All for His Glory

If you wanna' play the game, you gotta' put in the practice time. - S. Barlow

Daniel was known as a man of prayer because at least 3 times a day he put in the 'work.' - Hmm!

In sports parlance they're called 'gym rats.' Those who are always putting in extra time in the weight room, on the court/field, reviewing video; doing all they can to improve, get better, increase their effectiveness. It's not just a game to them, it's a passion, a desire to almost be synonymous with their craft. You think of that sport and their name pops up. Isn't that the heart of Christianity - you automatically think of JESUS! Maybe there's a lesson for us here. It's true, our lives and livelihood are important, but we must remember they are a gift from God to be used in a way that reflects or brings glory to Him and His Son. So as we live out our passions today, let's make sure 'we're in it not just to win it' but to point others to the reason we live - JESUS!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"....let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds AND praise your Father in heaven." - Mathew 5:16

Hope to see you tonight at 5:30pm for Prayer Time.

The Light That Shines Through

Never doubt in the dark what God has shown you in the light. – Anon

Job questioned but never doubted God. We know his story ended well. Amen!

You look out on a bright sunny day and you see them. What are they – shadows. And they grow in size and shape as the light begins to shift or fade. Sometimes big and foreboding, other times just a sliver. But the reason behind them is the same, the presence of light. Shadows only occur with the presence of light. It’s a great analogy for our lives as well, as sometimes the issues of life (health, finances, grief, relationships, etc.) can overshadow us with a sense of foreboding doom. It would behoove us then to remember though there may be a shadow, the ‘light’ of God is still present. As the scripture tells us God is the light that shines in darkness. His grace, mercy, and favor can still shine on us if we but turn and look for Him. He’s always there and ready to shine to show us a way through. Just give Him a call.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like the shifting shadows.” – James 1:17

P.S. - For those who have not been able to attend this week's Purpose Driven Life study, we will be meeting this Sunday at 8am on campus in Room 304.

The Prayer Formula?

Half an hour’s meditation each day is essential, except when you are busy. Then a full hour is needed. – St Francis de Sales

That Jesus withdrew to lonely places to pray, that his disciples went to the temple at the hour of prayer seems important.

Early morning, late afternoon, 5 minutes, 1 hour or more – these are all variables bantered about when it comes to prayer and meditation with God. The truth of the matter is there is no secret formula or one-size fits all. What is important is that we take time from our busy lives each day to spend with God, talking to and LISTENING to Him. The One who planned the day surely knows how it will pan out and the direction He has purposed for us. It is important to note that the more time we spend with God the more we hear and understand His heart and the less inclined we are to go off on our own path.

Until tomorrow……

Pastor Botts

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6

Ours for the Asking

Many things are lost for want of asking. – English Proverb

The Syro-Phoenician woman braved redress from the disciples, indifference, and even name-calling from Jesus to make her request. Her faith was rewarded. Amen!

Without a doubt most of us believe God is a prayer answering God, but yet we fail to pray. Often what we call praying is actually just us meditating, hashing the issue out in our mind, but not really asking or talking to God about it. And because of our feelings of inadequacy, we often feel ashamed to even ask. But God wants us to ask “in faith,” and sometimes He will often test our faith to see if we are sincere. Every blessing God prepared, He prepared to lavish on His people and that should include you. Why not ask him today!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.” – John 14:13

More Than Talk

Action indeed is the sole medium for the expression of ethics or faith. – Jane Addams

Abraham, Jacob, Daniel, etc. Even in a foreign land these men held fast to their ‘open’ worship of God. Hmm!

We’ve all heard the expression “they talk a good game but they don’t back it up.” A good question is how does that apply to us? The bible tells us to be instant ‘in season and out of season.’ The ‘season’ does not refer to the time of year, but to the time right now, meaning whether we feel like it or not we should be a light for Christ. Many of us at times suffer from our tendency to be instant ‘out of season,’ or in other words only when certain others will see it. If we do only what we feel inclined or compelled to do, some of us would do nothing forever and ever. But the proof that we are rightly related to God and His kingdom is that we do our best for Him whether we feel supernaturally inspired or not. We cannot give ourselves to God only when we think it best or when we feel the ‘Spirit,’ He requires all of us at all times.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Not everyone who says to me ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 7:21

Purposely Good

Aim above morality. Be not simply good; be good for something. – Henry David Thoreau

Joseph had many trials “hoisted” upon him and his character. But he rose above each one. WOW!

Most of us would probably say in all of God’s creation we could do without flies, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, etc., that they seem to serve no purpose at all. But they must for God Almighty himself made them and we’ve all experienced in one way or another their handiwork firsthand. The same is true of us; we were made for this day to do more than just exist. The world is to come to know Jesus through the love we show to one another and them. We were made to be God’s ambassadors to the world. As the day unfolds with its many requests, issues, and urgent needs, remember you are a part of His labor force. May the light shine within!

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“…..let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

Read the Fine Print

The insurance policy may cover you falling off the roof, but you better check to see if it covers you hitting the ground. – Anon

Stoning, beaten with rods, shipwrecked, snake-bitten, and imprisoned; still Paul knew God was with him every step of the way. Wow!

If you’ve ever had a malfunctioning product and had to deal with the manufacturer regarding the warranty or guarantee, you probably know by now that generally the part that breaks is usually not covered. It’s always something in the ‘fine print.’ Manufacturers are in business to make money and go all out to avoid costly payouts and/or litigation, hence the very lengthy product disclosure and warranty document. But our Maker, stands by His promise, and is willing to fix/repair any part that breaks or becomes defective (forgiveness of sin). He knows we have weaknesses and shortcomings and won’t pass every trial the first or second time. And not only is He willing to ‘fix’ and forgive, He is completely willing and wants to fully redeem us at the appointed time to be with Him throughout all eternity. And how do we know His promises are true? It’s all in the fine print: “I Love You!”

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.” – John 17:24

Anyway You Bless Me Lord

TODAY! What a gift. - Anon

Was the 'ram in the bush' God's gift to Abraham or Isaac? Hmm!

Birthday gifts! Christmas gifts! I'm sure we can all remember a time or two ripping the packaging of all of our presents looking for that 'one' gift we truly, truly wanted only to find it not there. Then we had to make sure our disappointment never showed. You ever wonder how often we do that with God? We ask for the blessings and gifts and expect them to be boxed and bow wrapped to our every expectation and timing. And because of our 'expectations' we often miss the gift or blessing He provides. His gifts are not a deliverance of what we want but what we need. Remember, every gift God gives is perfect, fitting the situation and purpose before us. So, whatever we may be praying, seeking, or asking of God right now don't expect it to come by conventional means. God has a variety of ways to bless and fill us. Just know that His answer will be perfect, and don't forget to praise Him for it.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" - Matthew 7:11

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

Release the Prisoners

It's crazy how God forgives us DAILY, but yet we hold grudges FOREVER! - Anon

When Peter tried to quantify forgiveness, Jesus had him look inward and heavenward. Hmm!

Long before the 'Hatfields and the McCoys' there were the folks of Edom - Esau's descendants! Though Esau had been wronged by his brother Jacob, the two of them reconciled. But Esau's descendants would not let it go. They terrorized their relatives for many, many years until God called down judgment upon them. It seems silly, but many of us are just like them. Oh, we may not 'terrorize' our victims, but we hold them in prison in our hearts, wishing all kinds of 'ill will' towards them. We forget how much God loves us, and showers mercy, forgiveness, and grace upon us every day though we don't deserve it. If there is anything to learn here it's that forgiveness is a God thing, and maybe we should practice it even more. Who knows that God may not do to us what He did to the folks of Edom for their hardheartedness. If we're going to 'hold' these folks in our hearts, may it be in prayer.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." - Matthew 6:15

Bright Shining Examples of Christ

The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion. - Paulo Coelho

Though wrongly accused and imprisoned, Paul said his 'chains' helped bring people to Christ. Hmm!

Movie critics! Talk-show hosts! Armchair quarterbacks! And on and on it goes. We have a litany of those who offer opinions on everything in life, as they say from 'soup to nuts!' And as is often true, their opinions are rarely based on facts or actual experiences, it's just their way of thinking. But life is not lived by opinion, it's lived in real time actual events. And when we can experience it with those who have 'been there, done that, got a T-shirt' folks, it makes our decisions somewhat easier. God did that for us through Jesus. He was 'tempted/tested' in all things like us but was found without sin. As we live day to day and see the worlds offerings and people looking for answers on how to improve it, let us remember the example of Jesus, where He didn't give us His opinion, He gave us His life. Amen!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Let YOUR light shine before others, that they may see YOUR good deeds, and glorify your FATHER in heaven." - Matthew 5:16

Being YOU-nique

The first part of winning is just showing up. - Anon

A nation was saved because Esther was willing to risk standing outside the king's hall. Hmm!

On the job – come payday everyone likes to show up and get paid, and get paid for what THEY did, and that’s completely understandable. Well, God made you – YOU! He didn’t make anyone else like you. He made you to be the YOU the world needs, not to hide behind an ‘identity’ or mask, nor to be a shape-shifter living to please everyone around. YOU are a unique creation of God, made for a specific purpose in His story of love and redemption for all of mankind, and our God knows all about YOU. He knows your comings and your goings, your lying down and rising up; yes, even your inner most thoughts. So, if He’s okay with you, why not be the YOU He made you to be. The choice is yours!

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“….it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” – John 12:27-28

The Bill ALWAYS Comes Due

The bill comes due. ALWAYS! - Mordo

The hardest people for Jesus to win were in fact the 'religious' rulers. Hmm!

Turn on your TV and the ads are there. Ally, Chime, Boost. CreditKarma, etc. All advertising ways to boost your credit score/rating, that you may get better financing terms on things you buy. Not a bad idea, but they never address the fact you have to pay back what you borrowed on those favorable terms. Yes, the bill comes due, always! It makes me think often of how we live our lives out in light of God's Word. Often our professions of faith are just that, with our actual lives being lived outside of the faith we say we have like the Pharisees of Jesus' day. God's Word is true and it does say "a person will reap what they sow." That means many of us if we don't change our ways are really not going to like the final bill when it comes. And yes, the bill always comes due. ALWAYS!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven......" - Matthew 7:21

Always at Work on HIS Story

History is HIS story. – A. Veradie

When God called Moses to the work, He reminded him how He had already been at work through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. AMEN!

Often we tend to forget it’s not about us, that God has been working things out long before we arrived on the scene. We tend to think only of the present or how things pertain to us. We want immediate results, or we expect that anything God initiates through us will be completed while we’re around to see the results. Our action and expectations tend to try and make it our story. But God always speaks to us in the context of what He has already done in the lives of our forefathers and ancestors. We are called to be a part of something much bigger than us, we are called to play a role in the greatest story ever – God’s story, it’s still unfolding. He wants to involve us all in a way that benefits us and brings Him glory. It’s a WIN-WIN proposition.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Jesus said to them, ‘My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.’” – John 5:17

True Gifts

The person who is truly blessed is somewhat blind to ‘dollar’ signs! – Anon

Paul said even when he ‘lacked everything’ he was still greatly blessed. AMEN!

“I want this, I need that!” Familiar refrains that we all seem to utter endlessly, often not conscious of just how chock full of God’s blessings we already are. Consider, the gentle touch of a friend. A wonderful meal. Stimulating conversation. A breathtaking sunset. A moment of solitude. Refreshing hilarity with friends. A rewarding word of ‘thanks.’ Here and there are the marks of love, the signs of goodness, and the indications of grace. True gifts of compassion, hope, and blessings undeserved that God puts in our lives time and again to show His great unfailing love to us. Gifts that should amaze us, cause us to really take time and realize how awesome the ‘GIVER’ is. When we truly realize the many gifts we receive from God we should always live with a sense of amazement that so much has been placed into such undeserving hands.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights….” – James 1:17

For A Brighter Future

Forgiveness is giving up all possibility of a better past. – Anon

When Joseph forgave his brothers because he knew it was God’s plan, he also knew the past was PAST! Hmm!

Live long enough and somebody you know and trust will forsake you or cross you, sometimes intentionally. Too often however, many of us carry these scars and burdens steeped in anger for years seeking restitution, thinking somehow it will magically restore us. But restoration is at hand, and it’s yours for the taking if you’re willing to just forgive. It won’t change the past, but it makes the future a whole lot brighter.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Jesus said, ‘Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’” – Luke 23:34

Always Watching Over

God is the true Prodigal Father, His house is always open to hope. - Anon

The Prodigal son's journey just made the light in his father's heart burn brighter. Hmm!

We see them and kind of chuckle. At one time we were just like them. The over-protective parent, hovering over their child's every move, eyes darting every which way to make sure everything and everyone in the surrounding area is safe. We know how tiring that is and feel for them. Do we ever think of God in light of this? We should. In truth He is just like that parent with us, ever present, ever checking on us, making preparations up ahead for us. Always trying to keep us safe, saved, and secure, even in our stubbornness. The great thing is He will never grow weary, tired, or frustrated watching over us. Not only is that good to know, it's also worthy of praise and thanksgiving.

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"....indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep......the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." - Psalm 121:4,8

Prayer in Concert With Faith

My obligation is to do the right thing. The rest is in God's hands. - Martin Luther King Jr.

James wrote to his listeners that his faith was actually shown by what he did, not so much what he said. Hmm!

"I've prayed about it!" It's often something we tell ourselves and others about situations or issues going on in our lives. But in truth, prayer is not a magical chant or spiel that puts an 'aura' or 'halo' over our head, nor build a fence around us to keep us from sin. It only works in concert with faith, which means we must do all we can to assist our requests of Almighty God. The Proverbs writer tells us that when we see the 'evil' before us to cross the street or go the other way, not just try and pray through it. (Proverbs 7:24-27). This means we must put action behind our requests to be victorious - a show of faith - that allows God to work in us a stronger resolve to remain true and faithful to Him. So, whether we're trying to break a habit, change society, remove ourselves from a bad relationship, or just grow in His grace, when the enemy attacks in all his subtlety, it will take a little more than just the words we offer, it will also require the Power of the Spirit we have within.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"...But when you pray, o into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen..." - Matthew 6:6

Because HE Says So

Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it. - Albert Einstein

When God told Abram to go, he went, no questions asked. And the rest is history. Hmm!

"Because I said so!" I can still hear that voice resonate in my ears and mind all these years later. Mom/dad speaking it with authority, and me being completely okay with it, even though I didn't fully understand why. Now, I look back and relish those moments. They knew then what I know now, and I'm much more the better for their care and insight. I realize it's the same with Father God. Our complete understanding of His ways before we act is not what He's after. But, He does require our steadfast faith, trust, and confidence in His love for us, no matter the circumstances we may be going through at the present. He is with us and will see us through because He is faithful and true and promised to bring 'good' to our lives. So when He says "because I say so!" may we respond like little children and just rest assured it'll be for the better of us.

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ..." - II Corinthians 9:13

Broad Shoulders to Carry Closet Prayers

The closet of prayer is where burdens change shoulders. – Anon

Jesus was constantly in prayer with His Father. The results were clearly evident to all.

Though we are “God’s Children” when facing everyday life, for most of us it seems sometimes we are always overwhelmed, under-prepared, and under a great deal of pressure or stress. It’s true we sometimes get perplexed, persecuted and troubled, etc., but not all the time. We serve a God who is stronger than any situation or circumstance this world can conjure up, and He’s always waiting to hear from us. Whatever we face today we should let the one with broader shoulders (GOD) take care of it for us. He’s waiting in the closet!

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6