El Roi- The God Who Sees Me

God even keeps a running inventory on the little sparrows. – Luke 12:6

Hagar thought she was unloved and alone, ready to die – until God spoke up. Hmm!

No doubt about it, it is a big, big world! Over 9 billion people and counting. And on top of that all the issues that come with life, all it’s pressures, problems, and indignities. It can often become overwhelming to the point we think no one cares, no one sees the ‘real me’ and no one understands where I am, what I need. But God tells us often how ‘precious’ we are to Him. And if He does a daily count on sparrows you have to believe and trust He knows exactly where you are and what you’re into or facing. And He stands ready to lend a hand, give strength, encouragement, and victory. All is needed is an invitation by us.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“….Don’t be afraid, you are worth more than many sparrows.” – Luke 16:7

Time to Stop Running

Running towards what we don’t understand, and away from Him who wants to give understanding; keeps us from truly knowing who we are. – Anon

Adam and Eve ran and hid from God in the Garden and it seems as if man hasn’t stopped since. Hmm!

Believe it or not but ‘The Fall’ is still happening…. Though God has called us into relationship we are still in flight. Just think about it. We withhold information, we mask our true feelings, we twist facts, and we love to hide. Actions such as these are not demonstrations of openness or transparency but darkness. In our selfish flight to be free we only entangle ourselves more deeply. God is still in the business of giving enlightenment, discernment, wisdom, understanding, and purpose to life, and He’s willing to do it today. The great challenge for all of us is to stop running long enough to discover the truth about ourselves and God’s love for us.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“For in Him we live and move and have our being….we are His offspring.” – Acts 17:28

Temper Temper

Temper is what gets most of us into trouble. Pride is what keeps us there. – Richard Murray

Cain was so upset with how God perceived his offering; he went out and killed his brother Abel. WOW!

There’s no denying that we are emotional beings, God made us that way. But he also made us with the ability to overcome our emotions with sound, rational, thinking and spiritual wisdom. It’s when we refuse to engage in the latter that we find ourselves in more trouble than we often bargained for. It’s not a sin to get angry or upset, but it should never result in sinful behavior. The problem is it is so easy to cross the line, then feel compelled that we must prevail for the sake of ‘principle.’ We must remember our calling is not so much for the sake of principle as it is for righteousness and holy living.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28

Anger Danger

Temper is what gets most of us into trouble. Pride is what keeps us there. – Richard Murray

Cain was so upset with how God perceived his offering, he went out and killed his brother Abel. WOW!

There’s no denying that we are emotional beings, God made us that way. But he also made us with the ability to overcome our emotions with sound, rational, thinking and spiritual wisdom. It’s when we refuse to engage in the latter that we find ourselves in more trouble than we often bargained for. It’s not a sin to get angry or upset, but it should never result in sinful behavior. The problem is it is so easy to cross the line, then feel compelled that we must prevail for the sake of ‘principle.’ We must remember our calling is not so much for the sake of principle as it is for righteousness and holy living.

Until Monday……

Pastor Botts

“Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28

The Same

Science and religion both agree there was ‘a beginning.’ But it’s only science who keeps changing the story. - Anon

When asked not to teach in the ‘name of Jesus’ anymore, Peter and John somewhat said “it’s the only truth we know.” Amen!

Our world is in a constant state of change – but God is not! Every day we encounter new laws, new morality, new economics, and a slew of other issues. And sometimes, even those we counted on to be strong pillars or unshakeable foundations change their position overnight. But we can take great comfort in the knowledge that our Heavenly Father is the one rock that cannot be shaken. ‘He is the same yesterday, today and forever.’ He will always be faithful and true – ALWAYS! And for us that should be one of the most peaceful and comforting thoughts we can ever have. So if this world and its issues have you worrying about which way to look or turn, just fix your focus on Him who never changes. Life is much easier when you do.

Until Monday…..

Pastor Botts

“…..I, the Lord, do not change…” – Malachi 3:6

P.S. - Don't forget our annual Business Meeting this Sunday following morning services.