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

Healing Tears

Sometimes the strongest healing ‘Balm of Gilead’ is when tears trail down our face. – Anon

Jesus wept. Hmm!

We’re told it’s a sign of weakness. We’re told it’s being overly emotional. We’re told a lot of things by people we don’t even really know, and often we buy into it. But there are some truths to life that are at times unexplainable. At times we cry and cry and can’t seem to stop. We think we ought to be ‘stronger than this’ or should be ‘beyond this point’. But in truth, it’s the way God made us. He knows our frame, and He has given us these great healing powers – tears. Yes, they heal. They have a therapeutic effect on our innermost self. The place where you can’t put a band-aid. Just as an oyster covers over a grain of sand with ‘nacre’ producing a beautiful pearl, our God-given tears soothe, cover, and heal deep hurts and pains. AND they lay a fertile covering that in time allows new life to spring up from that area again. God would not have given them to us if they weren’t useful!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

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

More In Common

"Mr. Gorbachev, tear these walls down!" - Ronald Reagan

Even though the religious leaders continuously opposed him, Jesus still gave them soul-saving instructions. Hmm!

Buffets! If you've ever been to a lunch or dinner buffet it's tantalizing, with so many great choices. The idea is to present enough foods to satisfy everyone's different cravings. It's a good way to get a group of people who can't decide on a particular cuisine to come together and eat. To me, this is comparable to our Christian walk. We won't always agree with everyone in our circle of influence, but we can have peace among us when we realize we often have more in common that binds us together than separates us. Paul reminds us in the letter to the Christian church in Rome. He said we need to 'seek new ways that we may co-exist in peace'. Someone has actually said Romans 12 should be titled 'How To Love Those YOU Can't Stand!' putting all the emphasis on 'YOU!' Well, there it is.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." - Romans 12:18

The Lord Will Walk With You

“I'm a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn't have the heart to let him down.” - Abraham Lincoln

Paul considered everything he suffered a ‘momentary’ thing compared to what awaited him in glory. Hmm!

In the ‘Road Less Traveled’ (Scott Peck) the book opens with an ominous but very obvious truth: Life is difficult! And for many of us that is putting it mildly. We not only experience difficulties, we endure tragic accidents and illnesses. We endure family where addictions, habits, emotional and mental issues just seem to expand the dysfunctional nature. It seems our spirit is under attack on a daily basis. We try to live with authenticity, but we know within we’re not bullet-proof or immune to the effects. The one truth we should NEVER forget though is God is with us too! What no calamity can do is devour our faith. Test it – YES, devour it – NEVER! In Christ we are victors not victims. Our battle may not be won today, but it will be won. Life is full of buzzer-beating examples, why not be one of them!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I will look in triumph on my enemies.” – Psalm 118:7

Toxic Friendship?

Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his friends for his life. – J. Thorpe

Abram left everything (family, homeland, etc.) to follow God’s call. He was later called a ‘friend of God.’ Hmm!

The saying ‘birds of a feather flock together’ has a lot of truth to it. By nature, we generally associate and befriend those that are somewhat like us. That’s okay if and when we’re trying to live for Christ, but often we want to live for Jesus but keep the same old friends and the same old habits. One of the best ways to break a habit is to get away from those who aid us in keeping it. That may mean letting go of some of our ‘well intentioned’ friendships and associations. God’s Word calls on us to ‘forsake mother, father, sister, and brother’ if they will in any way impede our coming to Him, meaning some of our closest relationships may need to be broken in our quest for eternal life. The question is how much do we love God?

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” – James 4:4

P.S. - Hope you can make it out tonight at 6:30pm for Game Night. Join us for fun, food, and fellowship.

Clothed In Joy

Joy is the best makeup! - Anon

In all that he went through Joseph’s countenance never seemed to fall. He always trusted God in all things. Hmm!

In sports it’s called putting on your ‘game face.’ That expression that lets people know you are serious minded and physically ready to play. For those of us in the faith it is not a game face but a heart condition – JOY. A life truly filled with joy will always impact those around it. Why, because in all situations, circumstances, and events; hope is perpetually on exhibit. The trials, pains, and hardships of life don’t change the expression of the heart, and that expression is always evident. As Christians we are not exempt from the problems of the world, we don’t get a free pass; but we have complete confidence in the One who will ensure ‘it will work out for our good.’ Dress appropriately today!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed…” – II Corinthians 4:8-9

Going On Your Prayer List

Don’t put people down – unless it’s on your prayer list. – S. Michalski

Jesus got even with those who crucified him by…….PRAYING! Hmmmn…..

Proud. Boastful. Arrogant. Loud. Obnoxious. Unkempt.….you kind of get the hint. We all have people of this sort in our circle or sphere of influence. Sometimes WE are them. So it makes sense then that we should never denigrate or try to humiliate them, but put them down for prayer. If it’s true that “the prayer of a righteous man avails much,” why not give it a try and see what develops.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“I urge then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior.” – I Timothy 2:1-3

Prayer Works!

A Christian should never let adversity get him down, except on his knees. – M. Nicholson

The kings edict that no one could pray to Almighty God under penalty of being cast into the lion’s den didn’t stop Daniel from praying openly 3 times a day. What about us?

One of the things we all face in this world is trouble or adversity. Jesus at one time told Peter, “Satan desires to sift you…but I have prayed for you”. Trials, troubles, tests, temptations, and hard times will come, however if we take anything from the words of Jesus here it’s that prayer works! It lifts the spirit, clears the outlook, and raises the expectations of the individual heart. No, it's not a magic chant or just the power of positive thinking, it's trusting in an all-knowing, ever-hearing, and ever compassionate God who longs to bring every 'good and perfect gift' to our lives. I pray you will try it often today.

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, ‘Pray that you will not fall into temptation.’ He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will but yours be done.’” – Luke 22:39-42

No Easy Way

True, it’s easier to walk down a hill than up it, but the view is from the top! – Anon

The rich young ruler who came to Jesus wanted an easy way into God’s kingdom, but Jesus’ answer cost him a little too much. Hmm!

We live in a society that continuously looks for the easy way of doing things but still expecting grand results. They think microwave dinners should taste like 5-star restaurant cooking, or a few months or years on the job should put them in the top position, or even reading a chapter or two of God’s word should make them intimate friends. And often we get caught up in such thinking as well. But in reality we must be willing to give in to discipline and apply ourselves to the task for the long haul if we want to reap the rewards that are truly satisfying and life fulfilling. If God truly does have blessings that “eyes have not seen nor ear heard” maybe a little bit more patient toiling can’t be all bad.

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life…” – James 1:12

Hold on a little while longer

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

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

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

Until Monday…….

Pastor Botts

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

Hold On

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

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

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

Until Monday…….

Pastor Botts

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

Pray About It

Don’t put people down – unless it’s on your prayer list. – S. Michalski

Jesus got even with those who crucified him by…….PRAYING! Hmmmm…..

Proud. Boastful. Arrogant. Loud. Obnoxious. Unkempt.….you kind of get the hint. We all have people of this sort in our circle or sphere of influence. Sometimes WE are them. So it makes sense then that we should never denigrate or try to humiliate them, but put them down for prayer. If it’s true that “the prayer of a righteous man avails much,” why not give it a try and see what develops.

Until tomorrow……

Pastor Botts

“I urge then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior.” – I Timothy 2:1-3

Time to Grow

A man without problems in his life should get down on his knees and ask God, “don’t you trust me anymore?”- J. Bainbridge

Paul, in his rebuke of the Corinthians told of his many sufferings for Christ. He gladly accepted every one of them. WOW!

"Why me? Why now? This can’t be happening! And so on….."   I’m sure all these refrains sound familiar to us, for we’re often the guilty party. Problems and situations are a part of life for us. God is preparing us for something far greater than what we face here on earth, so this is His proving ground. We GROW through adversity, gaining discipline, wisdom, discernment, and faith that God will see us through it all. So no matter how large the mountain may be in front of you now (be it family matters, financial matters, relationship, etc.) be thankful in this situation that God cares enough to test you.

Until tomorrow…….

Pastor Botts

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

Techno Crush

There is more to life than increasing its speed. – Gandhi

James says a good farmer “patiently waits” for the rain and seasons for his crops. What a novel concept.

Technology! Instant access! We’re now available 24/7, 365 days a year, never out of reach or touch. We’re multi-tasking, multi-relational, multi-dimensional, and dead-tired. Most studies show for every efficiency we gain in technology, we lose time and touch with humanity (we’re on the phone or PC more, hooked up to music earplugs more, etc.) missing intimate conversation and God’s greatness all around us. Though we may be “up to speed” God’s pace is still the same.

Until tomorrow…….

Pastor Botts

“The apostles gathered around Jesus….then because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” – Mark 6:30-31

Get up!

It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you have the courage to get back up. – Vince Lombardi

Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers and later thrown into prison by his owner, yet Pharaoh made him 2nd in command to all of Egypt. WOW!

Contrary to popular belief the object of football is not just to knock your opponent down but to score. But the action of the game does make a good analogy to life. We spend our life in the pursuit of fruitful things, worthwhile goals, etc. But in our everyday living there will be some big hits, painful blows that knock us down, put us in a daze even. Personal and spiritual attacks from within and without, job issues, health matters just to name a few. But if we really have the faith we profess we’ll be able to pick ourselves up and go on no matter what. Today will give ample opportunity for progress.

Until tomorrow……...

Pastor Botts

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” – II Corinthians 4:8-9

Little Lifesavers

In case of emergency........ - Anon

Jesus had a group of twelve, a circle of three, and an ever present One. Rarely did you see Him sweat. Hmm!

It happens on every flight. Before the plane gets off the ground the attendants go through the emergency protocols (seat belt, oxygen, flotation devices, lighting, etc.) the whole nine yards to make sure you're aware of and can operate efficiently in case of an emergency. The intent is to help save lives. What a concept! It's something we should incorporate into our spiritual lives. Lifesavers to help us navigate life's emergencies. A prayer partner or group to keep us lifted up, personal scripture passages or prayers to keep us meditating and hopeful, and of course a prayer closet we visit often - to keep us tethered to our guiding light and strength - God. And remember, emergencies don't announce their arrival so it's best we get prepared.

Until tomorrow.....

Pastor Botts   "If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up." - Ecclesiastes 4:10

Slow it Down

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 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, not prayed over – the consequences and all. God tells us in His world 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.

I will be taking some time off to rest. So until I return this keyboard will be silent.

Until then…..

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

Not Easy but that's okay

True, it’s easier to walk down a hill than up it, but the view is from the top! – Anon

The rich young ruler who came to Jesus wanted an easy way into God’s kingdom, but Jesus’ answer cost him a little too much. Hmm!

We live in a society that continuously looks for the easy way of doing things but still expecting grand results. They think microwave dinners should taste like 5-star restaurant cooking, or a few months or years on the job should put them in the top position, or even reading a chapter or two of God’s word should make them intimate friends. And often we get caught up in such thinking as well. But in reality we must be willing to give in to discipline and apply ourselves to the task for the long haul if we want to reap the rewards that are truly satisfying and life fulfilling. If God truly does have blessings that “eyes have not seen nor ear heard” maybe a little bit more patient toiling can’t be all bad.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life…” – James 1:12

Pray. It works!

A Christian should never let adversity get him down, except on his knees. – M. Nicholson

The kings edict that no one could pray to Almighty God under penalty of being cast into the lion’s den didn’t stop Daniel from praying openly 3 times a day. What about us?

One of the things we all face in this world is trouble or adversity. Jesus at one time told Peter, “Satan desires to sift you…but I have prayed for you”. Trials, troubles, tests, temptations, and hard times will come, however if we take anything from the words of Jesus here it’s that prayer works! It lifts the spirit, clears the outlook, and raises the expectations of the individual heart. No, it's not a magic chant or just the power of positive thinking, it's trusting in an all-knowing, ever-hearing, and ever compassionate God who longs to bring every 'good and perfect gift' to our lives. I pray you will try it often today.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, ‘Pray that you will not fall into temptation.’ He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will but yours be done.’” – Luke 22:39-42

Our good His glory

If God is going to work things out for our good, it’s also got to be for His glory! – Anon

After being hated by his brothers, sold as a slave, and even being falsely imprisoned, Joseph became 2nd in command to Pharaoh and realized it was God’s plan. Hmm!

Life sometimes is like a rollercoaster – up at the top one moment and down at the bottom the next, again and again with alarming speed. We love when we’re on top but dislike when we’re at the low points. We wonder how can things take a turn for the worse so quick. Some of it is our own doing, but even though we may trust and follow God’s will, it does not mean everyone else does; as our enemy has allies in this world too. But no matter what comes upon us God will be able to work it out for our good if we are patient and remain faithful, and remember the ultimate end result is that He receive the glory. Whatever we’re faced with today, remember God is at His work.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not give my glory to another, or my praise to idols.”- Isaiah 42:8