Pace Yourself

For fast acting relief, try slowing down. – Lily Tomlin

The moment Elijah stopped running from Jezebel, God ministered to him in a mighty way. Hmm!

Nationwide Insurance once used the slogan, “because life comes at you fast.” The truth of the matter is that it’s not life that comes fast; but life’s situations. But there is nothing written that says we have to respond at equal velocity. When we act quickly or rashly we often play right into the hands of the enemy, because he knows a quick or rash answer is not often thought out, nor prayed over, consequences and all. God tells us in His word in many ways to be cautious – be slow to speak or take offense, don’t be quick to run to sin, etc – for our own good. Life is not a wind sprint but a long journey, so to avoid ‘burnout’ and be successful it’s best for us to pace ourselves.

As we prepare for the coming 'New Year' let us keep this in mind. God is never in a hurry.

See you in a few days…

Pastor Botts

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted above the earth.” – Psalm 46:10

Read the Fine Print

What you don’t know can indeed hurt you. - Anon

The Israelites were content to carry around the ‘laws of God’ in the Ark of the Covenant, but not in their hearts and minds. It cost them dearly. OUCH!

We hate it in contracts, banking agreements, investment brochures, etc – but almost anywhere you go to spend or invest your money, it’s there; the ‘fine print.’ And buried within the fine print somewhere is the disclosure “past performance is no indication of future results.” That’s the out clause for the seller in case things go bad. But if we turn this idea on its head, God tells us that with Him past performance IS an indication of future results. He cannot or will not change. He will do what He promised to do. He will love, provide for, and save those who accept Him and His Son, and eventually bring us home to glory. But He will also cast into outer darkness (Hell) those who reject Him. So if we want the promises, blessings, and future home with God, just remember it’s in the fine print; His Word.

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman who needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” – II Timothy 2:15

P.S. - looking forward to seeing you at Prayer Breakfast tomorrow morning, 9:30am, our last one of the year!

P.S.S. - Please be prompt for this Sunday's Worship (9:30am) as Communion service will be one of the first parts of the service.

Don't Like What You're Getting? Think About What You've Been Giving

Each day we make deposits into the memory banks of others. – Charles Swindoll

Though deceased, Jonathan’s past friendship with young David earned his son Mephibosheth a place at the King’s table. Hmm!

Banks deal in one commodity – MONEY. They take it in (deposits) and pay it out (withdrawals). But it’s all they deal in. You can’t go there and buy groceries, gas, etc., only monetary transactions. And just as you can’t get blood from a turnip, generally speaking people only pay back in currency what they received from the individual making the withdrawal. If we’ve been mean, hostile, selfish, and abusive to them we get it in return. Therefore, if we don’t like what others are giving back to us then we should begin to think about the words, deeds, and pictures we’ve deposited into them. If we know we’ll need a healthy withdrawal later now is the time to begin making the deposits, and like any good investment portfolio it’s always good to spread your wealth around.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” – John 15:8

The Greatest Tool for Bridging a Gap

No matter how empty your pockets, purse, mattress, or bank account; everyone can afford to give away a smile. – Anon

Jesus was referred to by many as a friend of man, not for what He could physically do for them through the power of miracles, but because He treated them all with the “respect” of being God’s creation. Hmm!

It’s true oftentimes we are battered, torn, bruised, and worn down by the trials and cares of life; barely able to lift our heads, let alone be joyful and glad. But even in those moments God expects us to let the light of His love shine forth – to show our faith is real in spite of our circumstances. The best way God can truly reach out to other people is through us. And the greatest tool invented for bridging that gap is a smile. Not only will it reach across the room, it will also reach into other folks heart as well our own, and that is where God resides.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Luke 6:38

Something to Draw From

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

Trust God to Work It Out

Faith does not wonder why, for God has not done anything that needs to be explained. – P. Rosewell

The bible says “Noah did everything just as God commanded him” no questions asked. God called him righteous! Hmm!

By nature we are inquisitive people. We like to know 'why' about almost everything. God knew this as well which is why He created everything we would need to survive and know Him before He created us in His image. The whole idea was that we would look at His creation and all its splendor and go “WOW,” not “Why did you do this….., or why didn’t you do this?" There may be things we don’t understand at times, or situations that seem impossible, or even times where God's Word just doesn't make sense; but that’s where faith comes in, believing God in His sovereignty knows better that we do. If God is in control in our world we must trust Him to work it all out.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.” – Deuteronomy 29:29

Laws of Attraction

Attitudes are contagious. Is yours worth catching? – Anon

John the Baptist and 2 of his disciples were intrigued by Jesus and asked “where are you staying?” Jesus said, “come and see!” They spent that whole day with him. Hmm!

It is often said “you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar.” In other words you must be able to attract them. The same idea is true in our faith walk each and every day. What attracts or draws us to those we associate with? The best way to attract people to Christ (who draws all men to himself) is not so much to ‘act’ like a Christian, but just live as we truly believe. A Christian has hope in all situations and circumstances so life is never bleak and we shouldn’t wear long faces. Our life should eventually impact those we walk with. If we’re not attracting anyone maybe it’s time to get re-focused on who we’re following.

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. For they refreshed my spirit…..” – I Corinthians 16:17-18

P.S. - Don't forget the 'Christmas Sweater contest' and our 'Afternoon of Comedy' events are this Sunday (12/15)

Golden Moments of 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 daydream (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

Forged in the Mundane

Character is not made in a crisis, it is only exhibited. – Sparks

Moses spent 40 years toiling as a shepherd. God felt that was long enough to develop him into a leader for his people. Hmm!

We often look for character-building ideas and exercises to help us prepare for the major emergencies and turmoil in our life, on our jobs, and elsewhere. But true character is not learned in the classroom or high pressure situations, it can only be forged through the mundane activities of the day. It is a maturing process that comes over time, mainly time spent alone with God. The general truth is that what you do while you’re alone, you’ll do when the heat is on as well. If our character is suspect in the dark, it will be suspect in the light of the moment as well. Life’s situations will be calling upon us today, hopefully we'll be ready?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that that you should follow in his steps…..When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” – I Peter 2:21, 23

Making the Old New Again

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

Perfection Takes Time

Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid of only standing still. – Richard Murray

Jesus was twelve 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, too often we want it now, 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 ‘baby in a manger’ not a full-grown man. God is always at work, ‘He neither slumbers nor sleeps,’ so He is working on us. Our role is to be patient, steady, and persevere under the circumstances 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 or progression of betterment in our lives and with that - REJOICE!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“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 1:6

Doing Good Deeds

Kindness is never wasted. If it has no effect on the recipient, at least it benefits the bestower. - S. Simmons

Jesus said there would be a reward for just giving a cup of cold water to someone. Hmm!

You offer them your seat only to hear a brusque "no thanks!" You offer to help only to hear "nope, I've got it!" It's often true our attempts to do a good deed or bless someone get rebuffed or angrily rejected. However, that should not deter us from the practice. Doing a good deed is its own reward. If there's a "thank you" attached or some other acknowledgement given, that's great. But even if not, we should still commit ourselves to the practice for our Heavenly Father sees us. And that is where the greatest reward will be acknowledged. God will never be indebted to us, and He loves to lavish His blessings on us, especially when we live to pass them on or share them with others. Last I've checked, kindness is an outgrowth of being Spirit filled, RIGHT?

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"...and as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right." - II Thessalonians 3:13

Melodious Friendship

A true friend knows the song in your heart and sings it to you during hard times, or when memory fails. - Anon

During David’s waiting period to ascend to the throne, the king’s own son Jonathan was his closest friend and ally. Hmm!

The familiar refrain “when I am sad, He makes me glad, He’s my friend,” that we sing about Jesus is a powerful reminder of what true friendship is. He reminds us of God's love for us and our purpose, and steadfastly tries to keep us on point. It is actually a value judgment we should use to measure those we allow into our sphere of friendship. God places those in our life that can help us keep our heart song true, pure, and uncluttered by other tunes or melodies (worldliness). When we want to go outside of the parameters God sets for friendship and fellowship (righteousness), we risk having our heart song broken, interrupted or even changed, falling away from our purpose and true character. Here's hoping your melody is still inspiring to you.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

'Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge...." - Psalm 119:54

The God Experience

You can’t live by expectations, life must be experienced! – Anon

In Jesus, the people expected a great earthly king. Those who knew Him experienced something far greater. Hmm!

“Chip off the old block!” “That’s my boy!” “You are your mother’s daughter!” We often use these terms of endearment for our children when they do things we approve of and/or expect them to do by virtue of their ‘bloodline.’ Admittedly, we can have reasonable expectations of them that they adopt the same principles, beliefs, and life goals that we have, but in truth we cannot expect anyone to live or experience life the way we want them to. No one can live up to our expectations because expectations are founded upon our own personal experiences and beliefs. Our children have not reached this plateau and won’t as their experiences will be quite different and filtered through their belief system. This is crucial in our understanding and walking with God. Though He has given us His Word and His Spirit to guide us, His only ‘expectation’ is that we EXPERIENCE Him. That’s when life truly begins.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“…taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him…” – Psalm 34:8

Emulating The Father's Values

Values are like fingerprints – you leave them all over everything you touch. – Anon

Jacob was such a man of integrity that even foreigners mourned his passing. Wow!

Children are noteworthy when they learn to walk in the values and virtues of their parents. Fathers are broad-chested when their sons emulate them, mothers are elated when their daughters become little ladies. If we feel this way with our children have we ever stopped to think how we make our Heavenly Father feel as his children? He wants so much for us to emulate Him, to hold dear what He holds dear, to love what He loves, to value what He values. Perhaps the only reason we fall short is not that He hasn’t tried to teach us, but just maybe we’ve been a bit out of His touch.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 7:21

Convicted By Our Actions

Actions lie louder than words. – C. Wells

Jesus called the Pharisees hypocrites because they did not 'practice' what they preached. Hmm!

If Jesus is to represent us in heaven before his Father, we must give him something to work with down here. Just as we can easily know what a person believes and thinks not by what they tell us, but by their actions, SO CAN God. And God is not impressed by our high and lofty thoughts, our intentions or speeches, or our wanting to do good, He desires our obedience to His will. None of His commandments are suggestions, food for thought, or take it or leave it theories. God sets the standard for righteousness and requires our obedience out of our love for Him and who He is. His word is life, and He expects us to strive each day to live it out. We can be certain that our actions will convict us, the only question is what will we be convicted of?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” – Luke 6:46