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

DEAR GOD: Joy Because Your Rewards And Love – Strengthens Me

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

Joy! | Christian Wallpapers

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3

James 1:2-3 is a profound and challenging passage that calls us to a higher perspective on the trials we face in life. It invites us to see our struggles not as burdens but as opportunities for growth and transformation.

Personal Reflection: When I reflect on this verse, I am reminded of the times in my life when I faced significant challenges. Whether it was a personal loss, a health issue, or a difficult decision, these moments tested my faith and resilience. Initially, it was hard to find joy in these trials. The pain and uncertainty seemed overwhelming. However, as I leaned into my faith and sought God’s guidance, I began to see these trials as opportunities to deepen my trust in Him.

Heartfelt Commentary: James encourages us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials. This joy is not a superficial happiness but a deep, abiding sense of peace and trust in God’s sovereignty. It is the recognition that our trials are not random or meaningless but are part of God’s plan to refine and strengthen us.

The testing of our faith produces perseverance. Perseverance is the ability to endure and remain steadfast in our faith, even when circumstances are difficult. It is the spiritual muscle that is built through repeated trials and challenges. Just as physical muscles grow stronger through resistance, our faith grows stronger through the trials we face.

Reflective Questions:

How do I typically respond to trials in my life? Do I see them as opportunities for growth or as obstacles to be avoided?
In what ways has God used past trials to strengthen my faith and character?
How can I cultivate a perspective of joy and trust in the midst of my current challenges?

Moral Takeaways:

Trials are opportunities for spiritual growth and transformation.
Joy in trials comes from trusting in God’s plan and purpose.
Perseverance is developed through the testing of our faith.

Supportive Scriptures:

Romans 5:3-4: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
1 Peter 1:6-7: “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”

Closing Prayer: “Heavenly Father, we thank You for the trials that come our way, knowing that they are opportunities for growth and transformation. Help us to see these challenges through the lens of faith and to find joy in the midst of our struggles. Strengthen our perseverance and deepen our trust in Your perfect plan. May we emerge from our trials with a stronger, more resilient faith that brings glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12

DEAR GOD: Holy Spirit You Are Welcome Here

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

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

2 Corinthians 13:14 (ESV)

This verse, often referred to as the “Apostolic Benediction,” is a beautiful and profound blessing that encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith. It is a heartfelt prayer from the Apostle Paul, expressing his deep love and concern for the believers in Corinth. Let’s break down this verse and explore its rich meaning.

The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ

Grace is the unmerited favor and kindness of God, freely given to us through Jesus Christ. It is by His grace that we are saved, not by our works or efforts. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate demonstration of this grace. He took upon Himself the punishment for our sins, offering us forgiveness and eternal life.

Moral Takeaway: Embrace the grace of Jesus in your life. Recognize that it is not by your own strength or righteousness that you are saved, but by His grace alone. Let this grace transform your heart and lead you to live a life of gratitude and humility.

Reflective Question: How can you show gratitude for the grace of Jesus in your daily life?

Supporting Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

The Love of God

The love of God is the foundation of our faith. It is a love that is unconditional, sacrificial, and everlasting. God’s love for us is so great that He sent His only Son to die for our sins. This love is not based on our performance or worthiness but on His character and nature.

Moral Takeaway: Allow the love of God to fill your heart and overflow into your relationships with others. Love as He loves, with patience, kindness, and selflessness.

Reflective Question: In what ways can you demonstrate God’s love to those around you?

Supporting Scripture: Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

The Fellowship of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, Counselor, and Guide. Through the Holy Spirit, we experience the presence of God in our lives. The fellowship of the Holy Spirit unites us with other believers and empowers us to live out our faith.

Moral Takeaway: Cultivate a close relationship with the Holy Spirit. Seek His guidance in all areas of your life and be open to His leading.

Reflective Question: How can you be more attentive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your life?

Supporting Scripture: John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

Closing Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love You have lavished upon us, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. Help us to live in the fullness of Your grace, to love others as You have loved us, and to walk in step with the Holy Spirit. May Your presence be with us always, guiding and strengthening us in our journey of faith. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Romans 15:13 – “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.”

May the grace, love, and fellowship of our Triune God be with you today and always. Blessings to you!

Pentecost Sunday Holy Spirit 2543301 Vector Art at Vecteezy

DEAR GOD: I Trust You Fully And Completely~

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

Trusting God Fully

Trusting God fully is a journey of faith that requires us to surrender our fears, doubts, and uncertainties to Him. It is about believing in His promises and relying on His wisdom, even when we cannot see the path ahead. The Bible provides us with numerous scriptures that encourage us to place our trust in God and lean on His understanding.

Moral Takeaways

God’s Faithfulness: God is always faithful to His promises. He never fails us, even when circumstances seem dire.
Surrendering Control: Trusting God means letting go of our need to control every aspect of our lives and allowing Him to guide us.
Peace in Uncertainty: When we trust God, we can find peace even in the midst of uncertainty and chaos.
Strength in Weakness: God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. When we trust Him, we can overcome any challenge.

Reflective Questions

What areas of my life am I struggling to trust God with?
How can I remind myself of God’s faithfulness in difficult times?
What steps can I take to surrender control and rely more on God’s guidance?
How has trusting God brought peace to my life in the past?

Supportive 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.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV): “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.”
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.”
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): “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.”

Prayer

“LORD-Help us to trust You fully, even when we cannot see the way forward. Teach us to surrender our fears and doubts to You, knowing that You have a perfect plan for our lives. Grant us peace in the midst of uncertainty and strength in our moments of weakness. May we always remember that Your ways are higher than our ways and Your thoughts higher than our thoughts. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thought to Ponder

As you go about your day, reflect on this thought: “Trusting God means believing that He is good, even when life is not.”

How can you apply this truth to your current circumstances?

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DEAR GOD: Rejoice, Rejoice & Rejoice – Always & Forever~

by C D SWANSON // September 12, 2024 // No Comments

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” –

Philippians 4:4 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, emphasizes the importance of joy in the life of a believer. This verse is a powerful reminder that our joy is not dependent on our circumstances but is rooted in our relationship with the Lord. Paul wrote these words while he was in prison, facing uncertainty and hardship. Despite his situation, he found reasons to rejoice because his joy was anchored in Christ.

How We May Rejoice in All We Have and Do

Recognize God’s Sovereignty: Understanding that God is in control of every aspect of our lives allows us to find peace and joy, even in difficult times. Trusting in His plan and purpose helps us to rejoice, knowing that He works all things for our good (Romans 8:28).
Cultivate Gratitude: A heart of gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. By counting our blessings and acknowledging God’s provision, we can experience joy in every situation (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
Embrace Community: Sharing our lives with fellow believers provides encouragement and support. Rejoicing together in the Lord strengthens our faith and fosters a sense of belonging (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Serve Others: Acts of service and kindness bring joy to both the giver and the receiver. By serving others, we reflect Christ’s love and find fulfillment in making a positive impact (Galatians 5:13).
Spend Time in Worship and Prayer: Regularly connecting with God through worship and prayer renews our spirit and fills us with His joy. It is in His presence that we find true and lasting joy (Psalm 16:11).

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

Joy is a Choice: We can choose to focus on God’s goodness and faithfulness, regardless of our circumstances.
Joy is Contagious: Our joy can inspire and uplift others, creating a ripple effect of positivity and hope.
Joy Reflects Our Faith: A joyful heart is a testament to our trust in God and His promises.

Christian Values in Today’s World

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, maintaining a joyful spirit can be a powerful witness to our faith. By embodying joy, we demonstrate the transformative power of a relationship with Christ. Our joy can shine as a beacon of hope, drawing others to the source of our strength and peace.

Reflective Questions

What are some specific ways you can cultivate joy in your daily life?
How can you share your joy with others in your community?
In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more fully to experience His joy?

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 118:24: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Nehemiah 8:10: “Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
John 15:11: “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”

Prayer

“LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of joy that comes from knowing You. Help us to rejoice in You always, regardless of our circumstances. Fill our hearts with gratitude and trust in Your sovereign plan. May our joy be a testimony of Your goodness and love, drawing others to You. Strengthen us to serve others with a joyful spirit and to find delight in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

“In Christ alone, my hope is found; He is my light, my strength, my song.” These words remind us that our ultimate source of joy, hope, and strength is found in Jesus Christ.

When we place our trust in Him, we can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that He is with us. Our joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Him.

How do you find strength and hope in Christ in your daily life?

Isaiah 61:10 I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, My soul will exult in ...

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.”

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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: You Sing, Quiet, Save & Love Us~

by C D SWANSON // July 12, 2024 // No Comments

How God Sings Over Us In Love: The Inspiring Truth (2024)

The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. – Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV)

The Lord’s Presence and Rejoicing Love:

The verse from Zephaniah 3:17 is a profound declaration of God’s intimate presence and His overwhelming love for His people. It reads: “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” This verse encapsulates the essence of God’s relationship with His followers, offering comfort, joy, and assurance of His unwavering support.

The Mighty Savior in Our Midst

The opening line, “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save,” emphasizes God’s omnipresence and His role as a savior. For Christians, this is a reminder that God is not distant or detached; He is actively involved in our lives. His presence is a source of strength and salvation, assuring us that no matter the challenges we face, we are not alone. Reflective questions to ponder include: How do I experience God’s presence in my daily life? In what ways has God acted as a savior in my personal journey?

Rejoicing Over Us with Gladness

“He will rejoice over you with gladness” paints a picture of a joyful God who delights in His people. This is a powerful image, as it shifts the perspective from a stern, judgmental deity to a loving Father who finds joy in His children. For Christians, this means that our relationship with God is not based on fear but on love and joy. It invites us to reflect on how we can reciprocate this joy in our relationship with Him. Questions to consider include: How can I bring joy to God through my actions? What does it mean to me that God rejoices over me?

Quieted by His Love

The phrase “he will quiet you by his love” speaks to the calming and comforting nature of God’s love. In times of turmoil and anxiety, His love provides peace and reassurance. This aspect of God’s love is crucial for Christians who seek solace in their faith. It encourages us to trust in God’s love to calm our fears and anxieties. Reflective questions might be: When have I felt God’s love quieting my fears? How can I cultivate a deeper sense of peace through my faith?

Exulting Over Us with Loud Singing

Finally, “he will exult over you with loud singing” illustrates the exuberant and celebratory nature of God’s love. This image of God singing over us is both beautiful and uplifting, suggesting that our lives are a cause for divine celebration. For Christians, this means that our existence and our faith journey are cherished by God. It prompts us to consider how we can live in a way that honors this divine celebration. Questions to reflect on include: How can I live my life as a celebration of God’s love? What steps can I take to align my actions with the joy God feels for me?

Rejoicing in the Lord’s Love

To rejoice in the Lord’s love, Christians are called to embrace the joy, peace, and celebration that come from a deep relationship with God. This involves daily practices of prayer, worship, and gratitude. By acknowledging God’s presence and His love, we can find strength and joy in our faith. Unity in prayer and community worship also play a significant role in experiencing and sharing this divine love.

Unity Prayer

“LORD, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your unwavering presence in our lives. We thank You for being our mighty savior, for rejoicing over us with gladness, and for quieting our fears with Your love. Help us to feel Your presence daily and to live in a way that brings joy to You. May we find peace in Your love and celebrate our lives as a testament to Your grace. Unite us in Your love, and let our actions reflect the joy and peace that come from knowing You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Final Takeaway

Zephaniah 3:17 is a powerful reminder of God’s intimate and joyful relationship with His people. It calls us to recognize His presence, embrace His love, and live in a way that reflects the joy and peace He offers. By doing so, we can experience the fullness of God’s love and share it with others, creating a community united in faith and love.

May this verse bring you comfort and inspiration.

IMMANUEL GOD WITH US: I love to sing over you with loud shouts of joy.

DEAR GOD: In Awe Of Your Grace & Omnipotence~

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

God Is Omnipresent – Grace Evangelical Society

“God’s Grace and Omnipotence: A Reflection on Faith and Responsibility”

Introduction

God’s grace and omnipotence are foundational aspects of Christian belief. The Bible reveals God’s boundless love, mercy, and power. Together beloved let’s explore these themes, consider their relevance in today’s world, and discuss our responsibilities as Christians.

God’s Omnipotence: Scripture and Reflection

“For with God nothing shall be impossible.” (Luke 1:37, ESV)
God’s omnipotence transcends human limitations. He created the universe, sustains it, and governs all things. Reflect on the awe-inspiring power that upholds existence itself. Consider His strength and love and how it encircles you every single day of your life.

God’s Grace: Scripture and Moral Takeaways

“But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.” (Ephesians 2:4-5, ESV)

God’s grace is unearned favor. We, too, should extend grace to others, forgiving as we’ve been forgiven. Amid chaos and division, God’s grace remains our anchor. Share this hope with a hurting world. Reflect on the goodness of God and being in the safety of His sanctuary. Be a witness to His glory by holding on to our faith and representing Christ in all we do.

Our Responsibilities as Christians

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34, ESV)

Our responsibility is to love sacrificially, reflecting God’s character in all practical matters in which we live. He is commanding us in John 13:24, He is not asking – He is saying “you are to love one another” no questions asked. Just do it and obey His Word.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)

We’re called to serve others, meeting practical needs. We have an inherent responsibility as followers of Christ and His Gospel. Adhering to the Word should be an overall “map” in which we travel, while aligning with His Word in all of our action, speech and daily interactions with others. While staying true to ourselves in the spirit of Christ.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19, ESV)

Share the Gospel boldly. Be open with your love for the LORD. Express it without shame and without hesitation. Be open about your feelings for the God and He will be open with you in return.

Reflective Questions

How can we better demonstrate God’s grace in our interactions with others?
What practical steps can we take to serve our communities?
How does God’s omnipotence impact your faith during challenging times?

Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and omnipotence. Help us extend grace to those around us, serving with love and compassion. May our lives reflect Your power and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Meditative Thoughts & Scripture

“The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” (Deuteronomy 33:27, ESV)

“Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock.” (Isaiah 26:4, ESV)
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Our unshakable foundation is God Himself- May the Word and scriptures in the Holy Bible deepen your understanding of God’s grace and inspire you to live out your faith with purpose…

Living Water: God’s Awesome Grace

DEAR GOD: Seeking You In Prayer Daily~

by C D SWANSON // June 3, 2024 // No Comments

Finding Refuge in God

Psalm 4 is a heartfelt cry from King David, expressing both his distress and unwavering trust in God. In these verses, we witness David’s dialogue with both God and his adversaries. Let’s dive into the richness of this psalm, as we see the meaning and intent of this Psalm to us as children of Christ!

1. David Talks to God (Psalm 4:1)

“Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.”

Passionate Prayer: David’s plea isn’t mere words; it’s a passionate cry for God’s attention. He acknowledges that his righteousness comes from God alone.
Past Mercy as Ground for Future Help: David reminds God of His past deliverance, trusting that God won’t abandon him now. Our prayers gain power when we remember God’s faithfulness.

2. David Talks to Men (Psalm 4:2-3)

“How long, O you sons of men, will you turn my glory to shame? How long will you love worthlessness and seek falsehood? Selah. But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly; the LORD will hear when I call to Him.”

Questioning the Ungodly: David challenges his adversaries. How long will they persist in their destructive ways? He invites them to abandon falsehood and find blessing.
God’s Divine Selection: David affirms that God sets apart the godly. Our identity as God’s chosen ones matters. When we align with His will, He hears our cries.

Moral Takeaway

God’s favor rests upon those who fear, love, and serve Him. We, too, can find solace in being set apart for His divine purposes. Let us embrace our identity as the godly. When we walk according to His will and purpose or our lives, all things work out eventually, because God’s plans are best for us. Even when we don’t feel that they are, we might not see the reason immediately – or ever in this lifetime. But suffice to say – God only wants what’s best for His children. All of them, irrespective of their race, sex, social status etc., – He loves us all!

As we go forward, we need to align with His Word, and be obedient and acquiesce to His will, as we humbly serve Him with all of our heart, mind, body and soul. We need to put Him first in ALL we do and all else is second. His ways. His will. His Word – always.

Reflective Question

How can you live out your faith today, knowing that you are set apart by God for His purposes?

Meditative Thoughts

God’s mercy sustains us.
Our righteousness is a gift from Him.
In distress, we find refuge in His presence.

Closing Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing us, setting us apart as Your beloved. May we walk in godliness, guided by Your grace. Grant us strength to withstand opposition, knowing that You hear our cries, and that You are continuously watching over us, in all we do, all the days of our lives, and may we humbly serve You fully today and into eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May this psalm resonate in your heart, reminding you of God’s unwavering love and protection as you go through each day of your lives!

Swachch Bharat

DEAR GOD: Heal Us, Lead Us, Love Us -Always~

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

There is power in the name, there is healing in the name of Jesus ...

Hezekiah’s Healing and Restoration

In this verse, we witness a powerful moment in the life of King Hezekiah, who ruled over Judah during a tumultuous period. Hezekiah fell seriously ill, and the prophet Isaiah delivered a message from the Lord: “Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the Lord, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the Lord. And I will add fifteen years to your life…”
2 Kings 20:5-6 (KJV)

Let’s take a closer look at this verse and delve in a little closer and deeper to what it means and could mean to us today in this world.

Hezekiah’s Desperation: Hezekiah was in distress, facing a life-threatening illness. His prayer and tears reflected his deep longing for healing and restoration.
God’s Compassion: The Lord responded to Hezekiah’s cry. Despite the king’s imperfections, God’s compassion extended to him because of his lineage—Hezekiah was a descendant of David, a man after God’s own heart.
Healing and Timing: God promised healing. The specific mention of the third day adds significance. It echoes the resurrection theme—the third day when Jesus rose from the dead. Hezekiah’s healing foreshadows the ultimate healing we receive through Christ.

Relevance for Christians Today

Prayer and Tears: Like Hezekiah, we face trials, sickness, and emotional struggles. Our prayers and tears matter to God. He hears us and responds with compassion. He listens to every single prayer and sees every single thing we are experiencing and going through, and He never stops caring!

Divine Timing: Sometimes God’s healing doesn’t come instantly. We must trust His timing. The third day symbolizes hope beyond our immediate circumstances. Jesus’ resurrection reminds us of victory over sin and death. We are to “wait on the LORD and know He is God!” (Psalm 46:10)

The House of the LORD: Hezekiah was instructed to go to the temple. For us, it represents the Church—the community of believers-and we are ONE body in CHRIST. The Church is Christ. And that “church” is within each of us. We find healing, encouragement, and restoration in fellowship with other Christians, as we share the love of Christ and power of Christ. And especially by reading His Word, believing in His Word, “hearing His voice” and embracing His commandments and Gospel of Christ!

Reflective Questions

How do you approach God in times of need?
Have you experienced healing or restoration in your life?
What role does community play in your spiritual journey?

Powerful Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, like Hezekiah, we bring our prayers and tears before You. You see our hearts, our struggles, and our longing for healing. Grant us patience to wait for Your perfect timing. May we find solace in the fellowship of believers, but mainly in YOU, knowing that Your Church is a place of restoration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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Meditative Take Away Thoughts “On the third day, He rose again.” Let this truth anchor your faith, knowing that God’s promises endure beyond our present circumstances. That He is with us always, and He will support us through everything we are going through, all the days of our lives, and beyond!