Author: Sweet Tea and Front Porch Storyteller
-
It is time to speak up and stand up
I am greatly disturbed by the war of aggression in Ukraine and the annihilation of the Palestinians in Gaza. I am appalled at American Troops being deployed in American Cities, the Ice Raids, the arrests of immigrants and American Citizens, the deportations, the loss of free speech in the United States, and the oppression of…
-
The Message of Obadiah: Pride, Justice, and Hope in a Broken World
The book of Obadiah is only twenty-one verses long, yet it thunders with timeless truth. It is a prophecy against Edom, the descendants of Esau, who turned against their brother nation, Israel, in a time of crisis. When Jerusalem was attacked and her people suffered, Edom stood by and watched — even rejoiced. Their pride…
-
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 Curious Pilgrim 