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: 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: You Are The GOD Who Knows Our Hearts~

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

But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.” Jeremiah 17:10

This verse from Jeremiah 17:10 is a profound reminder of God’s intimate knowledge of our innermost being. It highlights His divine ability to see beyond appearances and into the depths of our hearts, understanding our motives, thoughts, and intentions in ways we cannot fully comprehend. It also underscores God’s justice, as He rewards each individual based on their actions and the authenticity of their intentions.

In our daily lives, we may encounter situations where outward appearances can be deceiving. For instance, someone might perform a seemingly generous act but with hidden motives of gaining recognition or advantage. Conversely, an act of kindness done quietly and humbly may go unnoticed by others but never by the Lord. This scripture reassures us that God’s judgment is not based on external acts alone but on the sincerity and purity of our hearts.

Reflect on this: When was the last time you paused to examine the motives behind your actions? Are they self-serving, or are they driven by love, humility, and obedience to God? It’s an invitation to strive for a life of integrity, where our hearts align with His will.

Supportive scriptures that echo this message include:

Proverbs 21:2: “People may be right in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their heart.”
1 Samuel 16:7: “The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Psalm 139:1-2: “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.”

From a biblical perspective, this verse reminds us of both God’s love and justice. He is a loving Father who knows us better than we know ourselves. His deep understanding of our hearts is not to condemn but to guide us toward transformation and righteousness. God’s judgment is always fair, and His mercy is abundant for those who repent and seek Him.

Moral thoughts: This verse calls us to live authentically and honestly before God. Our actions should be an outflow of a heart that seeks to honor Him. Knowing that He searches our hearts should inspire humility and a willingness to allow Him to shape us according to His purpose.

Prayer: Gracious and all-knowing Lord, we thank You for Your love that sees beyond our imperfections and into our hearts. Thank You for examining our motives and guiding us toward truth and righteousness. Help us to live with integrity, to act in ways that honor You, and to trust in Your just and perfect judgment. May our hearts be pure and pleasing in Your sight, and may our lives reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Meditative Thought for the Day: God knows my heart completely. Today, once again – and always-I choose to live honestly and humbly before Him, allowing His love to guide my motives and actions.

God Bless you all~

Only God Knows The Hearts Of Men | Christian Forums

DEAR GOD: “Jesus Wept”- Thank You For Your Compassion~

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

The Bible In Paintings 85: JESUS WEEPS AT LAZARUS' DEATH

“Jesus wept.” – John 11:35

This verse, though brief, holds a depth that resonates with the human soul. It captures a moment of divine empathy, an expression of raw humanity from the Son of God. In two simple words, we witness the profound connection between Christ and those He came to save. Here is a reflection and commentary on this powerful verse:

When we consider the context of this verse, it occurs during the death of Lazarus. Jesus, upon seeing the grief of Mary and the mourners, is moved to tears. He stands before the tomb of His beloved friend, fully aware of the miracle He is about to perform—Lazarus will rise again. And yet, He weeps.

Why did Jesus cry if He knew He had the power to bring Lazarus back to life? This moment reveals the depths of Christ’s compassion. His tears are not born of hopelessness but of shared sorrow. In weeping, He acknowledges the pain, the heartache, and the fragility of human existence. His divine power did not shield Him from feeling the weight of humanity’s suffering. Instead, it equipped Him to carry it fully and share in it deeply.

Christ’s tears remind us that faith does not mean the absence of emotion. Grief is not a failure of belief but an expression of love. To mourn is to testify to the value of what was lost. In His weeping, Jesus sanctifies our tears, showing us that sorrow is not something to hide or suppress but something that draws us closer to God.

But there is more: His tears foreshadow the ultimate victory over pain and death. In the same way that He stood before Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus would one day stand in the shadow of the cross, carrying the full burden of humanity’s grief and sin. His weeping is a promise that our suffering will not have the final word.

Today, when we weep, we can remember this verse and take comfort in knowing that we do not cry alone. The God who weeps with us is also the God who saves us. Through Him, our tears, though bitter, will one day be wiped away forever.

“Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Word and the profound reminder of Your compassion through the tears of Christ. May this reflection bring comfort to those in grief and strengthen the faith of those in doubt. Let it serve as a beacon of hope, showing that Your love meets us in our sorrow and carries us toward eternal joy. Bless all who read this, that they may feel Your presence and draw closer to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

What are your thoughts my brothers and sisters?
Does this spark any reflections for you?
Your interest in exploring God’s Word and scripture often opens up such enriching insights and revelations of what He expects of us, today and always!

DEAR GOD: Thank YOU for Your Faithfulness & Mercy~

by C D SWANSON // March 15, 2025 // No Comments

The Faithfulness of the Lord - Logos Sermons

A Tribute to the LORD’s Mercy and Goodness

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

What a magnificent truth to anchor our hearts on—the steadfast love of the LORD never ceases. These words invite us to meditate on the boundless, unrelenting nature of God’s love. A love so immense that it doesn’t waver, weaken, or expire. It’s steadfast, meaning it is faithful, reliable, and rooted in His eternal nature. His love isn’t conditional or fleeting; it surrounds us through every season of life, in our greatest joys and deepest sorrows.

The Depth of His Mercy

“His mercies never come to an end.” Mercy is the compassion He shows us, despite our flaws and failures. His mercy doesn’t exhaust itself based on how much we need it. It is like an ever-flowing river, cleansing and refreshing. Reflect on how many times you’ve stumbled yet found His hand ready to pick you up. Could we even count the moments we’ve fallen short but were met with forgiveness and patience rather than condemnation? His mercy reminds us of His heart—a heart that desires restoration over retribution.

Reflective Question: Have you taken time recently to recognize the mercies that God has extended to you today? What specific blessings or moments of grace stand out?

His Love Made Manifest

The beauty of the LORD’s goodness is that it isn’t abstract. It is tangible in how He sustains us, provides for us, and walks beside us. We see it in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the ultimate revelation of His mercy and goodness. John 3:16 reminds us: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

This sacrificial love is the foundation of our hope.

The Call to Love Him Back

How can we not love Him in return? 1 John 4:19 tells us, “We love because he first loved us.” To love the LORD is to respond to the unfathomable kindness He has shown us. It is to surrender our hearts and lives to the One who gave everything for our sake. Loving Him means trusting Him even when the path is uncertain, praising Him when the storms rage, and obeying Him as an act of worship.

Moral Reflection: How often do we pause to consider what it means to truly love God—not just in words, but in the choices we make, the priorities we set, and the way we treat others?

Scriptures to Support and Strengthen

Psalm 23:6: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” His goodness isn’t a fleeting thing; it’s a faithful companion to us every day.
Exodus 34:6: “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” God’s mercy and love are at the very core of who He is.
Romans 8:38-39: “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.” This love is unshakable, eternal, and victorious.

A Purposeful Prayer of Thanks

“Father in Heaven, we stand in awe of Your boundless mercy and unwavering goodness. Thank You for loving us with a steadfast love that never fails, for showing us compassion even when we falter, and for renewing Your mercies every morning. May we never take Your love for granted, but instead live lives that reflect our gratitude. Help us to trust You more deeply, love You more fully, and honor You in all that we do. LORD, bless the hearts of those who read these words today. May they feel Your presence, embrace Your peace, and be filled with the assurance of Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

A Meditative Thought for the Day

Take a moment to meditate on this truth: The same God who paints the sunrise with new mercies each day also holds you tenderly in His hand. His faithfulness is your stronghold, and His love is your song.

How will you choose to respond to His unending goodness today?

God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: May We Always Trust Your Purpose & Will~

by C D SWANSON // March 13, 2025 // No Comments

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” -Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28 Commentary and Reflection

Romans 8:28 is a powerful affirmation of God’s sovereignty, love, and purposeful design for our lives. This verse reminds us that God’s providence extends to all areas of life, and His plans are for the ultimate good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Let us unpack its significance in a way that resonates with both the biblical perspective and our lives today.

Biblical Insights and Life Application

“All things work together for good”: This declaration is both comforting and challenging. It emphasizes God’s divine orchestration of every detail—joys, trials, victories, and setbacks. The “good” mentioned here does not always mean immediate comfort or success but aligns with God’s ultimate purpose: conforming us to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). It is a call to trust Him even when circumstances seem bleak, believing that He is weaving a greater masterpiece.
Life today: In a world filled with uncertainties—whether financial struggles, health challenges, or relational hardships—this truth invites us to shift our perspective. Rather than questioning, “Why is this happening to me?” we are encouraged to ask, “How is God shaping me through this?”
“To them that love God”: Love for God is the anchor of this promise. It is not a transactional love but one rooted in deep, abiding faith and devotion. Those who truly love God prioritize their relationship with Him, and their lives reflect His grace and truth.
Reflection: Consider your personal relationship with God. Is it one of wholehearted surrender, or is it influenced by the changing tides of circumstances? Loving God calls for consistent prayer, worship, and a willingness to follow His commands.
“To them who are the called according to His purpose”: God’s calling is both universal (inviting all to salvation) and specific (assigning each individual a unique role in His kingdom). Being “called” speaks to living with intentionality, grounded in His word, and seeking His purpose above all.
Application: In today’s fast-paced life, purpose can feel elusive. This verse reassures us that God’s calling is not random—it is tailor-made for each of us, encompassing our gifts, passions, and circumstances.

Reflective Questions

How have I witnessed God’s ability to bring good from difficult situations in my life or the lives of others?
In what ways am I actively expressing my love for God in my daily choices?
Am I aligning my pursuits and goals with God’s purpose for me?

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

Trusting God’s plan requires humility and patience, especially when outcomes differ from our expectations.
Loving God involves daily commitment, not just moments of convenience.
Living according to God’s purpose means surrendering our agendas and embracing His divine direction.

Loving Witness to Christ

Living out Romans 8:28 is a profound way to witness to Christ’s love. When we demonstrate unwavering faith amidst trials, others are drawn to the source of our hope. Sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness in our lives can inspire and encourage those around us. For instance:

A believer who finds peace after losing a job exemplifies trust in God’s provision.
Someone who forgives deeply, despite being wronged, reflects Christ’s transformative power.

Examples of Loving Christ

Spending time in scripture and prayer, seeking to know Him more.
Serving others selflessly, mirroring His heart for humanity.
Standing firm in faith, even when it’s countercultural or costly.

Prayer and Blessing

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance that You work all things together for good for those who love You. Help us to trust in Your perfect plan, even when we cannot see the way forward. Deepen our love for You and align our hearts with Your purpose. Use our lives as a testimony of Your grace and faithfulness. May we live each day with courage and conviction, knowing that You are with us always.

Father, I ask You to bless each reader today. Grant them peace in the midst of their challenges, joy in their journey, and a renewed sense of purpose in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” –Psalm 23:1-3 (ESV)

Loving God with all our Heart

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: 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: 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 With Love~

C D Swanson

Love

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