DEAR GOD: You Are My Number One Always & Forever~

by C D SWANSON // March 29, 2025 // No Comments

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever.” – Psalm 103:8-9

Title: The Eternal Compassion of Our Loving God

Commentary: God’s character is one of perfect love and unwavering faithfulness. In Psalm 103, we glimpse His tender care for His children. His compassion is not fleeting, nor is His anger lasting. This reminds us that God’s love is not dependent on our perfection but on His infinite grace. His nature is unchanging, and this certainty offers us stability in a world full of uncertainty.

This verse also reflects God’s patience. He understands our flaws and failures, yet His love remains. Such enduring compassion should inspire us to model grace and forgiveness in our relationships. If God, in His perfect holiness, can be slow to anger, how much more should we—imperfect as we are—strive to extend patience to others?

Reflective Questions:

How do we respond to the knowledge of God’s compassion in our daily lives?
In what ways can we show patience and love to those who hurt or frustrate us, mirroring God’s example?
What steps can we take to truly embrace the security of God’s unchanging nature in times of doubt?

Supportive Scriptures:

Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Exodus 34:6: “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”
1 John 4:19: “We love because he first loved us.”

These verses weave a tapestry of hope, each revealing aspects of God’s love that reassure us of His presence and unwavering commitment. They remind us that His love is not just a promise; it is a living reality.

Moral Thoughts: God’s love calls us to reflect His character in our own lives. Whether it’s in acts of kindness, a moment of forgiveness, or a quiet prayer for someone in need, every choice we make can mirror the love He has shown us. His example is a call to action—a challenge to love beyond our limits and trust Him even when the path is unclear.

Prayer: Gracious Lord, we thank You for Your endless compassion and unfailing love. Teach us to rest in the security of Your character and to reflect Your grace in all that we do. Help us to live with patience and forgiveness, honoring You by loving others as You love us. In Jesus name we pray -Amen.

Question of the Day: How can you reflect God’s compassion and patience in a challenging situation today?

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: Jesus, Our Protector and Loving Savior Thank You~

by C D SWANSON // March 25, 2025 // No Comments

“Jesus, Our Protector and Loving Savior”

Verse to Start: “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” – Psalm 23:1 (NLT)

The Love and Protection of Jesus This verse paints a vivid picture of Jesus’ tender love and constant care for His children. Like a shepherd tending to his flock, Jesus protects us from harm, nourishes our souls, and provides for our needs. His love is a fortress, shielding us from the evil that seeks to consume. It’s not a passive kind of love—it’s active, pursuing, and unrelenting.

Throughout Scripture, we see His protective hand at work. John 10:14-15 reminds us: “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.” The ultimate expression of His love is seen in His willingness to lay down His life for us, ensuring our eternal security.

Christians today often share stories of how Jesus has intervened in their lives during moments of darkness. Whether it’s overcoming addiction, finding peace in the midst of storms, or escaping dangerous situations, His love and protection remain evident. This is a testament to the unchanging nature of His promises. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

Reflective Questions

How have I experienced Jesus’ love as a protector in my life?
Are there areas in my life where I need to trust His care more deeply?
How can I reflect His love and protection to others around me?

Moral Thoughts and Biblical Overview Jesus’ love calls us to live as His children—not just in name, but in action. His protection over us teaches us to be bold in faith and compassionate in love. Just as He shields us from evil, we are called to help guard and uplift those who are vulnerable. This echoes the moral principle found in Galatians 6:2: “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.”

The Bible consistently reveals God’s protective nature, from the deliverance of Israel to the promises of Jesus in the Gospels. Psalm 91:2 reassures us, “This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.” We are not alone in our battles—His love surrounds us like a fortress.

Prayer Dear Jesus, Thank You for being our Good Shepherd, always watching over us and leading us in love. Your sacrifice for us shows a depth of love we cannot fully comprehend. Help us to walk confidently in the knowledge that You protect us from evil and guide us through life’s trials. Teach us to love as You love, to protect others as You protect us, and to trust Your plans in every season. Thank You for calling us Your children. Amen.

Reflective Meditation Today, as you go about your day, take a moment to pause and reflect on the love of Jesus. Picture yourself as one of His sheep, safe in His care. Hear His voice calling your name, reminding you that you are loved, cherished, and protected. Carry this peace with you, knowing that no matter what challenges arise, He is with you every step of the way.

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: Help Us To Grow In Grace Through Your Word~

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

Growing in Grace Through the Word

“Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness.” – 1 Peter 2:2-3 (NLT)

Commentary: This verse encapsulates the essence of spiritual growth and the believer’s journey toward maturity in Christ. Peter’s analogy of “newborn babies” craving “pure spiritual milk” paints a picture of dependency, eagerness, and a natural hunger for sustenance. Just as a newborn instinctively cries out for milk to sustain life and grow, so should believers long for the “sincere milk of the Word”—the untainted truths of Scripture. This metaphor highlights the importance of the Word of God as the foundational nourishment that sustains and grows our faith.

When Peter mentions “pure spiritual milk,” he is speaking to the essence of God’s Word, uncorrupted by worldly distractions or false teachings. In our modern world, where countless voices compete for attention, the need for such purity is ever relevant. The Word serves as the foundation for understanding God’s will, discerning truth, and resisting the pull of a society often swayed by fleeting values.

Hebrews 4:12 reminds us: For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Furthermore, this growth is not merely intellectual but deeply transformative. Peter ties it to the experience of salvation, suggesting that the pursuit of God’s Word leads believers into the fullness of their relationship with Him. It is not enough to “taste” that the Lord is good; we must consistently feed on His Word to experience the depth of His kindness and grace.

Through this, we grow in character, bearing the fruits of the Spirit: But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Biblical values derived from these passages are strikingly applicable today. In a culture that often prioritizes self-sufficiency, Peter reminds us of the beauty of dependence—not on human solutions but on divine sustenance.

To grow spiritually, we must cultivate a desire for God’s Word, setting aside distractions and counterfeit sources of “nourishment.” In doing so, we align with Christ’s call to abide in Him: Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing (John 15:5). His Word equips us to stand firm against the currents of secularism, cynicism, and despair, offering hope that is both eternal and unshakable.

Reflective Questions:

What steps can I take to develop a deeper hunger for the truths in God’s Word?
Are there distractions or influences in my life that dilute the “pure spiritual milk” God offers?
How can the kindness of the Lord I’ve experienced inspire me to trust Him more?

Prayer:

“LORD my Gracious and loving Father, we come before You as children yearning for the nourishment only Your Word can provide. Thank You for giving us the sincere milk of truth that feeds our souls and draws us closer to You. Lord, help us to crave Your Word with undivided hearts, removing anything that hinders our growth in You. Let the kindness and grace we have tasted in Your presence fill us with gratitude and a renewed passion to grow deeper in our relationship with You. May Your Word transform us, equipping us to live faithfully and boldly in a world in need of Your light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Reflective Question for the Day:

Am I intentionally making space in my life to drink deeply from God’s Word, or am I relying on spiritual “snacks” to sustain my faith? Delve deeply into this and ask for the LORD to guide you as you do so…

God Bless you all~

DEAR GOD: May We Learn The Patience and Love of Christ~

by C D SWANSON // March 6, 2025 // No Comments

The Story of Christ’s Patience and Love: A New Look at the Prodigal Son

Scripture to Open: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8, ESV)

In the quiet hills of Judea, a man named Asher had two sons: Ezra, the elder, who was diligent and obedient, and Micah, the younger, who was full of dreams and defiance. One morning, Micah said, “Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.” With a sorrowful heart, Asher granted his request.

Micah set out to seek adventure, squandering his inheritance on reckless living. Soon, a severe famine struck the land, and he found himself destitute, hiring himself out to feed pigs. Hungry and humiliated, he thought, “How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger!” (Luke 15:17, ESV). Resolving to return, he rehearsed his confession: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.” (Luke 15:18-19, ESV).

As he neared his family home, something miraculous occurred. His father saw him from afar and, moved with compassion, ran to embrace him. Before Micah could finish his apology, Asher exclaimed to his servants, “Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” (Luke 15:22-24, ESV).

Biblical Analysis Overview

The father’s reaction in this story epitomizes God’s boundless grace. While we are often like Micah, wandering from God, His love never falters. As the apostle Paul writes in Romans 5:8, God’s love is proactive, shown through Christ’s sacrifice while we were still sinners. It’s not contingent on our merit but anchored in His divine nature.

In the cultural context of Luke 15, running was considered undignified for a man of Asher’s stature. Yet, his choice to run highlights God’s willingness to embrace us with urgency and joy when we return. The robe, ring, and feast signify restoration to full sonship—something Micah could never have imagined for himself.

The elder brother, often overlooked in this parable, represents a cautionary note. Though outwardly obedient, his heart was distant, as revealed in his resentment toward his father’s grace (Luke 15:28-30). This reminds us to celebrate God’s forgiveness, whether it’s extended to us or to others.

Moral Insights and Takeaways

God’s Love Is Proactive: Christ’s sacrifice demonstrates that His love reaches us before we even realize our need for Him.
Repentance Restores Relationship: Micah’s return teaches us that acknowledging our sins paves the way for redemption and healing.
Celebrate Grace: The father’s celebration invites us to rejoice not just in our own salvation, but in the forgiveness extended to others.
Guard Against Resentment: The elder brother warns us against self-righteousness and bitterness. God’s grace is abundant enough for all.

Reflective Questions

In what ways does this story help you understand God’s character?
Have you ever felt distant from God? How can you take steps toward returning to Him today?
Are there people in your life who need grace and forgiveness? How can you mirror the father’s love to them?
How do you respond when others receive blessings or forgiveness that you feel they don’t deserve?

Closing Prayer

“Father in Heaven, we thank You for the depth of Your love, a love so great that You sent Your Son to die for us while we were still sinners. Thank You for Your patience, Your grace, and the joy You take in welcoming us back when we stray. Help us to turn to You with repentant hearts, trusting in Your forgiveness. Teach us to celebrate Your grace, both in our lives and in the lives of others. May our hearts reflect Your compassion, always ready to forgive and rejoice. In the precious name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Manifested Love: Living Through Christ~

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

“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.” –
1 John 4:9

A Reflection on 1 John 4:9

This verse beautifully encapsulates the core of God’s boundless love and the essence of His divine plan for humanity. It speaks not just of a historical event but of the very heartbeat of Christian faith. In sending His only begotten Son into the world, God made an unparalleled sacrifice that enables us to experience eternal life through Christ.

Life Through Christ: An Overview

Through Christ, we gain more than a mere existence; we are offered an abundant life filled with purpose, love, and hope. Jesus Himself said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). This abundant life is characterized by a transformative relationship with God, one that renews our hearts and minds, guiding us to live according to His will.

Reflective Questions:

How does understanding God’s love through the sacrifice of His Son influence our daily lives and decisions?
In what ways can we live more fully through Christ, embracing the abundant life He offers?
How can we share the message of God’s love with others, reflecting Christ’s light in the world?

Supporting Scriptures:

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.”
Romans 5:8 – “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
Ephesians 2:4-5 – “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)”

Conclusion:

God’s love is both profound and active, manifesting through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. This Divine love calls us to respond with obedience and alignment to His Word and will for our lives. By doing so, we not only experience the fullness of life here on earth but also secure our place in the eternal afterlife. Adhering to His commandments and living in His love prepares us for the ultimate reward—an eternity in His loving Presence.

Prayer:

“LORD- You have shown us through the gift of Your only begotten Son. Lord, help us to live through Christ, embracing the abundant life He offers. Guide us to align our lives with Your will, to walk in Your ways, and to share Your love with others. May we be ever mindful of Your presence and Your promises, living each day in the light of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)” – Ephesians 2:4-5

Blessing for the Readers:

May the love of God surround you, the grace of Christ sustain you, and the Holy Spirit guide you in all your endeavors. May you find peace, purpose, and joy in living through Him, and may His blessings be upon you now and forever. Amen.

DEAR GOD: Love Through Christ’s Vision and Spirit

by C D SWANSON // February 21, 2025 // No Comments

Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God’s law. For the commandments say, “You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet.” These—and other such commandments—are summed up in this one commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law.

Romans 13:8-10

The commandments are pillars of moral guidance, culminating in the profound call to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Romans 13:9) This commandment encapsulates all others, emphasizing the overarching principle of love. Yet, loving someone who curses you, mocks you, or harbors hatred towards you is one of the most challenging tests of our faith.

Reflecting on the scriptures, we are reminded of Jesus’s words in Matthew 5:44, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” This radical love is not rooted in our strength but in Christ’s. By seeing others through Christ’s vision and spirit, we recognize their inherent worth and potential for transformation.

Furthermore, Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Forgiveness and compassion are acts of love that can heal wounds and break cycles of enmity. It’s crucial to remember that love is not merely an emotion but a deliberate act of will—choosing to respond with grace and patience, even when it’s difficult.

When faced with derision or hatred, seeking help from Christ empowers us to embody tolerance and purpose. As we strive to love as He loves, we become instruments of His peace, reflecting His light in a world often overshadowed by darkness.

Loving Prayer and Blessings:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before you with hearts yearning for your wisdom and guidance. Teach us to love as You love, even when faced with adversity and animosity. Fill our hearts with your Holy Spirit, granting us the strength to bless those who curse us and to do good to those who hate us. May we be vessels of your grace and instruments of your peace, always reflecting your boundless love.

Bless us, O Lord, with the courage to forgive, the patience to endure, and the compassion to understand. Let your love flow through us, touching the lives of those we encounter, even our adversaries. We seek your help and guidance as we navigate the complexities of human relationships, always striving to see others through your eyes.

In Jesus’s name, we pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless and keep you, filling your heart with His love and peace.

Scripture to Ponder: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8)

May this reflection bring you strength and inspiration as you continue your journey in faith. Blessings to you!

DEAR GOD: I Embrace Your Multifaceted Grace~

by C D SWANSON // February 5, 2025 // No Comments

Grace has no But

The LORD’s multifaceted personality and boundless grace are woven throughout the scriptures, revealing His deep love, justice, mercy, and wisdom. His personality is a rich tapestry, reflecting His unwavering commitment to righteousness, His compassion for the brokenhearted, and His desire for a relationship with His creation.

Scriptures:

Psalm 145:8-9: “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.”
James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Reflective Questions:

How can I experience and share the LORD’s grace in my daily interactions?
In what ways can I seek and reflect God’s wisdom in my decisions?
How does trusting in the LORD’s strength change my approach to life’s challenges?

Moral Thoughts: The multifaceted nature of God calls us to live a life of integrity and compassion. As we experience His grace, we are encouraged to extend that grace to others. Reflecting on His justice and mercy, we are reminded to seek fairness and kindness in all our actions. Our purpose as Christians is to walk in His light, to be examples of His love, and to carry His message of hope to the world.

Christian Purpose and Life: Our purpose as followers of Christ is to grow in our relationship with God and to serve others with the love and grace we have received. We are called to be salt and light in the world, to make a difference by living out our faith authentically. This involves not only personal spiritual growth but also actively working towards justice, compassion, and peace in our communities.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your multifaceted personality and boundless grace. We thank You for Your unwavering love, Your profound wisdom, and Your compassionate heart. Help us to grow in our understanding of You and to reflect Your character in all that we do. Guide us to seek Your wisdom, to extend Your grace, and to walk in Your truth. Strengthen us to face life’s challenges with courage and faith, knowing that You are always with us. May our lives be a testament to Your goodness and glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessing: May the LORD’s grace abound in your life, His wisdom guide your steps, and His love surround you always. May you find strength in His presence and joy in His promises. Go forth with the peace and assurance that comes from knowing you are deeply loved and cherished by your Heavenly Father.

Scripture to Ponder: 2 Corinthians 12:9: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

God Bless you all as you reflect on these thoughts, and may they enrich your walk with the LORD today and always – Amen!

7 Beautiful Examples of God's Grace in the Old Testament

DEAR GOD: I Embrace Your Divine Care~

by C D SWANSON // January 27, 2025 // No Comments

122 Cast Your Cares Royalty-Free Photos and Stock Images | Shutterstock

The verse “He careth for you” comes from 1 Peter 5:7 (KJV): “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

This powerful assurance serves as a reminder of God’s unending love and concern for us. In a world where burdens can often feel overwhelming, the knowledge that God Himself invites us to cast our anxieties on Him is both comforting and empowering.

Biblical Overview in Life Today

In today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, the promise that God cares for us holds significant meaning. Just as in biblical times, people today face myriad challenges, stresses, and uncertainties. The assurance that the Creator of the universe is intimately concerned with our individual needs provides a source of hope and stability.

Reflective Questions

How often do we truly cast our cares upon the Lord, trusting in His love and provision?
In what areas of our lives do we need to let go of control and allow God to take over?
How can we demonstrate our trust in God’s care to others around us?

Mortal Thoughts and Moral Society Today vs. Biblical Times

In biblical times, the societal structure often included close-knit communities where faith and reliance on God were central to daily life. Today, our society is more fragmented, and people often seek solutions in self-reliance rather than in faith. Yet, the message remains timeless: regardless of the era, the human condition of needing divine care and support has not changed.

The moral challenges we face today, such as materialism, individualism, and moral relativism, can sometimes obscure our view of God’s care. However, just as the early Christians faced persecution and trials, we are called to cast our cares upon God and find refuge in His steadfast love.

A Heartfelt Reflection

Reflecting on this verse, we are reminded of God’s tender and personal care for each of us. This divine concern is not passive but active, inviting us to unburden ourselves and find peace in His presence. The love of the Lord is a constant, unchanging anchor in the midst of life’s storms. Today as you walk and do all according to what you normally do in your day, and evening, recognize that you are NEVER alone – and that the LORD carries you and brings you through each day with Love and protection – always!

Personal Prayer

“LORD- Help us to truly cast all our cares upon You, trusting in Your divine providence. In times of worry and fear, remind us of Your promise to never leave nor forsake us. Fill our hearts with peace and our minds with Your wisdom, that we may walk confidently in faith. Guide us to reflect Your love in our daily lives and to be a source of comfort to others. Thank You, Lord, for Your unending grace and mercy. We worship and adore You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May this reflection and prayer bring peace and comfort to your heart. If you’d like to delve deeper into-if you haven’t already done so, or are in the practice of doing -please seek Him daily, in His Word and listen to His voice, your life will never be the same when you love, honor and follow Him,

God Bless You All~

Cast Your Cares on the Lord Scripture Sign Bible Verse Sign - Etsy

~Dear God With Love~

C D Swanson

grace

DEAR GOD: You Are My Number One Always & Forever~

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever.” – Psalm 103:8-9