An Ever Present God

In the game of ‘hide and seek’ God is undefeated! – Anon

Adam and Eve. Moses. Elijah. If they all tried to run and hide from God and failed, what makes us think we can get away with it? Hmm!

If there is truly no place we can go and hide from God as the psalmist writes, then even in our moments of frustration, doubt, discouragement, fear, etc., all we need do is look up; for God is not simply near, He is right there. Waiting, hoping, anticipating that we will seek Him, invite Him to help us navigate life’s circumstances. And though His companionship may not erase the situation right then and there, it will sure lighten the stress and strain on our shoulders, lifting our spirits and hopes. And that friend, is a very comforting thought.

Until tomorrow.....

Pastor Botts

“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” – Psalm 139:7

P.S. - For our upcoming Roundtable discussion this Sunday (March 1) at 9am please read the book of Philemon. It's a single chapter. Below are some questions to help guide the discussions:

1.  Why did Paul write to Philemon regarding Onesimus?

2.  Describe how you handle someone who "ran out on you"?

3.  Discuss why Christians should get involved in disputes between others.

4.  Why did Onesimus trust Paul to speak on his behalf?  Do you believe he even knew what Paul was doing?

5.  Explain Paul's request versus a command to Philemon.

6.  Onesimus' name means "useful". Discuss how he lived up to (or did not live up to) that name.  Look up the meaning or origin of your name and discuss if it describes how you are living up to it.

7.  Where is the message of hope in Paul's letter to Philemon?

8.  Research commentaries and see if you can find out what became of Philemon and Onesimus----Discuss.

The Proper Hook Up

If you want to have a horizontal reach, you need to have a vertical focus. - Robin H.

Paul had great success in his ministry because he 'counted everything loss for the sake of Christ,' which is all he preached. Hmm!

Some things in life are so simple that we often overlook the obvious. We attend programs, seminars, classes, buy the latest bestsellers, trying to learn the latest insight, methodology, or buzz words on how to be successful for Christ. This is all noble and good, but the obvious is overlooked. When we plant a seed the first thing it does is break through the dirt reaching upward to the sky. Then as it grows it begins to spread its branches and leaves outward. That's the key, we need to look up first, and make sure we're hooked up properly. The point is that anything we attempt to do for Christ and His church must begin with Him. Meaning we need to be connected to Him, filled with His spiritual presence, and submitting to His leading. The work of Christ has always been empowered by His Spirit and always will be. If we're struggling with success for Him maybe we need to make sure the connections are in proper order.

Until tomorrow.....

Pastor Botts

"...I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." - John 15:5