DEAR GOD: My Heart Is Steadfast In You & Christ~

by C D SWANSON // October 28, 2024 // No Comments

Hebrews 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the ...

May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.
2 Thessalonians 3:5 ESV

The Steadfastness of Christ

Christ’s steadfastness is another cornerstone of our faith. His unwavering commitment to God’s will, even in the face of immense suffering and sacrifice, serves as a model for us. Steadfastness in Christ is about perseverance, faithfulness, and enduring hope. It calls us to remain faithful to our calling, even when the journey is difficult, and to trust in God’s promises.

In our contemporary world, where instant gratification and fleeting commitments are the norms, the steadfastness of Christ offers a powerful counter-narrative. It invites us to cultivate resilience, patience, and an enduring trust in God’s faithfulness.

Reflective Questions
How can I allow God’s love to shape my daily interactions and decisions?

In what ways can I cultivate the steadfastness of Christ in my own life, especially during challenging times?

How do I balance the love of God and the steadfastness of Christ in my spiritual journey?

Moral Takeaways
Deepening Relationship with God: Prioritize your relationship with God, allowing His love and Christ’s steadfastness to guide your actions.

Embodying Divine Love: Reflect God’s unconditional love in your relationships, showing grace and compassion to others.

Perseverance in Faith: Emulate Christ’s steadfastness, remaining faithful to God’s calling even in the face of adversity.

Supporting Scriptures (ESV)
Romans 8:38-39: “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Hebrews 12:1-2: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”

John 15:9-10: “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.”

Prayer
“LORD-we thank You for Your boundless love and the steadfast example of Jesus Christ. Direct our hearts to dwell deeply in Your love and to follow Christ’s unwavering commitment to Your will. Help us to embody Your love in our daily lives and to remain steadfast in our faith, even in challenging times. Strengthen us to be reflections of Your grace and truth in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
Philippians 1:6 (ESV): “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

Blessing
May the Lord’s love and steadfastness guide your heart, enriching your faith and strengthening your walk with Him. Trust in His promises and find peace in His unending grace…

God Bless You All~

1 Peter 5:2-25, Steadfast - Toward a Sane Faith - Kevin Ruffcorn Ministries

DEAR GOD: You Are Always Going Before Me To Guide Me – Thank You!~

by C D SWANSON // October 26, 2024 // No Comments

“I Am Your LORD God, and I go before you.”

This powerful declaration from God, I am Your LORD God, and I go before you,” is a profound reminder of His Sovereignty and His intimate involvement in our lives. It echoes throughout scripture, emphasizing that God not only leads us but also prepares the way ahead of us. This assurance brings immense comfort and encourages unwavering trust in His guidance and protection.

In Ancient times, God’s people often faced daunting challenge and uncertain futures. The Israelites, for instance, wandered in the wilderness for forty years, yet God went before them as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21). This tangible Presence of God assured them of His continual guidance and provision, even in the most trying circumstances.

Reflective Questions

How do I seek God’s guidance in my daily life?
In what ways do I trust that God is going before me, especially in uncertain times?
How can I deepen my relationship with God to better discern His leading and prepare my path?

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Recognize that God is in control and that He goes before us, clearing obstacles and making a way for us.

Dependence on God: Develop a habit of seeking God’s guidance in every aspect of life, knowing that He prepares and leads us.

Strength in Uncertainty: Find peace in the assurance that we are never alone; God is always ahead of us, guiding our steps.

Supporting Scriptures

Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV)
It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.

Isaiah 45:2 (ESV)
I will go before you and level the exalted places, I will break in pieces the doors of bronze and cut through the bars of Iron.

Psalm 138:5 (ESV)
You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.

Christianity Today vs. Then

In ancient times God’s presence was often manifested in physical signs, like the cloud and fire that led the Israelites. Today we may not see such physical manifestations, but God’s Presence and Guidance are no less real. Through the Holy Spirit, God goes before us, guiding our decisions and providing wisdom and comfort. The principles of trusting in God’s Sovereignty, seeking His guidance and finding strength in His Presence remain as vital now as they were then.

Prayer

LORD-thank You for Your unwavering Presence and guidance in our lives, help us to trust that You always go before us, preparing the way and clearing obstacles, grant us the wisdom to seek Your guidance in all we do and the faith to follow where you lead, may Your Peace fill our hearts, knowing that you are with us, guiding us every step of the way, and lighting our path, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV):

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all
your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Blessing

May the LORD’s Presence and Guidance be with you always. Trust in Him – and know He goes before you preparing the way, the light, truth and life!

God Bless You All~

What an encouragement to know that God is going before you. He is ...

DEAR GOD: Your Are My Rock & I Love Your Presence~

by C D SWANSON // October 23, 2024 // No Comments

“For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress;
I shall not be greatly shaken.”
Psalm 62:1-2 (ESV)

These verses from Psalm 62 convey a profound sense of trust and dependence on
God.

They remind us that in a world full of noise and distractions,
there is a place of peace and stability
found in waiting silently before the Lord. This waiting is not
passive but an active expression of faith, acknowledging that
our ultimate salvation and security come from God alone.

Christian Views

For Christians, these verses encapsulate the essence of our
faith—a deep, unshakeable trust in God. In times of trouble and uncertainty,
we are called to remember that God is our rock and fortress.
He is our refuge and strength, providing a firm foundation when everything else seems unstable.
This dependence on God is central to the Christian life, guiding our actions, thoughts, and attitudes.

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Timing: Waiting in silence for God’s intervention teaches us patience and trust in His perfect timing

Dependence on God: Recognize that our strength and salvation come from God alone, not from our own efforts or external circumstances.
Stability in Faith: Find peace and stability in God’s
Presence, knowing that He is our unwavering foundation.

Pondering Thoughts

How often do I take time to wait silently before God, seeking His guidance and peace?

Do I truly believe that my salvation and security come
from God alone, or am I relying on other sources for
stability?

How can I cultivate a deeper sense of trust and
dependence on God in my daily life?

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life am I struggling to trust in God’s timing?

How can I create more moments of silence and
reflection to connect with God?

What steps can I take to strengthen my faith and
reliance on God as my rock and fortress?

Supporting Scripture

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

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

Psalm 46:1 (ESV): “God is our refuge and strength, a
very present help in trouble.”

Prayer

“LORD- thank You for being our Rock, our Fortress, and our salvation.
Teach us to wait patiently and silently before You, trusting in Your perfect timing
and unfailing love. Help us to find peace and stability in Your Presence, knowing that You are our refuge and strength.
Strengthen our faith and guide our steps, so that we may always rely on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV): “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my
help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.”

Blessing

May the Lord’s peace and stability fill your heart as you trust
in Him. May you find rest and strength in His presence,
knowing that He is your Rock and Fortress.

Hill Wallpapers - Wallpaper Cave

DEAR GOD: Help Me Choose My Words With Wisdom~

by C D SWANSON // October 22, 2024 // No Comments

Word Of God Wallpapers - Wallpaper Cave

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” James 1:5 (ESV)

James 1:5 is a profound reminder of God’s boundless generosity and His desire to guide us. This verse reassures us that wisdom is not something we have to attain on our own. It is a gift from
God, readily available to anyone who seeks it with a sincere heart.

The beauty of this promise lies in its simplicity and inclusiveness—anyone can ask, and God will give generously, without holding our past mistakes or
shortcomings against us.

In our daily lives, we often face situations that leave us feeling uncertain and in need of guidance In those moments, this verse encourages us to turn to God, the source of all wisdom. It’s a powerful invitation to lean on His understanding rather than our own. This act of seeking God’s
wisdom is not just about gaining knowledge; it’s about building a deeper relationship
with Him, trusting in His perfect plan, and allowing His wisdom to shape our decisions
and actions.

Moral Takeaways

Seek God’s Guidance: Always turn to God first when in need of wisdom.
He is generous and ready to provide.
Trust in His Provision: Have faith that God will give you the wisdom you need,
without judgment.
Build a Relationship with God: Use your quest for wisdom as an opportunity to
grow closer to God, relying on His infinite understanding.

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life do I need God’s wisdom the most?
How can I be more intentional about seeking God’s guidance daily?
What changes can I make to deepen my relationship with God as I seek His wisdom?

Supporting Scriptures

Proverbs 2:6 (ESV): “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge
and understanding.”

Affirms that wisdom and understanding come directly from the Lord.

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

Encourages us to trust in God’s guidance rather than our own understanding.

Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV):”Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and
hidden things that you have not known.”

Emphasizes God’s willingness to reveal wisdom and knowledge when we seek Him.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your promise to give us wisdom generously when we ask. Help us to remember to seek Your guidance in every situation, trusting that You will provide the
understanding we need. Draw us closer to You as we seek Your wisdom, and help us to grow in
our faith and reliance on You. May our lives be a reflection of Your wisdom and love. In Jesus’
name, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 4:7 (ESV): “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get,
get insight.”

Blessing

May the Lord’s wisdom fill your heart and guide your steps.
Trust in His infinite understanding
and know that He is always with you,
offering guidance and love.

God Bless You All~

416 Kind words Vector Images, Royalty-free Kind words Vectors ...

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

by C D SWANSON // October 21, 2024 // No Comments

Waiting for God’s Word and Good Tidings

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reflective Questions

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

Supporting Scriptures

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

Moral Takeaways

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

Prayer

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

Scripture to Ponder

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

Blessing

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

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

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: We Are Fully Delivered From All Fears- Amen!~

by C D SWANSON // October 20, 2024 // No Comments

Psalm 34:4 (ESV)

“I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.”

Psalm 34:4 is a beautiful testament to God’s faithfulness and His readiness to respond to those
who earnestly seek Him. This verse reflects a profound personal experience with the Lord,
an intimate encounter that transforms fear into peace. Seeking the Lord is not just a one-time event but a daily journey of placing our trust in Him and recognizing His presence in every aspect of our lives.

To seek the Lord daily is to embark on a spiritual journey that encompasses prayer, meditation,
reading Scripture, and worship. It’s about allowing God into the very fabric of our existence and acknowledging His sovereignty over all our concerns.

The promise in this verse is clear: when we seek God earnestly, He responds.

He doesn’t just listen; He acts, delivering us from the fears that seek to paralyze us.

In Christianity, seeking the Lord is a practice rooted in faith and love.

It’s an acknowledgment of our dependence on Him and a demonstration of our trust in
His wisdom and power.

Seeking is active, not passive; it involves pursuing God’s presence with a heart full of love and
reverence.

This seeking transforms our relationship with Him from one of distant
acknowledgement to intimate communion.

Reflective Questions

How am I actively seeking the Lord in my daily life?
What fears do I need to bring before God, trusting in His deliverance?
How has God answered me in the past when I sought Him earnestly?

Supporting Scriptures

Jeremiah 29:13 (ESV): “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all
your heart.”
- Emphasizes the promise of finding God when we seek Him with sincerity.
Matthew 7:7 (ESV): “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find;
knock, and it will be opened to you.”
- Encourages persistent seeking and the assurance of God’s response.
1 Chronicles 16:11 (ESV): “Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence
continually!”
- Calls us to a continual, ongoing pursuit of God’s presence and strength.

Moral Takeaways

Active Seeking: Cultivate a daily habit of seeking God’s presence through prayer,
Scripture, and worship.
Trust in God’s Deliverance: Place your fears and concerns before the Lord, trusting in His power to deliver and provide peace.
Intimate Relationship: Deepen your relationship with God by making Him a central
part of your daily life, acknowledging His presence and guidance.

Prayer

“LORD -Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts eager to seek Your Presence. Help us to actively pursue You daily, to bring our fears and concerns before You, trusting in Your deliverance. Thank You for Your faithfulness in answering us and providing peace that surpasses all understanding. Guide us in our journey of faith, deepening our relationship with You and transforming our lives with Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Isaiah 55:6 (ESV): “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near.”

Blessing

May your heart be filled with the joy and peace that comes from seeking the Lord daily.
As you pursue Him with all your heart, may He answer you and deliver you from all your fears,
filling your life with His presence and grace.

Stay strong in your faith, and always remember, God is with you every step of the way.

DEAR GOD: I Put Myself In Your Loving Hands Always~

by C D SWANSON // October 18, 2024 // No Comments

~I am protected by God~ Isaiah 43:2 NLT 2 When you go through deep ...

Philippians 4:6-7(ESV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

This verse stands as a beacon of hope and reassurance in a world often filled with anxiety and uncertainty. Paul, the apostle, writes these words from prison, a testament to his unwavering faith and trust in God’s sovereignty. This passage invites us into a posture of trust and submission to God, urging us to bring all our concerns, no matter how big or small, to Him through prayer and supplication.

Heartfelt Thoughts and Views

These verses resonate deeply with our human experience. Anxiety can feel overwhelming, like a
constant companion that refuses to leave. Yet, Paul instructs us not to be anxious about anything. How can we achieve this? The answer lies in the transformative power of prayer.

When we approach God with our fears, worries, and requests, accompanied by thanksgiving, we open ourselves to His divine intervention.

The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, is not a mere absence of anxiety but a
profound sense of tranquility that comes from knowing that God is in control. It’s a peace that
guards our hearts and minds, providing a fortress of comfort amidst life’s storms. This peace is a gift, a manifestation of God’s grace, reminding us that He is always present and ever-faithful.

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God: Trusting God involves surrendering our anxieties and trusting in His plan. It’s about believing that He is greater than our worries and that His love for us is
unwavering.
Prayer and Supplication: Prayer is our direct line to God. Supplication involves
earnest, heartfelt requests, showing our dependence on Him.
Thanksgiving: Gratitude transforms our perspective. By focusing on what we are
thankful for, we shift our minds from worry to a recognition of God’s blessings.

Reflective Questions

Do I truly trust God with my anxieties, or do I hold on to them, trying to solve everything
myself?
How can I incorporate more prayer and supplication into my daily routine?
What am I thankful for today, and how can I express that gratitude to God?

Supporting Scriptures

Matthew 6:34 (ESV): “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will
be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
- Reminds us to focus on the present and trust God with our future.
1 Peter 5:7 (ESV): “Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”
- Encourages us to give our worries to God, knowing He cares deeply for us.

Powerful Prayer

Heavenly Father, We come before You with open hearts, laying down our anxieties and worries
at Your feet. Thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding, a peace that guards our
hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Teach us to trust in You fully, to bring our requests to You in prayer and supplication, and to cultivate a heart of gratitude. Fill us with Your peace and strengthen us in our faith. May we always remember that You are with us, guiding and protecting us. In
Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder

Isaiah 26:3 (ESV): “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he
trusts in you.”

Blessing

May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, fill your heart and mind today. Trust
in His unfailing love and faithfulness. He is your refuge and strength, a very present help in
times of trouble.

Face your lions today—God has your back! 🌟

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

by C D SWANSON // October 17, 2024 // No Comments

Psalm 25:14-15 (ESV)

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

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

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

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

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

Reflective Questions:

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

Supporting Scriptures:

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

Moral Takeaways:

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

Powerful Prayer:

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

Scripture to Ponder:

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

Blessing:

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

God Bless You All~

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

DEAR GOD: Search My Heart – Create In Me A New Spirit~

by C D SWANSON // October 14, 2024 // No Comments

Jeremiah 17:10 (ESV)

“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to
his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.”

Commentary:

Jeremiah 17:10 is a verse that resonates deeply with the themes of divine justice and personal
integrity. It speaks to the profound truth that God, in His
omniscience, examines our innermost thoughts and motives.

Unlike human judgment, which often sees only the surface, God’s assessment
penetrates to the very core of our being. This verse is a powerful reminder that your actions are weighed not just by their outward appearance, but by the intentions that drive them.

In today’s world, where appearances can often be deceiving and outward success is frequently
valued over inner virtue, this verse calls us to a higher standard of authenticity and integrity.

It invites us to reflect on the true motives behind our actions and to strive for a
life that aligns our inner values with our outward
behavior.

God’s promise to give every man according to his ways and the fruit of his deeds is both
reassuring and sobering. It reassures us that God sees and rewards the
good that we do, even if it goes unnoticed by others. At the same time, it calls us to examine our lives and to strive for righteousness, knowing that we are accountable to the One who knows our hearts.

Moral Takeaways:

Authenticity: Strive to be genuine in all that you do, aligning your inner values
with your outward actions.
Integrity: Remember that true integrity means doing the right thing
even when no one is watching, because God sees and knows our hearts.
Accountability: Live with the awareness that we are accountable
to God for our thoughts, motives, and deeds.

Reflective Questions:

How often do you reflect on the true motives behind your actions?
In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to maintain integrity
and authenticity?
How can you cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence in your daily
life, knowing that He searches your heart and tests your mind?

Supporting Scriptures:

Proverbs 21:2 (ESV): “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord
weighs the heart.”
- Reinforces the idea that God’s judgment is based on the heart, not
  just outward actions.
1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV): “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance
or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him.
For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward
appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'”
- Highlights the importance of inner character over outward
  appearance.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, We come before you with hearts open and minds willing to be tested by your
divine wisdom. Help us to live lives of authenticity and integrity, aligning our inner values with your outward actions. Search our hearts and reveal any areas where we fall short. Guide us in your truth and strengthen our resolve to live righteously. Thank you for your unwavering presence and your just and merciful nature. May our lives bear the fruit of good deeds that are pleasing in your sight. Amen.

Scripture to Meditate Upon:

Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV): “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my
thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way
everlasting!”

Blessing:

May the Lord, who searches hearts and tests minds, fill you with His wisdom
and strength. May your life reflect His love and truth, and may you find peace in knowing that
you are seen and valued by the One who knows you completely.
Walk in His light and be a beacon of integrity and authenticity to the world
around you.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: Your Touch Heals, Soothes, & Brings Joy~

by C D SWANSON // October 13, 2024 // No Comments

Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM International

Let’s dive into some verses of healing, and God’s promises to bring us joy and comfort and peace!

Healing Verses (ESV):

Jeremiah 17:14: “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save
me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise.”

Psalm 147:3: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their
wounds.”

Isaiah 53:5: “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was
crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that
brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”

Commentary:

Healing, in both physical and spiritual senses, is a profound act of grace and tender mercy from God.

The verses from Jeremiah, Psalms, and Isaiah remind us that God is not only aware of our pains and sufferings but is actively involved in healing us.

This healing is not just a remedy for our bodies but extends to our hearts and souls. He extends this great compassion and mercy to all those who are willing to accept it, and go to Him with hearts filled with truth, seeking Him in earnest.

When Jeremiah cries out, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed,” it’s a declaration of complete trust in God’s power to heal. It is an acknowledgment that true healing comes from the LORD the ultimate Healer.

Similarly, the Psalmist in Psalm 147 speaks to the deep and intimate care God has for the brokenhearted. God does not just heal physical wounds but also the emotional and spiritual ones, binding up our sorrows with His boundless love.

Isaiah 53:5 connects this healing directly to the sacrifice of Jesus. It highlights that our healing has been paid for by the wounds Christ bore on our behalf.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of God’s love and the
lengths He went to bring us peace and healing.

Moral Thoughts:

Trust in Divine Healing: Our trust in God’s ability to heal us should be unwavering, recognizing that He has the power to mend not just our
bodies but our spirits.
Holistic Healing: Healing is not just physical but emotional and
spiritual. God’s care encompasses every aspect of our being.
Gratitude for Christ’s Sacrifice: The ultimate source of our healing is the sacrifice of Jesus, and our gratitude should reflect the magnitude of
this gift.

Reflective Questions:

How have you experienced God’s healing in your life, whether
physically, emotionally, or spiritually?
In what ways can you place your trust more fully in God’s
ability to heal your current struggles?
How does reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice for your healing
deepen your gratitude and faith?

Prayer:

Dear LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank you for your infinite love and the healing power that you bestow upon us.

Heal us, O Lord, in our times of pain and suffering, and bind our wounds with your tender care.

Teach us to trust wholly in your ability to restore us, both body and soul. We are forever grateful for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ, through whose wounds we are healed.

May we live lives that reflect your healing grace, bringing hope and comfort to others, and shine the light from within to without for all to see, and may we all be a testimony and witness to Your great glory and mercy and love, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Scripture to Meditate Upon:

Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is
easy, and my burden is light.”

Blessing:

May the healing grace of God enfold you and bring peace to your
heart. May you rest in His love and find renewal for your spirit. May you be blessed with the assurance that God’s healing hand is
always upon you, guiding you with His everlasting love.

God Bless you all~

Jesus Healing Hands