Rediscovering the New Life

Why teach an old dog new tricks, just remind him of the lessons he already knows. – Sparks

Though God manifested Himself in many ways to the people, His Word never changed. Hmm!

Solitude, meditation, prayer. These are all precious facets of our Christian walk – quiet times with Jesus. They are meant to refresh us, revive our Spirit. But often, we come away unfulfilled. And the reason we come away un-refreshed is we go into it with the wrong understanding. We seek new ideas, new experiences, new encounters with God. But it is in these moments that Jesus said of the Holy Spirit ‘when HE comes, He will bring to mind all that I have told you.’ So our visit is actually with an old dear friend who helps us to hear again the practical truths of God we had long forgotten. We hear again the familiar words of reassurance, value, and hope. This rediscovery makes the old new again, and our living it out makes life exciting and seemingly new. 

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“….Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever…..” – Hebrews 13:8

Sermon Pop: "The Promised Is Delivered"

Happy New Year 2021 Ring in 2021 with the latest Sermon Pop: "The Promised Is Delivered" as it premiers today at 10am via YouTube!

https://youtu.be/Kjupvh_CG68

Leave No Room for Envy

ENVY! Only 4 little letters of the alphabet, but a heavy weight to carry. - Anon

The Israelites had God as their loving leader, instead after looking at their neighbors they wanted a king like everyone else. It really cost them. Hmm!

Admittedly, we are imperfect human beings in nature. We know what God says to us in His Word, but yet we go against it anyway. For instance, we know that envy is sin, but sometimes in our human frailness and particularly in this time of the year where we see the blessings, gifts, and fellowships others are enjoying envy can rear its head. Thus, we must guard ourselves against that natural tendency to feel resentment and jealousy towards others because of their "good fortune". As a believer, we have absolutely no right or reason to be envious of anyone, because we ourselves are already possessors of the greatest gift of all creation: God’s Grace through Christ. Nothing matches it, exceeds it, or compares with it, and it abounds more and more each day. So a simple suggestion guaranteed to keep us satisfied and content is to fill our hearts with God’s love, His promises, and His Son, and that will not leave any room for any bitter activity.

Until tomorrow …

Pastor Botts

“…..therefore, laying aside all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy……desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” – I Peter 2:1-2

A Step in the Right Direction

The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step - Chinese proverb

The bible says Jesus 'set his face to go to Jerusalem and the Cross.' That journey still continues today. WOW!

10,000 steps a day! Approximately 5 miles! According to many health advisory boards it's a goal we should aim for every day. Such activity can help lead to a decrease in chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and other metabolic syndrome issues, and increase one's overall health. A noble task indeed. So we grab the FitBit, Apple Watch, pedometer, or phone-app and off we go. Hooray for us! But this good application of ourselves does beg another question. How many of those steps are in the path the Lord chose for us this day? How many of them took us to where Jesus needed to be to minister through us, to encourage, give help or hope, spread love, show concern, or share in compassion or sympathy? If we're going to walk, why not be like Enoch and walk with God.

Until tomorrow...

Up

Pastor Botts

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." - Proverbs 16:9

Anger Danger

People who fly into a rage always make a bad landing. – Sparks

Rehoboam’s harsh, angry reply to the Israelites request didn’t cost him much. Only half his kingdom and many wars! Hmm!

There is a saying that “anger is one letter short of danger,” which is true. Anger however, is not sinful in and of itself, it is when and how we act upon it that takes us into the realm of danger and sin. As children of God we are expected to learn and exercise self-control at all times, just as God exercises great restraint in showing mercy to us. If life’s little trials send you “flying off the handle,” maybe it’s time to make sure God is the pilot of your life and all the landings will be uneventful.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride. Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” – Ecclesiastes 7:8-9

A 2020 Christmas Prayer

Heavenly Father, we say "thank you" for this day and time. We realize Christmas looks a bit different this year.


Our houses are not as full with family, our tables won't be as crowded for the meal, and chairs will sit empty as we unwrap the gifts and celebrate. Even our visits to grandma and grandpa will be curtailed. Not because we want to, but because we know it's best for the health and well-being of us all. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought an abrupt change to our holiday routines and our everyday lives.

But I pray Father, that it has also given us time to think, reflect, and draw closer to you. And I pray may we gain an even deeper appreciation for 'Immanuel' (God with us)! May each of us learn to enjoy and appreciate YOU more than our spouse, children, family, and friends. May we be able to celebrate the TRUE SPIRIT and reason for the season, your gift to us - JESUS!

Thank You,

Amen!

The gift of Christmas leaves none wanting or wishing if it is truly received. - Anon

Online Service 12/20/20 #SouthsideSunday

Merry Christmas! Re tell the story of The Arrival in this week's Online Service Premier via YouTube at 10am, and don't miss Ms. Sabrina Barnes! Southside Sunday

https://youtu.be/F91a7-HmFQE

Timeless Still

The bible is neither antique nor modern, it is eternal. – Martin Luther

Earth still being in existence is proof enough that God’s Word is still valid. Hmm!

The wisdom, insight, truth, and foundational principles for life found in God’s Holy Word are as changeless and timeless as is He. It is a treasure that waits to be found, that increases in value the more we dig into it. Real truth never changes and cannot be made ‘less’ true, no matter the time or circumstance. God is God, always has been and always will be, in spite of what goes on in the world today. We may evolve in our cultural ‘norms’ and technologies, and even try to ignore God or say He’s outdated; but a quick look around tells us things are still going just as He purposed them. Trees still grow and blossom as He prescribed, seasons still follow one after another, night still follows day, and death still haunts us. And if we were to give careful consideration to what man has been up to the last few hundred years or so, I’m sure we’d all agree we’d rather have God over us than man.

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“….Long ago I learned from your statutes that you established them to last forever.” – Psalm 119:152

Sermon Pop "The Announcement: How Will You Respond?"

Merry Christmas Eve! Enjoy the latest Sermon Pop "The Announcement: How Will You Respond?" by Bro MarQuel Jones and remember the Reason for the Season! It premiers today at 10am via YouTube

https://youtu.be/pcDSPr3qYjQ

What's On Your Mind?

I refuse to let any one walk through my mind with dirty feet! - Gandhi

There was a reason Jesus told us to be 'wise as serpents but harmless as doves' - SATAN. Hmm!

It's called sub-liminal advertising. The subtle art of placing items/ideas/visions in our psyche without us being aware, to manipulate our actions, decisions, and desires. Advertisers do it all the time, it's how they sell. We often forget our enemy is the greatest 'Adman' of all time, and lives by and in subtlety. He will not cease to use every tool at his disposal (music, video, art, recreation, etc.). When done properly and enough times it gets us to the point of belief that to see or hear these things in everyday life is just 'keeping it real', that life is just like that. NO, life is not a lot of anger, hatred, swearing, and over sexualized content, at least not according to God's Word. The bible paints a clear picture of what a godly person dwells on in (Psalm 1). Also Paul tells us in Philippians 4 the kinds of things we ought to think on in our daily lives. If you want to 'guard' your heart the bible is a great way to do so.


Until tomorrow......


Pastor Botts


"How can a young person keep their ways pure? By living according to your word." - Psalm 119:9

Connecting with Silence

"You have the right to remain silent"...... - Miranda Rights warning

During his illegal trials Jesus said little. The picture of the Cross however speaks LOUDLY. AMEN!

T-Mobile, Cricket, Verizon, Straight-Talk Wireless, Spectrum..... With the advancement to 5G technology (whatever that means) all of these carriers are chasing after us with phones and plans that come with UNLIMITED TALK, TEXT, and DATA! Whatever happened to the axiom 'silence is golden?' The chance to listen unhindered to one's own heartbeat, or the sounds of nature. The opportunity to sit uninterrupted and read, pray, meditate, contemplate, even day-dream (life's virtual reality escape)! Staying in touch is very important, for we are social beings in need of connectedness. But we must remember when it comes to hearing from God at times we need to 'be still (silent) and know that He is God...'

Until tomorrow....

Pastor Botts

"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him...." - Psalm 37:7

Easier Watched Than Done

Living a good life is like eating with chopsticks, it looks easy until you try it. – Anon

In his mind Peter was ready to die for Jesus, that is, until his physical life was at stake. Good thing Jesus forgives. AMEN!
Lots of things in life look easy enough, that is as long as we stay on the sidelines. But get us in the game action and we find complexities and challenges we never imagined, and a skill set that seems all thumbs at times. It is something we should always bear in mind with others we see and encounter, possibly doing their best and giving it their all, just because it doesn’t measure up to what we expect. God only knows the struggles or hardships they are dealing with, so our response should be one of encouragement. Besides, the same holds true for us as well. In our ‘all thumbs’ episodes of life God never once criticizes, He only offers encouragement, help, and of course hope.

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – I Thessalonians 5:11

Online Service 12/13/20 #SouthsideSunday

Part 2 of the #Christmas message series "The Announcement" in our 12/13/20 Online Service is premiering today at 10am via YouTube. See what you missed! #SouthsideSunday

https://youtu.be/eK11fmUKKKw

Sermon Pop: "Don't Miss The Big News" Elder Harry Spears

 

Premiering today at 10am on our YouTube channel!

A Little Pitstop

You ever notice the Indianapolis 500 often has a ‘pace’ car on the track! - Anon

When Jesus saw how harried, harassed, and hungered the crowds looked, He made them take a ‘time out’. WOW!

We’ve all seen the pet hamster in the cage running on the circular wheel. Running hours on end going nowhere! For him, it’s just exercise, but how often for us does that seem a way of life? Even in this pandemic riddled year, our personal world can still be so busy we find it a challenge to really, really rest. Overwhelming needs abound – family, financial, physical, mental, spiritual – and seemingly continue to push us. We get so busy ‘doing’ we have little or no time for ‘being’. If anything, 2020 has given us all a new perspective on life. It’s as if God were saying “you’ve been running on empty, why not come to me. The peaceful, tranquil, and purposed life you seek begins with me.” Truthfully speaking, I can’t think of anyone I’ve ever known or read about being harmed by spending too much time with God. If time is truly in His hands and runs at His command, maybe we should adjust our lives to His pace.

I'll be taking a few days off, so until I return…

Pastor Botts

“…..[Jesus said] ‘come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” – Mark 6:31

Online Service Outdoors 12/06/20 #SouthsideSunday

Catch the premier of this week's Online Service 12/06/20 featuring part one of the #Christmas sermon series! #SouthsideSunday

https://youtu.be/Jqf5KU7xkD4

10am via @YouTube

An Investment Principle

Don’t anticipate your ship coming in to port if you’ve never sent one out. – Anon

Joseph told Pharaoh he needed to prepare for the future for severe famine was on the way. With Joseph in charge the Egyptians never faced want. Wow!

It’s amazing how often people think things will magically work out. They often hold out for the day their ‘luck’ will change, or the day everything will fall into line when ‘their ship’ comes in. But just as we would never go to a bank to withdraw money when we’ve never deposited any or expect a paycheck for a job we’ve never worked, it’s just as foolish to expect our life to be changed by an event that cannot happen because we’ve done nothing to cause it to happen. It’s amazing how we often expect our lives to become more godly and Christ like when we don’t do the things to cause it to happen. To reap the rewards of an investment you must invest. Today is another opportunity God has given us to prepare.

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” – II Chronicles 7:14

Our Desire to Communicate with God

The 'gift of gab' is not one of God's graces! - Anon

Jesus said it was foolish of the Pharisees to think God would hear them just because they 'talked' a lot. Hmm!

Parent's of a newborn can hardly wait for baby's first 'mama or da-da' utterance. It thrills their hearts to no end. However, later as an adolescent, they often wonder if they can ever get the kid off/away from the phone, thinking "how do they have so much to say or talk about?" You ever think God wonders the same as He looks down on us. We seem to have hours on end to chat and catch-up with family, friends, old co-workers, even the mail or delivery person. But our conversation time with God (prayer) is hit and miss, and often more miss than hit. We should be thankful that He is patient and gracious with us and won't force the conversation. BUT we should also realize that as we speak less and less to Him, we drift further and further away from Him. Prayer is not so much the many words we speak as it is the aching heart we have for His presence.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God." - Psalm 42:1

Don't Just Grow Older...

Wisdom doesn’t necessarily come with age. Sometimes age just shows up all by itself. – T. Wilson

Solomon’s son Rehoboam was 41 years old when he took over the kingdom. He was nowhere near as wise as his father. OUCH!

We see it often. Someone doing or saying something out of character and we wonder in our minds how could someone that age be that silly or stupid or misguided. Simply put, it’s because one of the true paradoxes of life is that growing older is mandatory, but growing up or maturing is optional. You keep waking up each morning you will grow older. So often we think wisdom comes with age, but deep down within we know that’s not true; if it were we wouldn’t do some of the things we do. When it comes to wisdom the word of God actually tells us to “seek it,” “find it,” and “hold it” fast. I think the most important point to remember is that the search begins and ends with God, and He gives to all who asks. May we all grow a little wiser today.

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7

Sermon Pop: Champions Aren't Mediocre

Good Morning! Watch the latest #SermonPop YouTube premier: Champions Aren't Mediocre at 10am and get inspired! https://youtu.be/7ivfC4pJ1tQ

More than just survive

'Thrive' - Kaiser Healthcare slogan

Joseph. Daniel. A couple of men whose lives were lived in harsh conditions, but yet they thrived. Hmm!


If you've ever watched a few of the National Geographic or Planet Earth shows you'll notice they show the beauty of nature under some of the harshest conditions. Plants, trees, ponds, etc., that get watered sporadically, maybe once a year. But boy, when they get it they thrive - all of life in all its beauty and activity burst out. The saying is 'bloom where you are'! For possibly all of us, life isn't quite what we envisioned or expected in certain areas (job, marriage/singlehood, health, finances, etc.) but be that as it may, God's grace, mercy, and compassions are NEW every day, so we should still be full of life and hope, a display of God's beauty for all to see. May we be more attracting than distracting to the kingdom today.


Until tomorrow....


Pastor Botts


"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." - I Thessalonians 5:16-18

Focus Forward

To keep proper focus always remember: From where you came; Where you are going; and to Whom you must give account. – Richard Murray

In all of his misery Job never forgot that “naked I came into the world and naked I shall depart, but the Lord is to be praised.” WOW!

With all that’s going on in the world around us and in our immediate lives sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. The number one goal of our enemy is to get us to take our focus off of God and major in the minor things in our life, our imperfections, failures, our losses. When we get caught up in self pity we leave little room for God to work in us and on us. We can’t wallow in the moment, we must remember we’re on a journey for God. Progress sometimes is slow, but if we keep moving forward we will one day have a good report.

Until Monday…..

Pastor Botts

“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” – Philippians 3:12

Your Passionate God Work

Trivial Pursuit is a game, not a way of life. – Anon

Gideon was content to eke out an obscured, hidden life; but God said ‘No way!’ AMEN!

Motivation – it’s what fuels winners, successes. The desire to be a success drives them to be passionate about their craft – to work at it, sweat at it, give it all they have. It becomes their purpose. The fact of the matter is God created each one of us for a purpose. And just as God is passionate about His creation, within each of us is a passion He’s given us to somehow make the world a better place, make life better for those around us, and make His name known among everyone. The trick is to find out what you’re passionate about and ask God to help you make it work for His glory, that will give our lives purpose, direction, fulfillment, and use for God. There is no reward nor overtime pay for procrastination. Doing the work of God is a responsibility for each of us. Well, today is here, and God is waiting, so “if it’s going to be, it’s up to…..”

Until tomorrow……

Pastor Botts

“….Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord…” – Romans 12:11

The Character in a Loss

How we play the game shows something of our character; how we act after a loss shows all of it. – Richard Murray

Saul was happy David had slain the giant Goliath. But when the people praised David ‘more’ than him, all bets were off. Hmm!

Chair throwing, running into the stands after a fan, obscene gestures, etc. We’ve all seen or heard of this behavior in sports and rightly detest it. We make statements like “he should know better,” or “come on, get a grip,” or “it’s not that serious!” But often in our daily living we’re not much better. Minor incidents – we curse or swear like a sailor. Delays or setbacks – we blow our top. Unrequited respect – we burn a hole in them with our glare. As people of the Word, we are not called to always be nice but we are called to be holy and righteous in all we do. The good thing about it is God is a God of second and third chances, so today is another gift.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” – Matthew 7:20

Seeing Others Through the Eyes of God

Even if you can't prevent another's sorrow, caring will lessen it. - F. Clark

Though Ruth could not alleviate Naomi's pain, she refused to let her go it alone. Wow!

In court trials the opposing attorneys try to get the witness to paint a picture for the jury that will get them to see things 'their' way. It's an interesting technique and quite biblical, for the most critical part of our becoming a disciple of Jesus is not in learning the bible backwards and forwards, it's not in being in prayer 24/7, nor excluding ourselves from any type of fun activity. No, it's in our ability to begin seeing creation as He saw it -MY Father's children who need to be loved. There was nary an individual Jesus saw whom He did not love. Even in the midst of their sin, hatred, or denial of His Father, He still loved them. He looked beyond their faults to their need, for that is why He came - WE NEEDED HIM! Now He asks the same of us. Let's stop seeing the 'shortcomings' of others and praise God for their good qualities or virtues. Our prayer should be that God open our eyes to see how much He loves them and aches for all of us. Today our testimony is at hand.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"When [Jesus] saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd..." - Matthew 9:36

Sermon Pop Gratitude: The Extension

"Gratitude the Extension" Sermon Pop premiering 12/1/20 at 10am on our YouTube channel!

Pursuing True Greatness

Try not to become a person of great success, but rather try to become a person of virtue. – Albert Einstein

We read often of men like Abraham, Joseph, and David who had great success in their lifetimes. Not because they pursued it, but because they pursued God, and he granted it. Hmm!

It’s true we live in a world that measures you by your professional title, wallet, possessions, education, etc., however it’s important to remember we are not ‘of the world’ but called of God to make a difference in the world. There is nothing inherently wrong with wanting to do well in our social endeavors, but NOTHING should impede our ability and opportunity to serve Almighty God. I pray we will be zealous in all our endeavors for Him.

Until tomorrow……

Pastor Botts

“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these….But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:28-29, 33

Detour Views

A truly joyful person enjoys the scenery on a detour. – Anon


Though the Israelites had to wander 40 years in the wilderness before they entered the Promised Land, it was worth it to Caleb. Hmm!


SigAlerts, accidents, road closures, one-way streets. Oftentimes things of this nature take us out of our normal “driving” patterns and cause us to map out different strategies and routes, and even with GPS it still often gets under our skin. Life is very similar in that oftentimes we must make detours, or put off until later things ‘we’ deemed needful and necessary now. Just consider this current ‘pandemic.’ It has caused some major changes to all of life. It seemed Joseph’s life was one detour after another, but in reality it was all God’s plan to bring him before Pharaoh and to eventually save his people. Perhaps God has a plan for you in your detours, so maybe you should relax and enjoy the views.


Until Monday……


Pastor Botts


“But Joseph said ………You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” – Genesis 50:19-20

A Thanksgiving Shot in the Arm

Happy Thanksgiving! Today I'm passing on some words of encouragement from a friend, Dusty Rubeck at CDF. May they help us all appreciate this day even more.

Imagine if there was a vaccine for Thanksgiving. 

One single, painless, shot in the arm that would remove all anger and anxiety and replace it with an overwhelming spirit of gratitude. If there was ever a year our nation needed such a vaccine, this is the one.


I know, I know…a vaccine as powerful as this would need to go through months of testing before receiving FDA approval. And of course, it would probably be in limited supply for months, only available to those who needed it the most.


But as long as we are imagining, let’s just imagine it is freely available to all of us right now.


The instructions accompanying the Thanksgiving Vaccine might go something like this:


Step 1: Thank God for His Protection, and pray it continues.


Step 2: Thank God for His Provision, and commit to share our bounty with others.

Step 3: Thank God for His Promises, and look forward with faith to see them fulfilled.
May your Thanksgiving celebration this year have special meaning as you pause to reflect on what you have been through, how far you have come, and the road that lies ahead.


"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever."- I Chronicles 16:34


Blessings!
Bro. Botts

Greater Prayer Workings

Wishing will never be a substitute for prayer. – E. Cole

The persistent widow got relief because she kept on personally ‘troubling’ the ungodly magistrate, not just wishing and hoping he would do something. Hmm!

Most people live life in the ‘wishing’ phase. They wish for this change or that possession, they wish life wasn’t so bad, or for just a little more. Unfortunately, most of us Christians practice prayer the same way - we don’t actually pray we just wish it would be so. But God is a prayer answering God, and takes delight when His children confide in Him and truly seek His intervention. But we must remember prayer is hard work and there is no substitute for the dedication, perseverance, and discipline it requires. Thinking something over is not the same as praying. God expects us to put in the work. Though Jesus was the Son of God he never assumed His Father would just act on his behalf, he ALWAYS prayed first.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” – II Chronicles 7:14

Victories In Defeat

A defeat that leaves you humble is better than a victory that leaves you proud. – D. Martin

The Israelites were ‘cocky’ in going up against the little town of Ai, telling Joshua they didn’t even need all the men of battle. They got routed and sent home hurting.

We are taught early on that ‘nobody likes a loser,’ or that when in battle it’s ‘victory at any cost.’ But in truth sometimes defeat is necessary. First, if we never taste defeat we would never really be able to fully appreciate and enjoy the victories we have. Second, defeat also gives us opportunity to improve on what went wrong. Last, defeat keeps us humble and forces us to realize there is someone greater than ourselves that we need to make it through this life – God. There will come a time we will all taste defeat and be knocked down, but remember; a saint is just a sinner who fell down AND GOT UP!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: ‘Before the rooster crows you will disown me three times.’ And he went outside and wept bitterly.” – Matthew 26:75

Be Strong and Courageous

Fear is the darkroom where 'negatives' are developed. - Anon

One man - Goliath - struck fear in a whole army, that is until David came along. WOW!

Kryptonite! It was Superman's weakness. It completely immobilized him and his superpowers. What about us, what might ours be - FEAR! Not the 'scared of the dark' kind of fear, but the fear of inadequacy, fear of not measuring up. We fear our past cropping up to embarrass us. We fear our future will be too difficult. We fear letting others down, letting ourselves down. Our fears keep us from reaching out, and often reaching UP to God. The enemy's greatest ploy is to fill us with fear. That's why God's Word directs us and commands us time and again not to be afraid. Just as He told Joshua to be 'strong and courageous' going into a foreign land, as we commune with God each morning we should leave that encounter 'strong and courageous' as we enter into the new territory of TODAY. As long as we are walking faithfully we really have no need to fear for God has our back, front, sides, etc., for He is all encompassing around us. So, we have nothing to fear but.......actually nothing!

Until tomorrow.......

Pastor Botts

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you,.......Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid...." - John 14:27

Online Service 11/15/20 #SouthsideSunday

Featuring the Sermon: "Gratitude: The Origin" by Pastor Herb Botts

Hold on a little while longer

When you are down to nothing God is up to something. – Anon

The widow thought she was down to her last meal for her and her son, Elijah told her otherwise. Hmm!

One of the most powerful accounts of faith and trust is the story of Job. A man who was “blameless and upright,” and who feared God, was stripped of all his worldly possessions and family, and stricken with a terrible, terrible affliction. However, in spite of his 'new' situation and circumstances of life, he kept his faith and trust in Almighty God. Maybe, today where you are in your life you feel somewhat like Job. Abandoned by all, resources exhausted, and trouble on every hand. Take heart friend for like Job, you are being tested. God has not left you but is speedily on His way to your rescue. He’ll be there right on time. May you continue to “hold on.”

Until Monday…….

Pastor Botts

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:3

Choosing Happiness

“…..a man is happy so long as he chooses to be happy, and no one can stop him.” – A. Sozhenitsyn

Sibling rivalry, hatred, slavery, slander, nor prison could change Joseph’s disposition and confidence in God. Nor did it change God’s favor on him. WOW!

Life and all its ingredients make up the circumstances of our days. And it’s not so much what happens to us in those days as it is what happens in us. No matter what comes upon us be it good or bad, God allows us to make the choice of attitude in response to it. We can choose to let the feats of the day get to us and make us mean, hard, angry, or apathetic; or we can choose to see them as grand opportunities to grow in grace, service to others, and give glory to God. The important thing about all of this is, whatever attitude we wear is of our own choosing.

Until tomorrow……

Pastor Botts

“But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful.” – Psalm 68:3

Re-ignite the Passion

Half-heartedness never won a battle. – W. McKinley

Gideon started with 32,000 men and God whittled it down to 300 warriors. Hmm!

The pre-game chat. The Sales Team meeting. The self-confidence pep talk. We’ve all seen, possibly heard and/or participated in something similar to these. That time where we are gathered, greeted, focused, and inflamed with a passion to put forth our all, to achieve victory, conquer the enemy, or finish the task. Life is challenging, but it is necessary to prove us and improve us. God is after those that have a heart after Him, a heart that is willing to give all to Him and for Him just as He did for us with Jesus. And just as we become suspicious when someone offers us a limp handshake or wry smile, imagine how God feels when we offer a half-hearted effort. Today is given to re-ignite your passion for God, here’s hoping it works.

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” – Matthew 5:8

Going Through It

The best way out is always through. - Robert Frost

The only way into the Promised Land was through the nations of people God would help the Israelites conquer. They thought otherwise but finally trusted God's commands and were rewarded. AMEN!

No one likes pain or distress, and when they come we immediately try to circumvent them. But when God engineers situations for us He is shaping, pruning, and perfecting our character for His glory, and our perseverance is the order of the day. To quit, give up, or seek another avenue is to miss out on the blessings and growth He desires for us. True, it may be hard, unpleasant, distasteful, and seem lonely right now; but we must remember what He tells us in His Word "though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death....He is with us." Situations and circumstances in our life may not be the best, but that only means we've not quite made it through yet. We should just trust God and enjoy the journey.

Until tomorrow......

Pastor Botts

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." - James 1:12

Shine Together

You don’t have to blow out the other fellow’s light to let your own shine. – B. Baruch

The disciples wanted to stop a man from driving out demons in Jesus name because he wasn’t in their company. Jesus said he’s on our side. AMEN!

Society loves awards and recognition. Everyone wants to be noticed for their special ‘talent’ or ‘gift.’ Unfortunately we tend to do it at the other person’s expense. Even in our casual conversation we tend to try to outdo one another in our everyday lives. Whereas one may have suffered with the flu, someone else was hospitalized with it, or someone got a great deal, someone else got an even greater deal. God would expect us to “rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep” – not outdo them. We’re not called to focus the light on ourselves but on Him, for the glory goes to Him and not us.

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” – Romans 14:19

More Than Talent

True the 'cream' always rises to the top, but it spoils just the same if not cared for. - Anon

Saul was an 'impressive young man without equal' among all his peers, but when he became king he 'soured' over David. Hmm!

Natural talent is one of life's greatest gifts, but the advantage it gives only lasts a short time. Talent stands out, it will get you noticed, and give you a head start on others, but talent alone is never enough. The world is full of talented people, many of them we know personally; sitting on the sidelines, because they tried to get by on talent alone. Success requires drive, determination, desire, and devotion in much greater quantities than natural talent alone. Just as the apostles did not rest after Pentecost gained 3000+ souls, God does not expect us to rest on what we did yesterday, last week, or years ago. And though we may not be bringing 3,000 into the kingdom today, the strength God gives today is to empower the gift/talent He's instilled in us to be a success for the kingdom.

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"...for this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness...., knowledge....self-control....perseverance....godliness......brotherly kindness......love." - II Peter 1:5-7

Online Service Outdoors...In The Wind! 11/08/20 #SouthsideSunday

See (and HEAR!) what service is like when the wind joins us at church! It premiering on YouTube at 10:15am PST today! #SouthsideSunday https://youtu.be/jkR5K1dnNG8

Doing OUR Part In The Work

Ask God’s blessing on your work, but don’t ask Him to do it for you. – F. Robson

God told the Israelites victory was assured, but they still had to engage in and fight the battles themselves. Hmm!

We love to sing the song ‘Lord, Don’t Move My Mountain’ but often times our heart is just not in the song – we want God to do exactly that, move it; without any help from us. But the fact is that many of the problems, circumstances, and issues that arise in our lives are because of the prayers where we’ve either asked God to ‘prune’ us, or the testing God told us He would bring to ‘prove’ us. And in either situation it doesn’t matter how much we pray for God’s relief, God will require something of us in the answer to our prayers. God’s work is to perfect us, our work is to pursue righteousness in all things, even when it is painful. But no matter, we have the greatest comforter in God Himself.

Until tomorrow….

Pastor Botts

“As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming when no one can work.” – John 9:4

God's Economy: Double Your Blessing

A blessing shared is not halved, but doubled. – Anon

A little boy shared his lunch with Jesus one day and they fed 5,000+ and they took up 12 baskets full of leftovers. Hmmm!

We by nature are greedy people. We are taught survival of the fittest and to look out for number one from a very young age. And we keep these teachings ingrained in our psyche for life. And then we come to God’s economy which is completely different, give to receive, die to live, etc. and we find it a hard transition. But that’s what faith is – totally abandoning your way of thinking, your desire for control – trusting completely in God. And when we do and learn to share this way we realize there is never a shortage in what He supplies no matter how much we give away. Therefore with every blessing we receive we should seek to pass it on to others, for we must always remember when God blesses us he has more than us in mind.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Freely you have received, freely give.” – Matthew 10:8

A Veterans Day Note of Thanks

Minding Our Words

Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something. – Plato

When Jesus was ‘transfigured’ before the disciples there, Peter just couldn’t seem to hold his tongue. God set him straight! OUCH!

Look around, we now live in a culture where everyone is virtually connected at the hip by cellphone. And everywhere you go they are either ringing to be answered or someone is already talking on one. It didn’t use to be this way, but technology has made it easier and affordable – but that does not necessarily translate into needful. God has said our conversation is to be uplifting, seasoned with grace, non-condemning, and for the benefit of His kingdom purposes. Given the truth that we will one day have to give account for every word we speak, maybe we should weigh our words a bit more carefully.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” – Matthew 5:37

Illuminate the path and walk on it

Train up a child in the way he should go, and don’t forget to walk there yourself. - American Proverb

One of the major criticisms Jesus had with the religious leaders of the day was their hypocrisy, not practicing what they were preaching. Hmm!

It’s amazing sometimes how we think. It’s true we grow up and put away ‘childish ways and thinking,’ but what is TRUE and what is RIGHT doesn’t change from one stage of life to the next. If truth is absolute, and IT is; and if right is absolute, and IT is also; then our paths should always take us along the same routes we would prescribe for our children. We can try to shade both the truth and what we know to be right to our own situations to justify what we do but, “there is a way that seems right to a man but it leads to death.” A major part of ‘training our children’ is being a living example of righteousness right before their eyes, and the best way to do that is to always let God’s Word be “a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.”

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” – James 3:1

May the Lord Lead

Talking to men for God is a great thing, but talking to God for men is greater still. – E.M. Bounds

Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray and ask His Father for insight on what to do and say. Hmm!

Moody, Spurgeon, Tozer, Evans, Stanley, Swindoll, your local pastor. All great men past and present who make known God’s will to men and women with great clarity and conviction. But I would dare say to you that none of these men would ever try to talk to men about God, without talking to God first. In fact, talking to God first is the only thing that gives them the utmost confidence to talk to man. May we all take a lesson here today. Evangelism starts when God sparks the heart.

Until Monday……

Pastor Botts 

“Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel…” – Ephesians 6:19

Online Service Outdoors 11/01/20 #SouthsideSunday

Premiering today at 10:15am PST on YouTube: Online Service 11/01/20 #SouthsideSunday Featuring the sermon #Gratitude Check it out!

https://youtu.be/rzzhuBQoT9A

Don't Sleep On It

I'd rather see a sermon than hear one. - Anon

You have to think God parting the Red Sea made someone say WOW!

It makes children giggle, the elders take umbrage - someone sleeping in church. But in truth it's nothing new, even Eutychus fell asleep while the apostle Paul preached in Troas. But before we cast an evil eye at these folks we may need to check ourselves. All of us sleep through some of God's most compelling sermons or lessons. If the heavens truly declare His glory imagine what the world you live in shouts about Him. See the truth is not all sermons of God happen in church settings. A flower blooming (God's renewal/provision), a cricket chirps (God making music/not being silent), a gentle breeze (God's spirit among us). God loves for us to grasp His countless ways of communicating His love, care, concern, and presence amongst us. So let's WAKE UP!

Until tomorrow.....

Pastor Botts

"....he who has ears, let him hear....." - Matthew 11:15

Measure Faithfulness By Commitment

Better to act and not be successful than never to have responded at all. – C. Ringma

Though he was unsuccessful in his attempt, Abraham at least pleaded with God for Sodom’s safety. Hmm!

Truth be told, we do want to see changes take place in our world, and in particular changes to situations which perpetuate sin, evil, or injustice. But sadly we are often slow to act because we don’t often make ourselves aware of them or because we avoid seeing things for what they really are. We often wait until the evil or injustice becomes more magnified before we respond, and then we often claim it’s too late or our little effort won’t help any. But faithfulness can never be measured in terms of successes, but only in terms of commitment. It does not matter the odds or conditions we’re up against, God has called us to be committed to the cause of Christ at all times, not just when it’s convenient or feels good, and often the cause of Christ will justify us going out into the public arena to try and help right injustice or stand up against evil. The one truth you can always say of a fighter – “at least he fought.”

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“Give everyone what you owe him: if you owe taxes, pay taxes, if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor then honor.” – Romans 13:7

Brotherly Words

Remember not only to say the right thing in the right place, but far more difficult still, to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment. – Richard Murray

At a heightened moment of temptation, Jesus let it pass and carefully uttered “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” WOW!

One of the old clichéd truisms of life is “please think before you speak.” The adoption of this principle as a doctrine of life could save us from many stressful situations and later apologies. All of us from our childhood have been taught how to talk and enunciate our words, but rarely when and how to choose our words or responses carefully. We should always be ready to speak the truth, but even it should be spoken in LOVE, not hostility or with ‘superlative’ laced commentary; and refrain from ‘adding’ our two-cents in on matters that are not constructive about others. Temptation will indeed be great to go off course today, but remember God will provide a way of escape.

Until tomorrow…….

Pastor Botts

“Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it….” – James 4:11