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God's Words For US
by Cecelia Lester
As I started to study this topic, I had some questions about it. How would you define goodness? Do we see goodness in others? How can we achieve goodness in our hearts?
How would you define goodness?
The MSG Bible equates goodness with “a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people.” I believe that goodness is a heart quality that is visible to those around us. We see it in those who serve others. A friend steps up and helps someone with a need. People see the goodness we have as they watch us go through our days and how we handle our problems. I am reminded of the thought that “. . . you might be the only Bible someone reads.”
Do we see goodness in others?
A friend of ours is a quadriplegic. He has been housebound since the end of November. He lives with his mother. Last night, they called me. We talked about our respective sons and his daughter-in law. We talked about missing church (we both have missed-my attendance has been spasmodic.) They both thanked me for the card. His mother thanked me for my thoughtfulness. In reality, I felt I should be the one thanking them for their example they set for all of us. They live their beliefs every day and God’s goodness and love does shine through.
Whenever we step out of our comfort zone and do a deed for another who is hurting, we display God’s caring for that person and those who happen to be nearby witness the transaction.
In winter a portion of our society suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder. They are depressed, moody, and sluggish. One cause of this condition is a lack of sunlight. Personally, I prefer to see the sunshine. Also, I enjoy being around positive people.
Being around someone who is positive in outlook brings me out of the doldrums. I have a couple of friends who consistently has a positive attitude about life. This doesn't mean they don’t have tremendous life issues facing them. They choose to let the Lord take care of these needs. They radiate God’s goodness to everyone they meet. I feel honored they consider me a friend.
How can we achieve goodness in our hearts?
We can only achieve goodness by allowing God to rule our lives and our hearts. People can spot someone who is ‘faking it.’ When a person does this, God gets hurt in the process.
God puts His goodness in our hearts. It shines through us when we show His love to each other. Sometimes our reactions are not perceived as imitating God’s goodness. When this happens, it is our duty to make amends to God and to the other party.
Prayer: Dear Lord God; Thank You for who You are. Thank You for Your goodness and letting it shine through Your children. We want to honor You in every way we can. Help us, please, to reflect Your love and goodness daily. We give You the praise. In the name of Jesus, we pray. AMEN
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Cecelia Lester has been serious about her writing for over two decades..
She composes Christian essays and posts them to her blog quietspirit-followingmyking.blogspot.com/
She has served in a faith-based organization, Grace In Action by writing two newsletters and searching for possible grants.
In July 2017, she published her first book, 'Times of Trouble Bring Rays of Joy.'
She and her husband of 54 years live in central Indiana. They have one grown son.
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