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: Your Promises & Presence Is My Salvation~

by C D SWANSON // October 16, 2024 // No Comments

Secured in the Promise of Salvation | by Dennis Lastimoso | Anchored In ...

“Cleanse me, Lord, and I shall be clean; heal me, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved.”
Jeremiah 17:14 (ESV)

This verse encapsulates a powerful and personal cry for God’s intervention. It acknowledges
God’s ultimate power and authority in our lives, recognizing that true healing, cleansing, and
salvation come only from Him. This plea is deeply personal, a direct conversation with the Lord,
expressing trust and dependence on His divine ability to restore us in every way.

In our daily lives, we encounter numerous challenges that require us to seek God’s cleansing,
healing, and saving power. Whether it is physical illness, spiritual struggles, or emotional
turmoil, this verse reminds us to turn to God first and foremost. It reflects a profound
understanding that our human efforts are insufficient without divine intervention.
By seeking God’s help, we acknowledge His sovereignty and our need for His grace.

Reflective Questions:

How often do we turn to God first when faced with challenges,
seeking His healing and cleansing?

In what ways can we cultivate a deeper trust in God’s power to save and restore us?

How does recognizing God’s authority over our healing and salvation change our approach to
life’s difficulties?

Moral Takeaways:

Dependence on God: Recognize that true healing and salvation come from God alone.
Trust in His power to cleanse, heal, and save you.

Sincere Prayer: Cultivate a habit of sincere, heartfelt prayer, turning to God with your deepest
needs and trusting Him to provide.

Praise and Gratitude: Always remember to praise and thank God for His intervention in your life, acknowledging His role as your healer and savior.

Supporting Scriptures:

Psalm 103:23 (ESV): “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,”

Emphasizes God’s ability to heal and forgive, reminding us to be grateful for His benefits.

Isaiah 53:5 (ESV): “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.”

Highlights the healing power of Christ’s sacrifice, affirming our faith in His ability to heal.

Prayer:

“Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts full of trust and hope. Cleanse us, Lord, and
we shall be clean. Heal us, and we shall be healed. Save us, and we shall be saved. We acknowledge your power and grace, and we turn to you for all our needs. Help us to rely on you completely and to seek your intervention in every aspect of our lives. Fill us with your peace and
strength, and guide us in your ways. Thank you for being our healer and savior. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

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

Blessing:

May the Lord’s cleansing, healing, and saving power be upon you today and always. May you find strength and comfort in His presence, and may His grace fill your heart with peace. Trust in His unfailing love and walk confidently in His light, knowing He is your ever-present help.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: I Know You Are God~

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

“Be Still, and Know That I Am God”

Historical Context and Meaning

Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God,” is a powerful verse that has resonated with believers for centuries. Historically, this verse was written during a time of turmoil and conflict for the Israelites. The psalmist, likely inspired by the Holy Spirit, penned these words to remind the people of God’s sovereignty and power amidst chaos. The command to “be still” was not merely a call to physical stillness but a deeper invitation to trust and surrender to God’s control.

In ancient times, the Israelites faced numerous threats from surrounding nations. This verse served as a divine reassurance that God was their protector and that His plans would prevail despite the apparent dangers. The phrase “know that I am God” emphasized God’s omnipotence and His ultimate authority over all creation.

Modern Interpretation

Today, Psalm 46:10 continues to offer comfort and guidance. In our fast-paced, often turbulent world, the call to “be still” is more relevant than ever. It invites us to pause, reflect, and recognize God’s presence in our lives. This stillness is not about inactivity but about finding peace and clarity in God’s sovereignty.

Modern believers can draw strength from this verse, knowing that God remains unchanging and ever-present. Whether facing personal struggles, global crises, or everyday stress, the assurance that God is in control provides a profound sense of peace.

Supporting Scripture

Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Philippians 4:6-7: “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.”
Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

Reflective Questions

What areas of your life are you struggling to surrender to God’s control?
How can you incorporate moments of stillness into your daily routine to better recognize God’s presence?
In what ways has God shown His sovereignty and faithfulness in your past experiences?

Moral Takeaway

The moral takeaway from Psalm 46:10 is the importance of trust and surrender. In a world that often values self-reliance and control, this verse reminds us that true peace comes from acknowledging God’s authority and resting in His promises. By being still and recognizing God’s power, we can navigate life’s challenges with confidence and serenity.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge and strength. Help us to be still and know that You are God, especially in times of uncertainty and fear. Grant us the peace that surpasses all understanding and the faith to trust in Your perfect plan. May we always remember that You are in control and that Your love for us is unwavering. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

DEAR GOD: Seek You In All I Do – Every Day & Beyond~

by C D SWANSON // October 7, 2024 // No Comments

Homepage - Seeking God

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

Psalm 63:1

Psalm 63:1 is a heartfelt expression of longing and devotion to God. David, the psalmist, finds himself in a barren wilderness, both physically and spiritually. Despite his dire circumstances, he seeks God earnestly, recognizing that only God can quench his deep spiritual thirst.

Moral Takeaways:

Seek God Earnestly: Just as David sought God early and earnestly, we too should prioritize our relationship with God, especially in times of need.
Spiritual Thirst: Our souls have a deep need for God, much like our bodies need water. Recognizing this need can lead us to a more fulfilling spiritual life.
Dependence on God: In our most challenging times, acknowledging our dependence on God can bring us comfort and strength.

Moral Thoughts:

In moments of spiritual dryness, turning to God can provide the refreshment and renewal we need.
Our longing for God should be as intense as our physical needs, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our spiritual lives.

Reflective Questions:

When was the last time you earnestly sought God in prayer or worship?
How do you recognize and address your spiritual thirst?
In what ways can you prioritize your relationship with God in your daily life?

Supportive Scriptures (ESV):

Matthew 5:6: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
John 4:14: “But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Isaiah 55:1: “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

Prayer

“LORD- we come before You with hearts that long for Your presence. Just as David sought You in the wilderness, we seek You in our times of need. Quench our spiritual thirst and fill us with Your living water. Help us to prioritize our relationship with You and to seek You earnestly every day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

Psalm 42:1 (ESV): “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.”

Blessing

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He turn His face toward you and give you peace. Amen.

God Bless you all~

How To Seek God's Presence - leahleedesigns

DEAR GOD: My Rock, My Refuge, My Everything~

by C D SWANSON // October 6, 2024 // No Comments

Reflection and Commentary on Isaiah 26:4

“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” – Isaiah 26:4 (ESV)

This verse from Isaiah is a profound reminder of the unwavering strength and stability that God provides. In a world where change is constant and uncertainty often looms, this scripture calls Christians to place their trust in the Lord, who is described as an “everlasting rock.” This metaphor signifies God’s unchanging nature and His ability to provide a firm foundation for our lives.

For Christians today, this verse encourages us to lean on God not just in moments of crisis but continually, recognizing that His strength is eternal and His support is unwavering. It speaks to the moral view that faith in God should be steadfast and enduring, regardless of the circumstances we face. Trusting in God means believing in His promises and His timing, even when we cannot see the path ahead clearly.

Moral Views and Takeaways

Steadfast Faith: Trusting in God requires a steadfast faith that does not waver with life’s ups and downs. It is about maintaining our belief in His goodness and sovereignty.
Dependence on God: This verse teaches us the importance of depending on God rather than our own understanding or strength. It is a call to humility and surrender.
Eternal Perspective: Recognizing God as an “everlasting rock” shifts our perspective from the temporary to the eternal. It reminds us that God’s plans and purposes transcend our immediate circumstances.

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life do I struggle to trust God completely?
How can I cultivate a more steadfast faith in my daily walk with God?
What does it mean for me personally to see God as my “everlasting rock”?

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 18:2: “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
Proverbs 3:5-6: “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.”
Philippians 4:6-7: “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.”

Prayer

LORD, Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts filled with love and thanks for Your unwavering strength and Eternal Presence. We thank You for being our everlasting Rock, a firm foundation in times of trouble and peace. Lord, help us to trust in You completely, to lean not on our own understanding but to acknowledge You in all our ways. Strengthen our faith, especially in moments of doubt and fear. We lift up our world to You, asking for Your peace to reign in hearts and all nations. Guide us, protect us, and fill us with Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

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

Blessing

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. Trust in the Lord always, for He is your everlasting rock. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

God Bless you all~

Jesus Our Rock

DEAR LORD: I Feel Your Love & Your Presence~

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

The God of Peace! | Christian Wallpapers

Reflecting on Isaiah 55:6, “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near,” we are reminded of the urgency and importance of seeking God in our daily lives.

This verse speaks to the heart of our relationship with the Lord, emphasizing that He is always accessible and ready to receive us. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, this call to seek God is more relevant than ever.

Essay and Commentary:

In our modern lives, it is easy to become consumed by the busyness of work, family, and personal pursuits. Yet, Isaiah 55:6 calls us to pause and prioritize our relationship with God. Seeking the Lord is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of faith. It requires intentionality, humility, and a heart open to His guidance.

When we seek God, we acknowledge that He is the source of all wisdom, strength, and peace. Our existence is a testament to His Divine plan, and our daily walk should reflect our dependence on Him. This verse encourages us to turn to God in every circumstance, trusting that He is near and ready to help.

Reflective Questions:

How often do I intentionally seek God’s presence in my daily routine?
In what ways can I make more time for prayer and reflection on God’s word?
How do I respond to life’s challenges? Do I seek God’s guidance first, or do I rely on my own understanding?

Moral Takeaways:

Dependence on God: Recognize that our strength and wisdom come from the Lord. In every decision and challenge, seek His guidance.
Consistency in Faith: Make seeking God a daily practice. Just as we nourish our bodies with food, we must nourish our spirits with God’s word and prayer.
Humility and Surrender: Approach God with a humble heart, acknowledging that we are nothing without Him. Surrender your worries and plans to His divine will.

Christian Scenarios of Today:

In the Workplace: Imagine facing a difficult decision at work. Instead of relying solely on your expertise, take a moment to pray and seek God’s wisdom. Trust that He will guide you to the right choice.
In Relationships: When conflicts arise in relationships, seek God’s peace and understanding. Pray for patience and the ability to see the situation through His eyes.
In Health Challenges: Facing health issues can be overwhelming. Seek God’s comfort and healing, trusting that He is with you in every step of your journey.

Power Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You in gratitude and surrender. We seek You, LORD, knowing that You are near and that Your love for us is immeasurable. Guide us in our daily walk, that we may always seek Your Presence and live according to Your will. Help us to remember that our existence is because of You, and let our lives be a continuous praise to Your holy name. Strengthen us in times of trial, comfort us in our sorrows, and fill us with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” – Psalm 145:18 (ESV)

Blessing to the Reader

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace”(Numbers 6:24-26, ESV).

In every step you take, may you feel His Presence guiding you. In moments of uncertainty, may His wisdom fill your heart. May His love surround you, bringing comfort and strength. Trust in His unfailing promises, and may your faith be a beacon of hope and light to those around you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

PEACE FROM GOD!! PEACE WITH GOD!! | HARVEST CHURCH OF GOD

DEAR GOD: Today In This Moment -My Faith Abounds~

by C D SWANSON // October 4, 2024 // No Comments

“Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” – Proverbs 27:1 (ESV)

Reflection on Proverbs 27:1

This verse from Proverbs reminds us of the uncertainty of life and the importance of humility. It speaks to the human tendency to make grand plans and boast about future achievements, forgetting that our lives are ultimately in God’s hands. As Christians, we are called to live in the present, trusting in God’s provision and guidance for each day. Trust in the LORD! He is in control – no need to worry about tomorrow- live for the day – and do ALL unto the LORD in each task, each deed, and all that you endeavor!