365 Days of Spirit-Filled Fruits Challenge-Day 215 & 216

My daughter and I watched the movie The Great and Powerful Oz which ended up having a good message for all. Oz is plagued with confidence in himself. He doesn’t think he measures up enough to be with the woman he loves. He does dream of being great and that is what drives him. He chooses to forgo love for a dream of greatness. Fortunately, for him a tornado takes him from Kansas to the land of Oz. His journey in Oz will finally lead him to the truth that it isn’t about being great but about being good.

I am sure many people have this type of battle going on within them. The truth is when we accept Christ into our heart and the Holy Spirit dwells within us we have what we need to be good and to do good. Goodness is a fruit that is given to us by the Lord. This is fruit we can take and eat and let it nourish our souls. We were made in His image and he is a God full of goodness and mercy. We have the power within us to be good.  All things are possible with God.

Psalm 119:68 You are good, and what you do is good.

365 Days of Spirit-Filled Fruits Challenge-Day 198

Whether it is a hurricane, tornados, flooding or fires, we are all affected by the nature of our world. God isn’t punishing but rather will use whatever happens for good purposes. Let us all pray for the firefighters and anyone who may be in harms way that they may be safe. In the end it is not about where we live or what we have but who we love.

Isaiah 41:10 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.

365 Days of Spirit-Filled Fruits Challenge-Day 177

My heart was breaking last evening as I heard a story on the radio about a father who couldn’t make it to the school in time. The tornado brought the school down on the children inside and he found out many hours later that his nine-year-old daughter did not survive. Having a 10-year-old daughter who has always been freaked out about a possible tornado coming to our town, I felt so much sadness for what the parents must be going through. I prayed to God to that they would be strengthened and comforted by Him. No matter what the world brings us, God will help us through it. What words can one give to someone who has lost their home, child, all their possessions and community in one fell swoop? Only God can console, comfort and give them strength to get through the tragedy. Keep praying for the people of Moore, OK.

Lamentations 3:32 Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love.