DEAR GOD: You Always Hear My Voice & Prayers~

by C D SWANSON // August 24, 2024 // No Comments

“I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.” Psalm 116:1-2 (KJV)

Psalm 116:1-2 is a profound expression of gratitude and devotion. The psalmist begins with a declaration of love for the Lord, rooted in the personal experience of being heard by God. This verse encapsulates the intimate relationship between the believer and God, highlighting the responsiveness of God to our prayers and supplications.

Supportive Scriptures

1 John 5:14-15: “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.”
Philippians 4:6-7: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Jeremiah 33:3: “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.”

Visions of How Christians Should Act

Christians are called to live a life of continuous prayer and reliance on God. This verse encourages believers to:

Cultivate a Habit of Prayer: Just as the psalmist commits to calling upon the Lord as long as he lives, Christians should develop a consistent prayer life, trusting that God hears and responds.
Express Gratitude: Recognize and give thanks for the times God has answered prayers. Gratitude strengthens our faith and deepens our relationship with God.
Trust in God’s Faithfulness: Knowing that God inclines His ear to us should inspire confidence and trust in His faithfulness, even in challenging times.

Moral Thoughts

The moral lesson from this verse is the importance of maintaining a loving and trusting relationship with God. It teaches us that our love for God should be rooted in the recognition of His attentiveness and care for us. This love is not just a feeling but a commitment to continually seek Him in prayer.

Reflective Questions

How often do I take time to thank God for all answered prayers?
In what ways can I improve my prayer life to make it more consistent and heartfelt?
Do I trust that God hears my prayers, even when the answers are not immediate or as expected?

Meditative Takeaways

God Hears Us: Meditate on the truth that God is always listening to our prayers and is attentive to our needs.
Commitment to Prayer: Reflect on the importance of making prayer a lifelong commitment.
Gratitude: Spend time in gratitude, recalling specific instances where God has answered your prayers.

Prayer

“Dear LORD, I thank You for always hearing my voice and my supplications. Your attentiveness to my prayers fills my heart with love and gratitude. Help me to remain steadfast in my commitment to call upon You all the days of my life. Strengthen my faith and trust in Your faithfulness. May my life be a testament to Your goodness and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Vision for the Day

“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24

Let this day be filled with the joy of knowing that God hears you and is with you. Rejoice in His presence and let your heart be light, trusting in His unfailing love and care.

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DEAR LORD: What Joy & Peace I Found In You~

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

For you will go out in joy and be led forth in peace. Isaiah 55:12 ... “When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” – Psalm 94:18-19

The Joy and Comfort of God’s Love

Psalm 94:18-19 is a profound testament to the unwavering support and comfort that God provides in our times of need. This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of God’s love and the joy that comes from His presence. It reminds us that even when we feel like we are losing our footing, God’s love is there to hold us up, and His comfort brings us joy amidst our anxieties.

Supportive Scriptures

Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

Moral Thoughts

The moral lesson from Psalm 94:18-19 is clear: God’s love is a constant source of support and joy. In our moments of weakness and anxiety, we can rely on His unfailing love to sustain us. This verse encourages us to trust in God’s plan and to find solace in His presence. It teaches us that true joy and comfort come from a deep relationship with God, who is always there to lift us up when we stumble.

Meditative Takeaways

Reflect on God’s Unfailing Love: Spend a few moments each day reflecting on the ways God has supported you in your life. Consider how His love has been a source of strength and comfort during difficult times.
Practice Gratitude: Make a habit of thanking God for His constant presence and support. Gratitude can shift our focus from our anxieties to the blessings we have received.
Seek God’s Presence: In moments of anxiety, turn to prayer and meditation to seek God’s comforting presence. Allow His peace to fill your heart and mind.

Reflective Questions

When have you felt God’s support during a difficult time?
How can you remind yourself of God’s unfailing love when you feel anxious or overwhelmed?
What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with God and experience His joy more fully?

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your unfailing love and support. In our moments of weakness and anxiety, You are our rock and our refuge. We thank You for the joy and comfort that Your presence brings into our lives. Help us to trust in Your plan and to find peace in Your promises. Strengthen our faith and guide us as we navigate the challenges of life. May Your love continue to uplift us and fill our hearts with joy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway for the Day

“Today, I will trust in God’s unfailing love and find joy in His comforting presence, knowing that He is always there to support me.”

May this reflection on Psalm 94:18-19 bring you peace and encouragement as you go through your day. Remember, God’s love is always with you, providing the strength and comfort you need.

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DEAR GOD: I’m Still – And I Know You Are GOD-Amen!~

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

Be Still and Know I Am God: A Reflection

Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God,” is a profound invitation to pause, reflect, and find solace in the divine presence. This verse, though brief, carries a depth of meaning that resonates with the core of Christian faith and offers a sanctuary of peace in a tumultuous world.

Feeling and Love

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the noise and chaos that surround us. The psalmist’s call to “be still” is a gentle reminder to step back from our worries and anxieties. It is an invitation to enter into a space of quietude where we can experience God’s love and presence more intimately. This stillness is not merely the absence of activity but a purposeful pause to reconnect with the Creator. It is in these moments of stillness that we can feel God’s love enveloping us, reassuring us that we are not alone.

Christian Beliefs and Moral Views

From a Christian perspective, this verse underscores the importance of trust and faith in God. It calls us to surrender our fears and uncertainties to Him, acknowledging His Sovereignty and control over all circumstances. This act of surrender is a moral imperative, teaching us humility and dependence on God’s wisdom rather than our own understanding. It challenges us to let go of our need to control and to trust in God’s perfect plan for our lives.

Meditative Takeaway

Meditatively, “Be still, and know that I am God” encourages us to cultivate a practice of mindfulness and presence. In a world that constantly demands our attention, this verse invites us to slow down and be present in the moment. It is a call to mindfulness, to be aware of God’s presence in every aspect of our lives. By being still, we create space for God to speak to our hearts, to guide us, and to fill us with His peace. This practice of stillness can transform our spiritual lives, helping us to develop a deeper, more intimate relationship with God.

A Powerful Prayer

“Dear LORD -In the stillness of this moment, we come before You with hearts open and minds quiet. We lay down our burdens and anxieties at Your feet, trusting in Your infinite wisdom and love. Help us to be still and to know that You are God, sovereign over all creation. Fill us with Your peace that surpasses all understanding and guide us in Your ways. May we find rest in Your presence and strength in Your love. Teach us to trust in You completely, to surrender our fears, and to walk in faith. We thank You for Your constant presence and for the assurance that we are never alone. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

In conclusion, Psalm 46:10 is a timeless reminder of the importance of stillness and trust in our spiritual journey. It calls us to pause, reflect, and find peace in the knowledge that God is in control. By embracing this stillness, we open our hearts to the transformative power of God’s love and presence in our lives.

Be Still and Know that I am God - GeorgeMuller.org

DEAR GOD: I Find Joy In Your Presence~

by C D SWANSON // August 2, 2024 // No Comments

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

Introduction

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

Supportive Scriptures

The theme of God’s unwavering presence and guidance is echoed throughout the Bible. In Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV), we are encouraged to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” This scripture reinforces the idea that when we place our trust in God, He will lead us on the right path.

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

Moral Thoughts

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

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

Takeaways

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

Prayer and Meditative Thoughts

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

______________________________________________

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

DEAR GOD: Your Eternal Word Is In My Heart~

by C D SWANSON // July 29, 2024 // No Comments

UNTO THE LEAST OF THESE: God's Word Is Eternal

The Eternal Word

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.” – Isaiah 40:8 (ESV)

Introduction

Isaiah 40:8 is a profound verse that speaks to the transient nature of life and the enduring power of God’s word. This verse has resonated with believers for centuries, offering comfort and assurance in times of change and uncertainty. Let’s explore the historical context of this verse, its timeless significance, and how we can incorporate its message into our daily lives.

Historical Context

Isaiah 40:8 was written during a time of great turmoil for the Israelites. They were in exile, facing the destruction of their homeland and the uncertainty of their future. The prophet Isaiah delivered this message to remind them of God’s unchanging nature and His eternal promises. While everything around them seemed to be falling apart, God’s word remained a steadfast source of hope and guidance.

Contemporary Meaning

Today, this verse continues to hold deep meaning. In a world where change is constant and nothing seems permanent, the assurance that God’s word stands forever provides a solid foundation for our faith. It reminds us that while our circumstances may change, God’s promises and His love for us remain unwavering.

Incorporating the Verse into Our Lives

Daily Reflection: Start each day by meditating on this verse. Let it remind you of the eternal nature of God’s word and His promises.
Scripture Study: Make a habit of studying the Bible regularly. Understanding God’s word helps us navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and faith.
Prayer: Use this verse as a foundation for your prayers. Thank God for His unchanging word and ask for the strength to trust in His promises.
Community: Share this verse with others. Encourage friends and family by reminding them of the eternal nature of God’s word.

Reflective Questions

How does the permanence of God’s word provide comfort in your current circumstances?
In what ways can you rely more on God’s promises rather than the temporary things of this world?
How can you share the message of this verse with those around you?

Moral Thoughts

This verse calls us to focus on what is eternal rather than what is temporary. It challenges us to build our lives on the solid foundation of God’s Word, rather than the fleeting things of this world. By doing so, we can find true peace and stability, regardless of our circumstances.

Meditative Takeaway

Take a moment to sit quietly and reflect on the enduring nature of God’s Word. Imagine the grass withering and the flowers fading, but God’s word standing firm and unchanging. Let this image fill you with a sense of peace and assurance.

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Eternal Word that stands firm through all generations. In a world that is constantly changing, we find comfort and strength in Your unchanging promises. Help us to build our lives on the solid foundation of Your word. Teach us to trust in You and to share Your eternal truth with others. May we always remember that while the grass withers and the flowers fade, Your word will stand forever. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

I hope this verse from God’s Word brings comfort and inspiration. How do you feel about incorporating this verse into your daily life?

GOD’S WORD IS ETERNAL… | Devotions

DEAR GOD: I Find True Satisfaction In You Alone~

by C D SWANSON // July 27, 2024 // No Comments

Finding True Satisfaction in God

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4

In a world filled with fleeting pleasures and temporary satisfactions, the Bible calls us to find our deepest joy and contentment in God. Psalm 37:4 encourages us to delight ourselves in the Lord, promising that He will fulfill the desires of our hearts. This profound truth invites us to explore what it means to be truly satisfied in Him.

Original Thoughts and Moral Reflections

Psalm 37:4teaches us that when we align our desires with God’s will, He fulfills our deepest longings. This alignment is not about God granting every wish but transforming our hearts to desire what He desires. When we delight in Him, our priorities shift, and we find joy in His presence and purposes.

Psalm 22:26highlights the satisfaction that comes from seeking God. True contentment is not found in material possessions or worldly achievements but in a relationship with Him. The meek, those who humbly seek the Lord, are promised satisfaction and eternal life.

Psalm 16:11reminds us that true joy and eternal pleasures are found in God’s presence. Our ultimate satisfaction is not in the temporary pleasures of this world but in the everlasting joy that comes from being with Him. This verse calls us to seek His presence daily, knowing that in Him, we find fullness of joy.

Jeremiah 31:25 speaks to God’s promise to refresh and satisfy those who are weary. In our busy and often exhausting lives, God offers us rest and renewal. He is our source of strength, and when we turn to Him, He refreshes our souls.

Takeaways and Christianity Paths in Life

Delighting in God: To delight in the Lord means to find our greatest joy in Him. This involves spending time in His Word, worshiping Him, and seeking His will in our lives. As we delight in Him, our desires become aligned with His, and we experience true satisfaction.
Seeking God Earnestly: True satisfaction comes from seeking God with all our hearts. This means prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else. When we seek Him earnestly, we find the contentment and peace that only He can provide.
Experiencing God’s Joy: God’s presence brings fullness of joy. By spending time in prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word, we can experience the joy that comes from being close to Him. This joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Him.
Relying on God for Strength: In times of weariness and struggle, God is our source of strength and refreshment. By turning to Him in prayer and trusting in His promises, we can find the renewal and strength we need to face life’s challenges.

Unified Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for being our source of true satisfaction and joy. Help us to delight in You and seek Your presence daily. Transform our hearts to desire what You desire and align our wills with Yours. Refresh our weary souls and fill us with Your peace and strength. May we always find our deepest contentment in You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Message of Hope

In today’s world, filled with distractions and challenges, finding satisfaction in God is more important than ever. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that true joy and contentment are found in Him. By delighting in the Lord, seeking His presence, and relying on His strength, we can experience the fullness of life that He promises. May this truth fill our hearts with hope and guide us on our journey of faith.

DEAR GOD: We Love Walking in Your Light~

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

Walking in the Light: A Journey of Fellowship and Cleansing

The verse from 1 John 1:7, “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin,” encapsulates profound truths about Christian life. It speaks to the essence of living in God’s truth, the importance of community, and the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice. This essay will explore these themes through a story, reflective questions, moral thoughts, meditative takeaways, a powerful unified prayer, and a takeaway thought for the day.

The Story of Sarah

Sarah was a young woman who had recently moved to a new city. She felt isolated and struggled to find her place in her new environment. One Sunday, she decided to attend a local church service. As she walked into the church, she was greeted warmly by the congregation. The pastor’s sermon that day was on 1 John 1:7. He spoke about walking in the light and the fellowship that comes from living in God’s truth.

Sarah felt a stirring in her heart. She realized that she had been living in the shadows of her fears and insecurities. She decided to take a step of faith and join a small group within the church. Over time, she found a community that supported and uplifted her. She experienced the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood as she confessed her sins and received forgiveness. Sarah’s life was transformed as she walked in the light and embraced the fellowship of believers.

Reflective Questions

In what areas of your life do you feel you are not walking in the light?
How can you foster deeper fellowship with other believers?
What does the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood mean to you personally?
How can you support others in their journey of faith?

Moral Thoughts

Walking in the light means living in truth and transparency. It involves acknowledging our sins and shortcomings and seeking God’s forgiveness. This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our journey. We are part of a community of believers who support and uplift each other. The blood of Jesus is a powerful symbol of cleansing and redemption. It assures us that no sin is too great to be forgiven.

Meditative Takeaways

Living in Truth: Reflect on the importance of living in truth and transparency. Consider how you can align your actions with God’s will.
Community and Fellowship: Meditate on the value of fellowship with other believers. Think about ways to strengthen your connections within your faith community.
Cleansing and Forgiveness: Contemplate the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the cleansing power of His blood. Allow yourself to experience the freedom that comes from forgiveness.

Powerful Unified Prayer

“Dear LORD, my God – we come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We thank You for the cleansing power of His blood that washes away our sins. Help us to walk in the light, as You are in the light. Strengthen our fellowship with one another, that we may support and uplift each other in our journey of faith. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, guiding us in truth and love. May our lives reflect Your glory and bring honor to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thought for the Day

“Walking in the light means living in truth and embracing the fellowship of believers. Let the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood transform your life and guide you in your journey of faith.”

Supporting Scripture

John 8:12: “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’”
Ephesians 5:8: “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.”
1 Peter 2:9: “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

Conclusion

1 John 1:7 is a powerful reminder of the transformative journey of walking in the light. It calls us to live in truth, embrace fellowship, and experience the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood. As we reflect on this verse, let us commit to living in the light, supporting one another, and allowing God’s grace to guide us each day, every single day of our lives, and beyond…

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DEAR GOD: I’m In Your Hands & Trust You Fully~

by C D SWANSON // July 10, 2024 // No Comments

“Be still, and know that I am God” —Psalm 46:10

Being Still and Knowing God is God

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the concept of being still and recognizing the sovereignty of God can seem almost foreign. Yet, this timeless principle is as relevant today as it was in biblical times. The phrase “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10) invites us into a deeper relationship with our Creator, urging us to pause, reflect, and trust in His divine plan.

The Story of Sarah

Sarah was a young woman living in a busy city. Her days were filled with work, social commitments, and endless to-do lists. Despite her active involvement in church, she often felt disconnected from God. One evening, overwhelmed by stress, she stumbled upon Psalm 46:10 during her Bible study: “Be still, and know that I am God.”

Intrigued, Sarah decided to take this verse to heart. She began setting aside time each day to sit quietly, pray, and meditate on God’s word. Initially, it was challenging to quiet her mind, but gradually, she started to feel a profound sense of peace and clarity. In those moments of stillness, Sarah experienced God’s presence more intimately than ever before.

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
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.”

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Being still allows us to acknowledge that God is in control, even when life feels chaotic.
Inner Peace: Stillness brings a sense of peace that transcends understanding, grounding us in God’s love.
Strength and Renewal: By waiting on the Lord, we find renewed strength and purpose.

Reflective Thoughts

Modern Christians vs. Biblical Times: In biblical times, people often had fewer distractions and more opportunities for quiet reflection. Today, we must be intentional about creating space for stillness amidst our busy lives.
God’s Love and Best Intentions: God’s love for us is unwavering. He desires what is best for us, and sometimes that means calling us to slow down and listen to His voice.

Unity Closing Prayer

“My Dear Sweet LORD, we come before You with grateful hearts, seeking Your presence in our lives. Teach us to be still and know that You are God. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty and find peace in Your love. Unite us as a community of believers, supporting one another in our journey of faith. May we always remember that You desire what is best for us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Thought Takeaway

“Be still, and know that I am God.” Let this verse be a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and trust in the divine plan. In moments of stillness, we find the strength, peace, and assurance that God is with us, guiding us every step of the way.

I pray that this Psalm 46:10 essay resonates with you and provides a moment of reflection and peace.

How do you find stillness in your daily life?

Be Still – 4 Week Sermon Series (04-11-2021 to 05-02-2021) :: Connect United Methodist Church

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Jehovah-Rapha – My Healer~

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

Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM International

“And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.”
-Exodus 15:26

Exodus 15:26 is a verse that encapsulates the profound nature of God’s relationship with His people, highlighting His role as a healer and protector. The verse reads: “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer.”

It stands today with us as well if we follow His ways, commandments and His voice – and trust in Him. He will lead us to safety and heal our hearts and souls. We need to seek Him first in all we do.

The Covenant of Healing: This verse is set in the context of God’s covenant with Israel. It follows the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and their crossing of the Red Sea. Here, God promises to be their healer, but this promise is conditional upon their obedience and faithfulness. It’s a powerful reminder that the relationship between God and His people is interactive and reciprocal.

When we obey and align with His Word and follow Him and do all according to His will and purpose for our lives, we will be healed in more ways than one. Our body heart mind and soul is in His very capable hands.

God as Jehovah-Rapha: The name Jehovah-Rapha, meaning “The Lord Who Heals,” is revealed in this passage. It’s not just physical healing that’s in view here, but a holistic restoration—spiritual, emotional, and societal. The diseases of Egypt can be seen as symbolic of the spiritual and moral corruption that God’s people are to be delivered from.

The evil world and chaotic setting in our society today is how God will heal. He will lighten our load and highlight the path in which we should walk. He will heal our souls and wash us clean.

Moral Implications: The moral takeaway from Exodus 15:26 is the importance of obedience and trust in God. It teaches us that adherence to God’s commandments is not merely a legalistic requirement but a path to well-being and protection from the ‘diseases’—be they literal or figurative—that afflict humanity.

As we reflect and meditate on His Word and partake of His goodness in all we do, we will see His promises come to fruition. He will ultimately heal us in the way it is most beneficial for us. The biggest healing is of our souls that we can live forever through Christ.

Exodus 15:26 serves as a reminder that God’s desire for His people is wholeness and health. It challenges us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we are responding to God’s call to obedience. Are we listening to His voice and doing what is right in His eyes?

Reflection:

How can we apply the principle of obedience to God in our modern context?
What are the ‘diseases’ in our lives that we need healing from?
In what ways can we become more attuned to the voice of God?

“Dear Lord, You are Jehovah-Rapha, our healer. We thank You for Your promises and Your faithfulness. Help us to listen to Your voice and to walk in Your ways without fail. Heal us from diseases that plague our spirits and our societies. May we find our strength and restoration in You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Protection and Being Our Shield~

by C D SWANSON // April 5, 2024 // No Comments

For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield-Psalm 1:12 (KJV)

Divine Favor as a Shield

The verse “For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield” speaks to the profound relationship between the Divine and the righteous. It suggests that righteousness is not merely a path of moral rectitude but also a state of being that attracts the Lord’s blessings. The imagery of the Lord’s favor as a shield encapsulates the protective and encompassing nature of divine grace.

God will always inherently protect His children and followers; He is a constant shield and provider for all of us. He is the consummate Father that covers us with love and mercy all the days of our lives – even when we sin, he loves us – and will forgive us our transgressions if we repent and have a contrite heart.

As children of faith going about our daily lives with this knowledge in place makes for a joyous living – knowing how God is with us always and is the purveyor and Father of all blessings from above.

As you go through your daily routine and tasks -give thanks to God that He is with you always, and never will leave you. He accompanies you all the days of your life! Isn’t that totally reassuring? And isn’t that something to give thanks about.

Reflection Questions:

How does the concept of divine favor as a shield resonate with your personal experiences?
What are the implications of viewing divine favor as a form of protection in daily life?

“Dear Heavenly Father, we seek Your favor, not as a mere desire for protection, but as an affirmation of our walk-in righteousness. May Your grace surround us like a shield, deflecting malice and guiding us to Your light. Bless us with the wisdom to discern right from wrong and the strength to uphold Your virtues, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”