Bloom Where You are

'Thrive' - Kaiser Permanente 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 Monday...

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

Living the Slower Pace

Sure, the tortoise is slow, but he is surefooted in his progress. - Anon

Noah took 100+ years to build the ark because that’s what God gave him. Hmm!

It’s no secret that most automobile accidents are caused by someone driving to fast. Likewise, it’s also no secret that most lives are destroyed by fast-living. Life is not meant to be fast. It is meant to be lived, experienced, and savored. Haste truly does make waste. When we take the time to actually live life and savor our experiences, then we can begin to determine what is really important and necessary and what is not. If we were to analyze it we would find that most of our life is just busy work – just look at all of our gadgets. If we read through the scriptures we find there is never a time that God or His Son Jesus was in a hurry. No matter how much we want to speed things up so that we can multi-task and experience it all, we can’t change the laws of nature, that’s God’s business. When we continually move too fast we miss opportunities to stop, gaze, and savor the world through God’s eyes. Care to take a look?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things you will never fall…” – II Peter 1:10

Tempering Your Speech

When words are 'heated' they lose their sweetness! - Anon

When they brought the woman caught in adultery to Jesus, he thought long and hard before he spoke. Hmm!

Coffee! Cocoa! Chili! Some things are good served piping hot. It adds to their overall presentation and enjoyment. We couldn't imagine receiving it any other way. But when it comes to conversation our words are not one of them. The bible tells us 'practice self-control', 'be slow to speak, slow to get angry', and 'in your anger do not sin'! Why, because in our anger not only do our tempers rise (think temperature) but our desire to inflict hurt, harm, and pain on others also increases. It's a mixture of self-presentation combined with pride, and everyone knows that's not a recipe to help build community. It's true, there are times we need to 'say what we need to say', but it should always be thought through and said constructively and in love. Sometimes silence sends an even greater message.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." - Colossians 4:6

Discovering A New Way to Worship

Nothing in all of humanity had ever “been done that way before” until someone tried it. – Anon

Though God made the seas during creation, no one tried sailing the waters until Noah’s time. Hmm!

Problems…problems…problems. It seems life is filled with them. But God is not so much interested in us solving problems as He is in us being available to Him that He may solve them through us. We’re the hands, feet, heart, eyes, etc. that He works through. And He is as diverse in His ways as the entire color spectrum. Failure is never certain until we stop or give up trying. We’ve all been faced with challenges and obstacles to overcome that seemed insurmountable, but yet by the grace and provision of God here we are today. Why, because we tried doing something and it worked out. The key here is to try, never to give in, but to seek God’s way to see you through. If we’re wrestling with God over something maybe He’s trying to show us a ‘new way’ of doing His will.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” – Isaiah 43:18-19

Unlocking Biblical Secrets

“Get wisdom. Though it cost you all you have, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7

Even in captivity, Daniel rose in prominence not just because he studied the Babylonians ways, but because he held fast to God and His Word. Amen!

SAT! GRE! GMAT! LSAT! Exams for schooling. CPA! CMA! UBE! RN! NP! Exams for work. Civil Service exams for governmental work. Everywhere you look it seems like we must study to pass an exam to qualify. But the good thing is there are books and courses we can take to prepare ourselves, gauge our readiness. What about life though? With all its written and unwritten rules, social norms, and customs, and the relentless pace at which it comes to us. How does one prepare for it? Well, in truth there is also a book we can and should refer to. The bible – God’s Word. It is full of His wisdom on how to navigate this life successfully, with meaning and purpose. But the bible only unlocks its secrets to those who are ready to receive them, and that requires the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, for He interprets all things of God for us.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple…” – Psalm 19:7

Pursuing God

If we lose God, it is not God who is lost. – Anon

The book of Judges shows the folly of God's people trying to live without Him in their midst. Time and again they came looking for God to save them. Ouch!

It is said "those who forget history are doomed to repeat it." Could that be us at times. Having the history of our ancestors recorded for our posterity, you would think we should know of a certainty which way to go - God's way. Though He won't forsake us, it is possible we can forsake Him. If you are continually being defeated by everything you face, it's possible you have lost God's favor and your heart has departed from Him; for He has assured victory for His children. Maybe now is a good time to check our life compass.

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and will bring you back from captivity...." - Jeremiah 29:13-14

One of the Great Mysteries of Grace

God doesn’t always smooth the path, but sometimes He puts springs in the wagon. – M. Lucas

Joseph’s pathway to prominence as Pharaoh’s 2nd in command wasn’t the smoothest, but God’s hand of favor was always upon him. Amen!

Hardship is as much a part of life as the air we breathe. For if we had no hardship, we really would not know the true experience of joy. Troubles may come and not seem to get better with much prayer and meditation, but God has promised to be with us every step of the way, and where one area of our life may be particularly troubled, God is still blessing in other areas. That’s one of the great mysteries of ‘grace.’ If we count our blessings, we’ll see it’s true.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“There was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, ‘MY GRACE is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”’ – 2 Corinthians 12:7-9

Responses to Life

What life does to us depends on what life finds in us. – Richard Murray

In all that Joseph went through, he never lost his composure or his God. Hmm!

Insurance – most people that buy it hope they never have to use it but are glad they have it when they need it. Our faith on the other hand is a definite must-have and use daily requirement. Faith is what allows us to overcome the most difficult setbacks, hurdles, and heartaches. You or I cannot always change or control the world around us, but we can always control what happens within us. If we truly want to gauge how strong our relationship with Christ is all we need do is look at our responses to the everyday circumstances of life. The question is does life make us bitter or better, we know with Jesus it was the latter.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Yah's Way

If you don’t know where you’re going, you will probably end up somewhere else. – L. Peter

Because of their hard-heartedness, the Israelites wound up in the desert, instead of the Promised Land. OUCH!

One thing about life is there are plenty of options to choose from. We have a great menu listing that we can peruse and select from, but we must always keep the end result in mind. If heaven is your goal, then there is only one way – GOD’S WAY. The road HE places us on may not seem right to us, but only HE knows the directions to HIS place. The path may not be the most popular, the easiest, or most scenic, nor get you much notoriety, but it will get you to the destination. He’s hoping we’ll let Him lead today!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Teach me your way, O Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.” – Psalm 27:11

Let His Beauty Shine Through

Beauty IS in the eye of the beholder! – Anon

To those with a pure heart the CROSS is a thing of beauty. AMEN!

Mirrors, Ugh! How we often try to avoid them. They seem to show all our flaws. The pimples, scars, years of aging. The gray hairs, receding hairline, tired eyes. And no matter how much we try to keep our shape, physique, beauty (exercise or otherwise( the mirror has something to point out that we worry about. But thankfully God cares nothing about the mirror image. He looks on the heart, and He looks through the blood of His perfect Son that cleanses us. What He sees is pure beauty, and what He blesses us with each day is to help make that beauty even more inspiring. So friend, let us let that ‘light shine.’

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“God saw all that He had made, and it was VERY good…” – Genesis 1:31

Singing in the Shelter

The greater our present trials and troubles, the louder our future songs of praise will be. – Charles H. Spurgeon

The Psalms, Mary's 'Magnificat'. When you remember the sufferings of people like Moses, David, and even Mary - it gives greater meaning to their songs of praise. AMEN!

Life is exact in its dealings with us. It plays no favorites. From time to time all of us must face discouragement and defeat. Winter, spring, summer or fall, the season nor our age gets us a pass. And sometimes, we experience life-changing personal losses that may leave us reeling. It is what we do in those moments that determine who we are and whose we are. The same God we praise is ready to be called upon when we are in trouble, waiting, standing at the ready to heal, restore, protect and comfort us according to His good pleasure and will. So if our world seems to be trembling or crumbling beneath our feet, we need to seek the protection of the One who can’t be moved. The God who made this universe and everything in it will keep us if we ask Him….so let’s ask Him. We’ve got nothing to lose and stand to gain everything, and if we actually think about it, what He’s already done, we should sing until we’re hoarse.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“….this is what the Lord….says…I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you….” – II Kings 20:5

Correct Concentration

There may be more to learn in climbing the same mountain a hundred times than by climbing a hundred mountains. – R. Nelson

God commanded the Israelites to gather before him at least 3 times a year in ‘special’ praise and celebration feasts. It was for their good, not His. Hmm!

Déjà vu! Coincidence! Kismet! These are the terms we tend to use for circumstances that seem to continually happen again and again in our lives. But maybe, beneath the surface God is trying to do more with us. Moses climbed God’s mountain several times and each time he came back wiser and more righteous than before, so much that at some point the Israelites could not behold his face. In our quest to learn more, get more, achieve more, be more, maybe we need to stop running all over chasing the latest and greatest revelation and narrow our focus to God and God alone.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.”- Psalm 1:2

We're Still In It

When you feel like giving up, remember why you held on for so long in the first place. - Paulo Coelho

The exile upended Daniel's 'known' world but it never separated him from God. Hmm!

True, the current political climate and inactivity of Congress has caused great disruption to the world, and forced many changes in the world's operations. It has caused many businesses to downsize or to shutter their doors or close permanently. But it has not impacted God's kingdom at all. No matter what happens here on this earth.....God's kingdom will never be restructured, downsized, streamlined, or whatever other adjective you can think of meaning change. Life's situational changes may leave us on the sidelines but because of God's great grace and love, we'll always fit into His plans. And He will always have a place and purpose for us in His story. So no matter where you are, know that He's not done with the blessings just yet.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"In all of this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing." - Job 1:22

Remembering the Good Things

Life would be truly wonderful if we could forget our troubles as quickly as we seem to forget our blessings. – Anon

The Israelites cried out to God for over 400 years to be free of their Egyptian oppressors. As soon as He set them free and they came to the Red Sea they were ready to go back. Hmm!

Truthfully speaking, it is a great day and a great time to be alive. No matter the circumstances of our lives or what station we occupy now, we are blessed beyond measure. Hardships may come, sickness may strike, but these don’t last always and often God will use these instances to help us grow stronger in our faith – and draw us closer to Him – that He may bless us even more. If we are to be in heaven praising eternally, God wants us to be long in memory and character as to what that really entails, so as the day unfolds God wants us to practice keeping our focus on Him and his purposes no matter what may arise.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced.” – I Chronicles 16:11-12

Letting God Cook

God gives his very best to those who leave the choice to him. – Anon

King Solomon asked only for wisdom to rule God’s people, and God ‘THREW IN’ everything else. Hmmm!

Often in our prayer lives rather than just opening up and sharing with God, trying to sense his heart, and listening for His response and directions, we wind up directing Him on what we want Him to do or who or what we need Him to bless. This is not necessarily bad prayer etiquette, for God loves when we actually do come to Him in prayer; but we must remember HE IS in charge here. The simple truth is God knows what’s best for us and wants to give His best to us, but we must give Him opportunity to do so in our lives. And as Augustine of Hippo said, “God gives where he finds empty, willing hands.”

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” – II Corinthians 9:8-9

He's the One That Can Make Us Better

The human race has improved everything, except the human race. – Richard Murray

Rehoboam saw God’s favor in his father Solomon’s reign. One can only wonder why he didn’t follow suit. His ways brought ruin on the people. Hmm!

We constantly live in a world of change. Everything around us and everything we use is always being made over new or improved upon. From what we eat, to what we drive, to what we watch, even to how we serve God. The only problem here is we continually look outward to make improvements and rarely look inward. This is why once the novelty has worn off the 'new' product the same old feelings and thoughts of despair arise. The only way to have true peace and inner joy is to make ourselves 'new' from within. God is in the reclamation and restoration business. He reclaims broken hearts and restores them to better than new when He’s done. If we want to be a better human, we have to defer to the MAKER, not His creation. Today’s a good day to start.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

“They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator – who is forever praised. Amen.” – Romans 1:25

Staying Faithful

When you’re unable to pray, count your blessings. – Anon

King Saul sought out a medium or spiritist in his turmoil. David continued faithful and waited on God for his answer. We know which one was God’s man! Hmm.

Prayer is our most important communication link with God. He covets it and there is never a time when He does not hear us. But there are times in life when it seems like our prayer link to God is broken, we just can’t seem to get through when we really need Him most no matter how often we call. In truth, there are times that God is silent not because of our sin or distance, but because He has already “graced” us with blessings that fulfill all we need. Just try counting, I’m sure you’ll find you won’t be disappointed.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; BLESSED is the man who takes refuge in him.” – Psalm 34:8

Don't Just Stand There...

The secret of getting ahead is getting………………..……..……..started! – S. Berger

The walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt not because Nehemiah prayed about it, but because he also took action on it. – Amen!

Plans are great. Devising plans and strategies for life and success are great. We all know that ‘failure to plan is actually planning for failure’. But all the plans, strategies, how-to-books, CD’s, and DVD’s in our possession will never bring us success if we never take the first step, which is just getting started. Wishing you could save is not the same as actually putting something aside – with purpose. Planning on going to bible study, or church, is not the same as just actually blocking the time out and going. Just as we were as babies the first step is the hardest, but we kept at it and look at us now. Whatever your plans may be for God the question remains to be answered – what’s holding you back?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“About the eleventh hour he went out and found still others standing around, He asked them, ‘Why have you been standing around here all day long doing nothing…” – Matthew 20:6

Living With Enthusiasm

Catch on fire with enthusiasm and people will come from miles around to watch you burn. – John Wesley

The ‘change’ in the Samaritan woman who met Jesus at the well was so stark, it excited the whole town to come see this Jesus. Wow!

We’ll drive great lengths, we’ll wait in long lines, even sit in not-so-great seats just to have a chance to see ‘our’ team, to cheer them on, scream and yell with exuberance our support, proudly wear the ‘uniform, and talk them up. But when it comes to matters of faith it’s sad that so many of us have a ‘form of Christianity’ that just seems to drain us, tire us out, take our joy, and leave us flat and unappealing to others. Jesus actually said, “I come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.” That sounds like exuberance and enthusiasm. To be enthusiastic for Christ is not just reciting bible verses to people, handing out gospel tracts, or just telling the lost Jesus loves them. To be enthusiastic is to be active in showing others the love, compassion, forgiveness, mercy, grace, humility, and help Jesus would show them if He were present (actually He is in us) in such a way that they could not mistake it for anything else but the favor of God reaching out to them. May we all have fun for Christ today.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“….You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden…..” – Matthew 5:14

No Crash Out Zone

Don't let a setback become an upset! - Anon

Moses' 1st conversation with Pharaoh led to increased labor for the people. By games end it was.....Freedom. AMEN!

'Overnight Sensation!' 'Instant Success!' We're taken to these ideologies when we hear them applied to individuals who have 'arrived' or 'made it' seemingly out of nowhere. But a little research often turns up the hardships and obstacles they overcame and fought through to achieve their success. The little unknown truth about success or winning is that it only happens to those who are willing to go all in, not giving up at the first sign of trouble or heartache, not giving up because resources may be limited, not giving in because people may be against you, but persevering in spite of all this because you know God is for you, and with Him on your side victory is assured!

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." - I John 4:4

Free to Walk in the Light

Being on a guilt trip is no way to travel. -Anon

She came to the well at mid day trying to avoid everyone, but Jesus knew her schedule. Hmm!

Crowd avoidance. Skipping fellowship opportunities. A taciturn conversationalist. Though we are fully alive and moving about many of us live our lives in darkness and covert ways, fearing we'll be found out, our secret will come to light, and we'll be destroyed. The truth is all of us have a past, stained with sin, and though it's not a badge of honor, it should not be a veil of shame, guilt, or disgrace either. For those of us who have confessed our past to Christ and repented of our sins, it stands as a marker of forgiveness and redemption - our wholeness. Christ doesn't actually change what happened in our past, but He takes away the power and penalty it held over us, freeing us to walk with our head held high and our heart rejoicing, enjoying our new found life in the light of truth - His truth!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"....Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, I will confess....and you forgave the guilt of my sin." - Psalm 32:5

The Key to Daily Renewal

Our bodies may age, but our spirits can be renewed each day. – Anon

At age 40 Caleb was promised Hebron. At age 85 he received it and was ready for battle, and his spirit and strength were still as it was earlier. WOW!

The moment we’re born we begin to age – it’s the way God designed things. All of us I’m sure, are not as agile, adept, or sharp as we used to be. That’s the aging process, to remind us of the body’s physical limitations and mortality. But in spite of this, our spiritual nature and character, which are eternal; are being shaped by what we do each day. The enemy will try to drain the spirit life out of us, but God has promised renewal each day if we so desire it. The key is to make sure we feed our spirit proper nourishment and keep it in a proper environment, then age truly will only be a matter of mind. God can and will work in and through any who make themselves available.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“…but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:37

Keep Your Guard Up

SATAN: the enemy of Christ who wants to scare the HEAVEN out of you! - Anon

Goliath relied on his size to taunt and frustrate the Israelites. But then a little scrawny kid 'rocked' him to sleep. OUCH!

Growing up there were certain 'invented' individuals that evoked fear in us as children (bogeyman, closet monsters, etc.) that we eventually outgrew. Then there were certain real creatures that evoked fear in us as well (spiders, snakes, hornets, etc.) that we learned to control or stay away from. What's amazing is that in our Christian walk we know we have an enemy who's after our souls and uses scare tactics that seem to intrigue and interest us so much we fail to see what he's up to and where he's leading us. We must realize that he really has no power over us unless we invite him by lowering our guards (no prayer/study/meditation/fellowship), or by lowering our standards (respectable sins?). Like David, we must see beyond what is immediately in front of us, to the God who is always with us and for us. Not only is the road to hell paved with good intentions, but the way to heaven requires sacrifices.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith...." - I Peter 5:8-9

A True Reflection of His Glory

Some people are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them. – Shakespeare

The great heroes of Hebrews 11 were noteworthy not for what they did per se, but for their faith in God. Hmm!

However you want to define it – GREATNESS – is expected of us. God made us not to be mediocre, but a true reflection of his glory IN ALL THINGS! Though we may often think and feel no one notices us, our Heavenly Father does. No matter what comes our way today, large or small, we must be up to the challenge of being GREAT. Our greatness will not be measured by humanistic thinking but only in the eyes of Him who wants to one day look at us and say “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great.” – Psalm 18:35

For A Time...

“You are here!”, but…..” Anon

God’s people were in the wilderness for a while but ultimately made it to the Promised Land. Amen!

Life is to be lived out, and God sees the whole picture. Not just one frame or picture frozen in time. Where we are right now is where God needs us to be. He created us and knows all of our past failures and successes, and He knows the future He’s planned for each of us. It has to be something GRAND and more than we can imagine because God does only the extraordinary. So maybe we should begin to think a little bigger, dream a little more, and walk with more pep in our step because God is up to something for our good and ultimately His GLORY!

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” – Daniel 12:3

See It His Way

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

When It Doesn't Work Out

Huge failures are often divine redirections. – D. Harvey

Paul thought he was cut out to be a Pharisee, but 'Oh,' what a fisherman he became. Hmm!

We sing a song entitled ‘God Never Fails,’ and firmly know that to be true. The scriptures even bear it out that God cannot fail. But we are often heart broken and ready to give up our faith when something we think we’re doing for God goes awry or flat out fails. While God does not fail, it was never promised that all we strive to do for Him would succeed. He himself knows the purpose for which He created each and every one of us, and He will bring it about in His time. So though we may fail at one thing and suffer a little heartache, it is not final. Life is not defined by one or two events, but the sum total of all we do. And God can and will bring it all together for us if we allow Him some ‘wiggle room.’ If things aren’t the way we want them, maybe we should look to God's design.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

Discover God

God is actually closer than you think! – J. Ortberg

Elijah, at one time thought God to be in the mighty wind, then in the powerful earthquake and fire, but found Him in the gentle whisper that followed. WOW!

When it comes to life’s lessons the best ones are those we discover on our own. For example, we know fire is hot, not so much because our parents told us so, we discovered it to be true by getting too close to the stove or heater or other open flame. Lessons like these form an unforgettable impression on our mind so we remember how to respond appropriately each time. In the same way God longs to be discovered by us in new ways. Too often we settle for the providential things of God (“His rain falls on the just and the unjust”) and miss out on new discoveries of His nature. If God was a ‘cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night’ to guide the Israelites, if He used a ‘donkey to speak to a man’, and if He ‘cursed a fig tree and it withered’, then surely if anything He is unpredictable. GOOD - but unpredictable, and that’s worth discovering.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.” – Acts 17:27

That Unchangeable Truth

Facts do not cease to exist just because they are ignored. - Aldous Huxley

Though Adonijah declared himself king with celebrations and such, it just wasn't so. Hmm!

"Face the facts!" Boy, haven't we heard that expression a ton of times in our lives. And deservedly so. It normally happens when we begin to think everything is about us, and for us, and we try to make it so, but the logic just does not apply to our situation. You just can’t change the truth. And often we forget or try to ignore the very first truth of all things: God made the world and everything in it first, BEFORE He made us! So, the world and everything in it operates under His providential design. Even though God put man in 'charge' of it, He never gave man authority to change anything. And if we know anything of the scriptures, we can clearly see life continues to happen just as God ordained it. So now, today would be a good time for us to wise up.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man...." - Ecclesiastes 12:13

Remember to Press On

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. Where we begin to major in the minor things in our life, our imperfections, failures, our losses, making them the focal point. This happens when we get caught up in self-pity, for 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

Divinely Directed Decisions

When in doubt, be decisive! – Anon

Moses stretching forth the rod. The Israelites marching around Jericho’s walls. On the surface these things make no sense, but underneath there was God at work. Wow!

Life has its major decision moments, its fork in the road opportunities, and seemingly it’s almost like they happen every day. The key is to not let these times stop our progress or forward motion. Procrastination is the great enemy of progress, and when we can’t make up our minds we tend to make ourselves miserable. So when the time for action arrives, we should act. This is not to say we rush into any and everything, but if our prayer life is alive and well, we’ve been in communication with God already, and He’s promised to guide our footsteps. We just need to relax and listen for our inner voice (spirit) to whisper ‘this is the way.’ There really is no need for us to fear the decisions of life when we truly know Jesus, for His name means Wonderful Counselor.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“…an indecisive man is unstable in all his ways…..” James 1:8

Not Your Average...

When you are "average" you are as close to the bottom as you are to the top. - Anon

God calls us to "stand out" not stand in. Hmm!

One of life's false assumptions is that everybody should fit in and follow the norm. That would be great if we based it all on God’s Word and His way for us, but we don’t. We base our laws and government not really on what is right and just, but on "what's best for the average person." And what’s even more saddening is that most of us at times don't even mind being an average Christian. But average is just that - average. God calls us to a better way of life, a purposeful life full of meaning, with edification (making things better not worse) being our goal. He calls us in His Word to excel, and to exalt Christ in our daily living. So, as you enter today, ask yourself - Why be average?

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Let your light so shine before men that they will see your good works and glorify your heavenly Father." - Matthew 5:16

Keep On Going

Whoever said anybody has a right to give up! – M. W. Edelman

Joseph, Moses, Job, Ruth, Stephen. In spite of their adversity and opposition quitting was not in their nature, but God was. They all won glory for him. Amen!

It is said that the man who is successful is just someone who held on a little longer. The greatest tool of the enemy is discouragement. He knows if discouragement is employed enough in our lives we will often quit or give up, believing the goal is unattainable or not worth the effort. The enemy will see to it that things go wrong, dreams get delayed, education gets off-track, prayer and meditation time is pushed aside, suffering and heartache come, etc. – that’s his job and he does it well – but we’re told to ‘fight’ through it all and keep the faith. God has called us to hold on until the end for He is faithful in His promises. Even if we can’t see the goal with our own eyes, we know it’s there by faith – so we press on. Is it in you?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross….Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” – Hebrews 12:2,3

New Life Takes Time

The secret to being productive is to work on the right thing — even if it’s at a slow pace. - J. Clear

Paul preferred who he was becoming in Christ far and above the 'Pharisee of Pharisees' he once was. Hmm!

In one of my wife's favorite movies 'Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan' the Starfleet Federation scientists develop a technology that can create new life on a barren or frozen planet from scratch. It can form mountains, oceans, vegetation and its own sustaining atmosphere. Of course they call it the 'Genesis' project. I think on this and remember Jesus said "my Father is always at His work!" How often do we take for granted what God is creating new every day? Trees blossoming for example. God is not only creating beauty, but food as the cycle of new life continues. What He started 'in the beginning' continues under His Sovereign will today. And He is at work in re-creating in us Christ's likeness day after day after day. So, in essence you are a new creation today, far different than you were yesterday; and that is not only a great marvel but a reason to rejoice.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you." - Isaiah 42:9

The Hardest Thing to Conquer

To many, total abstinence is better than perfect moderation, but neither gets practiced! - Augustine

Many of the godly kings of Judah destroyed the temples of Baal and Ashtoreth but neglected the high places. Hmm!

As those made in the highest order of creation, we are by far the more intelligent beings, able to ‘subdue and control’ the earth. But in all our conquering the hardest thing for us to learn is to temper our appetites, control our desires, or restrain our impulses. After all, nobody but nobody knows what’s better for us than we ourselves is our way of thinking. But God really does know better, He created us, knows what we can withstand, knows how He wants to bless us, and knows how He wants to use us in His service. Moderation is difficult, of course; but the rewards are numerous and long-lasting. To improve our finances, health, or general well-being; wisdom and moderation must be close traveling companions. God will leave the decision up to us, but then so are the consequences.

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“…Better a patient man that a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city..” – Proverbs 16:32

Can You Picture That?

Your imagination is your preview of life's coming attractions. ~ Albert Einstein

Though Joseph’s family didn’t believe in his ‘dreams’ he did, and God brought them to fruition for all their benefit. Hmm!

Child-like faith and understanding is so precious. In such pure circumstances there is nothing ‘too hard’ or ‘impossible’ to do. The present conditions don’t limit the possibilities or potential for things to change. It’s true as we grow older the world becomes smaller and somewhat a bit limited, but that’s the world, not the God we serve. And what’s really sad but true is that most people just really cannot picture themselves or their lives getting any better. They feel they are destined for continual heartache, failure, sub-standard happiness or little joy as it is their ‘cross to bear.’ Jesus did not die to sentence us to gloom and despair and hopelessness, but to set us free to rejoice in all that God has prepared for us here in this life and the next. So, if we’re in a rut it’s only because we’ve imagined ourselves here, we can change the outcome anytime, and today is just as good a starting point as any.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“…Jesus said to them, ‘I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” – Matthew 18:2

Daily Gatekeeping

I refuse to let any one walk through my mind with dirty feet! - Mahatma 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, and now AI is here to stay. 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

All for His Glory

If you wanna' play the game, you gotta' put in the practice time. - S. Barlow

Daniel was known as a man of prayer because at least 3 times a day he put in the 'work.' - Hmm!

In sports parlance they're called 'gym rats.' Those who are always putting in extra time in the weight room, on the court/field, reviewing video; doing all they can to improve, get better, increase their effectiveness. It's not just a game to them, it's a passion, a desire to almost be synonymous with their craft. You think of that sport and their name pops up. Isn't that the heart of Christianity - you automatically think of JESUS! Maybe there's a lesson for us here. It's true, our lives and livelihood are important, but we must remember they are a gift from God to be used in a way that reflects or brings glory to Him and His Son. So as we live out our passions today, let's make sure 'we're in it not just to win it' but to point others to the reason we live - JESUS!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"....let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds AND praise your Father in heaven." - Mathew 5:16

Hope to see you tonight at 5:30pm for Prayer Time.