Life through difficulty

Difficulties are meant to rouse, not discourage; for the human spirit grows strong by conflict. – W. E. Channing

The Apostle Paul suffered many great perils in his life. He was also one of the greatest missionaries the church has ever seen. AMEN!

Truth be known, most of us like life easy. We want things to fall neatly into place, people to do what they’re supposed to do, and all lights to be green. Where’s the fun or challenge in that? How would we ever develop our character?  Today you will get hit with difficulties, circumstances, and situations that will seem like Mt. Everest. The key is to not be discouraged by the outlook, but encouraged by “looking up.” There is nothing too hard for God, and there is nothing He won’t do for His children. It may get perilous and painful, but the outcome is already assured.

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 that God has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12

Appropriate Ambition

Majestic mountains are not meant to envy. – Jonh Piper

John the Baptist never tried to overshadow the ministry of Jesus, he just prepared the way. Hmm!

The Grand Canyon – it’s a beautiful creation and gift of God that inspires awe. But it was not intended to create a desire for us to dig a hole just like it. Truth be known many folks often wish they could sing, preach, pray, write, etc. like the Great ones; and they envy their skills and talents. But comparison’s like this are really a doorway into selfish ambition, it leads us to a place of competition and confrontation rather than God’s design for harmony and unity. Ambition is a great thing, but we should seek to keep it focused on bettering ourselves through the gifts and opportunities God grants us individually, not trying to make ourselves a carbon copy of some other God-gifted saint. For if we fail to be who God made us to be, who will fill in for us?

Until tomorrow……

Pastor Botts

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3