Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 3, 2026

Identity Theft

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 19-20

My accountant contacted me the other day to let me know that my tax filing (which I quickly and diligently prepare annually by mid-February) was rejected by the IRS because I did not include a particular form related to “my” insurance through the government healthcare marketplace. Well, I’ve never had health insurance through said marketplace. Never. So, I wouldn’t have the form the IRS requires of me. After an hour on the phone with a sweet representative of healthcare.gov (to whom I was anything but sweet—but that’s another self-repentance devo in and of itself), it was determined that someone stole my social security number—my identity—to fraudulently use the marketplace for his gain.

Sadly, identity theft is rampant in our country and across the world. A quick search reveals that someone in the US becomes a victim of identity theft every 5 to 23 seconds. And those are just the reported incidents. With the 6.5 million fraud reports into the Federal Trade Commission in 2024 alone, many of you reading this are likely shaking your head right now in relatable disgust. And as AI technology advances, so do the tricks and tentacles of cybercriminals in pursuit of taking what’s not theirs.

Beloved, as followers of Christ, we must recognize that these trends of fraud and identity theft did not begin with the advent of computers or even when the government decided to parse out social security numbers. This is exactly what our spiritual enemy, Satan, has been doing since the Garden! Jesus states it plainly in John’s gospel (10:10a) by saying, “The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy,” while the Apostle Peter compares the devil to a prowling lion seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Yes, he is in relentless pursuit of taking what’s not his, and with all his tricks and nefarious tentacles, he’s looking to steal, kill, and destroy you. Although he cannot take your salvation (John 10:28), he persistently tries to steal your joy and peace, kill your hope and generosity, and even destroy your very life on earth. He’ll also hiss in your ear that you’re the fraud, tempting you to second-guess your own, blood-bought identity in Christ. But he is a snake, a liar (the father of lies), a desperate criminal whose time is short. He knows that he’s already been convicted and sentenced—and when Jesus returns, that thief and his web of demonic underlings will burn for eternity. So, he’s ramping up his efforts to either keep people from salvation in Christ or keep Christians ineffective.

Oh, but there is good news—no, great news—for Christians! Upon salvation (our complete surrender to Jesus as Lord and Savior), our identity is transformed. We are made new, brought from darkness to light and death to life, adopted as children of God…and our new identity is made1 totally and completely secure. We were bought with an unfathomable price by Jesus through His death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). And nothing—and no one—can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). In Christ, we cannot be lost, stolen, or forsaken (John 6:37-40; Hebrews 13:5-6).

Even though I’m now waiting for several government agencies to (a) collectively confirm that fraud was in fact committed for a thief’s gain and (b) free me from the negative impact on my identity, I get to remind myself of some God-glorifying truths: (a) I am accepted, chosen, redeemed, free, and complete in Christ; (b) my true identity is assured, established, and secure. And no one can take that away.

“Lord, as the enemy, this fallen world, and my own fleshly desires combine to frustrate, steal, and thwart my walk with You, I praise You that my identity in Christ is secure.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith (encouragedbygrace.org)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Faith, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 2, 2026

Sweet Song of Deliverance

“And do not bring us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Matthew 6:13a (HCSB)

Never had a waiter tell me his life story before – have you? It all started so easily with a question. His arm was decorated with tattoos and my friend was curious and asked about them. Without hesitation, he took us a journey over the span of the last 10 years of his life. Addiction had characterized his life and when the consequences became devastating, he finally got help. One of those tattoos reminded him of the power of addiction to lure him back down a wrong path.

Leaving the restaurant, I couldn’t help but think about the radical change in this one’s life – a beautiful story of redemption. Temptation had kept him tied to a noose for a long time. Chained to a habit which took him further and further away from God’s best. His faith rescued him and a group of believers doing life with him now are his support group – his tribe – fellow believers simply keeping each other accountable. Now he stood freed, delivered and rescued from its hold.

Matthew 26:41 cautions us, “Watch and pray so you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” We would all love to believe we are above being lured into tempting situations. We would like to think we’re strong enough to resist the enemy’s game. Truth is we face all kinds of temptations every day. Opportunities where we are faced with a “little” compromise which eventually could lead to some major consequences.

How do we win over evil? Ephesians 6:10-18 equips us with the strategy to resist and defeat the enemy’s lies. The battle is real. Jesus taught his disciples to daily ask for God’s help. Whatever is seeking to devour us, lure us away, lead us in a wrong direction must be surrendered daily at His feet. We can only win this battle with God’s strength, guidance and help. But that doesn’t excuse us from the equation. We must actively put on the full armor of God, so we will be positioned to resist and stand firm.

Before temptation seeks to overtake us, we would be wise to proactively pray for God’s deliverance. Our flesh may weaken but if we stay close to God and accountable to others, He will always give us a way of escape and we will realize victory.

“Father, You have postured us to defeat the enemy with Your strength and power. May we never lower our guard and forget to pray for your help.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Freedom, Gratitude, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 27, 2026

When Praying Seems Empty

“For our hearts rejoice in Him because we trust in His holy name.” Psalm 33:21

Ever bowed your knee and breathed deep prayers that seemed to evaporate in thin air? Like a vapor here one moment and then gone the next. We’ve prayed these words repeatedly. We’ve cried out to God in our desperation, and He seems to be silent. Or worse yet our greatest fear is, He isn’t listening at all.

Don’t you just love the way the enemy immediately fills our thoughts with questions and doubts about God’s goodness? God delights in hearing our voice. He longs for us to come to Him. He welcomes us into His presence. Yet in the midst of silence and emptiness, the enemy confronts us. He zeroes in on the unanswered and spotlights our unchanging circumstances.

Frustration easily sets in if we are looking for “our” results versus God’s divine plan. Couldn’t tell you how many times, I told God what to do on a daily basis. I strategically laid it all out at His feet. Verses to pray over. Justifying my conclusions. As if God couldn’t solve or fix it on His own – now that’s an interesting thought. The One who spoke the world into existence all of a sudden needs my help.

Despite my head knowledge of who God is, I often run to self to fix all those things that swirl out of control. You know the stuff that’s weighing me down from sunup to sundown. Situations I’d like to resolve quickly. Circumstances I’d like fixed. People who need some Jesus intervention. And the list goes on and on.

Tucked away deep in those moments is a reality I attempt to cover up – do I really trust God with all my stuff? Do I realize that He has this covered and whatever is touching my life is not a surprise to Him?

God, my faithful loving Father, is more interested in my heart than my list. He knows that fear is the culprit that sends me digging for answers, sharing my solutions and attempting to take charge. He completely gets me and still loves me. And even in those moments of silence and perceived emptiness, God is still working….despite my impatience. He is moving at just the right pace for everyone involved. He knows what it takes for His “perfect plan” to unfold. And God has never been early or late – He’s always on time.

“Father, when lack of trust overwhelms us help us lean in closer to You rather than cling to self. Teach us to embrace Your wisdom and leave the specifics in Your hands.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 26, 2026

There Is Always Hope In The Lord

“In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, “This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.”’ Isaiah 38:1 (NIV).

No one expects to die from a boil, but King Hezekiah saw his life growing dimmer and he didn’t even have an heir. Turning his face to the wall, Hezekiah prayed and wept bitterly before the Lord saying, “Remember, O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in Your eyes.” Hezekiah was his own attorney and spokesperson reminding God of his faithfulness.

Many times, we find ourselves in similar circumstances. We hear bad news and have no other choice but to fervently plead our case before the throne of the Lord. We decrease, so He can increase. We put our faces on the ground, so He can lift us up. We strip ourselves of pride, so He can fill us with His Spirit.

The Lord answered Hezekiah’s plea and added fifteen years to the king’s life. As a bonus, He also delivered him and his city from the hand of the king of Assyria. Wow, how long has it been since we pleaded our case with the Lord? Do not give up. Our victory may be just around the corner. Do not be ashamed or hesitant to cry out before our Maker. There is always hope in the Lord.

“Lord, sometimes the going gets tough and our vision gets clouded with the situations we face. Please help us to continue looking to You and seeking You for the solution, instead of focusing on the fears and hardships. We cry before You, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. You are our hope.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Faith, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 25, 2026

Our Emotions (Part 2)

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”  Psalm 147:3(NIV)

Last week we talked about our emotions, and we left Naomi in her grief. We saw God created our emotions, is not surprised by them, and walks with us through them.

You may have heard it said that we are able to experience great joy due to the great pain we have endured. Each of us exists on a wavelength of emotions. The deeper the pain has cut, the fuller the joy can be. We have to choose to be honest about the pain and see it for what it is. We have to do the hard work of healing and venture forward to live in joy. Some things we get answers to and many things we have to lay at the feet of Jesus-over and over again-to begin to experience healing and acceptance, “ weeping may stay the night, but joy comes in the morning.”  (Psalm 30:5)

Naomi’s life displays this beautifully.

We get to peek into her life and her grief and see the toll it took on her. We see that when Ruth pledges to stay with her until death, Naomi’s response is…nothing. We see that she was not able to see the good around her-friends who loved her and Ruth who traveled with her and took care of her. As time goes on, we see her broken heart being mended back together. Ruth goes to work and takes care of Naomi’s needs. As the barley season ends, Naomi begins to heal. Isn’t it interesting God used the season of barley to align with Naomi’s season of grief?

As the barley is harvested and the wheat harvest begins, we see Naomi moving through seasons in her life. Naomi begins to think about Ruth and all she has sacrificed for her. Naomi begins to realize there is more to life than her grief and she looks outward.

Please notice that there is no condemnation for her time grieving. Naomi is healing because she took time to grieve. Grieving does not often give space for the needs of others or for serving. It is a time for raw emotion and reality checks with our relationship with God. We know Naomi was angry with God-so angry, she changed her name! It did not alter how God saw Naomi. Naomi was real and her pain was deep, and God loved her and walked with her through it.

As the book of Ruth moves forward we have the opportunity to see Naomi move from her deepest grief to her greatest joy-a precious grandson. A grandson that would be in the line of Jesus, but all Naomi knew was that she had new life through this baby. I love the words in scripture, “Naomi took the baby and held him in her arms, cuddling him, cooing over him…”  And the women of the town told Naomi that Ruth was better to her than seven sons! Seven sons was the picture of perfection and what Naomi had was better than that!

Naomi had returned to Bethlehem and asked to be called Mara. God was not done writing her story. By the end of the book of Ruth, Naomi is called, “Blessed.”  She has been given hope again, and she was able to experience the height of joy because she had lived in the depths of pain.

We can be angry with God, feel He is unfair, struggle with Who He is, yell at Him, and question Him. What  we cannot do is abandon our faith as we walk through the valleys. We must cling to the Truths of scripture and believe them, even when we do not feel them. That is the only way to get through to the other side and see what He has for us.

Grieving is a process we must walk through. It was never meant for us to live in. If Naomi had stayed camped there, she would have never told Ruth to reach out to Boaz, and the story would have ended with Ruth feeding her by working in the fields. She would never have experienced the joy of holding her grandson. Or God would have used someone or something else to bring His plan to life, and Naomi would have missed out on God’s best because she did not continue to move forward.

“Father, help us to trust You and talk to You when our pain is excruciating. Please wrap Your arms around the women who are in the awful season of grief now.”

 

For His Glory

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

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 24, 2026

Recognized

“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13

The book of Acts in the Bible depicts the extraordinary transitional era bridging the Incarnation of Jesus to the Church Age—it’s the very birth of the Church through the labor of a handful of men and women. And on the day of Pentecost, when the promised Holy Spirit fell to empower this Jesus movement, it was Peter who “took his stand” to preach the very first church service (Acts 2:14-41).

There’s so much to be said about Peter—about his incredible leadership attributes and about his overly enthusiastic responses (aka, foot-in-mouth tendencies). But through the gospels, we see how Jesus gently refines him through their time together to be transformed from “Simon” to “Peter”—the rock. One event that underscores this immense change is the first time Peter is arrested (with John) after a lame man was healed, and Peter burst out with another fiery gospel message (Acts 3:1-4:4). And when Peter was placed in front of the rulers, elders, scribes, and high priest to be questioned, Peter—filled with the Holy Spirit—threw down the Truth to them as well, not only outright blaming them for the death of Jesus, but also extending to them salvation through the grace of that same Name.

But it’s verse 13 of chapter 4 that always strikes me to the core: “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus“ (emphasis mine). Upon reading this line, my mind immediately goes back to another time when Peter was recognized as having been with Jesus…but his response was quite different. “And seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, ‘You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.’ But he denied it, saying, ‘I neither know nor understand what you mean’” (vs 67-68a of Mark 14: 66-72). In fact, this incident is described by all four gospel writers Matthew 26:69-75; Luke 22:54-62; John 18:15-27).

So, there are two key questions that arise here for us to ask ourselves as believers:

(1) When people interact with me, do they recognize that I’ve been with Jesus? In other words, regardless of what they might think of my intellect, personality, etc., can they clearly acknowledge that I know and follow Jesus as Lord and Savior—whether they agree or not? Friend, once saved, we are new creations in Christ, citizens and ambassadors of heaven, light to shine in this dark world. Are we strangers (strange!) in the world, or are we so like the world that we’re “unrecognizable” believers?

(2) When I’m recognized as being a Jesus follower (“Christian”), what is my response? Am I like the “old” Peter, denying Jesus out of fear—or embarrassment or not wanting to be thought of as weird? Or, like post-Pentecost Peter, do I stand firm in the boldness of who I am in Christ, with the very Spirit of God living in me, unashamed of my relationship with Jesus? I wish I could say that I am this bold every day, in every circumstance.

My prayer for us all is that we’re inspired by Peter—and Paul and Barnabas and James and John and the other amazing examples of gospel boldness we see in the Bible. That we don’t care what man thinks of our weirdness/oddity/other-ness, because all that really matters is what’s pleasing to God (Proverbs 29:25; Galatians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:4). And that we, like our early Church examples, live to turn the world upside down (Acts 17:1-9) with the God-glorifying, life-changing, heaven-bringing Truth of salvation in Jesus Christ.

“Heavenly Father, empower me to stand boldly for Christ, recognized as being with Jesus—always unashamed of the gospel.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith (encouragedbygrace.org)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 23, 2026

When The Music Fades

“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty One who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing.”  Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV)

The louder, the better  – so love belting out some tunes. Stretching those vocal cords for the sheer pleasure of singing my fave song. Whether I’m riding down the road with the radio blasting through the air or jamming out in the kitchen, the sheer exuberant joy of singing transforms my heart, soul and mind. Effortless. Unplanned. Best medicine ever.

Oh, if life could always land us in this joy-filled state,  yet if we are brutally honest, we’ve probably all been there when life silences our voice. What does one do when the song of their soul fades? Discouragement, disappointment, loneliness, challenges, losses – all hard places where we can easily become consumed with our circumstances as the enemy shouts defeat.

Yet in the dark places of our souls, we are never alone. The One who never misses any moment of our lives doesn’t just stop at loving us – even though His love is more than enough, more than we could have ever imagined. When our song fades, God’s music is ever present as He loudly sings over us. He surrounds us and draws near especially when the challenges of life overwhelm and silence us.

Our God, who sees and knows us all, is powerful and enough to stifle the enemy’s attempts to deaden our souls. Filling the air with the beauty of His voice, echoing the very words we so desperately need to hear. Not a gentle whisper or a solemn ballad, our God is loud. His joy over His beloved children is an infectious, exuberant joy –  rejoicing over us with sheer gladness. And when sleeplessness avails us, the sweetness of God’s love quiets our soul and mind. We find deep comfort in knowing He is trustworthy and true – always faithful to His promises – ever present.

Sweet friends, I don’t know about you but when I know my mighty and powerful God is close, hovering  and singing joyfully over me, His joy transforms my darkness. It lifts me out of bed when the day ahead is less than and it reignites a song deep in my soul when I thought I’d lost my way. His presence, His nearness is the sweetest reminder that regardless of where our journey on this earth takes us. Because of His song, we can face another day carried by the melody of His heart.

A strong yet tender warrior who lovingly bends low to sing over us. What more could one ever want than to know they are deeply and unconditionally loved  – How great is our God!!

“Father, even if our music fades, You are forever singing and rejoicing over us. What a glorious heavenly voice hovering and igniting a new song in us even if our circumstances haven’t changed. Replacing a cloud of doubt with a confident reassurance that hope is found in You.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 20, 2026

Why Centered Matters

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11 (ESV) “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”  James 4:7 (ESV)

The Australian Open (tennis) started a few weekends ago, so I’ve been watching some amazing matches.  One of the things I was reminded of was why it is so important to return to the center of the court after each shot.  Staying in the center is a crucial strategy because it allows you to cover more ground and reach the ball faster.  Great tactic against your opponent – no matter where they hit the ball, you are perfectly placed for a great returning shot.  Good court positioning can be the one fact that makes the difference between winning or losing a match and it proved so true as I watched several players navigating their game.

So what’s center court got to do with us?  Well, we have an opponent known as “Satan.”  And the best way to beat our enemy is to stay centered and alert – grounded in our faith.  Being centered simply means being armed, alert and ready for any shots Satan may hit in our direction. It means putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and resisting the urge to be undermined by his schemes.  It means being balanced and standing strong ready to move in any direction to defeat Satan’s attacks.

Not being centered makes us a moving target for our enemy to control or dictate his attack. And sweet friends, we desperately need the strength that comes from leaning on our God to win at this game. We can’t do it in our strength; this opponent requires the power of the Holy Spirit. One who will enable us to stay centered.

If we are playing tennis, we absolutely know we are in a match, but we don’t always get it when Satan is attacking.  We often transfer his attacks to the people he uses to carry out his plans instead of realizing the attack is really coming from our worst enemy.  We often miss his shots and mistakenly assume he is no longer a threat.  In other words, we get off centered in our thinking which usually results in us not responding in the best of ways – we fall right where he intended. Best solution stay in the Word, stay prayed up and stay centered.  End result, when the enemy attacks we will recognize his schemes and blast him off the court.

Now that sweet friends is the best way to defeat our opponent!!!!  We are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus. We can be victorious over anything that touches our lives if we trust God and lean into His wisdom and power.”

“Father, we are on the winning team.  With You by our side, Your word as our sword, and Your righteousness covering us, we can defeat the attacks of Satan – standing strong and firm in the power of Your might.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Freedom, Spiritual Living, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 19, 2026

God’s Care Of His Children

“You received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as His own children. Now we call Him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15 (MSG)

Mordecai raised his cousin when death befell her parents. Esther saved herself and her people for such a time. Syrus’ daughter, Mary, lavished her riches on sin and worldly pleasures but would encounter Jesus, be forgiven, delivered and shown how real wealth is splurged. And Naomi, a woman of bitterness, would be of royal lineage through Ruth, great grandmother of David.

To every child of promise in the Bible is a person of significance. Often a parent, perhaps a close relative, but one who gave of self to raise forth the next generation. Dreams, preparation and concern were there. Countless hours teaching, listening and correcting. Sacrifice, love, support. All the ingredients of raising a child who would amount to something. Their children would lead the world to God.

As a parent, my children are constantly teaching me something. The latest tech craze, music fad or edible treat. Parenthood struggles are common as are my wonderings as to whether I’m capable of successfully landing this assignment. In addition to behavioral challenges, life comes in and throws curve balls that affect parent and child alike. The path of broken dreams bids us to wallow in despair and discouragement.

But, those of us who are Christ followers know better. Often in our most desperate circumstances and darkest valleys of the night we are pointed towards truths that sustain and provide promise that there is a purpose. A family crisis caused by us (the parents) affected our children’s schooling options. God provided in such a way that there was no doubt of His hand in the midst. Medical complications for our older son that we didn’t see coming. God provided, front and center, with shortened waiting intervals and the finest medical care. Through experiencing God’s provision, care and concern for my children, God has shown me how well He takes care of all His children, including me. Each and every detail.

So in those moments when I’m waiting for God to show up, when I wonder if He cares and when I vengefully ask how He could let this happen, let me not forget how He has shown Himself faithful, present and gracious through those I love the most: my children.

“You are my Father. May I run to Your love which is constant, enduring and strong. I stand rest assured that I am a child deeply loved by her Abba, Father.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 18, 2026

Our Emotions

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”  Psalm 147:3(NIV)

Do you know our emotions are no surprise to God? He created us with emotions. Sometimes we feel as if being emotional or having emotions is a curse, but the very essence of what emotions are comes from the heart of God.

Jesus experienced grief, anger, joy, anxiety, pain, exhaustion, compassion, frustration, disgust, and agony. We know Jesus lived a life free of sin while He took on our humanity, so we can have confidence that our emotions themselves are not sin.

Scripture is full of beautiful, heartbreaking, raw, and real stories of the emotions that people walked through. One of my personal favorites is the story of Naomi. Let’s take a peek into her life.

Naomi was married to Elimelech, and she had two sons, Mahlon and Killion. Elimelech moved his family from Bethlehem to the land of Moab due to a famine. As far as we can tell, things went well, and the boys grew. Then Elimelech died. We do not receive any information about Naomi, but we can imagine her sorrow. Mahlon and Killian grew up. They marry. Ten years later they both die. An interesting side note here is that two sons being married for 10 years each did not bring Naomi any grandchildren. Was this another loss she grieved?

Naomi hears there is food again in Bethlehem, so she makes a decision to return home, where she has family and friends.

As she arrives back in Bethlehem with Ruth, her daughter-in-law, she is so overcome she does not even mention what Ruth has sacrificed to be with her. From what scripture says, Naomi does not even introduce or acknowledge Ruth. Naomi tells her old friends to call her Mara, for the Lord has brought her home empty.

Isn’t that what happens when we are in the deep throes of grief? It is very difficult to see what is around us because we can only see our loss. God does not condemn Naomi or try to push her forward in any way. Much like Hannah, who was grieving in the temple as she asked God for a son, God did not say her grieving was wrong.

He created us, and He walked with us so that we would know He understands our humanity, which includes our emotions.

As you walk through the book of Ruth, when you get to chapter 2, it is Ruth who tells Naomi that they need to eat. Ruth says she will go and glean with the other foreigners and widows. Naomi offers no suggestions or people to connect with. She agrees. Can you imagine Naomi sitting by her window and remembering the days of her boys playing or her husband coming home to her? Ruth’s sacrifice of traveling with Naomi and seeing that she was taken care of allowed Naomi the time she needed to grieve and move toward healing.

We will look at more of her story next week, but for now, remember that whatever difficult emotions you are walking through, God is not surprised and He is walking with you. For those of us with friends and family in these circumstances, may we remember that if God allows time and space for emotions, may we do the same. May we walk alongside those walking through valleys and may we provide as Ruth did for Naomi.

“Father, help us to be your hands and feet. Help us to trust your timetable. Lord, please comfort and heal broken hearts today.”

For His Glory

 

Terrie Tollerson
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Spiritual Living

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