How many of us have them?

A good library is a collection of friends. – L. Abbott  

When distress came upon Job his friends immediately came to his side. They weren’t the brightest, but they were there for him. Hmm!  

Batman & Robin. The Lone Ranger & Tonto. Crimefighters yes, but friends as well. No matter how we try to live out our lives we will soon discover it’s much better and easier with good friends than without them. Yes some events call for solitude but God wired us to be in communion with Him and “not to be alone.” Good fellowship with friends helps build up our spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being. The key to having them is to allow God to place them in our lives, and then enjoy. Why not read a chapter or two today.  
Until tomorrow…..  

Pastor Botts  

“One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.” – Luke 6:12-13

Impact seasoned with Salt

It’s important that people should know what you stand for, it’s more important they can stand you. – Anon 

Job called his three friends ‘miserable’ comforters for their advice, but they were still his friends. In the end he got to pray for them. Hmm! 

By way of definition – conversation – means a two-way pleasant exchange of ideas, ideals, or information. But sometimes all to often in our conversing we go off pontificating, or belittling, or even being downright obstinate with those who don’t agree with us; creating such a stir and fuss it creates alienation and hard feelings. God expects us to stand up for truth and morality and all things righteous and holy, but not at the expense of ‘crucifying’ others who disagree. Jesus’ way was to show care and concern for the individual and then illuminate them on the truth. True, not everyone accepted it, but they all marveled at his teaching, so the more we’re around others the greater the opportunity we'll have to impact their lives. Opportunities will be plentiful today. 

Until tomorrow…. 

Pastor Botts 

“…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

A Friend at All Times

You do have a right to pick your friends, but not to pieces – Anon 

When the people of a small Samaritan village didn’t show themselves friendly and open to Jesus and His message, the disciples were ready to call down fire and destroy them. OUCH! 

"Shooting the messenger!" "Crucifying the one closest to us." We've all done it before, often without forethough when life stacks up against us. Even still, we must be careful to keep our heart, minds, and EGO’s in check. When friends disagree with us or disappoint us, it does not declare them “open for hunting or hurting.” We need remember that true friends are a gift from God, to help us make it through this thing called life. Yes, family matters greatly, but those you don't get to choose. God gives us the opportunity to choose those we call friends. I pray you will reconcile an old friendship today. 

Until tomorrow……. 

Pastor Botts 

“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” – Luke 22:31-32