend, to walk confidently despite uncertainty, and to remain firm in faith. Habakkuk acknowledges suffering yet responds not with despair but with trust. He believes in a God who secures his steps and lifts him beyond earthly troubles.

Moral Reflections:

Where do we place our trust when life becomes unsteady? Do we lean on God for guidance, or do we attempt to steady ourselves?
What are the “high places” God might be calling us toward, and how is He preparing us to reach them?
Do we praise God in difficult times, believing He is refining us for something greater?

Supportive Scriptures:

Psalm 18:33 — “He maketh my feet like hinds’ feet, and setteth me upon my high places.” This verse reinforces the same imagery, emphasizing God’s provision.
Isaiah 40:29-31 — “He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.” This passage highlights God’s ability to renew and uplift us.
2 Corinthians 12:9 — “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” When we rely on God, His power works through our limitations.

Prayer:

Lord, our steadfast foundation, we come before You with hearts full of trust and gratitude. You are our strength when we falter, our guide when the path is uncertain, and the One who lifts us beyond our struggles. Just as You make the deer agile upon rocky ground, we believe You will steady our steps. Help us to embrace challenges with faith, knowing You are refining us for greater purpose. Teach us to rely not on our own understanding but on Your divine wisdom. May we honor You in every season, walking boldly toward the heights You have prepared. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Where in your life do you need God’s strengthening today?

DEAR GOD: I See The Beauty Of Your Creation Everywhere!~

Posted on April 12, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.” – Psalm 19:1 (NLT)

The Beauty of God’s Creation-

God’s creation is a masterpiece that speaks of His infinite beauty and artistry. The heavens, with their vast expanse filled with stars, remind us of His magnificence and His power to create wonders beyond comprehension. The intricate colors of a sunrise, the gentle sway of trees in the wind, and the rhythmic crashing of ocean waves are whispers of His creativity.

Everything we see, from the smallest flower to the highest mountain peak, reflects His intention and purpose. He designed the world not only to sustain us but to inspire awe and draw us closer to Him. When we pause to truly see His craftsmanship, it fills our hearts with gratitude, reminding us that the God who created all of this also formed us with love and care.

-Sounds, sights, taste, all part of His Divine Creation –

The roar of an ocean, the gurgling sounds of a brook, the soft symphonic chords of an angelic harp, a tasty, delectable morsel of food, from sweet to bitter – a beautiful display of flowering wild orchards in a field of green. All these and more – are reminiscent and all because of the LORD’s brilliance and hands of Creation and love.

Be aware of how much the LORD loves and how if we take a moment we will not only see-but we will feel the overwhelming power of His love and faithfulness!

Have you thanked Him lately?

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the beauty of creation that surrounds us. You are the master artist, and Your work declares Your glory. Let every sunrise remind us of Your mercies and every star-filled night reflect Your endless love. We praise You, Creator God, for showing us Your character through the wonders of Your hands. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Questions for Reflection-

What part of God’s creation speaks to you most, and how does it inspire you to worship Him more deeply? And how thankful are You for His hands of mercy and love?

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DEAR GOD: Your Endless Love & Mercy & Grace Is Humbling~

Posted on March 22, 2025 by C D SWANSON

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A Reflection on Psalm 113:4

Psalm 113:4 declares, “The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens!” This verse exalts God’s incomparable majesty and sovereignty. It reminds us that no earthly power, nation, or authority can match His supremacy, nor can the expanse of the heavens contain His glory. To explore this verse is to delve into the grandness of God’s rule, a timeless truth that resonates through history and continues to hold relevance today.

Biblical Overview and Analysis

The placement of Psalm 113 within the Book of Psalms is no coincidence. This chapter is the beginning of the “Hallel Psalms” (Psalms 113–118), traditionally sung by the Israelites during significant celebrations like Passover. These psalms focus on praising God, highlighting His mercy, power, and love for His people.

Psalm 113:4, in particular, emphasizes two critical attributes of God: His transcendence and His glory. To say God is “high above all nations” is not merely geographical; it speaks to His supreme authority and governance over all the earth. Nations rise and fall, leaders come and go, but God’s sovereignty remains eternal and unchallenged.

The phrase “his glory above the heavens” further magnifies His greatness. The heavens, often seen as the pinnacle of beauty and wonder in the ancient world, cannot even begin to encapsulate the fullness of God’s glory. It signifies that God’s majesty surpasses all creation, underscoring His infinite nature.

Examples in Today’s Context

In today’s world, we witness the ebb and flow of nations and political powers. Economies rise, alliances shift, and global landscapes change. For instance, recent global events, from conflicts between nations to debates on climate change, remind us of humanity’s limitations and the futility of placing ultimate hope in worldly systems. In such times, Psalm 113:4 calls believers to lift their eyes above the temporal and finite, recognizing that God’s authority is above all these complexities.

For a personal example, consider how individuals often place their trust in worldly achievements, from career success to technological advancements. While these have their place, none of them can offer the assurance and eternal perspective that God provides. This verse invites us to realign our focus, placing our trust in the one who reigns supreme.

Supportive Scripture

Isaiah 40:22 – “It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in.” This verse reinforces God’s transcendence and creative power.
Daniel 2:21 – “He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.” This shows His control over earthly governance.
Ephesians 1:21 – “Far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.” This highlights Christ’s exalted position, emphasizing God’s ultimate authority.
Revelation 11:15 – “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.” This assures believers of God’s eternal reign.

Prayer

Lord Almighty, we come before You in awe of Your unmatched greatness. You are exalted above all nations, and Your glory surpasses the heavens. Teach us to trust in Your sovereignty when the world around us feels uncertain. Remind us of Your eternal reign, and help us to live as reflections of Your glory, pointing others to Your majesty. May our praise be unceasing, acknowledging Your authority in every aspect of our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day

In a world that is constantly changing, where do you place your trust? Let today be a reminder that God’s power is above all earthly realms, His glory above all creation. Rest in His sovereignty and let His eternal majesty guide your path. How can you reflect His glory in your actions today?