No Happenstance

Everything in life happens for me, not to me. - B. Katie

In prison, Joseph 'just happened' to meet Pharaoh's cupbearer. Hmm!

We call them 'chance' encounters. Those unexpected, unscripted, meetings that make a major impact in our lives. The way we met our spouse or friend, the way we found out about the career we're in, or the way we got 'unintended' news that changes our own little world for the better. Yeah, we call them chance encounters - God does not. But here's the thing, when we think back on these encounters they generally occur when we're doing something positive or worthwhile for others that we'd rather not be doing. If God is the one who truly 'orders our steps' then there is a reason in our life for every person we encounter. Whether to give something to them or receive something from them is ours to determine, but hopefully the meeting ends up a win-win for both. Maybe not immediately, but soon!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" - Hebrews 13:2

Sweet Memory Access

God gave us memories so that we might have roses in December. - J. Barrie

When the 2 on the road to Emmaus realized it was actually Jesus with them, it was an actual case of 'heart burn'. AMEN!

Popcorn popping, coffee brewing, scented candles/burning incense. It's amazing the effect and power certain smells or aromas have on us. Their ability to transport us to faraway/favorite places in our minds, slow our pulse, lower our blood pressure, or even perk up our attitudes and hopes. Time and again it happens over and over. Realistically, these are the types of effects our coming before Almighty God should bring to us. It's why Jesus himself "often withdrew to quiet/lonely places to pray.." To shut out the world, slow life down, and be encouraged by the Great Encourager. No matter who we are or where we are in life we could all use a bit more of this. The truth is God waits daily to give us a full dose. If you've been missing out or cutting short your devotion time (bible reading, prayer, meditating) you've only got yourself to blame. Now if popcorn, coffee, incense, etc., can have that effect on us imagine a true encounter with God. Better health and a better outlook are just a moment away.

Until tomorrow......

Pastor Botts

"I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. YET this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.." Lamentations 3:19-22

Sweet Memories Sweet God

God gave us memories so that we might have roses in December. - J. Barrie

When the 2 on the road to Emmaus realized it was actually Jesus with them, it was an actual case of 'heart burn'. AMEN!

Popcorn popping, coffee brewing, scented candles/burning incense. It's amazing the effect and power certain smells or aromas have on us. Their ability to transport us to faraway/favorite places in our minds, slow our pulse, lower our blood pressure, or even perk up our attitudes and hopes. Time and again it happens over and over. Realistically, these are the types of effects our coming before Almighty God should bring to us. It's why Jesus himself "often withdrew to quiet/lonely places to pray.." To shut out the world, slow life down, and be encouraged by the Great Encourager. No matter who we are or where we are in life we could all use a bit more of this. The truth is God waits daily to give us a full dose. If you've been missing out or cutting short your devotion time (bible reading, prayer, meditating) you've only got yourself to blame. Now if popcorn, coffee, incense, etc., can have that effect on us imagine a true encounter with God. Better health and a better outlook are just a moment away.

Until tomorrow......

Pastor Botts

"I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. YET this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.." Lamentations 3:19-22