Faith in the One who never fails

It is not so much a matter of great faith, but faith in a great God. – C. Ringma  

The heroes of the bible weren’t perfect bible quoting folks, they just believed God was who He said He was. Hmm!  

The boastful! We’ve heard their claims, and often we’ve been the ones making the claims. Claims of what we would or could do if faced with extreme circumstances. In truth, our faith is often fragile, and when sorely tested it often falls short. That’s often because of what we’ve placed our faith in, a fallible being. In our Christian walk we sometimes do the same, we place our faith in faith and not in God. Faith in faith is meaningless, as faith must have a person to be grounded in. God is our Rock. Yes our faith is shaky and incomplete, for God is still ‘growing’ it through life’s circumstances; but it should always be focused on Him who gives grace, forgiveness, and strength for the journey. True faith looks to God’s keeping power rather than its own ability.  

Until tomorrow…..  

Pastor Botts  

“…..If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it….But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” – Daniel 4:17-18

The Desire for Greatness

God has a history of using the insignificant to accomplish the impossible. – R. Exley

Moses, aged and tie-tongued. Gideon, frail and fearful. The apostles, ordinary and unschooled. Though “no threat” by worldly standards they did mighty things for God. 

As much as we may not want to admit it, truthfully inside of us is the desire for greatness. The desire to make the big play, score the winning points, be the ‘big kahuna’ if you will. The truth of the matter is God wants us to do just that, just not in the way we have in mind. To further the kingdom of God and His Righteousness in any way is to make the big play, score the winning points or be ‘the man.’ The major problem God has with us is getting us out of the way that he may work through us, that others may see His glory being revealed. Remember, it’s not about us. 

Until tomorrow…

Pastor Botts 

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” – Luke 18:14

The pursuit of greatness

It’s a sin to be good if God has called you to be great! – T. Ranier

The Apostle Paul bore on his body the “marks of Jesus.” Not because he was good, but because he was pursuing greatness. Amen! 

We’re all taught in our upbringing to be good, get along. And unfortunately we carry that same attitude over into our service for Christ. But Jesus was a radical, he often “bucked” the worldly trends of his day, and he serves as our example. God is not looking for us to be good, this world has seen good and not been impacted by it; He needs us to be great. Great in our attutude, great in our work ethics, great in our praise, and great in our speech bringing forth the good news. Have a GREAT day! 

Until tomorrow…… 

Pastor Botts 

“If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even the pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” – Matthew 5:46-48