DEAR GOD: Standing On Your Promises Always!~

by C D SWANSON // March 26, 2025 // No Comments

Standing on the Promises of God

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. —
2 Corinthians 1:20 (NKJV)

God’s promises are unwavering, rooted in His eternal love and faithfulness. They are not subject to change nor dependent on circumstances, for they are anchored in His perfect nature. Throughout scripture, God reveals His promises to His people—promises of salvation, peace, provision, and eternal life. These promises, fulfilled in Christ, remind us that we are never alone, forsaken, or without hope.

One of the most profound aspects of God’s promises is their reliability. The Bible is filled with accounts of His faithfulness—how He delivered the Israelites from Egypt, how He provided for Elijah in the wilderness, and, most importantly, how He sent His Son to redeem humanity. As believers, we have the assurance that God’s promises are not just words, but truths sealed by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Living as Christians today comes with unique challenges. In a world often hostile to faith, it can be difficult to remain steadfast in our commitment to Christ. However, just as His promises sustained the saints of old, they sustain us now. By immersing ourselves in scripture and holding fast to His Word, we can navigate the complexities of modern life with courage and purpose.

Reflective Questions

How do I lean on God’s promises when faced with uncertainty?
What specific promises from scripture strengthen my faith in difficult times?

Supporting Scriptures

Jeremiah 29:11 — For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Isaiah 41:10 — Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
John 14:27 — Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Moral Biblical Overview and Analysis

The Bible teaches us that standing on God’s promises requires faith, obedience, and patience. Faith trusts in what is unseen, knowing that God’s timing is always perfect. Obedience aligns our actions with His Word, allowing His promises to unfold in our lives. Patience acknowledges that while God’s promises are guaranteed, their fulfillment may not always be immediate. These qualities remind us that His promises are not only blessings for us to enjoy but also responsibilities for us to steward.

Christianity today is a mosaic of devotion and struggle. While the global church continues to grow in many regions, believers face increasing resistance in others. Yet, in the midst of trials, we see the resilience of faith and the transformative power of the gospel. As Christians, we are called to embody the love of Christ in tangible ways—through acts of kindness, integrity in our dealings, and a commitment to share the good news. By pursuing these actions, we can honor Christ daily and reflect His glory to a world that desperately needs hope.

A Prayer of Commitment

“Dear Heavenly Father, – LORD- thank You for the promises that anchor my soul and remind me of Your unchanging nature. Teach me to trust in Your Word, even when life is uncertain. Strengthen me to live each day with purpose, embodying Your love and truth in every thought, word, and action. Guide me to honor You in the small and the grand, and to be a light to those around me. Thank You for the assurance that in Christ, Your promises are Yes and Amen. May I live each day confident in Your faithfulness. In Jesus name I prayer – Amen.”

Meditative Question for the Day?????

What is one promise of God that you can carry in your heart today as a source of hope and strength?

DEAR GOD: Eternal Life With You Is A Gift Of Love~

by C D SWANSON // March 24, 2025 // No Comments

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” -Romans 6:23

Romans 6:23 is a profound encapsulation of the gospel message. It distills the weight of human sin and the grace of God into one verse, balancing the despair of separation from God with the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ. Let’s break it down thoughtfully.

The first part of the verse, “For the wages of sin is death,” points to the inevitability of the consequence of sin. Just as labor earns wages, sin also earns its due payment, and that payment is death—both physical and spiritual. This “death” is not merely the end of life but eternal separation from God. Sin, in its essence, is rebellion against a holy God, and it creates an insurmountable chasm between humanity and its Creator (Isaiah 59:2). The entire narrative of Scripture reaffirms this truth: “The soul that sinneth, it shall die” (Ezekiel 18:20). This is the harsh reality of human existence apart from divine intervention.

Yet, the verse does not leave us in despair. It transitions with the hopeful conjunction, “but,” signifying a turning point. The verse continues, “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Unlike the wages of sin that are earned, the gift of God is freely given. This contrast between wages and a gift underscores the unmerited nature of God’s grace. Eternal life is not something we can earn through works, merit, or morality. It is entirely dependent on the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as made clear in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Paul’s language here is deliberate. The term “through Jesus Christ our Lord” reminds us that Jesus is not merely a mediator but the very source of this gift. He bore the penalty of sin on our behalf: “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed” (1 Peter 2:24). Through Him, the sting of death is swallowed up in victory (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

So, what does this mean for us today as Christians? First, it calls us to live with a deep sense of gratitude for the salvation we have received. Recognizing the gravity of what we have been saved from should compel us to worship God in spirit and truth. Second, it reminds us to share this gift with others. If eternal life is truly the unearned gift of God, how can we withhold such a message of hope from those around us? And third, it challenges us to live righteously, not as a means of earning salvation but as a response to the love of God. As Paul reminds us in Romans 12:1, we are called to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, as our reasonable service.

The journey of faith involves daily surrender to Christ’s Lordship. It means turning away from sin and toward the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. In practical terms, this can look like committing to prayer, immersing ourselves in God’s Word, and seeking out opportunities to be Christ’s hands and feet in a hurting world.

A Prayer:

“Dear LORD, thank You for Your grace and mercy. Thank You for delivering us from the wages of sin and gifting us eternal life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Teach us to walk daily in Your light, to live with grateful hearts, and to boldly proclaim Your gospel to a world in need. Strengthen us to turn away from sin and to surrender every part of our lives to You. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and Lord, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture for Meditation:

“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24).

This verse complements Romans 6:23 beautifully, reminding us that our justification and salvation are solely by the grace of God through Christ. Take time to reflect on this truth today. God Bless You All~

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free video background loop ...

DEAR GOD: You Supply All Of My Needs~

by C D SWANSON // March 2, 2025 // No Comments

Meer dan 400.000 gratis afbeeldingen van Christelijke Achtergrond en ...

“And my god will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

Here Paul is urgently encouraging the Philippians to continue to support the gospel work. He is inferring that God will meet their needs if they devote themselves to the ministry of the gospel, which is to say, Gospel of Christ. And to give of themselves generously in spirit and in works. This will elicit blessings from the LORD in all we do, when we do things according to His will and His directives for our lives.

We might ask ourselves – Are we following the path of righteousness?
Are we giving of ourselves generously in spirit?
Are we aligning with His word?

As you go through this day make a conscious effort to willingly do what Christ would expect you to do as Christians. As people of faith, do we walk in the Light? Or are we walking down a darkened path of destructive outcomes?

May the LORD guide you in all you do today and always, may His gospel and His will for your lives be apparent in all you endeavor to do, and may your love for Him be the top priority in your life as you go along your way, today, and all the minutes of your life, in Jesus name, Amen.

God Bless you All~

DEAR GOD: May We Be Conqueror’s Through Your Word Always~

by C D SWANSON // February 19, 2025 // No Comments

The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, and he will rule^[c] them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ Revelation 2:26-29 (ESV)

In the Book of Revelation, John conveys messages from Jesus to the seven churches, addressing their strengths and shortcomings. Revelation 2:26-29 holds a profound promise for those who persevere and follow Jesus’ teachings. These verses provide reassurance and hope for believers, both in the present and in the future, highlighting the eternal significance of steadfast faith.

Application for Today and Our Eternal Souls

Victorious Endurance

“To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations” (Revelation 2:26, ESV).

This verse emphasizes the importance of enduring faith and obedience to God’s will. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, it is essential for believers to remain steadfast in their faith, regardless of the obstacles they face. The promise of authority over the nations serves as a reminder that our perseverance and loyalty to Christ will be rewarded.

Supporting Scriptures:

James 1:12 (ESV): “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
Matthew 24:13 (ESV): “But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”

Ruling with Christ

“‘Will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’—just as I have received authority from my Father” (Revelation 2:27, ESV).

This passage signifies the ultimate authority and judgment that Christ holds and shares with those who remain faithful. It reflects the power and justice that will be exercised in the establishment of God’s kingdom. Believers are called to trust in God’s plan and recognize that true authority is derived from Him.

Supporting Scriptures:

Psalm 2:9 (ESV): “You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.”
1 Corinthians 6:2-3 (ESV): “Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life!”

The Morning Star

“And I will give him the morning star” (Revelation 2:28-29, ESV).

The morning star is a symbol of hope, guidance, and the promise of a new dawn. Jesus Himself is referred to as the Morning Star in Revelation 22:16. This verse assures believers that their faithfulness will be rewarded with the presence of Christ, who brings light and life to their souls. The morning star represents the eternal life and glory that awaits those who remain faithful to the end. Verse 29- LISTEN – meaning pay heed to what the Holy Spirit says – and honor the Word by following it – always!

Supporting Scriptures:

2 Peter 1:19 (ESV): “And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.”
Revelation 22:16 (ESV): “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.”

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life do I need to demonstrate greater endurance and faithfulness to God’s will?
How can I better trust in the authority and justice of Christ, especially in difficult situations?
What steps can I take to strengthen my relationship with God and ensure that I remain steadfast in my faith?

Love for the Lord and His Church

The Church, comprised of all believers, is the embodiment of Christ’s love on earth. As His followers, we are called to live out this love in our daily lives, supporting and uplifting one another in our spiritual journeys. The promise of ruling with Christ reinforces the importance of our collective mission to spread the truth and love of the gospel.

Preaching the Truth

Preaching the truth is a fundamental aspect of our faith. It is through sharing the gospel that we fulfill the Great Commission and bring others into the fold of Christ’s love. In a world where misinformation and false teachings abound, it is crucial for believers to stand firm in their understanding of Scripture and boldly proclaim the truth.

Supporting Scriptures:

2 Timothy 4:2 (ESV): “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): “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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Prayer

“LORD, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your unwavering love and promises. We ask for the strength to remain steadfast in our faith and obedient to Your will, even in the face of trials. Help us to trust in Your authority and justice, knowing that our perseverance will be rewarded. Fill us with the courage to preach Your truth and share Your love with others. May Your Spirit guide us in all that we do, and may we be a reflection of Your light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Moral Thought Analysis of the Day

Today’s reflection reminds us of the profound importance of enduring faith and obedience to God’s will. Our journey of faith is not without challenges, but it is through these trials that our character is refined and our relationship with God strengthened. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us hold fast to the promise that our perseverance will be rewarded with eternal authority and communion with Christ. In everything we do from this moment, or the following moments, all the minutes, hours, weeks, months or years, it all ends with judgement and either receiving our eternal rewards, or not. Are we ready for the final “judgement day?” Are we grasping and embracing the “truth” and proclaiming it? Or are we thinking, “we have plenty of time?” Time runs out for “everyone” NO ONE can outrun time – it stops one day. And when it does, there are two crucial scenarios that will take place.

We either won’t be in the Lamb’s Book Of Life, and perish.

Or we WILL be in the Lamb’s Book of life -and LIVE.

Where do you see yourself when time runs out?

Blessing for the Readers

May the Lord bless you all in this journey called “life on earth” – may your days be filled with God’s light and compassion, and His truth. In Jesus name, Amen.

May this post about God’s Word- serve as an inner source of inspiration and reflection, guiding you in your spiritual journey and deepening your relationship with the Lord.

DEAR GOD: The Resilient and Truthful Nature of Love – Which is You LORD!

by C D SWANSON // February 12, 2025 // No Comments

“Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” -1 Corinthians 13: 6-7

In these verses, the Apostle Paul provides a profound and timeless insight into the nature of true Christian love. This passage is part of the famous “Love Chapter,” which delineates the characteristics of love in its purest form.

Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; True love finds no pleasure in unrighteousness or injustice. It does not delight in the downfall or moral failures of others but celebrates the triumph of truth. In a world often filled with deception and malice, Christian love stands as a beacon of integrity, rejoicing in honesty, transparency, and righteousness.

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Here, Paul emphasizes the resilient and unwavering nature of love. Love “beareth all things,” meaning it is willing to endure hardships and challenges. It “believeth all things,” which speaks to the trust and faith that love instills, always giving the benefit of the doubt. “Hopeth all things” points to love’s optimistic and forward-looking nature, always anticipating good and remaining positive. Lastly, love “endureth all things,” showcasing its strength and perseverance even in the face of trials.

Reflective Questions:

How can we actively ensure that our love for others is grounded in truth and not in unrighteousness?
In what ways can we demonstrate a love that bears, believes, hopes, and endures through the challenges of everyday life?
How do these attributes of love challenge our current understanding and practice of love within our relationships?

Moral Thoughts and Christian Beliefs: As followers of Christ, we are called to embody this selfless and resilient love in our daily interactions. Our love must mirror the love of Christ, who bore our sins, believed in our redemption, hoped for our salvation, and endured the cross for our sake. This passage calls us to a higher standard of love—one that is not fleeting or conditional but is steadfast and eternal.

Prayer:

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your unfailing love, as demonstrated through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to embody the love described in 1 Corinthians 13:6-7. Guide us to rejoice in the truth and to love others selflessly and with enduring faith. May our love reflect Your divine nature, bearing all things, believing all things, hoping all things, and enduring all things. Strengthen our hearts to love as You love, bringing light and hope to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We Find Strength in Scripture~

by C D SWANSON // February 9, 2025 // No Comments

Should You Work on Your Weakness or Strength?

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

This verse is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and His benevolent plans for our lives. It reassures us that, despite the challenges and uncertainties we may face, God has a purpose for each of us, designed to bring us prosperity, hope, and a promising future. It encourages us to trust in His wisdom and timing, knowing that His plans are ultimately for our good. This divine promise provides comfort and strength, especially in moments of doubt or difficulty, as we are reminded of the unwavering care and guidance of a loving God. We find strength in CHRIST!

Has this verse provided you with encouragement or inspiration in your journey?

Think of how God touches your life each day and how He influences your thinking on a daily basis.

God is with us and has only good things for us in our pathway, should we align with His word and be according to His will and purpose, we will be able to do all things through Christ and in Christ.

You will ultimately and inherently know when it is the “will of God” because things will work out easily and the puzzle pieces will fit together nicely. It will be relatively smooth even through tumultuous times – because His hands will guide you and show you the way each time.

Psalm 34:17-18: “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
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.”
Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

These scriptures remind us of God’s unwavering presence and support in times of need. They offer comfort, strength, and peace, encouraging us to turn to Him and trust in His love and guidance.

Do any of these verses resonate with you in particular?

“May the LORD’s Spirit and will provide you guidance and comfort all the days of your Life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thanks For Your Infinite Mercy and Forgiveness~

by C D SWANSON // January 31, 2025 // No Comments

February 27 – Jesus Christ Has Forgiven Us | Seeds for the Soul | Forgiveness, Jesus christ, Jesus

“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” –Psalm 86:5

The Infinite Mercy and Forgiveness of God

Psalm 86:5 declares, “For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” This powerful verse encapsulates the nature of God’s boundless mercy and readiness to forgive those who seek Him. It serves as a comforting reminder of His unwavering love and compassion towards humanity.

Supportive Scriptures

Several other scriptures reflect similar themes:

Lamentations 3:22-23: “It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Isaiah 55:7: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”

These verses collectively underscore the idea that God’s mercy and forgiveness are not only vast but also ever-renewing and accessible to all who earnestly seek His grace.

Reflective Questions

What does it mean to you personally that God is “ready to forgive”?
How does the concept of God’s mercy influence your daily actions and decisions?
In what ways can you extend mercy and forgiveness to others, reflecting God’s character?

Moral Thoughts

God’s readiness to forgive and His abundant mercy call us to a higher moral standard. They encourage us to adopt an attitude of forgiveness towards others, understanding that we, too, are recipients of immense grace. It challenges us to look beyond faults and extend love and compassion, recognizing that everyone is in need of mercy.

Biblical Perspective

From a biblical standpoint, God’s mercy is a recurring theme that underscores His relationship with humanity. Despite human failures and transgressions, God remains steadfast in His love, always willing to forgive those who repent. This is vividly illustrated in the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32), where the father (representing God) eagerly welcomes back his wayward son, embodying boundless forgiveness and unconditional love.

Inner Thoughts & Analysis

Analyzing Psalm 86:5 in today’s context, it serves as a beacon of hope and reassurance. In a world often characterized by judgment and condemnation, the verse reminds us of the divine nature of forgiveness. It calls us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can cultivate a spirit of mercy. The verse also encourages a personal relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of calling upon Him and seeking His forgiveness.

Contemporary Relevance

Today, the message of God’s mercy and forgiveness is perhaps more pertinent than ever. With societal tensions and personal struggles, the assurance that we are not beyond redemption provides profound comfort. It invites us to approach God with humility, confident in His willingness to forgive and renew.

Prayer

Dear Lord,

We thank You for Your infinite goodness and mercy. Your readiness to forgive fills our hearts with gratitude and hope. Help us to remember Your boundless compassion and to seek Your grace in times of need. Teach us to extend the same mercy to those around us, reflecting Your love in our daily lives. Guide us in our walk with You, strengthening our faith and deepening our understanding of Your word. In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

DEAR GOD: Worship in Spirit and in Truth~

by C D SWANSON // January 28, 2025 // No Comments

“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” John 4:24 (KJV)

John 4:24 is a profound and pivotal verse that speaks volumes about the nature of God and the essence of true worship. This verse captures the essence of a spiritual relationship with God, transcending physical and superficial rituals. In this essay, we will explore the depth of this scripture, its biblical context, moral takeaways, and practical applications in our daily lives.

Biblical Overview and Analysis

The verse, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth,” is a part of Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. This dialogue occurs in John 4:1-42, where Jesus reveals profound truths about the nature of God and worship. In this context, Jesus dismantles the barriers of cultural and religious divisions by emphasizing the spiritual nature of worship, which is not confined to specific locations or rituals.

The statement “God is a Spirit” indicates that God is not a physical being confined to a specific place. God’s presence is omnipresent and transcends all physical limitations. Therefore, true worship is not about external ceremonies but about a genuine, heartfelt connection with God.

The phrase “in spirit and in truth” highlights two crucial components of worship:

In Spirit: Worship must be led by the Holy Spirit, engaging our innermost being. It requires sincerity, passion, and a genuine connection to God.
In Truth: Worship must align with the truth of God’s Word. It involves a deep understanding and adherence to biblical teachings.

Reflective Questions

How do I experience God’s presence in my daily life?
In what ways can I ensure my worship is sincere and aligned with God’s truth?
How can I break free from merely following rituals to truly connect with God spiritually?

Moral Takeaways

Sincerity in Worship: True worship is about the heart and spirit, not just external rituals.
Authentic Connection: Building an authentic relationship with God requires understanding His nature as a spirit.
Truthfulness: Our worship must be grounded in the truth of God’s Word.

Daily Demonstration

To incorporate this verse into our daily lives, we can:

Spend quiet time in prayer and meditation, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us.
Study the Bible regularly to align our beliefs and actions with God’s truth.
Practice gratitude and mindfulness, acknowledging God’s presence in every moment.

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 145:18: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
Romans 12:1: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
Philippians 3:3: “For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking to worship You in spirit and in truth. Help us to understand the depth of Your love and presence in our lives. Guide us to be sincere in our worship and grounded in Your truth. May our lives reflect Your glory and bring honor to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessing and Scripture to Ponder

May the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).

Scripture to Ponder: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” – Psalm 145:18

This heartfelt reflection serves as a reminder that true worship transcends rituals, reaching the core of our spirit and aligning with God’s eternal truth. May you carry these thoughts with you and find deeper meaning in your relationship with God.

DEAR GOD: A Faithful Journey Through Depression and Anxiety

by C D SWANSON // January 22, 2025 // No Comments

Overcoming Anxiety and Worry, (Give all your worries and cares to God) - YouTube

Depression and anxiety are heavy burdens that many of us carry, often silently and with a sense of guilt. As Christians, we sometimes feel that our faith should shield us from such struggles, but it’s important to remember that we are all human, experiencing the full range of emotions that come with our earthly existence. In the flesh, we face trials and tribulations that can weigh heavily on our hearts.

The Bible offers us comfort and guidance in these difficult times. Psalm 34:17-18 (ESV) reminds us: “When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” This passage reassures us that God is always with us, especially in our moments of deepest despair.

Moreover, Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) encourages us: “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 scripture highlights the power of prayer and the promise of God’s peace, which transcends our understanding and guards our hearts and minds.

It’s important to acknowledge that experiencing depression or anxiety does not make us less faithful or less loved by God. In fact, many prominent figures in the Bible faced similar struggles. Elijah, for example, was so overwhelmed by fear and despair that he prayed for death (1 Kings 19:4), yet God provided him with rest, nourishment, and encouragement.

As we navigate these challenging emotions, it’s crucial to seek support. Lean on your faith community, talk to clergy or a trusted friend, and consider professional help from healthcare workers or therapists. There is no shame in reaching out for assistance. In fact, it is a sign of strength and a step towards healing.

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, seeking Your comfort and peace. We ask for Your healing touch on all who are struggling with depression and anxiety. Remind them of Your unfailing love and presence in their lives. Guide them to the support and care they need and fill their hearts with hope and strength. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

To all who are feeling overwhelmed, remember that you are not alone. Reach out to loved ones, seek counsel from clergy, town social workers, or connect with professional healthcare workers. You can find support through resources such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
About NAMI | NAMI

Or the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA

May God’s blessings and encouragement surround you, providing you with the strength to persevere, and to know you are NEVER ALONE –

God is with You always!

Amen

DEAR GOD: Teach Us To Be Embracing the Gospel in Times of Emptiness

by C D SWANSON // January 20, 2025 // No Comments

When the Joy Suddenly Leaves a Christian

It is not uncommon for Christians to experience moments when their joy seems to vanish, leaving behind a sense of emptiness. This phenomenon can be unsettling, but it’s important to understand that it’s a normal part of the Christian journey. Let’s explore some reasons for this loss of joy, how we can regain it, and why we should never give in to the emptiness.

Reasons for the Emptiness

Spiritual Fatigue: Constantly pouring out without taking time to be spiritually replenished can lead to burnout.
- Scripture: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Unconfessed Sin: Holding onto sin can create a barrier between us and God, stealing our peace and joy.
- Scripture: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
Life’s Trials: Difficult circumstances can overshadow our sense of joy if we focus more on the problem than on God’s promises.
- Scripture: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2-3)

Regaining the Joy

Reconnect with God: Spend time in prayer and the Word to restore your relationship with God.
Confession and Repentance: Clear any sin that might be hindering your fellowship with God.
Fellowship with Believers: Engage with a community of believers who can encourage and support you.
- Scripture: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Gratitude: Focus on the blessings and goodness of God, which helps shift your perspective from problems to praise.
- Scripture: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Reflective Questions

Have I been spending regular time in prayer and scripture reading?
Is there any unconfessed sin in my life that might be hindering my relationship with God?
Am I surrounded by a supportive community of believers?

Metaphorical References

The Flame: Like a fire, our joy needs fuel. Neglecting spiritual disciplines is like removing wood from a fire; the flame weakens.
The Well: Our joy is a well that can run dry if not regularly replenished with living water (Jesus’ teachings).

Moral Thoughts and Thoughts to Ponder

Persistence in Faith: The Christian Walk is not a sprint but a marathon. There will be highs and lows, but persistence and trust in God’s faithfulness will sustain us.
Focus on the Eternal: Earthly joys are fleeting, but the joy found in Christ is eternal and unshakeable.
Never Give In to Emptiness: When we feel empty, it is a call to draw nearer to God, not to retreat into despair. Grasp onto the gospel and wear it daily like a shield.

Prayer and Blessings

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You as we are acknowledging the times when our joy seems to slip away. We ask for Your forgiveness for any sins that may have created a distance between us and You. Lord, renew our spirits and fill us with Your everlasting joy. Help us to remain steadfast in our faith, especially during trials, and to always find our strength and hope in You. Surround us with Your peace and guide us with Your wisdom. May we wear the gospel daily, clinging to Your promises and finding solace in Your love. Bless us and keep us close to You, now and forevermore. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Blessings to you on this journey, and may you always find joy in His Presence. No matter what you are going through at this particular juncture, perhaps in a valley of grief, or relationship troubles, finances, facing a terminal disease or diagnosis that is difficult to accept, know that God is with you always. He will bring you through the darkest hours and hold your hand through it all. As well as hold your hand through the good times. Don’t give up, give in the His love and His promises – and you will never be sorry. Brothers and sisters – love Him fully and life will offer a way it is meant to be LIVED through Him and Him alone.

God Bless You All~