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"Only The Penitent Man Will Pass".. The Importance Of Repentance

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 22:38:32 GMT

Today is "Ash Wednesday." I've heard about Ash Wednesday for years... I grew up in Louisiana and went to seminary in New Orleans and was Pastor of a church on the Mississippi Gulf Coast so.. I'm fairly familiar with Mardi Gras... lent.. etc..

But, until this year, I hadn't given the significance of Ash Wednesday much thought. I have learned that the ashes symbolize repentance and repentance is the first step as we begin the process of preparing ourselves to celebrate Christ's resurrection. Let's think about repentance.

The word "repent" comes from a Greek word metanoia. The word means "to change." The idea is, a person is living their life a certain way which is wrong. Then, they are convicted of their sin and then, they realize the need to change... they do and invite Jesus into their heart. But, before they will invite Jesus into their heart, they must repent..

Someone has said that repentance is the first command of the gospel. In order to receive Christ, we must realize we NEED to receive Christ and that means repenting.

Repenting means admitting we are wrong.

Repenting means asking the Lord to help us make a change.

Repenting means looking in the mirror and realize WE must change.. not our spouse.. not our family... not our colleagues at work... but WE must change.

There is an old expression... "Every tub must sit on its own bottom." Repentance means acknowledging that I'm responsible for the bottom of my tub and I must change.

To repent.. we must humble ourselves. It means realizing that we need help. That we are wrong. It is my humble opinion, that we need lots of repentance in America today. We are far more concerned with expressing our opinion or standing up for our rights than we are with making sure our opinion is accurate and realizing that we have rights because others have sacrificed.

Folks, there is a standard for Christian living. It's laid out clearly in the Scriptures. In the areas that we have drifted from that standard we need to repent and return to the Lord.

Jesus said "Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3).

"Poor in spirit" describes one who is humble... one who is teachable... one who has repented.

In the movie "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," archaeologist Indiana Jones finds himself reading instructions from an ancient book to try to navigate the way to the cup of Christ which, if a person drinks from it.. can be healed. Indy is walking in an area where everyone else before has been beheaded. As he does he repeats the instructions.. trying to determine the secret to avoid being beheaded...

He reads... "only the penitent man will pass..." and at the last minute it clicks what "penitent" means.. Indy falls to the ground... avoids the huge blade and lives.

Falling to the ground.. like a penitent man... humbling himself... saved his life.

As we begin Lent, remember Indy's instructions.. "Only the penitent man will pass..." and humbly kneel before the Lord in repentance.

"What Goes Around Comes Around" so...Live By The Golden Rule

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:50:35 GMT

If someone mistreats someone else we might say; " Watch out; what goes around comes around" meaning we tend to reap what we have sown. On the other hand, Jesus taught us to live by The Golden Rule which teaches us to "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

A prominent and benevolent judge in Dallas, Texas passed away. His death prompted a great out-pouring of love across the city as many wreaths of flowers were sent.

After the service, a colleague of the judge was standing by the truck watching as the flowers were loaded on the truck to take to the cemetery. The judge commented; "The judge sure has lots of flowers, doesn't he?" The funeral home employee replied; "Yes sir: But he's been planting the seeds for those flowers a long time."

We are planting seeds every day. Be careful that you plant seeds of kindness & compassion.

The Ministry Of The Back Row

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:31:20 GMT

The Ministry Of The Back Row

The back row in church.

Over the years that I served as a Pastor there were times when there would be plenty of seats yet, there were people sitting on the back row. I admit; that bothered me. I would ask people to “come down and join us” implying that where they were sitting there was so much space between me and them that they couldn’t take part in the service.

But in the last year, I’ve begun to see the significance of the back row differently.

Last year, there was a time when I was doing some soul-searching. I was praying about planting a church and dealing with various issues. At that time, I wasn’t employed by a church so my Sunday’s were free. One Sunday morning, we got up and I admit, I was not planning on going to church. Didn’t want to.

But, at the last minute, I told Holli we needed to go so we threw some casual clothes on and went to a local church (it was a church where casual dress didn’t matter). As we entered the sanctuary, I looked for seats as far back as we could get. As we did, I thought “I’m doing the very thing I’ve gotten aggravated with people for doing… sitting as far back as you can.” Only this time, I saw it differently.

I wanted to connect with God but at this time, I didn’t necessarily want to deal with people. So, we sat on the back row. My plan was to leave before the crowd because I didn’t want to talk to anyone.

As we sat in worship a picture that came to mind was a person who had one toe in the door of the church while the rest of their body was outside. That’s kind of where I was. I wanted to worship God but I wasn’t real excited about the church deal at that time.

Maybe you have been there. Maybe you are there now. You love God and you want to worship but you don’t necessarily want to get to know a lot of folks. You don’t want to answer a lot of questions. So, when you go, you sit on the back row.

It hit me one day; “there is a ministry on the back row.” Often, it has people who are hurting.. but they want to reach out to God.

So, Pastor… church staff member… if someone is sitting on the back row.. leave them alone. It may not mean they are rebelling.. they may be hurting. They are sitting where they are because they want to worship and but don’t want to deal with people.. … just yet.

God Helps Us During Tough Times

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:39:17 GMT

Problems and trials are a part of life. But how do we deal with them? Psalms 34:6 says "In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles."

That verse makes it sound like Christians never have problems, right? And when we do, all we have to do is pray is everything is ok, right? Not necessarily.

Christians do have problems. And sometimes, God doesn't take us out of our problem. Sometimes, the way God "saves us" is by giving us strength to handle the problem.. to live with it.

This is a issue for some people. For some, it prevents them from believing in God. There was an article recently in The New York Times about a young girl in Rhode Island who is an atheist who has filed a lawsuit to have a prayer removed from the wall of her school.

She said; "Jessica said she had stopped believing in God when she was in elementary school and her mother fell ill for a time. “I had always been told that if you pray, God will always be there when you need him,” she said. “And it didn’t happen for me, and I doubted it had happened for anybody else. So yeah, I think that was just like the last step, and after that I just really didn’t believe any of it.”

Jessica isn’t the only one who has experienced that. There are, unfortunately, lots of people who don’t believe in God because, as they will say “How could a loving God allow suffering in this world?”

Now that question could lead us into a long discussion on the presence of evil and suffering but that’s not the purpose of this post. Go back to the verse… “…he saved me from all my troubles.” Sometimes, God just gives us strength to handle our trials.

Today, whatever you are facing, know that God loves you and is with you.

I love these lyrics;

“God is too wise to be mistaken, God is too good to be unkind.

So when you don’t understand, When you don’t see His plan.

When you can’t trace His hand, Trust his heart.”

"This Is Your Chance To Preach To Me" and He lost it.

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:16:26 GMT

Over the past two months, I watched the AMC mini-series "Hell on Wheels." The series was about a railroad being built across America and the various story lines associated with it. The main character was a former Confederate soldier, Cullen Bohannon. His wife had been raped and murdered by Yankee soldiers and he was trying to find the men who did it and avenge her death.

Another character in the series, was a Preacher. And, to say that he was a "character" is an understatement. The preacher had some issues or demons he was battling. On several occasions he tried to "preach" to Mr. Bohannon but Bohannon would have none of it.

Until the last episode...

Mr. Bohannon is looking for a man he thinks killed his wife when he goes into the Preacher's tent. Just prior to Mr. Bohannon entering the Preacher's tent, the Preacher had killed a man. Only, he didn't just kill him.. he beheaded a man. Yep, like I said; he had issues.

Bohannon enters the tent, sits down and says something like "Preacher, you've been wanting to preach me; he's your chance."

The Preacher's eyes brighten, somewhat... as he realizes he now has the opportunity he has been waiting for. But there is one problem... the Preacher's heart isn't right.. he's just killed a man.

So, he get up and says "There is a God.. I know that."

Then, he walks over to Bohannon and begins spitting out some garbage that made no sense and then, with a stern voice he says "Brother, choose hate!"

Bohannon looks at him like "Have you lost your mind ?"

And the fact is, the Preacher probably HAD lost his mind. The guy had major issues.

Then, Bohannon just walks away.

I know it's a tv show and they are acting but... I hurt as I watched that scene unfold. Here is a man who is searching.. .he even says "Preacher, you've been wanting our chance to preach to me.. here it is." And what does he get? A preacher telling him "Brother, choose hate!"

Mercy.

All around us are people who need to know the Lord. And, there are times in everyone's life when they are more open to the gospel than any other. But, if we aren't careful, we may miss our opportunity by failing to live for Christ.

None of us are perfect.. Far from it. But, we need to live every day and try to live for Jesus and live in such a way that when a friend or lost person is open to talk about spiritual things they would come to us and we could tell them the truth.

Cullen Bohannon was open... briefly.. to hearing from God and the Preacher blew it. That was a tv show.. but in real life we need to prevent that from happening by living for Christ.

A Second Scene From War Horse; Helping People Entangled in Wire (sin)

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 02:33:09 GMT

Recently, Holli and I went to see the movie "Warhorse." There were a few scenes from the movie that really touched me. I have shared one.. this is a second.

In one scene, "Joey," the name of the horse, breaks loose and is trying to run free. As he does, he goes through about three bobbed-wire fences (although he's a phenomenal horse, he never learned to jump). Each time he goes through a fence he takes a little bobbed-wire with him until finally, he is entangled in enough wire that he can't move. So, he's entangled in the wire between lines of soldiers.

One soldier sees him and decides to take a chance.. he leaves his line of defense with a white flag. Gingerly, he makes his way to "Joey" waving his white flag, signaling that he is not armed.

He makes his way to "Joey" and begins trying to figure out HOW to free the horse from all the wire. About that time, he turns and an opposing soldier is standing there with a pair of wire-cutters. The soldier had seen what was happening and was volunteering his help. The two soldiers then begin cutting "Joey" free from the wire he's entangled in. After some time and lots of cutting, Joey is free. The two opposing soldiers encourage one another to be careful and then they part company.. going back to their respective lines to resume fighting.

Although I've tried to describe the scene, there is no way I can do it justice. What do we learn from it? It's this; two opposing armies stopped fighting to help free a wounded horse. And, no offense; but this was a HORSE.

We desperately need to do the same with people. There are lots of people entangled in wire who need Christians to stop and help them get free. Sometimes, we are too busy arguing about the Bible to do it. At times, we are too busy attending religious meetings. There are people all around us, like Joey, who need our help.

One soldier took a risk to help Joey. He could have lost his life saving Joey but he was willing to take the risk to save the horse. We need to be willing to at least inconvenience ourselves to help others... to be a friend when someone is hurting.

A Lesson From War Horse: Do You Watch People Fail Or Help People Up?

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:15:15 GMT

Last Saturday evening (New Year's Eve), Holli & I went to see "War Horse." It's a good movie... We don't go to the movie's often but when we do, I normally come away with a sermon illustration or too. I am going to share those with you over the next couple of days in my blog.

This is the first one...

The plot of the movie is about a young man and his father who go to a horse sale and his father gets carried away... He sees a horse that is a beautiful animal and he gets into a bidding war... with his landlord no less... and pays an exorbitant amount of money for a horse that can't plow... which is what he needs. His landlord comes around to collect the rent and he can't pay cause he's spent it on the horse. He promises to plant a field in turnips and sell them to pay the rest of the rent. The only problem is... Joey has never pulled a plow. So, the horse has to be taught to plow... it's not a pretty sight.

The young man puts a yoke on Joey (the horse) and hitches him to a plow. He tries and tries but the ground is hard and Joey isn't accustomed to pulling a plow.

So, you have a young man trying to teach a horse to plow.. a father watching all this and sensing he is going to lose his farm because he can't plant the field in turnips to pay the rest of the rent... and the neighbors who hear that the lad is trying to train the horse to plow.

So all of a sudden lots and lots of people begin showing up... to watch a horse to learn to plow. At first, when you see the people coming, I thought they were going to help break the field but no; they stand beside the fence and watch the boy fail and fail and fail and fail. I felt very sorry for the kid as he is trying his best to get the horse to plow and people are standing by watching him fail.

As I watched that scene I thought that it was a picture of life and.. unfortunately, too often, the church. We are good at watching people fail but not so good at helping people up. We might even stand beside the fence and read some scripture verses admonishing someone to "press on" but we aren't so good at getting INTO the field and helping.

We need to get better at helping. Anyone can stand beside a fence and watch someone fail; it takes a special person to get over the fence and help the person. I encourage you to begin helping people more. The scripture challenges us to "Bear one another's burdens" (Gal. 6:2). Bear someone's burdens today.

A Challenge For The New Year - One Of My Favorite Poems

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 14:11:09 GMT

Today is the most important day of my life.
Yesterday with its successes and victories, struggles and failures is gone forever.
The past is past.
Done.
Finished.
I cannot relive it. I cannot go back and change it.
But I will learn from it and improve my Today.
Today. This moment. NOW.
It is God’s gift to me and it is all that I have.
Tomorrow with all its joys and sorrows, triumphs and troubles isn’t here yet.
Indeed, tomorrow may never come.
Therefore, I will not worry about tomorrow.
Today is what God has entrusted to me.
It is all that I have. I will do my best in it.
I will demonstrate the best of me in it—my character, giftedness, and abilities—to my family and friends, clients and associates.
I will identify those things that are most important to do Today,
and those things I will do until they are done.
And when this day is done
I will look back with satisfaction at that which I have accomplished.
Then, and only then, will I plan my tomorrow,
Looking to improve upon Today, with God’s help.
Then I shall go to sleep in peace . . . content.

Merry Christmas From The Potts Family

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 17:57:58 GMT

Merry Christmas from the Potts family:

2011 was a year of adversity, change and growth for our family.

In January, Gregg resigned as Pastor of FBC Dallas where he had served for six years. At the time of his resignation, he wasn’t sure what direction the Lord was taking him, but he wanted to explore some non-traditional areas of ministry. After a month of prayer and research, in February, we began holding informational meetings to start “The Retreat: A New Church Start.” We began meeting as a small group in March and met through the end of June. This was a rewarding and learning experience for us; however, at the end of June, The Retreat was disbanded. This was a tough decision, but we felt it was the right decision. Outside fund-raising had really struggled.

In April, Gregg’s dad, Robert Potts, passed away. He had struggled with Parkinson’s for a year or two but his health really deteriorated in the last year. He had been in the Kentwood Nursing Home since November of 2010 and passed away at Beacham hospital in Magnolia in April of 2011.

In May, we had two graduations. Robert graduated from Kennesaw State and Sarah graduated from Paulding County High. Sarah was class President. She has since moved in with her brothers and is attending Kennesaw State with Will. We are very proud of both her and Robert

In July we enjoyed a family vacation in Panama City Beach. This has become somewhat of a tradition for us, though we realize that it will become more difficult each year.

Holli returned to Paulding County High School in August for her 7^th year there. While she has decreased her cheerleading responsibilities, she is even busier with other activities at the school.

In September, in a desire to cut expenses, we moved from Dallas to Marietta. The Lord opened a door and provided a small house that is perfect for us at this stage in our lives. Also, in September Gregg had an opportunity to return to his home area and preach a revival at Osyka Baptist. It was a lot of fun to see family and friends that week.

Will has settled in nicely after transferring to Kennesaw State last year. He was elected Homecoming King in October. He is pursuing an education degree, but has decided to add business classes since going to work for Chik-fil-a. With a second job at the Sun Glass Hut, he has very little spare time.

The first of November Gregg started serving First Baptist Church, Emerson. He is enjoying preaching regularly and getting to know these people.

Robert has gotten a job with a group known as “Americans for Faith and Prosperity.” We are very happy for him. However, it requires him to move to the Hampton Roads area of Virginia which will represent a challenge. He will relocate the last week of December, and will be there through next year’s elections.

Please continue to pray for us as we search for God’s will in our lives and that of our children. This has been a year that the Lord has taught us to lean on Him in a way that we have never had to before. God has provided for us and we are thankful.

Hymn Stories of Favorite Christmas Songs

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:44:31 GMT

Another installment in my Christmas music hymn stories;

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was a great American poet. His life had been touched by tragedy and then, he was tested by the Civil War. Longfellow hated the Civil War. It tore at the very fiber of his being to see the United States of America—a nation his family had fought to create and help build—divided by the greed and sinful nature of man. An ardent believer in the power of God to move on earth, the poet all but pleaded with his Lord to end the madness of the war. When his oldest son, nineteen-year-old Charles, was wounded in battle and sent home to recover, the poet’s prayers turned to rage. As Henry tended his son’s injuries, saw other wounded soldiers on Cambridge’s streets, and visited with families who had lost sons in battle,he asked his friends and his God, “Where is the peace?”

Then, picking up his pen and paper, he tried to answer that haunting question. It was the ringing of Christmas bells that probably inspired the cadence found in his writing on December 25, 1863. That day Longfellow hung his whole message on the tolling of the church bells. Yet while most Christmas verse is light and uplifting, America’s greatest poet set his lyrical ode in tones that were largely dark and solemn. In the original seven stanzas of “I Heard the Bells On Christmas Day."

"I heard the bells on Christmas day Their old familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace on earth, goodwill to men.

I thought how, as the day had come, The belfries of all Christendom Had rolled along

th’unbroken song Of peace on earth, goodwill to men.

And in despair I bowed my head: “There is no peace on earth,” I said, “For hate is strong and mocks the song Of peace on earth, goodwill to men.” Then from each black, accursed mouth The cannon thundered in the South, And with the sound the carols drowned Of peace on

earth, goodwill to men.

It was as if an earthquake rent The hearth-stones of a continent, And made forlorn, the

households born Of pea ce on earth, goo dwill to men. Then pealed the bells more loud and

deep: “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, With

peace on earth, goodwill to men.”

"Take My Hand.. Precious Lord;" A hand to help in tough times.

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 02:21:14 GMT

The Christmas season is a happy time for but for some it can be a difficult time. If you are struggling this Christmas season, you need encouragement and Jesus wants to give that to you. I love the following hymn story that is a reminder of how Jesus helps us during trying times;

As a child he displayed extraordinary musical ability. So much that he began playing in

various jazz clubs and made quite a name for himself. Then, he became a Christian and he began writing Christian songs.

He was invited to sing in a worship service in St. Louis, MO. He didn't want to leave because his wife was pregnant but, he honored his commitment and did the service. While he was away his wife would go into delivery.

During the worship service he was leading, a man came in with a telegram. The telegram informed him that his wife died in childbirth. Within twenty-four hours his newborn baby had died as well. Dealing with the death of his wife and child, his spirits plummeted and he became very depressed and discouraged. So much so that he determined never to write a Christian hymn again. He went to a friend's home and sat down at the piano. A melody began to develop and then the lyrics of one of the most popular gospel songs ever written came to Tommy Dorsey's mind;

"Precious Lord, take my hand; Lead me on, help me stand.

I am tired, I am weak, I am worn.

Through the dark, through the night. Lead me home to the light.

Take my hand, Precious Lord, lead me on."

The Lord wants to help us with our struggles.

Holy Worldliness.. the way to reach this generation for Christ.

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:25:40 GMT

Last night I was thumbing through some magazines and noticed a phrase that caught my attention. The phrase is "Holy Worldliness." It describes, I think, the proper approach for the Christian in today's world.

The world that we live in has been described as "post-Christian." That means, the values of the world have changed and no longer are Christians in the majority.

We live in a world where church attendance is low.

We live in a day where human life is not held as sacred as it once was.

We live in a day where sexual immorality is rampant.

We live in a day that is very materialistic.

We live in a day where it's not un-heard at all to hear someone drop "the f bomb" in public.

Ok, enough of that.. and I could add others.. but, you get the idea. Simply put; it's tough out there. So, the world is very sexual, highly self-centered and human life means nothing to many. Into that world we Christians go every day... guided by our Christian values.

Our Christian values tell us to only say good things.

Our Christian values tell us to save sex for marriage.

Our Christian values tell us to give as opposed to take.

Our Christian values tell us that every life is special.. handicapped or not..inconvenient or not.

So, how does the Christian live in the world I described above? Simply put; it's tough. In fact, I would say very tough.

Some Christians, withdraw from the world. They just kind of live in their Christian bubble. I understand the strategy but, how can you impact the world if you withdraw from it? Answer? You can't.

Some Christians stay in the world and become judgmental. All they do is find fault with their non-Christian work colleagues but at the same time, they gossip and criticize everything in their church. So, what's worse? The lifestyle of the non-Christian or the gossip and criticism of the Christian? To quote "Radio" from the movie "Radio;" "Both coach."

The right way, to approach the world is "holy worldliness." That means you live in the world but you hold firm to your Christian values.

Recently I was around some guys who.. let's say had less than good mouths. I mean, it was "f" this and "f" this and "f" this. Yes, I was a little uncomfortable. You might say "You should have something." Maybe I should have but I didn't. I didn't because I don't want people to act any different when I'm around.. Maybe I'm wrong for that. I want to show people that I will accept them as they are.. just like I think Jesus would. Then, at the appropriate time, I try to share Christ with them.

I'm trying to be "holy worldly." I think it's what we have to do as Christians if we are going to reach this world. Jesus told us to be "...the salt of the earth and the light of the world." It's the same as being "holy worldly."

If we are going to reach this generation, we have to be in the world but not act like the world. We have to be "holy worldly."

"Who Are You?"

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:52:16 GMT

I've gotten hooked on the AMC series "Hell On Wheels."

The show is based on the construction of the railroad following the Civil War. The main character is a guy who fought for the Confederacy who is trying to get revenge on the men who killed his wife.

Last night, in one scene, "Bohannon" (the lead character) is in the saloon and he's drunk. A man known as "The Swede" comes in and senses Bohannon's condition. The Swede doesn't like Bohannon and thinks Bohannon is up to something. Trying to get information from him, The Swede offers to buy Bohannon another drink.

The Swede then asks "Who ARE you?"

Bohannon replies "When you find that out, Mr. Swede, let me know."

The Swede laughs.

But the Swede's question is a good one. It's a question lots and lots of people are trying to answer every day; "Who Am I?"

Now, I don't mean our literal identity.. we know our name.. I'm talking about our life purpose. Many people go through life trying to be something they aren't and they are never happy. Or, maybe they are trying to be something their parents or grandparents want them to be.

Recently I was substitute teaching in a school and was talking with a teacher. This man is in his early 50's. I learned that in his mid '40's he quit a good job as an engineer and went back to school to be certified to teach. He wasn't happy as an engineer but has found fulfillment as a teacher.

What about you? Are you happy? If not, is it because you are trying to be something that you aren't or, you are trying to imitate someone.

God made you special. There is only one of you. Be yourself and enjoy being you.

My Thanksgiving List

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:11:32 GMT

Tomorrow we will celebrate Thanksgiving. As we do, we pause to reflect on the many things we should be thankful for and for me.. it's a LONG list... My guess is it's that way for you to. On this Thanksgiving eve, I am thankful for..

My wife; Holli Alice Potts. We've been married 27 years. She's seen me at my best and my worst. She loves me regardless. She completes me. Holli Alice, I love you and am thankful for you this Thanksgiving.

The Lord Jesus... years ago, Jesus reached down into the tiny East Fork community and touched a farm boy in the heart. I am thankful Jesus loved me enough to die for me and still loves me even when I fail today.

First Baptist Church, Emerson.. I started as interim there the first of November. I am enjoying preaching there and getting to know the people. Thank you, Emerson, for how you have received Holli and me.

My kids... Robert, Will & Sarah... Robert has graduated and will be moving to Virginia in about a month (Glad he has a job and wish it was closer), Will is a junior and Sarah is a freshman at KSU. I love spending time with our kids and very proud of each one.

My extended family. We don't get home much but, I am thankful for my extended family. It's been a tough year for us with Daddy's death in April of this year. Love you, Mom, Mitzi & Deana.

I am thankful for the lessons I learned and the people I met while trying to plant "The Retreat At Dallas." There was a group of people (you know who you are) who worked with me to try to plant a church and I will always appreciate them.

I am thankful for the opportunities I've had to substitute teach this fall. I've enjoyed meeting teachers and administrators and getting to know some new people.

I'm thankful for Rich Erdman, a good friend who has helped me. Rich is an encourager.

I'm very thankful Bama's field goal kicker missed 4 times when LSU played Bama on Nov. 4 in the "game of the century."

I'm thankful for friends. There are several people who have contacted me periodically this year to check on me. I greatly appreciate that. You folks know who you are.. Thanks.

I'm thankful to the guys in the Etowah Valley Football Association for taking me under their wing and helping me learn how to be a football official. I enjoyed working with and getting to know you guys.

I'm thankful to Dr. Earnest Easley and the Roswell Street Baptist Church for their assistance this year.

In summary, I'm thankful for a roof over my head, food on the table, a Savior who loves me and forgives me, friends and family and health.

Holli and I wish you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving!

You DON'T Have To Be Perfect To Go To Church.

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:49:01 GMT

This year, I've attended worship not as Pastor but as a participant. While I have missed preaching I have also enjoyed experiencing worship from a different perspective.

There are lots of things I have noticed as I've visited different worship services. One of those is the importance of greeting people and making them feel welcome. It's very important to welcome people warmly.

But there is another I've noticed that honestly, burdens me. Now, to understand this, imagine you are going to church on the typical Sunday in the typical church.

First of all, not everyone who attends worship has their act together. You know; nice clothes, good kids, good job, articulate, etc.. Nope. Not everyone is like that.

Some folks are hurting. Some are having marital problems. Some are depressed. Some are struggling financially. Some have just flat out made mistakes... there ain't no other way to put it.. they've made mistakes. Ok, so, if your life is a wreck and you are a wreck you go to church to find Jesus... to experience love and grace.

Only problem is, at church we have a tendency to DISCOURAGE people from being transparent. We have a tendency to judge people if their lives aren't together. Now think about that. I have. I have thought about it a lot.

Why do we do this? I mean, of all places, people ought to be able to go to church and find love and grace. The church is about Jesus, isn't it? Last time I checked, it was. And Jesus did minister to all kinds of people, didn't He? Yep, He did. Yet, in our modern day, we seem to think if a person doesn't have their act together, they shouldn't come to church.

Now, someone will say "Oh no, we aren't like that."

Oh yes we are!

As I visit worship services it's almost like we put on our Sunday smile and tell people "Hi, how are you.. Good... don't tell me your problems because that isn't in the skit today... Just take a bulletin and keep going now, ok? If you have problems call a counselor this week, but don't tell me."

Now, I know that worship can't become a therapy session. I understand that. But, we Christians need to be more open. We badly need to understand that everyone out there DOES NOT have their act together.

Yet, even though their act isn't together, they should be welcome in any church.

I've thought about the judging thing for years. I've noticed that, for some reason, for many Christians, in an attempt to become more like Jesus they become more judgmental. Jesus and being judgmental are contradictions. If you want to be like Jesus, help someone. Love someone. Encourage someone. Take your coat and tie off, roll your sleeves up, sit down with someone and encourage them.

It is my opinion and observation that in many cases it's easier to be transparent with a non-Christian or a marginal Christian than a committed Christian. I think it's because committed Christians have a tendency to judge too quickly.

Folks, you don't have to be PERFECT to go to church. We weren't perfect either before we became Christians.

If you want to be more like Jesus, instead of becoming more judgmental, become more loving and caring and understand that not everyone has their act together.

In John 8 a woman caught in the act of adultery was brought to Jesus. The Pharisees wanted to stone her. They waited and waited for Jesus reply. They expected a stern, judgmental response.

Instead, Jesus softly said "He who is without sin, cast the first stone." Jesus waited a while and then looked up. All of the woman's accusers were gone.

Jesus told the woman "Go and sin no more."

This week, this Sunday, when someone approaches you who does not have their act together, instead of judging them, love them... like Jesus did.

The Lord Used A Little Angel With Downs Syndrome To Encourage Me

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 03:54:18 GMT

Recently, I received a blessing and encouragement from a very unlikely source; a little girl with down's syndrome. Let me explain.

I have been looking for a job but nothing is happening. I've applied and applied and applied; nothing. So, I'm preparing to substitute teach.

Last week, I did an in-class observation at an Elementary school in the county. I admit that back in July when I was given my assignment I thought "elementary school! Man, why couldn't I get a high school?" So, I was not looking forward to the day. Boy, was I wrong!

I arrived at the school a little early and got my assignment from the front office. Then, I reported to the first class I was to observe. I was in there about fifty minutes and the teacher did a great job.

Then, I went to my second class and observed about fifty minutes. Then, I visited my third class and then I had an appointment with the Principal. Following this, I got lunch from the cafeteria and ate in a work room.

Ok, it's 12:30. I admit, I was thinking "two more hours. Almost done."

Then, I went into a pre-k class with developmentally challenged kids. As I walked in, there was a small chair and I sat down. I admit, I didn't have a clue what to do. I was really hoping the time would pass quickly.

Then, everything changed. A little girl with down's syndrome walked up to me and SMILED. As she did, she melted my heart. I mean totally melted. She then showed me a book of "Thomas The Train" and looked at me as if to say "read it!"

So, I started turning the pages of "Thomas The Train." I tried to make train sounds. I tried to dramatize it some. Then, we came to the last page of the book. I thought "Whew, that's over!"

But no, my little friend looked at me with that smile that would make a gunfighter cry and made a motion that indicated she wanted me to read "Thomas the Train" AGAIN.

I couldn't tell her no. For that matter, if she wanted me to read "Thomas The Train" the rest of the day, that would be ok. Yes, she was that cute and sweet.

So, we read the book again and this time, it was enough. Then, my little friend found a straw hat and put it on and... she smiled. Lord have mercy. I wanted to hold her and just squeeze her.

My heart went out to her and the other kids.

Later that day, I sent an email to every teacher I had observed. The teacher of the pre-k class responded and told me she wished I could have stayed a little longer. Well, that was all I needed. I told her I would LOVE to come back if that would be ok.

So, I went back. This time, the children were in "circle time." My little friend was laying on the floor. I admit, I wanted to hold her BAD. But, I didn't want to be obvious. So I waited and then I called her name and told her to come to me. She walked over and I sat her on my knee. As she sat there, she laid her head on my chest. Well, she got me again! I just sat there, holding my little friend with her head pressed against my chest. I could have sat there for a while but the children had things to do.

Now get the picture; I'm fifty years old. I'm a large man (nice way to put it). I look funny sitting in a kids chair. Yet, this group of developmentally challenged kids and especially my little friend with down's syndrome have ministered to me way more than I've helped them.

This little girl didn't know it but it's been kind of a tough year for me. I did not want to go to an elementary school to observe. Now, I'm SO thankful I was sent there.

This little developmentally challenged girl with a sweet and beautiful smile reached down in the heart of this preacher and touched me. She didn't know it, but I needed to be touched. I've been down some. But the Lord has used her to touch me.

I received a blessing from a very unlikely source. One of God's special children touched me with her smile. Thank you, Lord, for using this little girl to lift me during a difficult time.

Love & Hate

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 11:45:47 GMT

Love & Hate.

They are as old as Cain & Abel.

Just after sin came into the world in Genesis 3, in the very next chapter - chapter four, Cain rises up and murders his own brother. Why? Hatred.

Throughout the course of human history, hatred has started many a war and has taken the life of many a young man fighting in battle. Hatred has destroyed marriages, it's caused neighbors to not speak to one another, it's split churches. Hatred is a STRONG emotion.

On the other hand, there is love. Proverbs 10:12 says "Hatred stirs up strife but love covers all transgressions."

Think about those words; "hatred stirs up STRIFE." Be honest; have you ever known of anything good to come out of strife? I didn't think so. Strife is discord. It makes your stomach tighten up. It leads you to avoid people in a restaurant or a store. It causes people to not get together for holidays. It splits friends up.

Strife ain't worth it, folks.

On the other hand, "love covers all transgressions."

There are lots and lots and lots of songs written about love. Poems have been written about love.

Perhaps one of the most memorable songs written about love I think, came out of the 60's. It goes;
"What the world needs now is love, sweet love.

It's the only thing that there's just too little of.

What the world needs now is love, sweet love.

No not just for some but everyone."

That song reminds us of the importance of love.

Ok, so love is definitely the best way to go. We all agree, right? So, how do you handle the person that you just don't seem to "connect" with? Maybe it's an ex-spouse. Or a co-worker or a grumpy, cantankerous neighbor. Or someone that just don't agree with politically or even theologically. You may not go on a picnic with everyone but, you don't have to hate them.

One of the neatest things I've seen in recent years was former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton working TOGETHER. These guys campaigned against one another. Bush is a Republican; Clinton a Democrat. They do not see things the same but, they put all that aside to raise money to help people. I thought that was neat. So, just because you don't agree with someone doesn't mean you have to hate them.

The church could really learn a lesson here. I'm not sure why it is but in our desire "to be like Jesus" we can actually come to a place that we ignore people, or judge people or "withdraw fellowship" from people. This is sad. Because Jesus said "The world will know you are my disciples if you LOVE one another" (John 13).

We are NOT more like Jesus when we hate someone. We are more LIKE Jesus when we love.

One of the best known chapters in the Bible is I Corinthians 13. It's known as "The Love Chapter." In the chapter Paul concludes by saying "But now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love."

Today, choose love over hatred.

People... You Gotta Love 'Em

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 13:22:03 GMT

If you work with people you have no doubt discovered that people are... shall we say.. different. That's a nice way of saying "there are some weird people in this world."

Several years ago I was talking with a Pastor friend about an individual in a church. This person was giving me fits. Constantly complaining, etc... As I was venting with my Pastor friend he said "They (referring to my critic) are a special American." I laughed. I had never heard it put that way. Yep, they were indeed a SPECIAL American.

I've been in the ministry for thirty years. I've met lots and lots of people. I have made some wonderful friends and shared some special moments with some people. But, yes, there are some people that have been "challenging." My guess is you know some "challenging" people too.

Several years ago I ran across this poem that gives us encouragement in our relationships with people.

People are unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered.

Love them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.

Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and true enemies.

Succeed anyway.

The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Be good anyway.

Honesty and frankness will make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.

People need help, but may attack you if you try to help them.
Help them anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God.
It was never between you and them anyway.

I like that poem. In dealing with people, regardless how challenging they may be, remember that Jesus loves us all. We should love one another and accept one another as Jesus does.

You Reap What You Sow

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 11:59:43 GMT

"What goes around, comes around."

"You reap what you sow."

Both of these statements have been around for years. Basically, they both mean that how we treat others is in turn, how we will be treated.

If we are kind to others, others are more likely to be kind to us.

If we are honest and above board in our business dealings we will be rewarded by earning the trust and respect of others.

How are you treating others?

Years ago, a prominent judge passed away in Dallas, Texas. Throughout his life, the judge had helped lots of people. So, when he passed away, there was an outpouring of love on his behalf and lots and lots and lots of flowers were sent to the funeral home in his memory.

After the funeral, a man was watching an employee of the funeral home load wreath after wreath onto a van to be transported to the cemetery for burial. As he watched the flowers being loaded the man said "Judge so and so sure has lots of flowers, doesn't he?"

To which the funeral home replied, "Yes sir; but he's been sowing the seeds for them flowers a long time."

Christian, we are sowing seeds every day. Remember that the seeds yow will utlimately determine what you reap. Sow seeds of kindness today.

I Went To Church Today... Not As A Preacher But As A Regular Attender

gepotts1@gmail.com (Dr. Gregg Potts) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 01:15:49 GMT

I went to church today.

Ok. If you know me you may be thinking "You're a preacher. You are supposed to go to church. It's your job."

Well, sort of...

At the moment, I'm a Preacher without a church so, I can choose where I go to church. Last Sunday we were traveling so we didn't attend church and, yes, it felt a little strange. This morning, we had planned to attend one church but, we overslept a little so we went to "plan b" and attended another local church.

For the first time in my life, I'm seeing church like a lay-person.

Church is a different experience me right now.

First, it helps me re-connect with God. I'm not sure how to explain this and it doesn't make total sense because I'm having my quiet time each day but, for some reason, corporate worship is helping me re-connect with God. It's like during the week I may drift some; but when I go to church I'm drawn back to God.

Second, it reminds me of what's important. God made man. God knows what makes man tick. We need to worship God. Setting aside time for worship reminds us of what is important.

Third, it allows me to hear from God. Yeah, we can hear from God anywhere. That is true. We can read God's word, listen to Christian music etc.. but, there is something about a corporate worship setting. We hear from God.

Fourth, it helps me slow down and think... When I'm in a church, my mind slows down some. The scripture says "Be still and know that I am God..." That's what happens in worship. My mind slows down and I'm able to think.

I want to encourage you to worship... go to church... No, there aren't any perfect ones out there... every church has issues... but, you have issues too. We are all sinners saved by grace. Find a local church and make time for weekly worship.. it will help you re-connect with God, it will remind you of what's important and... what's not important and you will hear from God.