Good News in the Middle of Bad

by Barbara Latta

Here is some soul food for the coming week to counter all the bad news we hear every day.

A quiet conscience makes one strong.

While tragedy and heartache will always be broadcast and situations will continue to escalate, we can turn our minds to better thoughts by focusing on solutions and letting God give answers to how we should respond. 

Faith is daring of the soul to go
farther than it can see.

 Feel free to download or share the photos. I only ask that you keep my watermark intact. 

Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind.



Join the conversation and share your favorite quote or scripture verse that helps you get away from bad news. 

TWEETABLES
Staying positive in a negative world (click to tweet)

Victor or Victim?

The world is full of fear. The current reports in the media are filled with news of the Malasian airliner that disappeared. Speculation leads to new threats of terrorism and the unanswered questions cause more fear of the unknown.

God's Word is filled with instructions to fear not. Our decision is: What will we believe?

Will we let the constant barrage of news alerts and interviews with experts bring us to a place of becoming a fearful victim, or will we believe what God says and be the overcoming victor?

Even if we are not in a location where terrorism happens, we can become a victim of the act if we live in fear of it. Our lives can become paralyzed and controlled by the influence of the wrong thoughts.

"You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday. A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look, and see the reward of the wicked."
(Psalm 91:5-8)

Faith in what God says will make us victorious over every circumstance. Our part is to have our ammunition full every day so we can shoot down negative and fearful thoughts.

Victory depends on us. Whether it is a major threat or just everyday annoyances, we don't want to become a victim.

What ammo do you use to shoot down the victim mentality?

Fear Not

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress: My God, in Him I will trust'.” Psalm 91:1-2

Terrorism. It's a word we cannot get away from. It has happened to the core of our being again this week. The very mention of the word is meant to strike fear in our hearts.

What can we do as individuals to navigate this presence in our society?

First, we don't let the fear control us.

How do we do that, you say? We trust in God. I don't mean that as a trite cliché, or tongue in cheek phrase. Each of us as individuals need to remain steadfast on His Word and hold on to it everyday. Listen to God's instructions. There were many stories circulated after the 9/11 attacks about people changing their routine that morning for different reasons and they were saved as a result.

Second,  we remain vigilant and alert.

 Be aware of your surroundings. If you see or hear something suspicious, report it to the authorities. The Boston Marathon attacker was found because someone reported something that didn't look right in their back yard.

Third, we stay in touch with our government representatives in Congress.

Encourage them to be diligent in fighting terrorism and investigating those who come into our country.

It's important to remember this is a spiritual battle. Even though we have to go to war to fight against those who attack us, the core of it all will only be won through the Prince of Peace. That's why it is so important for us to disciple the world for Christ. Hatred will only breed more hatred. God's message of salvation is all that can bring true change.

What are some of your ideas for handling threats that cause fear?

This post is dedicated to those who lost their lives or were injured in the Boston bombing. A special salute and tons of gratitude to the police, emergency, and federal agencies involved in the capture of the attackers. Kudos and hats off to you. Thank you for all you do to keep us safe.