The People of Today

If you have one eye on yesterday, and one eye on tomorrow, you’re going to miss today. – Anon

On the road to Emmaus the 2 disciples were so concerned with what had happened and what might’ve been, they almost missed HIM WHO IS!

Last minute shopping, making preparations for the holiday, looking back over the years events, making new calendars and agendas for next year. Does any of this sound familiar? Possibly so for most of us! This time of year we lament on how fast the year has gone by and begin to make plans on how we’ll attack the New Year. It’s enough to wear you out. God knows what’s best for us which is why He only promises one day at a time. We should give the bulk of our resources, the bulk of our attention, and the bulk of our time to those people who cross our path today. This is how we spread the Good News and build the kingdom. At the last day God is not going to ask us if we worried about the needs or cares of life, but if we met the needs of those He sent our way.

I'll be taking some time off so this keyboard will be silent for a few days.

Until then...

Pastor Botts

“Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among all nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” – I Chronicles 16:23-24

Patience with Progression

Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid of only standing still. - Richard Murray

Jesus was 12 when he stymied the teachers of his day but didn't start his ministry until he was 30 - he needed the time. Hmm!

When it comes to change all too often we want it yesterday, in the dramatic miraculous fashion. And we grow weary and ready to give up when it doesn't happen that way. But if we look around and understand God and His nature, He always takes His time in developing or growing plans. He made man on the 6th day, not the first. Christ came as a 'babe in a manger' not a full-grown redeemer. God is always at work for He never rests, therefore He is still at work in us. Our role is to be patient, steady, and persevere under the circumstances and conditions in which He has placed us. None of us are where we truly want to be maturity wise, but if we look back we should see a steady pattern of progression or improvement in our lives and with that we can rejoice.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry if on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - Philippians 1:6

Living Faith Takes Practice

'Ability' is commonly found in people who continually tried to do something a little better! – Anon

Joseph, Samuel, David, Paul. They all did great things simply because they put their mind and heart to it, and God honored them for it. AMEN!

We admire it in others. We wish it for ourselves. We wonder how someone could be so good or ‘gifted’ at it? And the answer is so simple – PRACTICE! You get good at what you practice, and the more you practice the better you get. Ability is honed or sharpened over time usually through disciplined practice. The problem is most people love to perform but hate to practice, even us as God’s children. We say we want to live holy, righteous lives but we rarely ‘practice’ the things that would bring it about. We keep our same routines, same friends, music, entertainment, recreational acts, and wonder why we can’t do what we admire in others. Living faith takes practice. We all have the ability within us to be whatever we want to be. The choice to do so is ours.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall because it had its foundation on the rock,” – Matthew 7:24-25

The Battle in a New Normal

It is fatal to enter any war without the will to win it. – Douglas MacArthur

David often sought God’s will before he sought his enemy. Hmm!

Reveille! Alarm clock! Sunrise! Whatever the means, we’re all awake for today. It’s here and coming on strong whether we like it or not. As you embark upon your day, remember you are at war. Not only with the fallout from the continuing pandemic but with all the changes it has brought along to our normal way of life, our physical gatherings, and fellowship. A 'new' normal is upon us. But the enemy will be continually targeting your heart and mind, firing away to make you lose your focus or resolve and doubt your faith and purpose. Make sure you dress properly for the battle otherwise you are sure to become a casualty of war.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes….” - Ephesians 6:11

Make Room for New Blessings

To grab hold of your blessings you must let go of your problems. - Anon

Mary took the angel Gabriel at his word, and the rest is His-story. AMEN!

Garage sales, flea markets. Great concepts and outlets for getting rid of things you no longer need. After all, it's been said "one person's trash is someone else's treasure!" But the idea behind these events is to get rid of stuff you no longer need and possibly make a little money to apply toward something else you want. In other words make room for something new. I wonder if we ever consider such logic in our faith walk. Many of us are seeking the blessings and favor of God, who is ready and willing to give it, but we so often don't want to release or give up the issue God points out to us that is standing in the way, or even the problem we brought before Him. Though God doesn't withhold any good thing from us He surely would like us to use it in a way that glorifies Him, therefore He often waits on us. If your blessing seems to be held up in transit, maybe you should check your heart.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." - Hebrews 11:6

Bigger Than His Words

Reality leaves a lot to the imagination. - J. Lennon

You ever wonder what language the heavens use to 'declare' God's glory? WOW!

Here is a mind-blowing truth: God is ALWAYS bigger than anything He says or promises. Why, because words are truly inadequate to fully express His person and what He can truly do. Language is OUR means of communication - with its ideas and definitions - with one another. And as grandiose as we can make it, words could never contain or express the fullness of God Himself, no matter it be Latin, Greek, Hebrew, or the King's perfect English! And if God transcends language, can you truly imagine how great then His promises must be? And how powerful His Spirit at work in us can and should be? So I guess the question is: How great is our God, and how GREAT should He be?

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"..to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to HIS POWER that is at work within us...." - Ephesians 3:20

Good Little Snowflakes...

In an avalanche every snowflake pleads “not guilty.” – Anon

When Jesus stated to his disciples “one of you will betray me," even Judas asked, “surely not I?” He KNEW all along. Hmm!

An avalanche is somewhat of an anomaly. It is a thing of beauty and power; to see the snow crashing and thundering down the mountainside leaving a clean pristine trail, but it is also a natural disaster destroying everything in its wake. And in the science behind it no one really knows how and/or when it occurs. Sadly, a lot of us have lives that are teetering on the brink of an avalanche, filled with all sorts of activity but little time for God. God is trying to get us to “return to Him,” to let go of those roads and projects that lead to nowhere, and we’re constantly adding more and more to our plate. The trick of the enemy is to fill our lives with “good things” so we take our focus off the “best thing - God.” Maybe it’s time we review our portfolio.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together…….so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” – Colossians 1:18

Cheerful Soul Strength

Any idiot can face a crisis; it’s this day-to-day living that wears you out. – A. Chekhov

Elijah threw up his hands and said to God “I’ve had enough! Take my life….” God said “let me show you something Elijah…” He was forever a changed man. Hmm!

Constant demands at work/home! Rush hour traffic! Financial pressures! Daily stress! It’s enough to drive your blood pressure up, put your temper on edge, and suck the joy out of life. We all face such things in life. Yet, notice how some cheerful souls seem to never be fazed, they just seem to roll with the punches and keep on smiling. They have an ability to put a positive spin on every situation or circumstance. They seem able to see the humor in life even when things go way, way wrong. It seems like life never gets a good hit on them to knock them down or steal their joy. Generally, these are the folks who have put their faith and trust in God and don’t take themselves too seriously. They’ve learned that laughter is a great medicine, actually a gift from God; and that faith is the greatest preserver and encourager known to man. So, depending on the situation they can face any fiasco, handle any hassle, find sunshine on a rainy day, and still enjoy the blessing of life. May we all be so blessed!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance….” – James 1:1

Time to Come Clean

It's not so difficult confessing sins................as long as they're someone else’s. - A. Christing

The Pharisees and teachers of the law were glad to bring the adulterous woman before Jesus...........until he asked them to think about their own behavior. Hmm!

It's a conundrum! A mind boggler! A strange but true fact! As Christians we have admitted we were sinners saved by grace in need of a Savior. As Christians we know we now have a mediator between us and God to forgive us our sins - Christ Jesus who will never turn us away. But yet, for some reason we don't avail ourselves of this grace gift. Rather than confess our sins, oftentimes we try to hide them or legitimize them as 'not really that bad'. But any and all sin separates us from God, which is why He gave us this great gift of forgiveness. Holding on to our sin hinders our relationship with God in every way (blessings, praise, spiritual growth, etc.). It is when we readily and willingly admit our weaknesses and brokenness that we are ready for breakthroughs. And here's the kicker in all of this, we think the hardest person to tell our sins to is Jesus, it's not - He already knows. No, the hardest person to convince is ourselves. Hopefully, we're all ready to come clean today.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." - I John 1:8-9

P.S. - Hope you can join us tonight for prayer at 5:30pm.

Show Some Love

If we look for opportunities to show love, we’ll bypass many, many opportunities to hate. – Anon

The town was stirred with hatred and ready to stone the adulterous woman, but Jesus seized a chance to practice love. Hmm!

Often, because someone is not of our ilk, or up to our standards, or allowing us the freedoms we want, we shamelessly find ways to “put them down.” But if we’re to “love even our enemies,” then hatred, division, or separation should be the last thing we seek. If God loves us in our imperfect status because He sees what we can be, we should love others the same. Love may not make the world go round, but it does often make the ride worthwhile, and you’ll find life a bit less stressful as well.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” – John 3:16-17

Like Jesus or Waldo?

Christians are useless if they are fruitless. - H.C. Mears

Jesus told us to let our light "so shine" that others may see it, not have to go looking for it. Hmm!

The whole idea behind 'Where's Waldo' is that he is always deeply concealed within the masses. You have to look long and hard to find him. That was not the case with Jesus. He came to serve and not be served, and you didn't have to look hard to figure it out. You could easily find Him in some of the most menial jobs (foot washing, cooking breakfast, etc.) and there never was a question of who was really in charge, He stood out like a 'sore thumb.' Though he had no outer beauty of His own, He was truly one who made a lot of heads turn, attracted crowds, and made leaders contemplate their actions and words carefully. Here's the question of the day: when it comes to our daily living would we be considered more like Jesus or Waldo?

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"....[Jesus said] I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master..." - John 13:13-14

Grace for This Life

Imagination was given to us to compensate for what we are not; a sense of humor was given to us to console us for what we are. – M. McGinnis

Sarah’s laughter at God’s prophecy of a child showed her state of mind, God’s fulfillment showed his omnipotence! Amen.

Dreams, hopes, aspirations, imagination. These are all desires key to our existence. Life itself is really not worth the living without them. The thing we need to remember about life is that it is not static, it can change at a moment’s notice. And since we know “God is not finished with us yet,” all options are still available to us. Therefore, we should not take ourselves too seriously as if we are controlling it all, but just rest in God’s grace day to day, allowing him to work out the desires of our heart.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

“I thank my God every time I remember you…..being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:3,6

How We Show Up

Punctuality is the politeness of kings. – Louis XVIII

Even though Abraham was going to the mountaintop to sacrifice his son, he still rose early in the morning to get started. Hmm!

It’s both amazing and somewhat sadly amusing when you think about it, but the One who transcends time is the One always on time. God is never late. He may show up unannounced, that’s His nature; but He shows up on time; every time. And in truth, when we think about it, He deserves the same from us. Everything else in this world gets our early attention. We’ll tailgate before football games, show up early at the ballpark to watch batting practice, get to the movies early to watch the previews, stand in line overnight to get a bargain, and on and on. But when it comes to church, bible study, Sunday School, or some other ‘God function’ it seems tardiness is the norm. If it’s important to us that God be on time in our lives, maybe, just maybe it’s important to God that we be on time for His activities.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…” – Ecclesiastes 3:1

Following God

When the map and the terrain don't match, follow the terrain. Man made the map; God made the terrain. - General Boykin

As Pharaoh pursued the Israelites God told Moses to stretch his rod out towards the sea. What do you know, it worked! Hmm...

Life is full of decisions (single/marriage, work/self-employ, rent/own, etc.) that don't have a clearly defined roadmap for success. We know what we want and trust that through our obedience to God things will work out okay. But often, the path God chooses for us to follow will include some geography that doesn't make sense - that's where faith comes into play. Will we be willing to trust God to blaze the trail way for us, or will we insist on not moving until we can clearly see the roadway and choose the safest lane. Faith is not always having certainty or assurance in hand; it's trusting in the One who has NEVER given us any reason to doubt Him or His promises. If we ever take time to look back and see where we've come from or in reality seeing what God has brought us through, then we can continue in our task of just putting one foot in front of the other.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"And God said.....this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain..." - Exodus 3:12

Faith to Level Up

The road to the next level is ALWAYS uphill, and you can't coast there. - J. Maxwell

Faith led Jonathan and his armor-bearer up the cliff and God did the rest. Hmm!

To get ahead in anything you have to be willing to move forward, to take risks. For most of us we do, albeit we tend to like the calculated and certain, those in the 'safe' zone. But often with God the risk factor is incalculable. It's just the nature of our relationship with Him. Walking in and by faith requires risk taking. God often designs situations and circumstances in our life to see if we'll be willing to trust Him to grow our faith to the next level. So, if you're being stretched in your faith right now - praise God. If you're not being stretched or challenged in your faith - ask God why. In either case it's a good reason to open up the prayer lines.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus.......They said 'Rabbi, where are you staying?' 'Come,' [Jesus] replied, 'and you will see.'" - John 1:37-39

Working With Weeds

No garden is without its weeds. – T. Fuller

Even in the 12 Jesus personally chose after praying all night, there was one bad seed. Hmm!

Floral arrangements are truly beautiful, but they are just that – arrangements. Pre-picked and pre-arranged for their beauty. Life is not pre-picked or pre-arranged, and much to our dismay it can’t be. Even in our homes, in our jobs, in our relationships, churches and organizations; no matter where we go we will find that all is not picture perfect. Weeds (problems or issues) are a fact of life. It’s difficult sometime to determine how the weeds get in our garden but, suffice it to say that we deal with imperfect people and we ourselves are imperfect. Often, we need the weeds in our life to force us to grow stronger in our foundations and principles of righteousness for the kingdom’s sake. The key is not to get ‘choked’ out by them but to hold on until harvest. Jesus will do the separating.

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares……when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared…” – Matthew 13:35

Joy! Joy! God's Great Joy!

Joy is the serious business of heaven. – C.S. Lewis

The Hebrews writer said Jesus ‘endured’ what he went through because of ‘the joy’ that awaited him. Hmm!

People are searching all over for it. They want to know the secret of obtaining it, how to keep it, make it flourish. They read books, attend seminars and conferences in hopes of receiving it. What is it – JOY! And it is as simple as choosing it. Joyful people are joyful simply because they choose to be joyful. In spite of their surroundings, problems, health, needs, or whatever else may try to pull them down or depress them, they realize they are truly rich in Christ who came to bring us joy. All of the issues and circumstances of life are in reality ‘momentary,’ but if we let them they can linger longer and rob us of our joy. That’s why we need to keep our focus on the ONE who died that we may live. If joy is lacking in your life there is a strong possibility that Christ is lacking as well.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“…I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:11

Limitless Methods of Experience

Never make a principle out of your own experience; let God be as original with others as He is with you. – Oswald Chambers

God spoke to the Israelites from the mountaintop with thunder, lightning, fire and smoke. He spoke to Elijah in a whisper. The key is He spoke. Amen!

Exercise regimens. Cold remedies. Financial successes. We’re quick to offer others our pet methods and ways for the success we may have achieved in certain areas, telling them if they do exactly what we did they’ll get the same results. Rarely is that the case but more importantly it puts God in a box, limiting Him and His creative power. Sharing experiences is great, but we must let God be God in all things and allow Him to work in our lives “according to His good pleasure,” and not our expectations. God has been known to move and answer in some mysterious ways. Keep an open eye!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“For God does speak – now one way, now another – though man may not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night….he may speak in their ears….” – Job 33:14-16

Now's the Time

To decide not to decide, is to decide. – Anon

The rich man lived in luxury every day and never gave thought to Lazarus or any act of kindness. Hell later welcomed him. OUCH!

“I’ll think about it later.” “I’m too busy right now!” How often have we used these phrases and others like them to “put off” a decision? We may think subconsciously we have put it off, but in actuality we have made a firm decision not to do it right now, in the moment. If God’s word is truly alive, we have no recourse in our lives but to obey it in the moment as it speaks to us. To do otherwise is to decide it doesn’t mean what it says. The decision is ours.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” – Matthew 7:26-27

One Day We'll Have to Cross That Bridge

The man who refuses to show mercy destroys the bridge over which he himself must cross. – C. Moody

After being forgiven a great sum, the ungrateful servant tried to choke the little he was owed from a friend. That little act only cost him everything. Wow!

We have a common saying, “what goes around, comes around,” and it’s true. The bible puts like this, “a man reaps what he sows.” In either case the intent is very clear – we will get back in kind what we pay out. As children of God who need his mercy EVERYDAY, we should extend it in like manner to others EVERYDAY. Our claims that many who cross us are undeserving of such mercy should be measured by our own standing before God. Again, God leaves the choice up to us.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and plenteous in mercy.” – Psalm 103:8

Remember to Have An Attitude of Gratitude

Gratitude is born in hearts that take time to remember past mercies. – C. Jefferson

The publican in his prayer request. Paul in his letter to Timothy. They both understood “it” – Grace!

Did you ever stop to wonder why God gave us the ability to remember things? I think the main reason is so that we would never forget what He’s already done for us. It’s true, were we to actually stop for a minute and try remembering our past blessings, we would truly realize how gracious and merciful God has been to us; which in turn should make us the most gracious and merciful people on earth. The question of the day is are you humbly grateful or grumbly hateful? Gratitude is a great attitude. Thanksgiving was yesterday, will we have an gratitude today?

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul; and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” – Psalm 103:1-5

Another Day of Thanks and Blessings

Before you enjoy the gift of ‘gobble’ why not practice your gift of gab with God. – Anon

Thanksgiving is defined as a public acknowledgement of gratefulness OR a celebration of God’s divine goodness. As you gather today, may you be able to amply do both. And as you come together with family, friends, and others remember God made each of us in a unique way, personality quirks and all. So let us be grateful and thankful for those in our lives and the God who has blessed us beyond measure.

Until later…

Pastor Botts

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another.” – Colossians 3:12-13

Enjoy Every Second

For every moment you are angry you lose 60 seconds of happiness. - Richard Murray

Cain lost his temper for a moment but regretted it for a lifetime. OUCH!

It's common knowledge. No one likes being around an angry person, it just seems to suck up all the energy or opportunity in the room. To have to 'walk on eggshells' all the time is no way to live, so we try to avoid it. But how do you do it when you are the 'elephant' in the room. Some of us refuse to let happiness into our lives, holding on to anger/rage from years and years ago. And when God tries to break through, we even refuse to acknowledge the greatness of His works (think Jonah). Life is short and can change in the blink of an eye. So now is the time to let go of that anger and forgive, for we never know if and when we may not have the opportunity again. We can't add any time to our lives, but we can make sure we enjoy every second of it. It's our choice!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"....human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.." - James 1:20

Learn the Language of God

Teach your child to PRAY! You won't be around all their life but God will. - Anon

Jesus loved to see the little children at the temple and often used them as examples. Hmm!

It's a human phenomenon. In every culture children don't come into the world knowing the language of their people. But by continually hearing it spoken by their parents and siblings they learn it's meaning and how to speak and converse with one another. And many go on to learn other languages becoming bi-lingual marvels. It gives rise to a question as to why I think many of us don't pray. We've never really been taught or learned the 'language' of God. Even Jesus' disciples pled with Him to teach them how to pray. And Jesus taught them it was not a formula, order form, or monologue, but a heartfelt conversation with the Father. And what better way to have such a conversation than to know something about how the other person thinks or feels. We need to learn the Word of God in order to better converse with Him in prayer. God's Word is written from His heart and fully wrapped up in His love for us. He's never said prayer has to have a minimum word count nor contain certain phraseology, just recognition of Who He is and who we are AND that we are welcome in His presence.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not turn from it." - Proverbs 22:6

It's Still A Marvelous Life

You know you’re getting old when you’ve lost all your marvels! – M. Browne

When Jesus would teach the people they were all astonished, and “marveled” at his ability to make the word of God come alive. Amen!

Admittedly, we often take life as it happens; and even that we take for granted. Because we've been at it for so long, we just assume one day is just as ordinary as any other day, day after day, year after year. We rarely think of each new dawn where we can open our eyes as the greatest blessing ever. We scarcely think of our ups and downs as potential 'God moments,' just assuming they are all a part of life. But if God is the same yesterday, today, and forever; and He is continually seeking to be found and known by His people, you would have to conclude that He’s still in the “marveling” business, and today will be no exception. May we greet today with excitement for meeting Him in new ways.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim His salvation day after day. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise….” – I Chronicles 16:23-25

A Key to Easing Stress

Patience! The windmill never strays in search of the wind! - A. Sklivis

Throughout the whole bible there was never a time God or His Son was in a hurry. Hmm!

Haste makes more than waste; it makes folks tired. There is almost an inverse relationship when you really think about it. The more patient we are, the more accepting we will be of what is, rather than insisting that life be exactly as we would like it to be. Without patience, life is extremely frustrating. We become easily annoyed, bothered, and irritated. Patience adds a degree of ease and acceptance to life, and it’s essential for inner peace. One key to having this patience is learning to look for and see the innocence in the situations that arise that test us. People interrupt us or situations arise not out of conspiracy but because life happens. Our loved ones show up unexpectedly, street lights slow us up, long lines crop up, not because of a vendetta against us; but because life was never supposed to be catered to us but lived by us. To try and hurry it along only brings stress, and I imagine it makes God laugh a bit too!

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"....But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience...." - Galatians 5:22

Choice, Circumstances and Conclusions

In the grand scheme of things there is God in ALL things. - Anon

Rahab is in the genealogy of Jesus for a reason. Hmm!

"How did the world wind up like this?" "How did I wind up in this position?" Why are people so evil...?" Honest questions we all ask from time to time. The 1-word answer - SIN! God did not create sin but He knew it was an inevitable possibility with giving us free will. But even with that He created a way out for us (Jesus) and a place for those who don't want Him (Hell). Again, letting us by our own free will make the choice. Life is full of choices. No one is a victim of their circumstances; they are victim of their free will choices to the circumstances that presented themselves. The good thing is that though we may make a bad decision from time to time, God can take it and make it work out for our good if we're willing to trust Him. It doesn't mean He will take the situation away, but He will give us a new perspective and a renewed spirit to see and deal with it in a way that brings glory to Him, and that ain't all bad.

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 duty of all mankind." - Ecclesiastes 12:13

Ask Ahead

It’s good to believe in prayer, but what we believe about prayer is far greater. – Bill Pile

Daniel prayed 3 times a day. Jesus prayed before every decision, miracle, or move He made. Their results speak loudly! Hmm!

The average person will say they believe a healthy diet and exercise is good for the body, but rarely will they do it. They will say they know they need to save money before an emergency arises, but again, it’s rare if they do. We’re told to ‘pray without ceasing’ but….. Most of us as Christians do pray. However, if we were to look at our prayer life we would see we’re often praying ‘after the fact’ rather than before the storm; which shows our belief about prayer is somewhat lacking. If prayer is able to “change things” or “move God” should we not be asking ahead?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“[Uzziah] did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, just as his father Amaziah had done. He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success.” – II Chronicles 26:4-5

More In Us

Remember, amateurs built the ark. Professionals built the Titanic. - Anon

Gideon and his rag-tag band of 300 untrained men put to flight a mighty horde of Midianite warriors. Hmm!

We often marvel at great works of art, items of complexity, or models of amazing stature, sometimes wishing we had the ‘know-how’ to do such things. But as grand as these things are, they are just that – things. Too often, when God is seeking action or activity from us directly we wait, trust, or depend on others. But truthfully, there is much more to us than meets the eye, more in us than we give ourselves credit for, if the Spirit of God is present and active in our lives. God never looks at our ability but our availability. He works through people. The thing we need to remember is that God can do anything, with anybody, who is willing to be used of Him. And often it will not be a grand display to be ‘fawned’ over, but a small act that will change a life forever and bring glory to God. Are you ready to be used?

Until tomorrow…

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

Hope you can join us for prayer tonight at 5:30 pm.

It's Not Over

It’s always too early to quit. – Peale

At the first sign of rejection from Pharaoh, Moses was ready to give up. God was just getting started. Hmm!

Buzzer beaters, Last minute heroics, Miraculous saves! We often say with conviction that “God is always on time. Never early, never late, but always right on time.” If we truly believe this then whatever battle we’re fighting, whatever circumstances we’re facing, whatever challenge we’re up against, no matter where we are at this stage of life; it’s still early in the game. Deliverance will come, maybe not how we expect it, but it will come. Remember the ‘conqueror’ whom we have on our side.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“…..fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” – Psalm 50:15

Flights of Faith

"I want to fly like an eagle, til' I'm free, fly like an eagle let my spirit carry me..." - Song lyrics

You ever notice once Abraham 'trusted' God he was NEVER in want for anything. Hmm!

You see them soaring overhead, oftentimes just floating on the wind, looking majestic and proud - birds of the air. It wasn't always that way. There was a day when they were pushed out of the nest to their first flight. Their parents thought they had what it took at that time to fly - and fly they did. Maybe not perfectly, and maybe not a long flight, but long enough to convince them they could. You ever think God works that way with us. Trying to nudge us out of the nest (our comfort zone) into something new and exciting. He knows He's prepared us for it and will walk with us through it, but He just needs us to take that 'flight' of faith. Faith only grows when it's put to the test/trial. We can learn a lot by reading the bible, but to build our faith takes practical exams. God is saying to all of us today: "Welcome to flight school!"

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"...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 40:31

Time to Stop Running

Running towards what we don’t understand, and away from Him who wants to give understanding; keeps us from truly knowing who we are. – Anon

Adam and Eve ran and hid from God in the Garden and it seems as if man hasn’t stopped since. Hmm!

Believe it or not but ‘The Fall’ is still happening…. Though God has called us into relationship we are still in flight. Just think about it. We withhold information, we mask our true feelings, we twist facts, and we love to hide. Actions such as these are not demonstrations of openness or transparency but darkness. In our selfish flight to be free we only entangle ourselves more deeply. God is still in the business of giving enlightenment, discernment, wisdom, understanding, and purpose to life, and He’s willing to do it today. The great challenge for all of us is to stop running long enough to discover the truth about ourselves and God’s love for us.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“For in Him we live and move and have our being….we are His offspring.” – Acts 17:28

Don't Leave Home Without Him

Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn't go away. - Philip K. Dick

Jesus just couldn't seem to convince the rich young ruler to take his mind off of his riches for something far better. Hmm!

"Don't leave home without it!" AMEX - at one time maybe, but now the tagline belongs to something else more noteworthy in our lives. The cell phone! Nobody, but nobody leaves home without it. It must be in our hands or on our person within reach at all times. We'll turn around and go back home to get it if we've left it behind. We've even put it in our children's hands. And though we try to convince ourselves it's for communication/connection purposes, that's the least of our usage. Oh, if only we were that devoted to being connected with God. Where His praise was always on our lips, His words were always being meditated upon, our soul was boasting about His goodness. God is constant in His call for us to return to Him, to stay connected to Him. If only there was some way we could reach Him by phone. Hmm!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips, meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful." - Joshua 1:8

God Cares

Not everything that happens is the will of God, yet in the last resort nothing happens outside of his will. – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

God did not want sin in the world, yet when it entered in the Garden of Eden he had a plan to defeat it. Amen!

Often, we ask God ‘why?’ “Why did this happen to me?” or “Why did this occur?” We are a people who always seek after concrete answers. And though it’s not a bad idea we must realize we cannot trace everything that happens directly back to God. One thing we must know is that many things happen as a result of our own willing and doing, and also because of the pervasive evil in our world. God cannot be the responsible cause of everything, for that would eliminate our freedom of choice and responsibility. But no matter, He IS concerned about everything that happens to us. And because He is Sovereign and His Providence is unchangeable, we can be assured that all things do finally work for the good for those who love Him. The question is: Will you trust Him in the midst of what you’re in right now?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father.” – Matthew 10:29

Change Is Here

The future has a way of arriving unannounced. – G. Will

Shortly before leaving them for good, Jesus told his disciples The Comforter would come and ‘remind’ them of all He taught them. They were never the same afterward. Hmm!

We are impatient people by nature. We don’t deal well with uncertainty or loose ends. We want concrete answers and timetables. We want to know when things will be done. But our asking God ‘when’ He will do a certain work in our life or the lives of others presupposes what He will do, or to put it in other words ‘what we expect Him to do.’ We often expect God to do something miraculous to mark the change we seek so that we may attribute it to Him vs. coincidence. In reality, God is always at His work in our lives, therefore the ‘when’ is up to us, not Him. He gives us everything we need to defeat every sin we encounter and unlimited access to Him for strength to overcome all spiritual wickedness. The real question we have to answer for ourselves is do we believe God has given us what it takes, and do we have the desire to do it?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Dear friends, now we are the children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him….” – I John 3:2

Time Best Spent

Wisdom is the power to put our time and our knowledge to proper use. - T. Watson

When it came to building the ark, Noah didn't know how much time he had but he also didn't waste any of it. Hmm!

A smart phone! That's what I have. And it often tells me things I guess I should be made aware of. Like, each month it will give a summary of my time driving and show me the day I traveled the most miles. Yeah! Like I really, really need to know that. But one thing I did notice is the total time I spent driving (hours/minutes). It made me wonder. What if the phone tracked the amount of time we spent on social media, the amount of time we spent following news leads/individuals, podcasts, playing games, or just amusing ourselves with pictures or recipes, etc? Would we like the results? Could some of that time have been better spent in prayer, meditation, or even meaningful conversation with a family member or friend? I know we use these distractions to escape for a breather, but some distractions actually steal opportunities, while others hinder our obedience to "seek the things of God and His righteousness." Though it is a smart phone, I think we should be smart as to how we use it instead of letting it use us.

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." - Ephesians 5:15-16

Forgiveness Not Revenge

An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind. – Mahatma Gandhi

Jesus asked not for retribution on his suitors. but forgiveness. Hmm!

Live long enough and you will be wronged – accidentally, by oversight, and often intentionally. It’s the price we must pay for living with imperfect beings like ourselves. But often, the problem is not in being wronged, it is in our expectation and desire to set things right. We often think the only antidote or solution to being wronged is revenge, to get even by a similar action on our part. God’s way of thinking is different, and often much easier – FORGIVE. Rather than scheme and plot and possibly suffer more retribution and harm, why not just forgive. It’s refreshing and saves a lot of wear and tear on the body and the heart.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your heavenly Father will not forgive your sins.” – Matthew 6:14-15