Time to Prune

Where there is no battle there is no victory. The greater the battle the greater the victory. - J. Morse

Paul in writing to the Philippians said, if anything in his life didn't bring him towards Christ he counted it as lost. Wow!

We know God prunes us from time to time, taking away that which is unproductive and sapping in our spiritual life that we may be more fruitful. But here's a question, do we ever prune ourselves? Do we ever take time to review our situation/circumstances to see where we're giving or expending energy to projects, people, entertainments, etc., that really isn't giving new life back to us? As an example, if I'm constantly spending to repair my car, maybe it's time to get another one. Or, if I'm constantly rescuing a friend or family member maybe it's time to let them go 'in love.' If I'm constantly glued to the TV or other recreation at the time of study, worship, or other life-giving fellowships, maybe I need to cut away from it and allow God space to work. It's not so much the question of what do you have to lose, but moreso what you might gain. And more time with God is always a good investment.

Until Monday...

Pastor Botts

"A man ought to examine himself...." - I Corinthians 11:28

Change IS the Reward

Our reward is what we become, not what we get. – Richard Murray

Abraham became a ‘friend’ of God, Moses became ‘God’s man’ and neither of them made it to the Promised Land God spoke of. Hmm!

All to often in our prayer lives we go to God asking Him to give, grant, supply, or meet our needs – which are mostly physical – and rarely do we thank Him for what He is making of us. All of us can look back and see the changes God has made in us and for this we should be profusely thankful. The idea of getting things is great, but just like a new toy when the novelty wears off, we’re back to asking for more. Life is not so much about getting as it is becoming, and that becoming or manifesting all of what God made us for. So if there is no getting today, just give thanks for what God is making of you.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” – John 15:1-2