Prayer: Start well Finish well

Things begun in prayer usually end in power. – Anon  

The early church prayed for power to speak the truth ‘boldly’ and caused an earthquake. WOW!  

When you get right down to the nuts and bolts of what we do and how we do it, we all want and look for things to end well, with pizzazz, fireworks, crescendos, flair, or just plain ol’ great success. That’s just human nature. But the end result is often predicated on the start and follow through that we put into it. This is particularly true in the ways of God. There is nothing we should ever attempt to do for Him without consulting Him first, even when it comes to our daily living. And when He answers, whether a big or small request; it’s not hard to see His hand in the process. But we must remember it is not titles, awards, past performance, or special recognition that guarantees such results, it is by prayer. Prayer accomplishes much and it is the ‘work’ of the faithful. The key to an effective prayer life is to value that which we know brings glory and honor to the Father.  

Until tomorrow……  

Pastor Botts  

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” – Colossians 4:2

Opportunity vs Temptation

Opportunity knocks sparingly, but temptation beats at the door every day. – Anon  

Every time the angels came to present themselves before God, though he was not invited; Satan showed up anyway. Hmm!  

We all know everyday life is filled with choices and decisions. It’s the stuff that makes it exciting and even daring at times. The key is to determine which are true opportunities versus urging temptations. Sometimes we might be perplexed as to which is which, however if we listen to the Spirit within us, He will lead us to understand that ‘opportunity’ ALWAYS allows us to do what is right and honorable; whereas temptation loves to hang in the shadows of darkness and concealment and uncertainty. Remembering we’re called to ‘let our light shine’ the choice or decision really then shouldn’t be that hard.  

Until tomorrow…..  

Pastor Botts  

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” – Colossians 4:5

Hurt From the Mouth

Beware of your thoughts. They can become words at any moment. – W. C. Brumby  

Jephthah’s rashly spoken vow to God cost him his only daughter in sacrifice. OUCH!   

Alarm clocks, car alarms, emergency sirens, screams, etc. These are all unexpected noises beyond our control that invade our mind and our inner peace. How much more so injurious are words from our mouths that hurt, maim, and tear down others. If it is true we speak from our hearts, we should be very careful what we feed it and we should “capture every thought” and make it subject it to Jesus before we act on it. Circumstances and situations will arise today that may upset our peace or plans, for that is the enemies goal. Ours is to live, love, and speak for Christ.  

Until Monday…..  

Pastor Botts  

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:5-6

P.S. - Don't forget to set your clocks BACK 1-hour this Saturday night as we shift to Daylight Savings Time. It should also aid us all in getting to our Sunday School Devotional at 9AM this Sunday.