Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 4, 2026

Why Release Is Good

“The God of Israel says:  There are devoted things among you, Israel. You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove them.”  Joshua 7:13b

Discarding things is not usually our fave bend.  We hold on because we might need it.  We resist discarding because someone else may need it. We hold on tight to things that bring us comfort and security.  We desire (covet) what others have and strive to get it. Yet the release of some things can be exactly what God requires.

The Children of Israel landed here when they went up against the people of Ai (Amorites) who chased the Israelites and struck them down.  The hearts of the people melted in fear, and Joshua tore his clothes and fell facedown before the ark of the covenant.  Questions flowed from their lips:  “Why did God bring them across the Jordan only to be destroyed?”

The real problem wasn’t God allowing them to be defeated, rather sin was in the camp.  One of the Israelites  (Achan) coveted and held onto “devoted things” (plunder) from one of their defeated enemies. He saw, desired and took a beautiful robe from Babylonia, 200 shekels of silver and a wedge of gold. What was commanded to be destroyed (the forbidden plunder), Achan took and hid in the ground inside his tent.  Achan’s desiring and coveting was in direct disobedience to God’s command (Exodus 20:17).  He was trusting, clinging and holding on to what didn’t serve him or his fellow Israelites well.

Wonder what things we cling to that don’t serve us well?  Are we afraid to release them because our dependence, comfort and security are wrapped up in them rather than God?  Are we refusing to admit that some things have elevated their status above our worship of God? What might our idols resemble:  work, ministry, food, exercise, unforgiveness, jealousy – basically anything that consumes our focus?  And what about those things we see, desire and covet which God has clearly forbidden?

While we aren’t facing a literal army against us – we do face spiritual battles on a daily basis.  And if we find ourselves not winning those battles then we need to consider whether we are trusting and holding on to something else other than God.   Relying on self versus trusting God elevates self above our Creator.  Sometimes, we turn to visible tangible people rather than seeking God first.  And yes, we too land in the pit of attempting to hide our sin; however, the holiness of our God can’t dismiss sin in the hearts of His people. Achan’s coveting ultimately destroyed himself and his family. Unconfessed sin in our lives will do the same.

Our God is a jealous God, the right kind of jealousy that desires what is best for His daughters. Just as God desired for the Israelites to win, He wants us to be victorious.  The critical key – get rid of anything that rises above our love, obedience and devotion to God. Release what our eyes see and desire so we can walk in obedience and align our devotion to Him alone.

“Father, there are so many things we cling to other than you.  Help us to consider what things we need to release, confess and avoid so we can be prepared for battle and be victorious against our enemy.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 1, 2026

Perfectly Aligned

“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” Proverbs 19:21 (ESV)

“Wow, my back feels so much better,” those were the words echoing from my lips.  My monthly visit to the chiropractor was just what I needed.  Too many jumps while exercising and long segments of time sitting at my desk created havoc with my spine.  When my back is out of alignment it affects my whole body.  I feel sluggish, tired and hate sciatic pain, so a monthly trip to see my chiropractor gets everything back in its proper place and helps me avoid being sidelined. 

While alleviating my back pain is crucial, I would have to admit keeping my life in proper alignment with God is far more critical. And how does misalignment happen?  Quite easily.  Simply start making seemingly insignificant decisions relying on self.  Excuse away previous spiritual convictions because everyone else is loosening their grip.  Choosing to fill our time preoccupied with distractions and busyness versus carving in margin for self-evaluation. Trading God’s truth for what suits our agenda.

I think we can all agree – misalignment can easily slip in when we’re doing life day to day.  But it doesn’t have to happen.  We can purposefully choose to be intentional in seeking God’s will. We can choose to stand firm on spiritual convictions regardless of what everyone else is doing.  We can create space for talking to and listening to God.  We can welcome His examination of our heart and confess sin quickly.  We can cherish His truths.  By meditating and memorizing His words, we will be more inclined to apply them in our lives which equates true wisdom.   

Looking for a little motivation – how about Ruth?  A young woman who could have easily aligned herself with seeking another husband and returning to her homeland.  Instead she stayed with her mother-in-law who was not exactly in a happy place.  By aligning herself with Naomi’s God, Ruth was blessed with a kinsman redeemer in Boaz and became a part of the lineage of Christ.

Looking for a reminder about the dangers of misalignment – how about Jonah?  He knew exactly what God wanted him to do, yet he chose to run in the opposite direction.  Landing in the belly of a big fish for three days convinced Jonah that God’s plan was best; however, it was still a rocky ride for Jonah. He was more consumed with how people would perceive him as a prophet versus the people receiving the mercy and redemption of God.

So thankful for the patience and loving kindness of our God who understands our tendency to wander away from His purposes.  Blessed by the presence of the Holy Spirit who leads and guides us in understanding God’s will.  Grateful for God’s mercy and grace in the moments when He gets us back on track.

“Father, help us to surrender our desire to pursue and create our own plan.  Renew our desire to stay in alignment with Your will.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin

TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 30, 2026

Patterned By God

cb devo may22

“And see to it that you make them according to the pattern which was shown you on the mountain.” Exodus 25:40

My grandmother carefully laid an old newspaper on the floor, gently laid a dress on it, outlined it in pencil and removed the dress. Cutting the newspaper, she had a pattern for another dress (usually made from “feed sacks!”). As I was growing up, my mom made much of our clothing in the same manner. By the time I was sewing patterns were common enough to afford, but I normally began cutting and sewing without referring to the “instruction sheet” first. Do I need to say how many seams were ripped out?

Impulsiveness is something I am still trying to restrain as I continue to learn to “wait upon the Lord” (Psalm 27:14). He has given us according to 2 Peter 1:3, “all things that pertain to life and godliness.” He has given us the “instruction sheet” for living our lives pleasing to Him, in order to fulfill His plans and purpose for ourselves, and be clothed in the beautiful robe of His righteousness as we stand before Him. I can only imagine what my robe would look like if I made it the way I thought it ought to be, without referring to His instructions! If only we would live our lives according to the pattern so that we would ‘love our life and see good days!’ (1 Peter 3:10).

“Father God, how we wish we could always make our choices and live our lives according to the pattern You have shown us! Help us, Father; increase our faith! Let us know as we wait for You to take care of burdens in our lives that the end result will be beautiful. Help us not run ahead of You or walk parallel to You, but follow in Your steps.”

For His Glory

Sandy Day
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Success

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 29, 2026

The Oxygen Mask

“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”  2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT)

I recently traveled and, due to flight delays and schedule changes, ended up on six different flights in five days.  A little bit crazy, but I ended up where I needed to be, so it was great!

On the first plane, I diligently listened to the professionals tell me about all the safety features, the exits, the seatbelts, the oxygen masks, and using my seat as a flotation device.  By the third flight, I glanced up as they spoke, but my mind wandered.  The last flights found me with my book open and chatting with my new neighbor.  I am sure they said the same thing, but I could not guarantee it.

The week ended, and as I was getting settled at home and catching up, I started thinking about that oxygen mask and what they always say.   Be sure to put your mask on first, so you will be able to help others.

What a deep life lesson we need to hang on to.

When the unexpected occurs, tragedy strikes, or the unthinkable becomes a part of our lives, it is vital that we take care of ourselves.  That may sound selfish, but I encourage you to reframe the way you may be thinking of it.  We take care of ourselves so that we may begin to take care of others.  We put on the oxygen mask – get counseling, find resources, join a community/support group, etc, so that we will be able to put the oxygen mask on the next person whose footsteps follow ours.

As Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians, God offers us comfort so that we can comfort others. This comfort was not given to us quickly-it is the comfort we found in Him as we mourned, struggled, and/or wrestled with the Lord.  As we work through our healing process, we can offer His comfort to others.  Comfort used here is the Greek word, paraklesis, which means “to call for help.”  We have those we can call on for help and, in turn, those coming behind us can call on us for help.

Remember how I said that on the last flights, I was not even thinking about the oxygen mask or what to do if the unexpected occurs.  I was comfortable and thought I knew it all.  I realized there are three pitfalls when we do not pay attention to the oxygen mask.    One, we do not take the time to secure the oxygen mask and take the next steps before we take it off and try to help others.  Two, we never take the oxygen mask off and it remains about us or three, we lose our compassion for those who need the mask when we forget what it feels like to be starving of oxygen.  The oxygen mask is necessary for us and for those around us.  The oxygen mask may be our connection to those who need Him and His healing.

“Father, help us to heal the deepest places of our hearts so we may share Your comfort and deep love with those who so desperately need it.”

For His Glory

 

Terrie Tollerson (www.TerrieTollerson.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 28, 2026

Homecoming

“So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him and ran and embraced him and kissed him.”  Luke 15:20

I’ve always loved hearing people’s stories. How they grew up, the choices—wise and foolish—they’ve made through their lives, their struggles, their triumphs. We’ve all been on an arduous journey to get to where we are…and it’s always breathtaking to travel someone’s path with them through their story. One of my lifelong favorite quotes is by Longfellow: “If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find in each man’s life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility.”

When I became a Christian as a 30-year-old, I discovered another kind of story that every believer can share: the moment (or slow unveiling) when they realized they were far from God and needed to turn back to Him…the point at which the decision is made to give up the sinful pursuits of this world and give it all to Jesus (who gave it all for us, exchanging our sin for His righteousness). The “churchy” term for this is “testimony”—and every single Christian has one. And it’s always breathtaking. Plus, along with the Truth of God’s Word, our testimony is an integral part of sharing the Good News of the gospel with others.

It’s funny to me, though, because I’ve met lots of Christ-followers through the years who say, “Well, my testimony is so boring.” This typically comes after someone else shares a radical transformation, say from drug addiction or a life of sexual sin, to the amazing grace and freedom found in Jesus. And these types of dramatic stories are awe-inspiring! But, friend, there is no such thing as a “boring” story of salvation.

Let’s look at the very familiar parable of the prodigal son. A young man who has been safe and provided for in his father’s house decides to go out on his own, chasing after the things of this world. Once he is totally spent (financially, emotionally, spiritually), he turns back home. Before he even arrives, his waiting father runs to him, welcoming him home with joy and celebration (Luke 15:11-32).

Prior to surrendering to Jesus, every one of us has that turning-back moment (this is “repentance”). And it is profound—and radical—for everyone. Why? Because a transformational phenomenon takes place at our surrender (or “salvation”). When we choose to reconcile with God through Jesus, we immediately and miraculously move from the darkness into the light, from being a slave to sin to having freedom, from being dead to being alive in Christ!

Maybe you never left the proverbial front porch of your father’s house, e.g., you grew up in a Christian home and were saved at VBS when you were five. Perhaps you were one who wandered out into the yard, but before you stepped into the street you realized going further wouldn’t be smart—so you went home. You may have roamed into town, experiencing lots of the world (maybe through your high school and college-age years) when your eyes opened to the eternal dangers. Or, like me, you may have found yourself wallowing with the pigs before you thought, “This my-way of life has got to change.”

Friend, whatever your story—whenever and however you came to accept the free gift of saving grace—it is profound and radical! It is a miracle, because you were once lost, and now you’re found! You are a miracle.

Now, go tell someone.

“Lord, I was blind and lost—but You came to rescue me. Thank you for the miracle of salvation. May I be bold and unashamed to share this story of amazing grace with others.”

For His Glory

 

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Love, Mercy

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 27, 2026

Yielding Our Words

“She opens her mouth with wisdom and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:26 (ESV)

Ever let words slip carelessly and then desired to grab them back?  Oh yes, there are too many occasions for me to even count on this one.  Desperately tried to seek cover when my frustrations with a repairman gave voice to unkind words.  I genuinely thought those words were heard only by a group of co-workers.  Not exactly how it all unfolded.  The repairman was coming around the corner when he heard those remarks aimed at him. With no time or place to hide, I had to face the reality of my careless chatter.

We’ve probably all landed there – the place where words flow without even giving thought to where they will land.  Takes great restraint to hold back, bite our tongue and silence our voice. Takes discernment to know when to speak and when to remain quiet.  Takes discipline to consistently yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance when we’d much rather say whatever we like.

God’s word has a lot to say about our tiny little tongue which can birth destruction and/or praise all in the same breath. Psalm 139:4 reminds us that even before a word is formed on our tongue, the Lord knows what we will say.  Sweet friend that’s convicting.  To realize our thoughts which usher out of our lips are fully known by our loving God should be enough to squelch any desire to spew effortlessly.

The good, bad and ugly can all proceed from our lips.  The tongue is small yet boasts of great things (James 3:5).  Described by James as a fire and a world of unrighteousness, our words can birth a path of destruction.  No human being can tame the tongue characterized as a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

Wow, I think we all get the picture.  We desperately need the help of the Holy Spirit to control our thoughts which ultimately end up flowing from our lips.  No better example than the Proverbs 31 woman who opens her mouth with wisdom, the obvious overflow of one who cherishes the word of God.  One who strategically weighs the impact of her words.   One who prayerfully speaks and by the example of her words teaches others deep lessons about kindness. Don’t know about you, but I’m feeling sweet conviction which leads to repentance.

Wonder what would happen in our world if we simply paused before a single word escaped our lips.  Wonder what others would learn from the kindness we’d exemplify if we resisted the urge to give voice to all things. Could all our conversations bring glory and praise to God rather than leaving a path of destruction?

What we can’t do ourselves, God can do. He is ready to help us reign in our tongue.  If we yield to His Spirit’s leading, we can walk in victory.  “My tongue will sing of your word, for all your commandments are right,” rings from the psalmist’s lips (Psalm 119:172).  Encouraging words to savor as we battle against our tendency to chatter carelessly. Words worthy of meditation and savoring – heeding God’s words rather than our own. Now that’s something to talk about.

“Father, my lips are swift to speak and slow to pause. Help me to yield my speech to the leading of Your Spirit and chatter kindness wherever I go.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 24, 2026

When God Moves

“The Sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights.” Habakkuk 3:19 (NIV)

Abraham embarked on the journey of a lifetime when He left familiar and moved with God. Ruth experienced a love she could have never imagined when grief moved her toward God. Moses witnessed the magnitude of God’s power when he finally chose to move in sync with God’s footsteps.

Esther demonstrated extreme courage as she moved in the strength of Her God. Job thrived in the midst of utter despair as he moved closer to the heartbeat of God. Captivated by the Holiness of his Lord, Isaiah moved and responded to His calling. Young, intimidated and full of questions, Jeremiah moved beyond excuses and trusted in the Sovereign One.

Mary exchanged her heart’s desire for the rhythms of her Father’s grace moving within her body. John moved towards decrease so that the true Son of God would be magnified. Peter instinctively lifted one foot out of the boat as he moved atop the waves to meet His Lord. Jesus surrendered His will, embraced the cross and defeated death moving us closer to the fullness of God’s presence.

Has God been moving in your life? Has He invited you to step out into the deep, uncharted courage and depend solely on Him? From Abraham to Christ movement in the right direction fulfilled their purpose and God’s plan. Moving in sync with God guarantees a vision of His glory and the magnitude of His power. Courageous strength follows those who move to the beat of His heart’s desire. Captivated by His faithfulness and love, we can respond to His call. Glorifying God by stepping out into the deep, we will find the fullness and joy of His presence. Moving with God lifts us higher than we ever dreamed!

“Father, transplant our feet from the land of familiar to the uncharted path of pure obedience as we move with You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 23, 2026

Hearts of Gratitude

“Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.”  Psalm 100:1, 2, 4   NKJV

Psalm 100 was a passage that I memorized and loved as a child. It paints a picture of joy bubbling over as worshipers go into the temple of the God they love, praising and giving thanks. In my mind, I can see them streaming toward the temple courtyard, almost dancing with their hands raised and a shout of praise on their lips. Praise and thankfulness go hand in hand, don’t they?

What would life be like if we were not thankful for anything? What if God continued to lavish good gifts on us –life, salvation, family, friendships, provision, guidance, wisdom, and protection – and we did not appreciate it? We would surely be able to see His hand all around us in the beauty of nature. Think of the starry skies, majestic mountains, and waterfalls. But the only emotion I can imagine if we weren’t genuinely thankful is—boredom. Boredom fills the vacuum left when thankfulness is absent.

There is no joy in boredom. There is only tedium, dullness, sameness, and a sense of entitlement. There is a feeling of emptiness, of being certain something is missing without knowing what it is. That leads to frustration. Do you know anyone like that? Do you want to be her? Me either.

The ability to be thankful and appreciate the power and grandeur of our Lord is what gives us the enjoyment of all His benefits.

Anyone of any age can practice gratitude. Even children can “count your blessings, name them one by one; count your blessings, see what God has done.” But the longer we walk with the Lord, the more aware we are of His hand at work in our lives, and the more we can appreciate the subtle things He has done for us. We also grow in appreciation for His might and power. So one of the greatest gifts you can give your children is to instill in them hearts of gratitude.

“Dear Heavenly Father, help us to always approach You with praise and thanksgiving. We are thankful for the blessings You shower upon us, for they make our lives worth living. Thank You for enabling us to recognize and cherish the good things You provide.”

For His Glory

Cherie Harbridge Williams (www.cherieharbridgewilliams.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Gratitude, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 22, 2026

Lasting Beauty

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.” Proverbs 31:30 (NLT)

Concealer to cover the dark circles under the eyes. Foundation to even out the complexion. Lotion to firm the skin. Brightener to liven up tired eyes. Bronzer, blush, eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick, etc. to draw attention away from “problem” areas. Color to cover the gray sneaking into natural hair color. Highlights to bring depth and interest to bland hair. Clothes to slim or accentuate. Shoes and jewelry to accessorize. All just a taste of the tools women use to create beauty. We view ourselves in a mirror to adjust and improve the image of beauty we desire to project.

According to our key verse, outward beauty is nothing but temporary. How can we develop a beauty that won’t fade? How can we become women who fear the Lord? This type of fear refers to the awe and reverence we feel toward God. When we are reconciled to God—acknowledging our innate sinfulness as well as our need for Him, accepting His free gift of salvation, and surrendering to Him as Lord and Savior, we are filled with a beauty that will last forever.

Our heavy burden is lifted, filling us with a peace that surpasses understanding. We are consumed with love and grace, spilling that love and grace onto others. We draw attention to the glory of God, as we daily crucify our pride and selfishness. We are a display of His splendor, a tree bearing good fruit. We are clothed in His righteousness. We project His goodness as we reflect the incredible ways God is actively maturing our faith on a daily basis.

Physical beauty can demand a daily allotment of time which increases as the years and wrinkles increase. Spiritual beauty bubbles up and overflows from a right standing with God and ever-growing awe and reverence for our Lord, rejuvenating us from the tips of our manicured fingers to the depth of our very soul. On which kind of beauty will you focus your attention? Will you let the fear of the Lord paint your appearance in beauty today?

“Father, You alone are worthy of awe and reverence. Please fill me with Your grace and love so that I may reflect the beauty that only comes from You to others.”

For His Glory

Tammy Randlett (http://staletoast.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Gratitude, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 21, 2026

Getting Vengeance

 

“Never repay evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all people. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.” Romans 12:17-19

I think it’s safe to say that many Christians struggle with justice and vengeance through their sanctification journey. When we’re wronged by another’s sinful actions, we want justice! We may even fantasize about some “appropriate” revenge for said offender. Oh, but then the Gospel comes flooding back into our mind and spirit: We were once dead in our sins, indulging the desires of our flesh…but God, in His rich mercy, rescued and revived us. Not by our own efforts, but through faith alone, by grace His alone (Ephesians 2:1-10).

Then it happens again. The cruelty of another pummels our life like an ocean wave. A leader in business, politics, even the Church is found out to have done despicable things to image-bearers of God. We hear unconscionable stats about child sex trafficking in our nation, state, and city. We cry out for justice, our minds racing with the pain and retribution we’d inflict. Oh, but the Word of God again washes over us: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44); “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you” (Luke 6:27; “Never repay evil for evil to anyone” (Romans 12:17); and “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). This is inexplicable to the puny human mind, isn’t it? We throw up our hands to the Lord in exasperation, thinking, “What about Your justice, Lord? Certainly, You don’t wink at these atrocities and let these wicked people get away with this!”

It is the sentence tucked between those “never repay evil for evil” verses in Romans 12 that we typically park on to calm our distress: Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord (Romans 12:19).

“Yes,” we conclude, “I can take a back seat on the bus of retaliation and watch with satisfaction…God will get them!” Vengeance will be meted out by God. Not by you or me.

But that verse in Romans 12 was illuminated to me in a fresh way recently that totally reframed His vengeance…and the Gospel truth. See, God is holy and cannot tolerate any unrighteousness. Payment is made for the atrocious sins of “those people” mentioned above—and someone will pay the penalty, which is God’s full wrath. “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay.” Sweet friend, do you see it? God takes vengeance—He repays! I am counted among “those people,” and so are you. But God took the vengeance—He took on the payment that you and I deserve!

Oh beloved, when we admit we are sinners and believe that Christ’s death and resurrection counted for us, His righteousness is imputed to us—Jesus took our sin and experienced the wrath of God that’s meant for us. That man or woman who hurt you, that politician who abused and raped, that child predator hunting the innocent…wrath will be imposed appropriately! God will take vengeance on them. His wrath will fall—either on them or on Jesus. And it is the very fact that we’ve escaped our own deserved wrath that we can—we must—pray for our enemies and persecutors as Jesus commanded. We were enemies of God when Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). So, if we can go from enemy to friend of Jesus, so can they.

“Oh God, vengeance is Yours. And I am so thankful that Jesus took the wrath that I deserved. Help me to pray that my enemies surrender to You as well, finding their own undeserved mercy and transformation in the Cross.”

 

For His Glory

 

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

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Posted in Faith, Mercy, Spiritual Living

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