A Joyful Life

I do believe we say “He’s an on time God, yes He is….” – song refrain

Can you imagine the Israelites eyes when the Red Sea actually parted? Amen!

We’ve all been there, said that! When things in our life seem to start souring or it seems momentum has shifted against us we cry out “Why is this happening to me, why now?” It’s a tactic of the enemy. To take our focus and attention away from the end goal and focus on the here and now, to wallow in self-pity. But just like any contested sport, when you’re in the ‘middle’ it’s impossible to know how it’s going to turn out. Many games are actually won on the last play. Yes, you want to be victorious, but you must let God write the story and direct the action. He keeps His eyes on the end result – ALWAYS. The victory is great, but it's what we take in while we’re going through it that makes it all worthwhile. A joyful life is the sum total of all of life’s transactions, not just your current status, and when God finishes yours will be an ‘instant classic.’

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts

"Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully; even as I am fully known.” – I Corinthians 13:12

Time to Grow

A man without problems in his life should get down on his knees and ask God, “don’t you trust me anymore?”- J. Bainbridge

Paul, in his rebuke of the Corinthians told of his many sufferings for Christ. He gladly accepted every one of them. WOW!

"Why me? Why now? This can’t be happening! And so on….."   I’m sure all these refrains sound familiar to us, for we’re often the guilty party. Problems and situations are a part of life for us. God is preparing us for something far greater than what we face here on earth, so this is His proving ground. We GROW through adversity, gaining discipline, wisdom, discernment, and faith that God will see us through it all. So no matter how large the mountain may be in front of you now (be it family matters, financial matters, relationship, etc.) be thankful in this situation that God cares enough to test you.

Until tomorrow…….

Pastor Botts

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

Never Give Up

I’ve read the last page of the bible. It’s all going to turn out all right. – B. Graham

Jesus sent 2 disciples to town to prepare for the Passover meal once. They found it just as He said it would be. Hmmm!

Why me Lord? Why now God? God, are you there? Questions like these and others often pass through our minds and faith, depending on what’s going on in our life at the time. I’m sure some of us are asking them of God right now. Trials and suffering are all a part of God’s plan for us. However, we cannot in the midst of the trial give up or give out – as this is the key time God expects us to TRUST His purposes – but just hold on. The key is for us to trust in the ending, not the current situation. Though we may not see it, remember God is always faithful and true.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” – Isaiah 55:11

He Cares

Not everything that happens is the will of God, yet in the last resort nothing happens outside of his will. – D. Bonhoeffer

God did not want sin in the world, yet when it entered in the Garden of Eden he had a plan to defeat it. Amen!

Often, we ask God ‘why?’ “Why did this happen to me?” or “Why did this occur?” We are a people who always seek after concrete answers. And though it’s not a bad idea we must realize we cannot trace everything that happens directly back to God. One thing we must know is that many things happen as a result of our own willing and doing, and also because of the pervasive evil in our world. God cannot be the responsible cause of everything, for that would eliminate our freedom of choice and responsibility. But no matter, He IS concerned about everything that happens to us. And because He is Sovereign and His Providence is unchangeable, we can be assured that all things do finally work for the good for those who love Him. The question is: Will you trust Him in the midst of what you’re in right now?

Until Monday…..

Pastor Botts

“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father.” – Matthew 10:29