Author: Sweet Tea and Front Porch Storyteller
-
Self-Control
Self-control, as one of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), is the inward strength that enables us to master our desires, emotions, and impulses so that our actions align with God’s will rather than our own whims. It’s not about rigid restraint or denial, but about living with intention — allowing the Spirit, not…
-
Who Was Amos: A Reflection on the book of Amos
Amos lived in the 8th century B.C., during a time of peace and prosperity for Israel under King Jeroboam II. He was not a priest or scholar, but a shepherd and dresser of sycamore trees from Tekoa, a small town in Judah. God called this humble man to travel north to Israel and speak against…
-
Gentleness: Strength Wrapped in Love
Paul names gentleness as one of the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22–23. At first, the word might sound like weakness or passivity, but true gentleness is anything but that. It is strength under control—power guided by compassion. It reflects the heart of Christ, who could calm a storm with a word yet stoop…
-
Finding My Voice in a Divided World: A Reflection on the Book of Joel
Today I read the Book of Joel, a brief but powerful message that begins with devastation and ends with hope. Joel speaks of a locust plague that destroyed the land — a symbol of judgment and loss — but also of a God who calls His people to return with all their hearts. Joel’s cry,…
-
💔 The Faithful Love of God — Reflections from the Book of Hosea
The book of Hosea is one of the most moving love stories in all of Scripture — not just between a man and a woman, but between God and His people. Hosea’s own marriage to Gomer, a woman who was unfaithful to him, became a living parable of divine love. Through Hosea’s heartbreak, God revealed…
-
Faithfulness — A Steadfast Heart in a Changing World
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” — Proverbs 3:3 Faithfulness is the quiet strength of the soul that keeps us steady when life’s winds blow hard. It means being loyal, dependable, and true — to God, to others, and to ourselves.…
-
Fruit of the Spirit – Goodness (Friday)
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21 Goodness is more than simply “being nice.” It is moral integrity in action—a heart aligned with God’s will that chooses what is right, even when it is not easy. Goodness reflects God’s own character, because He is good in every way.…
-
The Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32 Kindness is more than just being “nice.” It is love in action—gentleness, mercy, and compassion flowing out of a heart that is shaped by the Spirit of God. Kindness looks beyond ourselves and seeks the good of…
-
Peace in a Troubled World
The fruit of the Spirit for today is peace (Galatians 5:22). Yet when we look at the world around us, peace often feels far away. Wars, divisions, greed, and the heavy hand of corrupt rulers weigh on our hearts. It is easy to feel anxious or even hopeless when nations rage and leaders oppress. But…
The Curious Pilgrim 