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?

10 Puja Flowers that Can Be Offered to God

DEAR GOD: Thank You – Thank You- Thank You!~

Posted on April 4, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.”

Ephesians 1:7

Redeemed by His Blood: The Overflowing Grace of God

Ephesians 1:7 holds within it the profound truth of the Christian faith. At its core, this verse reveals the heart of the gospel: redemption and forgiveness, freely given through the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ. Redemption, as spoken here, refers to being “bought back” from the power of sin and death. It is through Christ’s atonement on the cross that this redemption becomes accessible. His blood cleanses us, making us new and allowing us to stand before God, not in our own righteousness, but clothed in Christ’s righteousness.

The forgiveness we receive is a direct reflection of the riches of God’s grace. His grace is not limited or conditional—it is boundless and overflows far beyond what we can comprehend. Through this gift of forgiveness, we experience a restored relationship with the Father. This redemption and forgiveness are not things we could ever earn; they are freely given, demonstrating the depth of God’s love for us.

Reflective Questions

How often do I pause and truly reflect on the enormity of the gift of redemption?
Am I fully living in the freedom of forgiveness, or do I hold onto guilt and shame?
How can I show others the same grace and forgiveness that I have received?

Christianity and Gratitude for the Blood of Jesus

As Christians, we are continually called to remember the price that was paid for our redemption. The blood of Jesus, shed on Calvary, is the ultimate expression of love and sacrifice. This Divine act has covered our sins, allowing us to walk in newness of life.

Gratitude must be at the center of our response to this gift. In daily prayer, worship, and service, we express our thankfulness. Whether through singing hymns of praise, meditating on Scripture, or acts of kindness and love, we honor the sacrifice that has redeemed us.

Moral Thoughts

The redemption through Christ’s blood reminds us of our value in God’s eyes. We are no longer slaves to sin but children of God, heirs of His promises. This knowledge should transform the way we live. It calls us to strive for holiness, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to extend compassion and love to others.

Living in the light of redemption also requires humility. We recognize that we did nothing to deserve such grace, and this understanding should keep us grounded, giving all glory to God.

Supporting Scriptures

Romans 5:8-9 – “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.”
Hebrews 9:12 – “Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.”
Isaiah 1:18 – “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
1 Peter 1:18-19 – “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

Analysis and Overview

This verse demonstrates the magnitude of God’s plan for humanity. In the context of Ephesians 1, Paul is writing to the church at Ephesus, emphasizing the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ. Redemption through His blood is central to these blessings. It highlights God’s sovereignty and His deliberate plan to reconcile humanity to Himself.

From a theological perspective, redemption is not just the removal of sin but the restoration of our identity as children of God. Paul’s mention of “the riches of his grace” underscores that God’s grace is inexhaustible—it cannot be depleted, no matter how great our sins. This eternal truth provides assurance and hope to all believers.

Worship and Daily Devotion

Worshiping the Lord daily is a fitting response to the gift of redemption. Through prayer, Scripture reading, and acts of worship, we draw closer to Him. A heart of worship involves not only singing songs of praise but living a life that reflects His love.

In practical terms, this could mean starting each day by thanking God for the blessings of redemption, meditating on Scriptures that remind us of His grace, and seeking opportunities to serve others in His name. Worship is not limited to Sundays—it is a daily practice that centers our hearts on God and reminds us of His continual presence in our lives.

Purposeful Thankful Prayer

“LORD-Our humble and grateful hearts flow with love, thanking You for the immeasurable gift of redemption through the blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ, our LORD and Savior. Thank You for forgiving our sins and reconciling us to Yourself. May our lives be a reflection of Your grace and love. Help us to walk in righteousness, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to live each day in worship and obedience to You. Let our hearts overflow with gratitude, and may our lives bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

How does the reality of God’s grace and redemption influence the way you live and worship each day?

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

Posted on March 22, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Beautiful Sunrise Wallpapers - Top Free Beautiful Sunrise Backgrounds ...

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?

Beautiful Sunrise Wallpapers - Top Free Beautiful Sunrise Backgrounds ...

DEAR GOD: Show Us The Essence of Waiting on You LORD~

Posted on February 16, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Quietly, Waiting on the Lord

“Be still, and know that I am God.” These words, nestled within Psalm 46:10, invite us to cease our striving and surrender our hearts to the Almighty. In a world that constantly demands our attention, it is essential to cultivate a quiet spirit and actively listen for God’s voice. Waiting upon the Lord is not a passive state but an active pursuit of His guidance and wisdom.

When we reflect on the following verses -we try to truly seek to understand the profound meaning of being still and waiting upon the Lord:

Psalm 37:7 – “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.”
Isaiah 40:31 – “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Lamentations 3:25 – “The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.”
Psalm 27:14 – “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 – “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.”
James 5:7-8 – “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.”

As we meditate on these scriptures, let us ponder the following reflective questions:

How can I create moments of stillness in my daily life to hear God’s voice?
In what areas of my life do I need to trust and wait upon the Lord’s guidance?
How can I actively listen and seek God’s direction while waiting?
What steps can I take to strengthen my patience and trust in God’s timing?

Waiting upon the Lord is a dynamic process that involves active listening, seeking His guidance, and trusting in His perfect timing. It requires us to quiet our hearts, pray earnestly, and remain hopeful in His promises. Patience is indeed a virtue, and as we wait, pray, and listen, we grow in our faith and dependence on Him.

Waiting on the Lord is a spiritual practice that transcends mere passivity; it is a symbiotic relationship between our hearts and His Divine will. When we wait upon the Lord, we engage in active listening, seeking His guidance and direction with intentionality and purpose. This process requires us to be still and quiet our minds, allowing us to hear His voice amidst the noise of our daily lives.

One of the key aspects of waiting on the Lord is learning to trust in His perfect timing. In our fast-paced world, we often seek immediate answers and solutions, but God’s timing is not always aligned with our own. By waiting on Him, we develop patience and learn to surrender our desires and expectations to His greater plan. This act of surrender is a profound demonstration of our faith and trust in His sovereignty.

Moreover, waiting on the Lord helps us cultivate a deeper sense of peace and contentment. When we place our hopes and anxieties in His hands, we can rest in the assurance that He is in control. This peace is not contingent on our circumstances but is rooted in the unchanging nature of God. As we wait, we are reminded of His faithfulness and His promises, which bring comfort and strength to our souls.

In addition, waiting on the Lord provides an opportunity for personal growth and transformation. During this time, God works within us, shaping our character and refining our faith. We learn to rely on Him more fully and discover areas of our lives that need His healing touch. This process of growth is essential for our spiritual maturity and helps us become more attuned to His will.

Waiting on the Lord also fosters a deeper sense of community and connection with fellow believers. As we share our experiences and support one another in our waiting, we build a strong foundation of faith and encouragement. This sense of unity helps us persevere through difficult times and reminds us that we are not alone in our journey.

Lastly, waiting on the Lord is an act of worship and devotion. By choosing to wait and seek His guidance, we acknowledge His lordship over our lives and demonstrate our commitment to following Him. This act of worship draws us closer to God and deepens our relationship with Him, allowing us to experience His presence in a profound and meaningful way.

In our fast-paced lives, waiting on the Lord is a countercultural practice that requires intentionality and discipline. However, the rewards of this practice are immeasurable, as it brings us closer to God and aligns our hearts with His Divine will. As we wait, let us be active listeners, seeking His guidance and trusting in His perfect timing.

May we find peace, growth, community, and worship in our waiting, and may our hearts be ever attuned to His voice.

“Dear LORD-we come before You with hearts filled with reverence and awe. Teach us to be still and know that You are God. Help us to quiet our minds and listen for Your gentle whisper, seeking Your guidance in all that we do. Grant us the patience to wait upon You and trust in Your perfect timing. Strengthen our faith as we actively pursue Your will and direction in our lives. May we find peace in Your presence and be filled with hope as we wait upon You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

May these verses encourage and uplift your spirit as you continue to seek the Lord and wait upon His guidance in all you do , all the days of your life, God Bless You All~

Seeking GOD First - YouTube

DEAR GOD: Help Us Find Joy In The Midst Of Stagnation~

Posted on February 15, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Painted Joy Images - Free Download on Freepik

Finding Joy in the Midst of Stagnation

In the journey of life, there are moments when we feel stuck, not knowing what to do or how to refresh our souls. These periods of stagnation can leave us feeling empty and restless, yearning for a renewed sense of purpose and joy. However, as Christians, we have a wellspring of hope and guidance in the Scriptures and the values they impart.

Understanding Stagnation and Emptiness

Feeling stagnant often stems from a disconnect with our purpose and the absence of fulfilling activities. It’s like being adrift without a compass, unsure of which direction to take. Emptiness can feel like a void in our hearts, where once there was joy and enthusiasm. During such times, it’s crucial to remember that these feelings are not permanent, and that God’s love and guidance are always available to us.

Supportive Scriptures and Christian Values

Seeking God’s Presence: Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” In moments of stillness, we can reconnect with God’s presence and find solace in His love. Taking time to pray, meditate, and read the Scriptures can refresh our spirits and provide clarity.
Trusting in God’s Plan: Jeremiah 29:11 offers hope with the words, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Trusting in God’s plan for our lives can help us navigate through stagnation, knowing that He has a purpose for us.
Embracing Patience and Steadiness: James 1:4 encourages us, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Patience is a virtue that allows us to endure tough times and grow in faith and character.

Refilling Our Souls and Finding Joy

To refill our souls and dance with joy to the Lord’s music in our hearts, we can take the following steps:

Engage in Worship: Worship is a powerful way to connect with God and experience His presence. Singing hymns, participating in church services, and spending time in personal worship can uplift our spirits and fill our hearts with joy.
Serve Others: Acts of kindness and service can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply being there for a friend in need can reignite our passion for life and remind us of the joy in giving.
Reflect and Journal: Reflecting on our blessings and journaling our thoughts and prayers can help us gain perspective and appreciate the goodness in our lives. It’s a practice that can foster gratitude and a deeper connection with God.
Embrace New Experiences: Sometimes, trying new activities or hobbies can bring a fresh perspective and excitement. Whether it’s learning a new skill, exploring nature, or embarking on a creative project, new experiences can invigorate our lives.

Reflective Questions

What activities or practices bring you closer to God and fill your heart with joy?
How can you incorporate more moments of stillness and reflection into your daily routine?
In what ways can you serve others and share God’s love in your community?
What new experiences or hobbies can you try to reignite your passion for life?

Oversight: Empty Feelings vs. Fullness of Heart, Restlessness vs. Steadiness

The contrast between empty feelings and fullness of heart lies in our connection with God and our sense of purpose. Emptiness often arises from a lack of direction, while fullness of heart is rooted in a strong relationship with God and a clear sense of His plan for our lives. Restlessness can be a symptom of inner turmoil and uncertainty, whereas steadiness and patience come from trusting in God’s timing and having faith in His promises.

A Prayer for Renewal

“Dear Lord- In times of stagnation and emptiness, we come to You seeking renewal and joy. Fill our hearts with Your love and presence, and guide us in Your ways. Help us to be patient and trust in Your plan, finding purpose and fulfillment in serving others and embracing new experiences. May we always dance with joy to Your music in our hearts, knowing that You are our refuge and strength. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

A Scripture to Ponder

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

May this article provide comfort and inspiration during times of stagnation and guide you towards a renewed sense of purpose and joy. God Bless You All~

422,906 Children Joy Stock Photos - Free & Royalty-Free Stock Photos ...

DEAR GOD: In You I Triumph & I’m Delivered~

Posted on February 6, 2025 by C D SWANSON

God's Mercy Is Bigger Than Any Of Your Mistakes HD Bible Verse ...

Psalm 18 is a triumphant song of praise attributed to King David, expressing gratitude to God for deliverance from his enemies and divine intervention in times of distress. The psalm can be divided into several sections, each revealing profound insights into God’s nature, human reliance on divine strength, and the ultimate victory through faith.

Overview of Psalm 18

Introduction and Praise (verses 1-3): David begins by expressing his deep love for the Lord and acknowledging God as his strength, rock, fortress, and deliverer. This sets the tone for the entire psalm, emphasizing God’s steadfast protection and faithfulness.“I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.“ (Psalm 18:1-2)
Description of Distress (verses 4-6): David vividly describes the perils and anguish he faced, likening his situation to being entangled by death and overwhelmed by torrents of destruction. In his despair, he cried out to the Lord, and God heard his plea.“The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.”
(Psalm 18:4-6)
God’s Powerful Intervention (verses 7-19): These verses depict a theophany, a divine manifestation, where God intervenes with great might to rescue David. The imagery used portrays God as a mighty warrior who comes to the aid of His faithful servant.“He bowed the heavens also, and came down: and darkness was under his feet. And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind.”
Psalm 18:9-10)
God’s Deliverance and Reward (verses 20-29): David attributes his deliverance to his righteousness and faithfulness to God’s commands. He emphasizes that God rewards those who walk blamelessly and keep His statutes.“The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.”
(Psalm 18:20)
David’s Strength through God (verses 30-45): David acknowledges that his victories and strength are solely due to God’s empowerment. He describes how God equips him for battle and grants him victory over his adversaries.“For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall.”
(Psalm 18:29)
Concluding Praise (verses 46-50): The psalm concludes with David’s exuberant praise and thanksgiving to God. He extols God’s greatness and faithfulness, recognizing that his triumphs are a testament to God’s enduring love and covenant promises.“The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.”
(Psalm 18:46)

Christ and His Doctrine in Psalm 18

While Psalm 18 is rooted in David’s personal experience, it also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. The imagery of God as a rock, deliverer, and savior finds its fulfillment in Christ, who is our eternal rock and redeemer.

Rock and Fortress: Christ is often referred to as the cornerstone and foundation of our faith. Just as David found refuge in God, believers find their security in Christ. (“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 3:11
Deliverance from Death: David’s deliverance from physical death prefigures Christ’s victory over spiritual death. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe. (“O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” – 1 Corinthians 15:55)
Divine Intervention: The theophany in Psalm 18 echoes the miraculous works of Christ, who came down from heaven to save humanity. His miracles, teachings, and sacrifice reveal God’s intervention in human history for our salvation.

Our Purpose in Life

Psalm 18 reminds us that our purpose is to glorify God and depend on His strength. We are called to live righteously, trust in His deliverance, and proclaim His greatness. Our victories and achievements should always point back to God’s faithfulness and grace.

Supporting Scriptures

“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.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” – Proverbs 18:10
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” – Philippians 4:13