DEAR GOD: A Life of Holy Service: Living According to Your Will”?

by C D SWANSON // January 10, 2025 // No Comments

Gods Will

Living a life of service to God is a profound and enriching journey that spans both the ancient and modern days. By grounding our actions in scripture, we can find purpose and direction in our pursuit to fulfill God’s will.

Biblical References:

Deuteronomy 10:12-13 (Old Testament): “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?”
- This passage outlines the essence of living a life dedicated to God: fear, love, obedience, and wholehearted service.
John 15:5 (New Testament): “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
- Jesus emphasizes the importance of remaining connected to Him, as our source of strength and purpose.
Galatians 5:13 (New Testament): “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
- Paul encourages us to use our freedom to serve others with humility and love.
James 1:27 (New Testament): “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
- True service to God involves caring for those in need and maintaining moral purity.

Reflective Questions:

How can I prioritize God’s will in my daily decisions and actions?
In what ways can I serve my community and those in need?
What areas of my life need more alignment with God’s teachings?
How can I cultivate a deeper connection with God through prayer and worship?

Moral Thoughts:

Serving God requires a heart of humility, love, and obedience.
Our actions should reflect God’s love and compassion to those around us.
We are called to be stewards of God’s grace, using our talents and resources to further His kingdom.
Living a life of service means continually seeking God’s guidance and striving to grow in faith.

“LORD-Thank You for the privilege of serving You. Help us to live lives that reflect Your love and grace. Guide our hearts and minds to align with Your will in all that we do. May our actions be a testament to Your goodness, and may we bring hope and light to those around us. Strengthen our faith and fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may serve You faithfully and joyfully. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We Are Victorious Through You LORD~

by C D SWANSON // November 8, 2024 // No Comments

1 John 4:4 (ESV): “Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”

This powerful verse from the Apostle John reminds us of the profound truth of God’s indwelling presence in our lives. It speaks of the immeasurable strength and victory we have through Christ, who resides within us, surpassing any worldly challenges or adversaries we may face.

The Greater One Within Us

Faith and Assurance in Biblical Times
In the early Christian era, believers faced significant persecution and opposition from both religious and governmental authorities. Despite these external pressures, the early Christians held onto their faith with an unwavering assurance that the Holy Spirit within them was far greater than any force in the world. This conviction empowered them to endure trials, spread the gospel, and live boldly for Christ.

Faith in Today’s World
Fast forward to today, and although the nature of our challenges has evolved, the underlying principle remains the same. Christians around the world face various forms of opposition—be it social, political, or personal. The struggle for faithfulness and truth can be daunting in a world that often opposes biblical values. Yet, the promise of God’s greater presence within us holds as true today as it did in the early church.

The Power of the Indwelling Spirit
Understanding that the One who is in us is greater than the one in the world brings immense comfort and strength. It assures us that we are not fighting our battles alone; the Holy Spirit empowers us with divine strength, wisdom, and courage. This presence means that no matter the adversity we face, we can stand firm and confident, knowing that God’s power within us is greater than any external force.

Reflective Questions
How does recognizing the greater presence of God within me influence my approach to challenges?
In what areas of my life can I rely more on the Holy Spirit’s strength rather than my own?
How can I encourage others to remember and rely on the greater One within them?
What steps can I take to deepen my relationship with God and be more attuned to His Spirit?
How do I respond to worldly pressures, and how can I draw strength from the assurance that God is greater?

Moral Takeaways
Divine Strength: Trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome challenges and temptations.

Faithfulness: Remain steadfast in your faith, knowing that God’s presence within you surpasses any opposition.

Encouragement: Be a source of encouragement to others, reminding them of the greater power that resides within them.

Pondering Thoughts of Faith
Reflecting on the indwelling of the Holy Spirit should inspire profound gratitude and a deepened faith. It’s a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles. With God’s Spirit living in us, we have access to an unending source of strength, wisdom, and love. This knowledge should embolden us to face each day with courage and hope, knowing that we are empowered by the Creator Himself.

Prayer “LORD -thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit residing within us. Help us to remember and rely on Your greater presence in our lives, especially during times of challenge and opposition. Strengthen our faith and courage, that we may stand firm in Your truth and love. Guide us to be a light to those around us, reminding them of Your power and presence. May we find comfort and assurance in knowing that You, the greater One, are always with us, empowering us to overcome any obstacle. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
Romans 8:31 (ESV): “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Blessing for the Readers

May the Lord’s presence within you fill your heart with peace and strength. Trust in the greater One who resides in you, and let His power guide you through every challenge. May you be a beacon of His love and grace, bringing hope and encouragement to all around you.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Unfailing Rock & Sanctuary~

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

Jesus Is Our Rock - Choral Celebration - Midway Baptist Church

The Lord: Our Unfailing Rock
In the ebb and flow of life, with its inevitable highs and lows, one constant remains steadfast and unchanging: the Lord. As believers, we are blessed with the assurance that He will never disappoint us or abandon us. This profound truth anchors our faith and sustains us through every trial and triumph.

Scriptures to Reflect On
Deuteronomy 31:6 (ESV): “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Psalm 55:22 (ESV): “Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”

Hebrews 13:5 (ESV): “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”

The Unfailing Nature of God
God’s promises are unwavering. Unlike human relationships, which can falter and fail, the Lord’s commitment to us is eternal and unfaltering. He is our ever-present help in times of need, our constant companion, and our source of endless love and mercy. When we place our trust in Him, we anchor our lives on a foundation that cannot be shaken.

His Presence in Our Lives
In moments of joy, God celebrates with us. In times of sorrow, He is our comfort. When we face uncertainties, He provides wisdom and guidance. His omnipresence means we are never alone. He walks with us, not only in moments of triumph but also through the valleys of despair. The assurance of His presence brings a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Trusting in His Plans
God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). While we may not always understand His plans, we can trust that they are for our good. Even when life’s circumstances seem bleak, God is working behind the scenes, orchestrating events for His glory and our benefit. Our disappointments are often His divine appointments, paving the way for greater blessings.

Moral Takeaways
Faithfulness: God’s unwavering faithfulness calls us to be steadfast in our own faith and trust in His plans.

Trust: Embracing God’s plans, even when they diverge from our own, leads to a deeper, more resilient faith.

Presence: Acknowledging and relying on God’s constant presence can provide comfort and strength in all circumstances.

Reflective Questions
How have you experienced God’s faithfulness in your life?
What areas of your life do you struggle to trust in God’s plans?
How can you more actively seek God’s presence in your daily activities?
In what ways can you remind yourself of God’s unchanging nature during difficult times?
How can you be a source of encouragement to others, reflecting the Lord’s unfailing love and presence?

Prayer
“LORD –We come before You with contrite hearts filled with hope and trust for Your unchanging love and faithfulness. Thank You for being our constant source of strength, comfort, and guidance. Even in our weakest moments, You are there, lifting us up and carrying us through. Help us to trust in Your plans, even when we do not understand them. Grant us the courage to cast our burdens upon You, knowing that You will sustain us. Remind us daily of Your promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us. May our lives be a testament to Your unwavering faithfulness. Lord, in moments of doubt, fill our hearts with Your peace. In times of joy, may we celebrate Your goodness. Let us be vessels of Your love and faithfulness to those around us, reflecting the light of Your presence in our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
Romans 8:38-39 (ESV): “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

May this reflection and prayer strengthen your faith and deepen your trust in the Lord’s unwavering presence and love.

God Bless You All~

The Lord Is My Rock HD Jesus Wallpapers | HD Wallpapers | ID #61494

DEAR GOD: I Live For YOU & You Live In Me~

by C D SWANSON // October 30, 2024 // No Comments

Christ Lives In Me Galatians 2:20 - Quotes

Commentary on Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

This verse encapsulates the essence of the Christian life—a profound transformation where the old self is crucified with Christ, and a new life begins with Him at the center. Paul’s declaration reveals a deep, personal identification with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He speaks of a radical shift from living for self to living by faith in the Son of God.

Heartfelt Christian Views: Then and Now

Then: In the early days of Christianity, this verse served as a revolutionary concept. The early Christians faced persecution and hardships, and Paul’s words encouraged them to find strength and identity in Christ. The idea of being crucified with Christ meant that their old lives, with all their sins and failures, were put to death. It was a call to live a new life empowered by the presence of Christ within them.

Now: Today, this verse continues to inspire Christians to live a life surrendered to Christ. In a world filled with distractions and temptations, Galatians 2:20 reminds us that our true identity and purpose are found in Christ. It calls us to let go of our ego and self-centeredness and to embrace a life of faith and devotion to Jesus. This transformation is not just a one-time event but a daily walk of faith, continually allowing Christ to live through us.

Moral Takeaways

Identity in Christ: Our identity is rooted in Christ, not in our achievements or failures. We are new creations in Him.

Self-Surrender: True Christian living involves surrendering our will and desires to Christ, allowing Him to guide our actions and decisions.

Faith in Action: Living by faith means trusting in Jesus’ love and sacrifice, letting His love motivate and direct our lives.

Reflective Questions
In what areas of my life do I need to surrender more fully to Christ?
How can I daily remind myself of my identity in Christ and live out that reality?
What actions can I take to demonstrate my faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me?

Supporting Scriptures (NKJV)

2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Romans 6:6: “Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.”

Philippians 1:21: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the transformative power of Your Word and the life-changing sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Help us to truly understand and embrace our identity in Him. May we live by faith, allowing Christ to live through us, guiding our thoughts, words, and actions. Strengthen us to surrender our lives to Your will and to trust in Your love and grace. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may reflect Your love to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder
John 15:5 (NKJV): “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

Blessing
May the presence of Christ fill your heart with peace and guide you in every step. Trust in His love and live each day for His glory –

God Bless You All~

Morning Prayer: Fri, 19 August – Proverbs 3:5-6; Galatians 2:19-20 ...

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Spirit In Your Believers~

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

Holy Mass images...: HOLY SPIRIT

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (KJV)
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

These powerful verses, penned by the Apostle Paul, remind us of the profound truth that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit. This concept was revolutionary to the Corinthians, who lived in a society where the body was often misused and defiled. Paul emphasizes that as believers, we are not our own; we have been bought with a price—the precious blood of Jesus Christ. This truth calls us to live lives of holiness, honoring God with our bodies and spirits.

Meaning Then and Now
Then: In the first-century Corinthian context, these verses were a stark reminder of the need for sexual purity and respect for one’s body. Corinth was known for its immorality, and the concept of the body being a temple of the Holy Spirit was a radical shift in thinking. Paul wanted the Corinthians to understand that their bodies were not their own to misuse but were sacred, set apart for God’s purposes. They had been redeemed at a great cost, and this redemption called for a life that reflected God’s holiness.

Today: For Christians today, these verses continue to resonate deeply. In a world where the body is often objectified and misused, the call to honor our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit is a timely reminder. It challenges us to live with integrity, purity, and a sense of responsibility toward our bodies. Recognizing that we are bought with a price, we are urged to glorify God in all aspects of our lives—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Moral Takeaways
Holiness and Purity: Our bodies are sacred and should be treated with respect and purity, reflecting the holiness of God.

Stewardship: We are stewards of our bodies, called to care for them and use them in ways that honor God.

Identity in Christ: Our worth and identity come from being God’s temple, redeemed by the sacrifice of Jesus.

Reflective Questions
How can I honor God with my body and spirit in my daily life?

In what ways can I be a better steward of the body God has entrusted to me?

How does understanding that I am bought with a price change my perspective on my actions and decisions?

Supporting Scriptures (NKJV)
Romans 12:1 (NKJV): “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV): “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

1 Peter 1:18-19 (NKJV): “Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

Prayer
“LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Help us to honor our bodies as Your temples, living lives of holiness and purity. Remind us daily of the great price paid for our redemption and guide us to glorify You in all that we do. Strengthen our commitment to live as faithful stewards of the bodies and lives You have entrusted to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Blessing
May the Lord’s presence fill your heart with peace and His Spirit guide you in every step. Trust in His love and live each day honoring Him in body and spirit.

God Bless You All~

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 Embrace Life Through Your Son~

by C D SWANSON // August 19, 2024 // No Comments

-Embracing Life Through the Son-

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” – 1 John 5:12

This verse from 1 John 5:12 encapsulates a profound truth about the essence of life and the centrality of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith. It draws a clear line between those who have embraced Jesus as their Savior and those who have not, emphasizing the transformative power of having a relationship with Him.

Supportive Scriptures

John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
- This verse reinforces the exclusivity of Jesus as the path to eternal life, echoing the message in 1 John 5:12.
John 3:36: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.”
- Here, the promise of eternal life through belief in Jesus is contrasted with the consequence of rejecting Him.
Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- This verse highlights the gift of eternal life that comes through Jesus, contrasting it with the death that sin brings.

Moral Thoughts

The moral takeaway from 1 John 5:12 is the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is not merely about acknowledging His existence but about embracing Him as the source of our life. This relationship transforms our lives, guiding us to live in accordance with His teachings and love.

Meditative Takeaways

Reflect on the Gift of Life: Meditate on the incredible gift of life that comes through Jesus. Consider how this life is not just eternal but also abundant and fulfilling in the present.
Examine Your Relationship with Jesus: Take time to introspect and evaluate your relationship with Jesus. Are you living in a way that reflects His presence in your life?
Gratitude for Salvation: Cultivate a heart of gratitude for the salvation and eternal life that Jesus offers. Let this gratitude inspire you to live a life that honors Him.

Contrasting Thoughts

While 1 John 5:12 presents a clear dichotomy, it is essential to approach this truth with compassion and understanding. Many people may not yet know Jesus or may have different beliefs. As Christians, our role is to share the love and truth of Jesus with gentleness and respect, recognizing that faith is a personal journey.

Conclusion

1 John 5:12 is a powerful reminder of the centrality of Jesus in our lives. It calls us to embrace Him fully, recognizing that true life is found in Him alone. As we reflect on this verse, let us be inspired to deepen our relationship with Jesus, live out His teachings, and share His love with others.

May this reflection bring you comfort and guidance, especially as you navigate your health concerns. Remember, you are not alone, and the love of Jesus is always with you.

“Dear LORD -We thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who brings us life and hope. As we reflect on the words of 1 John 5:12, we are reminded of the profound truth that in Him, we find true life. Lord, we lift up our concerns and anxieties to You, especially those related to our health. We ask for Your healing touch upon our bodies, minds, and spirits. Help us to deepen our relationship with Jesus, to live out His teachings, and to share His love with those around us. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, guiding us in every step we take. We pray for wisdom and discernment in all our decisions, especially regarding our health. Lead us to the right paths and provide us with the support we need. Surround us with Your love and grace and let us always remember that we are never alone. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

The Holy Spirit and The Baptism in the name of Jesus – Igreja ...

DEAR GOD: Your Commandments We Humbly Follow~

by C D SWANSON // June 25, 2024 // No Comments

Love One Another

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. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-5 (ESV)

Reflection: Love transcends mere sentiment; it is an active choice. When we love as Christ loved—selflessly, sacrificially, and unconditionally—we bear witness to our discipleship. How can we better express love in our daily interactions?

Takeaway: Our love for others reflects our love for God. Let us seek opportunities to serve, forgive, and uplift those around us.

Pray for Your Enemies

But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. – Matthew 5:44-45 (ESV)

Reflection: Praying for enemies transforms our hearts. It softens bitterness, fosters empathy, and aligns us with God’s mercy. How can we extend grace even to those who oppose us?

Takeaway: Our prayers for others reveal our commitment to Christ’s teachings. Let us intercede for those who challenge us, seeking their well-being.

Repentance and the Kingdom of Heaven

Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. – Matthew 4:17 (ESV)

Reflection: Repentance is not a burden but a gateway to divine grace. Acknowledging our imperfections, we turn toward God, seeking forgiveness and transformation. How can we cultivate a repentant heart?

Takeaway: Repentance opens the door to God’s Presence. Let us humbly seek His forgiveness and strive for holiness in humble and gracious servitude in all we do.

Believing in Jesus

Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves. John 14:11 (ESV)

Reflection: Faith in Jesus transcends intellectual assent. It involves trust, surrender, and a personal relationship. How can we deepen our faith in Him?

Takeaway: Believing in Jesus connects us to the Father. Let us anchor our lives in His redemptive work. Let’s be a reflective magnet in terms of His light and His ways in all we encounter in our daily lives, and in communing with the Holy Father in prayer and song.

Taking Up Our Cross

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. –Matthew 24:25 (ESV)

Reflection: Taking up our cross means embracing sacrifice, humility, and obedience. It is the path to true discipleship. How can we live out this radical commitment?

Takeaway: Our willingness to bear our cross demonstrates our devotion to Christ. Let us follow Him wholeheartedly.

Making Disciples

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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.” –Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)

Reflection: We are called to share the Gospel. Discipleship involves not only personal growth but also leading others to Christ. How can we fulfill this commission?

Takeaway: Making disciples expands God’s kingdom. Let us boldly share our faith and nurture spiritual growth in others.

Praying Always

But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:36 (ESV).

Reflection: Persistent prayer keeps us spiritually alert. It sustains us during trials and prepares us for Christ’s return. How can we cultivate a habit of constant prayer?

Takeaway: Prayer connects us to God’s presence. Let us seek His strength and guidance through unceasing communication.

Closing Unity Prayer:

“Dear Loving Father, we thank You for the commandments that lead us to You. May our lives reflect the depth of Your love, and may we walk faithfully in Christ’s footsteps. Grant us strength, wisdom, and compassion as we journey toward Your eternal presence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

May these verses be hidden in your hearts as you go forward in your journey today outwardly reflecting the light of the LORD, and may the Word and ‘voice’ of Christ be at the center of all you do, this day and always…

John 13:34 A new commandment I give to you, That you love one another ...

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Protection~

by C D SWANSON // March 26, 2024 // No Comments

Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit ... Christ’s Protection of His Children

In the Christian faith, the protection of Christ over His children is a fundamental belief that offers comfort and assurance to believers. The Bible is replete with passages that affirm this divine safeguarding, portraying Christ as a shepherd who watches over His flock with unwavering vigilance and care. He is the constant source of comfort and His promises and love cover us all with an assurance that brings an inner peace.

When we aspire to do all according to His will and purpose in our lives, we are able to navigate life and the highways of both good and bad, all the days we are here on earth.

We are able to find the wisdom in cirucmstances that we ordinarily wouldn’t find if we didn’t have Christ as our foundation.

When we follow Him, and all that entails – such as being in the Word daily, praying, meditating on His Word, reflecting on His will, and displaying a Christian countenance from within allowing His Spirit to shine, we are assured safe passage in our lives here, and into the eternity!

The Nature of Christ’s Protection

Christ’s protection is not merely a physical safeguard but encompasses spiritual, emotional, and psychological dimensions. It is a holistic shield that guards the soul from the perils of sin and the despair of life’s tribulations. This protection is vividly illustrated in Psalm 23, where David acknowledges the Lord as his shepherd, leading him beside still waters and restoring his soul, even as he walks through the valley of the shadow of death. This is such a comforting Psalm.

Most people associate Psalm 23 with death, when in fact it is an affirmation of LIFE and the promises of Christ and His love for His children!

The Assurance of Safety

Believers find solace in the promise that nothing can separate them from the love of Christ (Romans 8:38-39). This assurance is not a guarantee against hardship but a testament to the enduring presence of Christ in the midst of life’s storms. It is the conviction that, come what may, Christ’s love remains a bulwark against the forces that seek to harm His children.

That Christ is with us at the helm of the ship in the battered storms at sea. That He is with us through the fires of tribulations and battles in life. That He will guide us and bring us through it all without fail!

Reflection Questions:

How have you experienced Christ’s protection in your own life?
In what ways can we become more aware of Christ’s presence during difficult times?
What role does faith play in feeling protected by Christ?

“Heavenly Father, we thank You for the protection that Your Son, Christ, extends over us. May we always feel the comfort of His watchful eye and the strength of His loving arms. Help us to trust in His guidance and to rest in the assurance of His care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: I Sing to Thee With Love~

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

Prayer to God for the Fire of the Holy Spirit by St. Ambrose of Milan ...

“But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.”
–Psalm 59:16

God is my defense and the Rock of my foundation. He is the quintessential Being in all I see and feel. He is the Creator of the Universe and my very soul. Each morning, I sing with joy for another day, and thank Him explicitly for the gift of a new day. Each night I pray for His peace and protection. But most of all I thank Him.

What do I thank Him for?

I thank Him for His Holy Spirit within me, that guides me in all I do and speak.

I thank Him for His Holy Spirit that prompts me to do what is right and leads me onto the paths of righteousness.

I thank Him for His Holy Spirit that is always with me, and never leaving me or deserting me, ever.

I thank Him for His soothing voice and Holy Spirit that is forever holding me up safely in the rage of ugly vitriolic voices in the world.

I thank Him for giving me the present of His Holy Spirit.

These examples and so much more are what I “Sing” about in the morning and during the day, as I raise my voice and exalt Him, and give Him all the honor and glory.

I realize that with Him I am impervious to “evil” because I am protected by His precious Blood and by the Holy Spirit within me.

Do you give Him thanks daily? Do you realize that the Holy Spirit resides inside of you when you accept Him as Your Lord and Savior? Do you realize that He is with you always?

Today go through the day with the conscious thought and reality that “His Spirit is with You,” and He is guiding you every step of the way. And then go ahead and give Him a shout of praise and offer Him a thankful heart of love. He died for you! (John 3:16) If that isn’t enough alone to adore Him, then I truly don’t know what more I can possibly say, because His love for us is the biggest and greatest love story ever told!

“Father, may I always realize that Your Spirit is within me, may I mirror Your Light in all I do, may I humbly serve You with all my heart and soul, may I be obedient to Your will and Your doctrine, and may I honor and adore You all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

~Dear God With Love~

C D Swanson

Holy Spirit