DEAR GOD: Thank You For Protecting & Prospering Me~

by C D SWANSON // November 14, 2024 // No Comments

“No Weapon Formed Against You Shall Prosper”: A Reflection

Isaiah 54:17 (KJV): “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.”

This powerful promise from the book of Isaiah assures us of God’s protection and sovereignty over our lives. It emphasizes that while adversities and challenges may arise, they will not prevail against those who trust in the Lord.

Commentary and Insights

The verse from Isaiah reflects God’s covenant with His people, assuring them that no matter the adversities they face, His protection and justice will prevail. Weapons may be formed and tongues may rise in judgment, but they will not succeed in their intent to harm. This promise is a source of comfort and strength for believers, reminding us that our ultimate security is found in God.

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 91:4-“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”

Romans 8:31-“What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”

2 Thessalonians 3:3-“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.”

These scriptures reinforce the theme of divine protection and the assurance that God’s faithfulness will guard and sustain us through all challenges.

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Recognizing that God is in control of all circumstances helps us to trust in His protection and provision, even when we face difficulties.
Faith Over Fear: Embracing faith over fear allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing that God’s promises are true and steadfast.
Divine Justice: Understanding that God will condemn every tongue that rises against us helps us to leave judgment and vindication in His hands, freeing us from the need for personal retaliation.
Strength in Adversity: Believing that no weapon formed against us shall prosper gives us the strength to endure and overcome any adversity.

Analysis of Christianity: Yesterday and Today

Yesterday’s Faith In the early days of Christianity, believers faced severe persecution, yet their faith in God’s protection remained unwavering. They held fast to scriptures like Isaiah 54:17, finding courage and strength to stand firm in their convictions despite external threats.

Today’s Faith Today, Christians still face various forms of opposition—be it societal, cultural, or personal challenges. While the nature of the adversities may have changed, the need for unwavering faith and trust in God’s protection remains the same. Modern believers are called to apply the timeless truths of scripture to navigate the complexities of contemporary life.

Living a Life of Trust

To truly embrace the promise of Isaiah 54:17, Christians must cultivate a lifestyle of trust in the Lord. This involves:

Daily Surrender: Consistently surrendering our fears and anxieties to God, trusting in His plan and purpose for our lives.
Active Faith: Living out our faith through actions, knowing that God’s protection is with us in every step we take.
Community Support: Drawing strength from fellowship with other believers who can encourage and support us in our walk with God.
Prayer and Reflection: Regularly engaging in prayer and reflection on God’s promises, grounding ourselves in His Word.

Purposeful Prayer

“LORD-We thank You for Your unwavering promise that no weapon formed against us shall prosper. We find comfort and strength in knowing that Your protection surrounds us and that Your justice will prevail. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty and to walk in faith, not fear. Guide us to live lives that reflect Your love and power, trusting in Your provision and protection through every challenge we face. Strengthen our hearts and minds and help us to encourage and support one another as a community of believers. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Psalm 121:7-8 (KJV): “The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.”

Blessing for the Readers

“May the Lord bless you with His divine protection and peace. May you find strength in His promises and courage to face each day with faith. Trust in His unfailing love and know that He is with you always, guiding and protecting you through all of life’s challenges.”

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: I’m Waiting On You~

by C D SWANSON // November 4, 2024 // No Comments

We Must Learn to Wait On God | Pursuing Intimacy With God
Psalm 27:14 (ESV): “Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!”

Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): “But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Lamentations 3:25 (ESV): “The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him.”

Commentary
Waiting on the Lord is a profound act of faith and trust in His divine timing and wisdom. In a world that demands instant gratification and quick solutions, the discipline of waiting can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. As Christians, waiting on the Lord means placing our hopes, fears, and dreams in His hands, trusting that He knows what is best for us.

Renewed Strength
Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. Waiting is not a passive activity; it is active faith in motion. It is in these moments of waiting that we learn to rely on God’s strength rather than our own. Our spiritual muscles are strengthened, and our character is refined.

Divine Timing
God’s timing is perfect, even when it does not align with our own. Waiting on the Lord teaches us patience and humility. It shifts our focus from our own desires to God’s greater plan for our lives. Psalm 27:14 encourages us to be strong and take courage as we wait for the Lord, trusting that His timing is always right.

Deeper Relationship
Lamentations 3:25 highlights the goodness of the Lord to those who wait for Him. Waiting deepens our relationship with God. It cultivates a sense of intimacy and trust, as we learn to depend on His guidance and provision. In our waiting, we are reminded of His faithfulness and love.

Reflective Questions
How have I experienced God’s faithfulness in times of waiting?
What areas of my life do I struggle to relinquish control and wait on the Lord?
How can I use this period of waiting to grow closer to God?
What lessons have I learned from past experiences of waiting on God’s timing?
How can I encourage others who are in a season of waiting?

Moral Thoughts
Patience and Trust: Cultivating patience and trust in God’s timing helps us grow spiritually and emotionally.
Active Waiting: Engage in prayer, worship, and service while waiting, using this time to deepen your faith.
Perspective Shift: Waiting shifts our perspective from our immediate circumstances to God’s eternal plan.

Prayer
“Heavenly Father, We come before You with hearts open and full of trust. Teach us the beauty and strength found in waiting on You. Help us to embrace the moments of waiting, knowing that You are working behind the scenes for our good. Grant us patience and courage and renew our strength as we place our hope in Your perfect timing- May our waiting draw us closer to You, deepening our faith and dependence on Your wisdom. We surrender our desires, plans, and anxieties to You, trusting that You know what is best for us. Guide our steps and fill our hearts with peace as we wait on Your promises. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture for the Day
Psalm 37:7 (ESV): “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!”

God Bless You All~

Waiting on God - all things faithful

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: You Are Unparalleled & My Everything~

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

In Isaiah 43:11-12, the Lord declares His unique and unparalleled sovereignty: “I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no Saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore, ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God.”

This powerful proclamation reminds us of God’s exclusive role as our Savior and Redeemer. It is a call to recognize His supreme authority and to bear witness to His mighty works. God’s plan and His Omnipotent Power is for all of those who want to “tap into it” by being a follower and believing in His Word and His ways. Our choices in life should be culminative in the overall process of what where when and how we do things. It should incorporate a greater dependence, or more aptly, a full dependence of the LORD.

As we reflect upon His Word and promises, we grow deeper in our roots, becoming more engrafted with Him each day. Our spiritual walk becomes heightened, and we grow closer to the LORD. In so doing, the enemy flees from us. We have the authority given to us in the name of JESUS to thwart the fiery darts in Jesus’ name.

Engaging in an intimate relationship with the LORD not only helps us in our choices and tasks of life itself, but it invariably will bring peace and joy into our hearts irrespective of what we are facing.

The devastation of the recent hurricane Helene and the aftermath is heartbreaking and surreal. So much pain, suffering and angst. Lives lost, and people incapacitated in functioning, because they’ve lost so much.

May God and His Sovereignty and Omnipotence and great power and glory shine over them now, as He heals their land, and their hearts, and their grieving loss.

May His Word and promises bring hope, light and healing to you all.

I pray this reflection on God’s word, peace and promises will bring you comfort during this horrific and disturbing period in your lives. And may the LORD Jehovah Jireh bring laborers, relief workers, and everything that you need during this time, to piece together your broken hearts, and lives due to Helene.

Moral Thoughts and Reflective Questions

Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty: In a world filled with distractions and false idols, it is crucial to remember that there is no Savior besides the LORD. How often do we place our trust in worldly things instead of God? Reflect on areas in your life where you might be relying on something other than God for your security and salvation.
Witnessing God’s Works: As believers, we are called to be witnesses of God’s saving power. How can we share our testimonies of God’s faithfulness with others? Consider ways you can actively testify to God’s goodness in your daily interactions.
Living in a Wicked World: The world around us often promotes values that are contrary to God’s teachings. How can we remain steadfast in our faith and live righteously amidst such influences? Reflect on the importance of staying rooted in Scripture and prayer to navigate the challenges of a sinful world.

Insightful Thinking for Christians Today

Trust in God’s Plan: Trusting in God’s plan requires faith, especially when we face trials and uncertainties. Remember that God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Reflect on how you can surrender your worries and anxieties to Him, trusting that He is in control.
Perseverance in Faith: In times of difficulty, it is easy to lose heart. However, we are encouraged to persevere, knowing that our trials produce endurance and strengthen our faith (James 1:2-4). How can you cultivate a spirit of perseverance in your spiritual journey?
Hope in God’s Promises: God’s promises are a source of hope and encouragement. Reflect on His promises in Scripture and how they can uplift you during challenging times. For instance, Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future.

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Romans 8:28: “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.”

Prayer

“LORD- You alone are our Savior, and beside You, there is no other. Help us to trust in Your sovereign plan and to witness Your mighty works in our lives. Strengthen our faith, especially in times of trial, and guide us to live righteously in a world that often strays from Your truth. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may be bold witnesses of Your grace and mercy. We ask for Your peace to calm our anxieties and Your wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder and Meditate Upon

Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Blessing

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. May you walk in the assurance of His love and the strength of His promises, now and always. In Jesus name, Amen.”

God Bless you all~

August 25, 2022 | CBCPNews

DEAR GOD: I Trust You Fully And Completely~

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

Trusting God Fully

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

Moral Takeaways

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

Reflective Questions

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

Supportive Scriptures

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV): “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Prayer

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

Thought to Ponder

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

How can you apply this truth to your current circumstances?

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DEAR GOD: Wisdom’s Light & Gentle Might

by C D SWANSON // September 16, 2024 // No Comments

In the quiet dawn of morning light,
Where shadows fade and hearts take flight,
A call to live with honor bright,
To walk in wisdom’s gentle might.

If you are wise and understand,
God’s ways, His loving, guiding hand,
Prove it by the life you lead,
In every thought, in every deed.

With humility, let actions speak,
In service to the lost and weak,
For in the humble heart resides,
A strength that never falters, hides.

Do good works with a joyful heart,
In every role, in every part,
For wisdom’s path is paved with grace,
A journey to a holy place.

Let kindness be your guiding star,
In every moment, near and far,
For in the acts of love we find,
A mirror of the divine mind.

So live an honorable life each day,
In every word, in every way,
For in the humble, wise, and true,
God’s light will always shine through you.

Prayer:

‘LORD -we come before You with grateful hearts, seeking Your wisdom and guidance. Help us to live lives that honor You, filled with humility and good works. May our actions reflect Your love and grace, and may we always walk in the light of Your truth. Strengthen us to serve others with joy and compassion and grant us the wisdom to understand Your ways. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture for the Day:

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” – James 3:17 (NIV)

If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. James 3:17 (NLT)

DEAR GOD: Your Love Transforms & Offers Salvation~

by C D SWANSON // September 15, 2024 // No Comments

PPT - Wonderful Love of Jesus PowerPoint Presentation - ID:2447255

LOVE of CHRIST

The verse from 1 John 4:16, “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him,” is a profound declaration of the nature of God and the relationship between God and believers.

This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian faith, emphasizing the centrality of love in the life of a believer.

Understanding God’s Love

The first part of the verse speaks to the experiential and intellectual acknowledgment of God’s love. This love is not just a concept but a reality that believers have experienced and come to trust.

The Bible is replete with examples of God’s love, from the creation of the world to the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. John 3:16 states, “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.” This verse underscores the magnitude of God’s love, which is both sacrificial and redemptive.

God is Love

The declaration “God is love” is one of the most profound theological statements in the Bible. It means that love is not just an attribute of God but the very essence of His being. Everything God does is motivated by love.

This is further supported by 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which describes the characteristics of love: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” These attributes reflect the nature of God Himself.

Dwelling in Love

The latter part of the verse, “he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him,” speaks to the intimate relationship between God and the believer. To dwell in love means to live a life characterized by love. This is not merely an emotional feeling but a deliberate choice to act in love towards others.

Jesus emphasized this in John 13:34-35, where He said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” This love is the hallmark of a true disciple of Christ.

Moral Takeaways

Love as a Reflection of God: Our love for others is a reflection of God’s love in us. When we love others, we are manifesting God’s presence in our lives.
Love as a Commandment: Loving others is not optional for believers; it is a commandment from Jesus Himself.
Love as a Witness: Our love for others serves as a testimony to the world of our relationship with God.

Reflective Personal Questions

How have I experienced God’s love in my life?
In what ways can I better reflect God’s love to those around me?
Are there areas in my life where I struggle to show love? How can I address these challenges?

Christianity Today

In today’s world, the message of love is more relevant than ever. With so much division, hatred, and strife, the call to love one another stands as a beacon of hope. Christians are called to be ambassadors of God’s love, showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness in a world that desperately needs it. The church must lead by example, demonstrating love in action through service, advocacy, and community building.

Personal Prayer

“LORD thank You for Your boundless love that You have lavished upon us. Help us to truly know and believe in this love, and to reflect it in our daily lives. Teach us to dwell in love, so that we may dwell in You and You in us. Give us the strength to love others as You have loved us, and to be a light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7

May this verse guide you throughout the day, reminding you of the profound love that God has for you and the call to share that love with others.

God Bless~

Love Like Jesus - Christ's Commission Fellowship

DEAR GOD: Hope Everlasting In Your Promises And Word~

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

God’s Hope and Everlasting Word

In a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, the hope and everlasting word of God stand as a beacon of light and assurance. God’s love for His children is unwavering, and His promises are eternal. Through His word, we find guidance, comfort, and the promise of salvation. This essay explores the profound hope found in God’s word, His enduring love, and the light and salvation He offers to all who believe.

God’s Love for His Children

God’s love for His children is a central theme throughout the Bible. In John 3:16, we read, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse encapsulates the depth of God’s love, a love so profound that He sacrificed His only Son for our salvation. God’s love is not conditional; it is a steadfast and unchanging love that embraces us in our moments of joy and sorrow.

God’s Promises That Never End

The promises of God are a source of hope and strength. In Jeremiah 29:11, God declares, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This promise reassures us that God has a purpose for our lives, and His plans are for our good. God’s promises are not fleeting; they are eternal and trustworthy. In Isaiah 40:8, we are reminded, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

God’s Light and Salvation

God’s word is a light that guides us through the darkest times. In Psalm 119:105, it is written, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God’s word illuminates our path, providing direction and clarity. Through His word, we find the promise of salvation. In Romans 10:9, we are assured, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” This promise of salvation is a testament to God’s grace and mercy.

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Love: God’s love is unwavering and unconditional. Trust in His love, knowing that He cares for you deeply.
Hold on to God’s Promises: God’s promises are eternal and trustworthy. Hold on to them, especially in times of uncertainty.
Seek God’s Light: Let God’s word guide you. In moments of darkness, seek His light and find comfort in His guidance.

Reflective Questions

How have you experienced God’s love in your life?
What promises of God have given you hope and strength?
How can you let God’s word be a light in your daily walk?

Meditative Thoughts

Take a moment to meditate on Psalm 23:1-3: “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.” Reflect on how God provides, leads, and restores you.

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unwavering love and eternal promises. In times of uncertainty, help us to trust in Your word and find hope in Your promises. Guide us with Your light and lead us on the path of righteousness. May we always remember Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thoughts to Ponder

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105. How can you let God’s word illuminate your path today?

May this post bring you comfort and encouragement, reminding you of God’s everlasting love and the hope found exclusively in His Holy Word…

God’s Everlasting Word!

DEAR GOD: I Will Wait & Listen For Your Voice~

by C D SWANSON // September 2, 2024 // No Comments

Hearing God's Voice — The Prayer Room

“Therefore, I will look unto the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.” – Micah 7:7

Introduction

This verse from the book of Malachi is a profound declaration of faith and trust in God. It speaks to the heart of a believer’s relationship with the Divine, emphasizing the importance of patience, hope, and unwavering faith. In a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, this verse serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of God’s ever-present help and salvation.

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 27:14 – “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”
Isaiah 40:31 – “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Romans 8:25 – “But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.”

Reflective Questions

How do you practice waiting on the Lord in your daily life?
What are some challenges you face when trying to maintain faith and patience?
How can you remind yourself of God’s promises during difficult times?

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

Patience in Faith: Waiting on the Lord requires patience and trust. It is a test of our faith and a demonstration of our reliance on God’s timing rather than our own.
Hope and Assurance: This verse assures us that God hears our prayers and is actively involved in our lives. Our hope in Him is never in vain.
Strength in Waiting: The act of waiting on God is not passive but active. It involves prayer, meditation, and a steadfast belief that God is working behind the scenes for our good.

Meditative Thoughts on Christianity Today

In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of waiting can seem foreign and challenging. However, as Christians, we are called to a different standard. We are encouraged to slow down, to seek God’s presence, and to trust in His perfect timing. This verse from Malachi reminds us that our faith journey is not a sprint but a marathon. It is about enduring, trusting, and believing that God is with us every step of the way.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unwavering love and faithfulness. Help us to look unto You in all circumstances and to wait patiently for Your perfect timing. Strengthen our hearts and renew our spirits as we place our trust in You. May we always remember that You hear our prayers and are our ever-present help in times of need. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day

“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” – Psalm 27:14

May this verse encourage you to trust in God’s timing and to find strength in His promises.

5 Ways to Hearing the Voice of God to Avoid Costly Mistakes

DEAR GOD: Pastures & Sheep In Your Meadow LORD~

by C D SWANSON // August 31, 2024 // No Comments

“O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today if ye will hear his voice.” – Psalm 95:6-7

Psalm 95:6-7 is a beautiful invitation to worship and recognize our relationship with God. It calls us to humble ourselves before our Creator, acknowledging His sovereignty and our dependence on Him. This passage is a reminder of the intimate and caring relationship we have with God, who is not only our Creator but also our Shepherd.

Heartfelt Thoughts

When we read, “O come, let us worship and bow down,” we are reminded of the importance of humility in our relationship with God. Worship is not just about singing songs or attending church services; it is about recognizing God’s greatness and our need for Him. Bowing down signifies our submission to His will and our reverence for His majesty.

The phrase “let us kneel before the Lord our maker” emphasizes the act of physically and spiritually humbling ourselves before God. Kneeling is a posture of surrender and devotion, symbolizing our acknowledgment of God’s authority over our lives.

“For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand” speaks to the personal and caring nature of God. As our Shepherd, He guides, protects, and provides for us. This imagery of being the sheep of His hand highlights our dependence on Him for sustenance and direction.

“Today if ye will hear his voice” is a call to attentiveness and obedience. It reminds us that God is always speaking to us, but we must be willing to listen and respond to His guidance.

Supportive Scriptures

John 10:27-28: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
Isaiah 40:11: “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.”
Psalm 23:1-3: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

Moral Thoughts

This passage encourages us to live a life of humility, recognizing our need for God’s guidance and provision. It calls us to be attentive to His voice and to follow His leading. In a world that often values self-sufficiency and independence, Psalm 95:6-7 reminds us of the importance of relying on God and submitting to His will.

Meditative Thoughts

As we meditate on this passage, let us consider the ways in which we can humble ourselves before God in our daily lives. How can we make worship a central part of our relationship with Him? How can we be more attentive to His voice and responsive to His guidance?

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life do I need to humble myself before God?
How can I make worship a more integral part of my daily routine?
Am I truly listening for God’s voice, and how can I be more attentive to His guidance?

Prayer

“Dear LORD, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. We bow down and kneel before You, acknowledging You as our Creator and Shepherd. Thank You for Your constant guidance, protection, and provision. Help us to humble ourselves before You and to be attentive to Your voice. May we live our lives in a way that honors You and reflects Your love to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thought for the Day

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1

May this verse remind us of God’s constant care and provisions, and may we find peace and comfort in His loving Presence, and follow Him always~

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