Look What I Can Do

One act of obedience is better than a hundred sermons preached. – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Though the apostle Paul wrote many letters to the churches he instructed them to look at his life as an example. Hmm!

When we were kids we always wanted our parents, siblings, and anyone else around to watch us when we did something we thought was extra special. Now that we are grown and knowing that we are possibly the only ‘bible’ some folks will ever read we need to ask ourselves do we still have that “watch me” mentality. Example is contagious behavior and often the only way to reach someone. And a sermon isn’t really preached until it is put into action. We need to be mindful that as instruments of God, somebody is receiving a message loud and clear, so we should pray our walk is in line with our talk.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. “ – Matthew 7:20

The Way of Obedience

Conscience only tells you what is wrong, it doesn’t stop you from doing it. – Anon

Aaron's sons knew they were not supposed to offer 'strange fire' to God, yet they did it anyway. OUCH!

STOP….. , ONE-WAY...., 55 MPH…..., NO PARKING……, NO TURN ON RED……, YIELD…., NO LEFT TURN DURING THE HOURS OF....? You’ve probably guessed by now these are all traffic signs posted to keep traffic flowing at a smooth safe pace. I’m sure we’re all aware of what happens when someone doesn’t heed the message Life is very similar. When we wrestle with right and wrong our conscience is trying to point out the signs we should obey, while the flesh is demanding satisfaction. However, we are not to satisfy the desires of the flesh but live by the Spirit. Our daily prayer should be that we will have a Spirit-filled, Spirit-led day.

Until Monday…

Pastor Botts

"So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me.” – Romans 7:21

Use Me?

God uses broken people like you and me to rescue broken people like you and me. - Anon

Of all the people Jesus could have sent to preach in the Decapolis, he chose a man he had just healed of many demons. Wow!

You ever wonder about Mary, mother of Jesus; and her willing obedience when Gabriel spoke to her? Why? You have to know she was taught the scriptures from an early age. And remembering how God would often use ordinary people (Gideon, Jonah, Esther, etc....) to save His people, she knew and believed in her heart that could be her at any time. So, when Gabriel spoke, hence her reply "so be it as the Lord wills." What about us? Would we be so willing for God? Though we know the ways of God are often mysterious, would it be so unexpected and hard to fathom that He'd want to use you in a mighty way? God's redemption story is still unfolding today, and He still uses ordinary people to bring it about. Wherever you may be in your current livelihood (up, down, hurting, joyful...) just know that your life is part of His ongoing story. He's counting on us to make it interesting and inviting!

Until tomorrow...

Pastor Botts

"My prayer is not for them alone, I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message...." - John 17:20

No Way Around Love's Intent

Some people miss the message because they are too busy checking the spelling. – M. Carney

Though the Pharisees and religious leaders ‘handled’ God’s word, they completely missed the promise it gave – JESUS!

Loopholes – the legalists best friend. Many practicing attorneys make a great living finding ways to beat the law, scouring it to find a way around its INTENT. Many Christians, though they are not attorneys; live like they are. Scouring the word of God to see what they can get away with, wanting everything they must do spelled out ‘exactly’, and making ambiguous what is clearly seen. But that’s not the intent of a love letter. God’s word was not given to us to parse and define its terms. It was given to us that we may know Him and live our life to its fullest potential and purpose in a way that brings glory to Him. Remember, God looks on the heart, not the head.

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

“You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.” – John 5:39-40

Set an Example

Preach the gospel, and if necessary use words. - St. Francis of Assisi

God spoke very highly of Job not because of his words and sacrifices, but because  of his heart and deeds. AMEN!

If it is true that 'a picture is worth a thousand words', (and I believe it is) then the message we preach by what we do comes through loud and clear to all those around us. Though most of us would rather speak of our 'Christianity' most people prefer to see it in action, and God most of all. The deeds we do today may be the only sermon some people will hear this week. The setting God has placed us in today is just perfect for the occasion.

Until tomorrow.....

Pastor Botts

"Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks, or the church of God.....Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." - I Corinthians 10:32

Word of Life

A word to the wise is sufficient, and it's life. - Anon

The Centurion leader knew it would only take a word from Jesus to heal his servant at home. Jesus called it great faith. Hmm!

If we were to receive a note or autograph from a famous politician, athlete, movie star, etc. we would probably save it as a keepsake, and proudly show it to our friends. How much more precious is a message from Almighty God! We often want God to speak into our lives, but often neglect to give Him opportunity. It's an overwhelming thought at times, but God speaks directly to each of us through the bible -His Word. Whenever we open our bibles we should expect that God has something to say to us. And no matter whether His words are praising us or disciplining us, we ought to consider it joy to receive such life-changing words from the Master. If you need a word from God why not open His Book today!

Until tomorrow......

Pastor Botts

"Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart: for I am called by your name, O Lord God of hosts." - Jeremiah 15:16

God Speaks

If the heavens declare God’s glory, imagine what the world you live in shouts about Him! – Anon

The burning bush really got Moses’ attention, and a withered fig tree caught Peter’s eye. They were made to wonder. Hmm!

Admittedly, sleeping through the sermon is nothing new; it has been going on through the ages. And though most of us will proudly proclaim we never would do such a thing, ALL of us often sleep through some of God’s most compelling sermons; for they are not always from the pulpit or the preacher. God is a phenomenal and wise communicator if we would just take the time to look, listen and meditate on what we encounter. A newborn baby, a thunderstorm, blooming flowers, or even a pain in our body. God sends out messages, lessons, or sermon after sermon to see if our reception is any good. “He who has ears let him hear…..” Yes, preaching has its place in the church and we should eagerly look forward to hearing from God this way, but He also loves for us to observe His many messages that come from nature, experiences, and life, for they give greater impact and application to what we hear on any Sunday. So, now that you know…..

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“so then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled….” – I Thessalonians 5:6

Not Greater than The Message

Never let the desire to influence be replaced with the need to control. – Anon

The Sanhedrin Council was the 'religious' right of the time, but Jesus was the 'go to' guy and ANSWERman. HMMM!

The Great Commission was a command given to one and all believers and followers of Christ. We are called to tell the “good news.” But oftentimes the message of grace and love is missed because the messenger has overwhelmed the receiver or overshadowed the message. We must be careful in our zealousness to never try to be the central point (it’s not about us) or “commanding” in our sharing. We were called to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” – I Peter 3:15  

Heed the Signs

Conscience only tells you what is wrong, it doesn’t stop you from doing it. – Anon

Aaron's sons knew they were not supposed to offer 'strange fire' to God, yet they did it anyway. OUCH!

STOP….. , ONE-WAY...., 55 MPH…..., NO PARKING……, NO TURN ON RED……, YIELD…., NO LEFT TURN DURING THE HOURS OF....? You’ve probably guessed by now these are all traffic signs posted to keep traffic flowing at a smooth safe pace. I’m sure we’re all aware of what happens when someone doesn’t heed the message. Life is very similar. When we wrestle with right and wrong our conscience is trying to point out the signs we should obey, while the flesh is demanding satisfaction. However, we are not to satisfy the desires of the flesh but live by the Spirit. Our daily prayer should be that we will have a Spirit-filled, Spirit-led day.

Until Monday…..

Pastor Botts

“So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me.” – Romans 7:21

Bearers of the Good News

The word #Angel simply means “#Messenger.” If angels are messengers, then someone, somewhere must be sending a message. – D. Schaeffer  

Jesus told the religious leaders the very scriptures they read ‘testified’ of his coming. They completely missed the point. WOW!  

Texts, E-mail, snail-mail, voice-mail, etc, etc. etc.! We all like receiving these when the news or message is good. We also like to tell or share with others good news or fortune. God has given us the GREATEST NEWS to share – The Gospel – and He needs as many ‘angels’ as possible to share it with others. We may not have wings, but we’ve got hands, ears, eyes, voice, and feet to express the message. God has granted each of us TODAY! We’re ambassadors for His grace. The question is what will your message be to those God sends your way today?    

Until tomorrow….  

Pastor Botts  

“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” – I Peter 3:15