The Truth About Peace of Mind

There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience. – French Proverb

 

After Samuel anointed Saul as king over Israel, he had the people testify against himself and his priesthood. It was for his own exoneration and an example to Saul. HE PASSED! Saul did not.

 

For anyone, believer or not; one of the main things sought after is “peace of mind,” the ability to not have to worry about what you said or did yesterday or last week coming back to haunt you. The truth of the matter is it is entirely possible to have. All one has to do is speak the truth in all things (in love) and live for God in all things as Samuel did. The conscience is at peace when it does not have to worry about anything but the truth we’ve told, the righteous life we’ve lived, and the helping hand we’ve lent. Well, this sounds like a believer to me. May we do the things necessary that our minds rest easy.

 

Until Monday……

 

Pastor Botts

 

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27

Refresh & Refocus

We should be thankful for our tears, they prepare our eyes for a clearer vision of God. – W. A. Ward

The sinful woman was not afraid to “shed a few tears” on Jesus’ feet. He gave her forgiveness and salvation in return. Hmm!

One of the greatest inventions of our time is the windshield wiper. It wipes away the water and buildup that would normally block our vision and impede our progress. Amazingly, our tears serve the same purpose. Whether they come at the birth of our children, wedding or other special dates, or even at the passing of a loved one; they refresh and re-focus us on what’s important and upon whom we must depend – God. The world and all its contrivances can and will cloud our vision if we allow it, but God gave us a way to see Him more clearly if we’re strong enough. If you haven’t cried in a while, maybe you just need to cozy up to God.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.” – Psalm 126:5

Pure Vision

Vision depends on character – only the pure in heart SEE God. – Anon

When Philip joined the Ethiopian eunuch in his chariot he knew exactly where to start his message – JESUS!

Amen. What we see in life, what we hear from others often depends on what we have in mind or heart. If we keep ourselves unsullied from the cares, concerns, and sins of the world, we will clearly see the things of God. Of course we’ll see those in need, those who are outcasts, those who despise us – the things Jesus saw – for these are the ones God is trying to reach. Things in life are tough for us all but God is still trying to reach out to a LOST generation, and He can only do it through those who have a heart like Him.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

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

The Faith Behind the Works

Our greatest need is not to do all things for good, but to believe all things work together for good. – O. Chambers

When Jesus came to town Martha worked herself into a tempest making sure everything was perfectly prepared and placed. Jesus said “good,” but not “great.” Hmm!

Ask any farmer and they'll tell you they don't expect to harvest every seed they sow, but they do fully believe they will harvest a good crop. And so they work to ensure not a perfect yield, but a maximum yield. It is the same with us in our work for Christ. Often, many of us get stuck in our efforts, or don't even try because we feel we can't do it perfectly. We must take care not to develop a “hardcore” Martha perspective. Yes we are saved to good works, but it is not so much the work, but the “faith” behind the works that really matters. It’s a false idea to think we can barter with God for results based on our activities. God looks within and without regarding our actions. The work He gives us today is important - yes - but not more important than the faith we do it with.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“However, I admit that I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that agrees with the Law and that is written in the Prophets, and I have the same hope in God as these men, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.” – Acts 24:14-16