In Pursuit of Righteousness

It’s better to have character, than be one. - Anon

Throughout all his impoverished life Daniel never forgot who he was before God. Amen!

As Christians, we want our actions, words, and deeds to line up with our heart, in essence to live righteous lives for Christ. But wanting to be righteous and actually living righteous are two different things. Both are noble ideas, but righteousness is not just an idea, it’s a way of life and thinking God requires of us. And the truth is we will never become righteous by accident or wishes, we must ‘hunger and thirst’ after it, and amidst all the distractions of life continually pursue it, and then clothe ourselves in it through humility. Pharisees didn’t please Jesus in biblical times, and I’m pretty sure they don’t please Him now. So ours must be a consistent example of godly behavior to all – family, friends, neighbors and community.  For just when we think nobody is looking or listening – God is.

Until tomorrow…..

Pastor Botts

“…..flee from youthful passions, pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” – II Timothy 2:22

The Bad with the Good

Those whom heaven blesses, hell curses. – Anon 

Paul had great successes in building and establishing churches but suffered massive persecution, afflictions, and even threats from within and without. Hmm! 

In war, it cannot be overstated that one should always know their enemy and his tactics, or it could prove fatal. It’s a simple fact that we often overlook. We tend to forget in our Christian walk that we’re at war; fighting for or working out our salvation. And just as we start off with 'new mercies' everyday, the enemy plans new strategies and attacks to upset us. Yes we are ‘marked’ for easy identification by the enemy, but we only need be reminded we carry a powerful cross, not a bullseye. The question we have to answer is do we want the blessings? 

Until tomorrow….. 

Pastor Botts 

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10