Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 20, 2026

Who Is God?

“O, taste and see that the Lord is good” – Psalm 34:8

If you have friends and loved ones who have not yet received Jesus as their Savior, it may be their image of God that’s stopping them.

For instance, those who are atheists think of Him as a fictional character that Christians use as a crutch to get them through life. On the opposite end of the scale, others think He is all love. He is someone to reward us with good things, and if He doesn’t come through on their terms, they can’t understand it. They believe that such a God must not be worth committing to because there’s nothing in it for them.

Still others see Him as a God of judgment, an old man with a long, gray beard, a huge set of rules and a big stick to keep people in line. Who would want to commit to a God like that?

Are any of those ideas correct? No! The truth of the matter is that God is a multi-faceted deity worth getting to know. Besides being infinite, unchanging, all-powerful, omnipresent, and all-knowing, He has a personality. He is eager for us to get to know Him, and he has gone to extraordinary lengths to make Himself knowable.

Among His other attributes, He is gracious and willing to forgive. He is loving and will see that His children have what is best for them, although that may conflict with what they want. He is faithful and keeps His promises, like the promise to see to our needs, bless us with spiritual blessings, and make a place for us in Heaven. He promises to teach us great and wonderful things we don’t know. And He is wise. Unlike the idols that people have created for themselves over the millennia, He doesn’t sit on a shelf. He promises to give us wisdom if we ask for it.

Did you ever wish you had a superhero that could help you through life? Here is the ultimate superhero, the God who created you, who loves you deeply, and who has your best interest at heart. Here is the God who watches over you, who knows the past, present, and future, and is capable of bending circumstances to His will. Who needs a mere superhero when we have such a God?

“Father, we thank You for wanting to reveal Yourself to us, that You want us to experience Your love and mercy. We bow in awe to worship you. Help us to know You better.”

For His Glory

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

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 19, 2026

Digging In

“But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.” James 1:22-25 (NLT)

I love a good story. When I convince someone to read one of my treasured books, I feel like I’m introducing them to a friend. I love to talk about these treasured books as if the stories are real. I love to hash out the details with fellow readers.

One of my friends is a skimmer. She skims books! She has read nearly every book I love, but when I try to talk to her about some detail of the story, she draws a blank. Her typical response: “Umm, I’m not sure I remember that part.” What?!

My friend is not the only skimmer. We skim through Facebook and Instagram posts, as well as tweets. We skim emails. We skim notes for a test. We skim our children’s homework. (That can’t just be me, can it?) We skim directions for a recipe.

The trouble comes when we skim in our relationship with God. We throw up a prayer as we head into an interview. We skim a devotional for a quote to cling to that fits our circumstances. Then we wonder why we don’t feel very close to God.

Now is the time to dig in. Let’s commit to read Scripture straight from the Bible, taking time to marinate in its meaning and how it affects our life. Let’s get on our knees and pray for loved ones to be drawn to the LORD, for relationships to be reconciled, and for God to be glorified in all that we say and do. Let’s not be a body of believers who merely skim the surface of Christianity.

Are you ready to dig in? I don’t know about you, but I certainly don’t want to just be fooling myself. I choose to “look carefully” at God’s Word and “do what it says.”

“Lord, forgive me when I skim in my relationship with You. I commit to dwelling in Your presence through Bible reading and prayer.”

For His Glory

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

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 18, 2026

Embracing Courage

“Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.” Philippians 1:12-14

Last month, Canada passed the Combatting Hate Act (Bill C-9), a new “hate crime” law. This Bill broadens the definition of hate speech and removes the longstanding legal defense for good-faith religious expression. So now, a pastor may be arrested for preaching certain parts of the Bible. (Although the language of the Bill says religious text is protected, there are loopholes in the designation of “hatred,” as it’s defined as “clearly associated with vilification and detestation”—so emotionally adamant individuals can make the legal accusation based on their personal perception). Now, the law is purportedly for all religions and cultural “hate”…but make no mistake, it is an anti-Christian resolution. And, although the law may ultimately protect a pastor, the costly legal process becomes the punishment.

(Interesting proof point: I was recently talking with my husband’s Canadian coworker and his wife who, in their recounting the “COVID years” in their county, how Christian churches were locked down with resolved enforcement, the smallest gathering of the saints prohibited—with ramifications. Drive by the many mosques during that time, though, and you’d see packed parking lots and no police in sight.)

This, my friend, is Canada—not North Korea. And, if you’re paying attention, you’ll know that it’s seeping into our nation as well.

While diving in once more to the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, it’s amazing to read about the joy he had in Christ and for the Gospel while chained up in a cold underground prison in Rome. But what struck me afresh are verses 12-14 of chapter 1: Because of Paul’s imprisonment for the Gospel, the brethren had far more courage to speak the Word of God without fear. My first reaction is, “What!?” If my pastor was hauled away from his pulpit and thrown in jail for preaching the truth of the Bible, I’m thinking my response would be to flee and fearfully hide out in my house. Not so with Paul’s brothers and sisters in Christ during that time. Nope, seeing Paul’s imprisonment (and likely knowing about the arrests, tortures, and deaths of contemporary followers of Christ—perhaps even their own family and friends), their trust in the Lord grew! And they became bolder to share the Gospel!

In light of what’s happening in Canada, as well as the fact that 4,849 Christians have been killed for their faith and 388 million suffered severe persecution last year (Open Doors 2026 reporting), may the Bible be both a mirror and a map for us in this regard.

The Apostle Paul (and Peter and John and all the Apostles) had good reason to be fearful and stay quiet, given the persecution of Jesus followers. But through their steadfast faith in Christ, they never backed down—and their words exhort us today.

  • God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-control, and we are not to be ashamed because we know whom we have believed (2 Timothy 1:6-14).
  • Even when imprisoned and threatened by the government, Peter and John said, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:18-22)
  • “Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9)
  • Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego refused to bow down to anyone but the Lord (Daniel 3).
  • Daniel prayed to God in the open even when it was outlawed (Daniel 6:10-28).

At the very end of Paul’s life, he continued to admonish believers to preach the Word—in and out of season. For 250 years, the Gospel has been “in season” in our nation but is falling out. So as Paul writes to Timothy, we’re to listen in and follow suit (2 Timothy 4:1-5):

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”

The time is coming to embrace courage not despite persecution, but because of it. Are you ready? Am I?

“Lord, make me bold to preach the Gospel without fear. No matter the season, no matter the potential danger.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 17, 2026

When The Signs Reveal Misplaced Devotion

“Be careful not to forget the covenant of the Lord your God that He made with you; do not make for  yourselves an idol in the form of anything the Lord your God has forbidden.” Deuteronomy 4:23 (ESV)

I feel the edge of summer slipping away. It’s getting darker at night a little sooner. The early dawn seems to linger longer. The kiddos are going back to school and traffic in our town is beginning to overflow as college students return. Hobby Lobby has fall everything with more pumpkins of various sizes and colors than we would dare imagine. The signs are everywhere – summer is definitely slipping away.

We definitely can’t miss the obvious signs, can we? After all,  what woman wouldn’t want to dismiss the signs of aging. Or even better, stepping on that scale and noticing the sign of too much ice cream during the summer heatwave. Even when what is staring back at us is reality, we often overlook the signs of us. Like when we are headed in a wrong direction, we somehow seem able to dismiss all the visible warnings. We ever so intentionally ignore the signs that other gods have misplaced the One true God in our lives. How could we so foolishly think that careers, service, possessions, people, or pleasures would rise above the place reserved for God alone? Hate to admit it but at times in our lives, we have probably all landed in this place of illusion, and it didn’t serve us well.

The Bible tells of many who chose this path of worshiping idols (anything we place above our devotion and worship of God). Even God’s chosen people, the Israelites often found themselves entangled with the gods of the land. The consequences of their choices often landed them in captivity and oppression by foreign powers due to violating the first commandment given by God to Moses:  “You shall have no other gods before Me.”  The futility of relying on someone or something other than God writes a script of repetitive consequences.

Today’s world is no different. The temptations are even greater to zero our focus in on self, others and things versus devotion to God. While we don’t bow down to statues, our lives bow down to a lot of things that steal away the devotion and obedience that God desires from His children. What we truly treasure in our hearts (Matthew 6:21) reveals our affections and pursuits.

Love the reminder from the Apostle Paul instructing believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God  as our spiritual act of worship. Laying down our desires and following God’s instructions. Resisting the draw within us to allow other pursuits to triumph over our relationship and devotion to God. It’s a divine calling to a life of holiness and service to our Creator God who is sovereign over all things. The One who calls us by name. The One who proved His love by releasing His only Son into this broken world to die for our sins is worthy of our devotion and allegiance.

Just like the signs around us depict a changing season, the signs of who we worship are evident in our lifestyle and choices. We may be able to fool others, but God is not fooled. He is fully aware of who or what is consuming our lives, thoughts and devotion. Perhaps this is why our world is so broken today – we’ve lost our first love – the One who gives us the very breath in our lungs.

Sweet friends, let’s not be blindsided by the signs staring back at us in the mirror of our hearts. Let’s welcome God’s examination. Let’s confess any misplaced devotion and fall back in love with God – it’s the best decision we will ever make.

“Father, forgive us for those moments when we allow other things and people to take your place in our lives. Help us to cherish the relationship we have with You and guard against distractions.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 14, 2026

What About….?

“If I want him (John) to remain until I come, Jesus answered, “what is that to you? As for you (Peter) follow Me.” John 21:22 (HCSB)

The cover was beautiful; the back-story intriguing. The perfect read. An hour later and that “perfect” read was much less than I had expected. The story line was boring, confusing and going nowhere fast. Luckily, I had lots of options filling my shelves so I made a quick switch and this time it delivered.

Ever wished your life story could be traded for a more glamorous, easy, picture perfect re-write? Or better yet, how about leaving our story behind and grabbing someone else’s? I’d have to admit there have been moments, yes days, where those thoughts entertained my mind. Easy to get lost in someone else’s story. Easy to picture perceived perfect lives when we measure them by Facebook posts, tweets, casual encounters and appearances. Easy to view our lives as less than if we’re always looking…desiring what we don’t have. Questions flood where doubts rise.

Love the way Jesus reminds us that “our journey” is priceless. Grateful for the mercy He showed Peter when John’s unknown destiny seemed too enticing. Backtrack just a few moments of Peter’s story, and you find him in the presence of the risen Son of God. Fully restored, destined to feed Jesus’ sheep, but it would come at a price. Perhaps John’s story would have a grander, happier, easier ending – what about…..?

Jesus met Peter’s questions not with explanation but with a simple invitation “Follow Me.” “Don’t reach for someone else’s life……..keep your gaze fixed on Me and watch in amazement as your story unfolds.”

What about us? If we choose to “Follow Jesus,” our cover will be beautiful; our backstory intriguing – it will be the perfect read.

“Sweet Jesus, the story of our lives unfolds day by day – moments we don’t want to miss because questions occupied our minds or discontent clouded our vision. Teach us to trust You with the unknowns and be fully satisfied.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 13, 2026

When Crying Is Not A Sign Of Weakness

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”  Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

Life is not a bowl of cherries – as a matter of fact, life sometimes has a bitter taste, especially if we only pay attention to our troubles and tribulations. We are, oftentimes, too focused on them and all we seem to have the strength to do is cry. We cry and we ask why, and we forget to show gratitude to God for all the things He does for us, big or small.

The prophet Jeremiah wrote the book of Lamentations at a time when the people needed to be reminded that God is faithful. They had been captured by the Babylonians, suffered a lot of hard times and they needed comfort. They needed God’s intervention, even if they acted like they didn’t.

Jeremiah knew the people had issues with trust because of what they had been through; he knew they suffered from apathy. He also knew his own words and advice would not always be heard and taken to heart because his people were so focused on their own suffering and hardship.

Our time spent with God is the source of our strength. Jeremiah literally felt the pain of his people and he prayed and cried out to God, interceding for them. He became known as the weeping prophet because he was often seen crying out to God for those around him. And Jeremiah knew what God was able to do because he knew God hears the sincere prayer of our hearts and that our cry is not in vain.

I have experienced heartache and disappointment in my lifetime. During my troubles, I learned to cry out to God and to seek Him to help me overcome the pain and disarray that had entered my life and heart. And you know what? He NEVER disappointed. Not me, not anyone. Why? Because our God is faithful; and because our God cares; and He hears our cry.

“Lord, we don’t always say the right things, but we know that if we cry out to You, You hear us. Hallowed be Your name, dear Lord.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 12, 2026

David & Goliath

“David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.”1 Samuel 17:45

We all love the story of David and Goliath, how young David took the giant up on his challenge and killed him in the name of the Lord Almighty, saving the army of King Saul. It makes us want to cheer for David, the underdog. It’s the go-to story when we want to illustrate how faith can grant us victory in a helpless situation. We think if we could only have the kind of faith David had, we could have the same results.

But that’s not what the story is about. It’s not about David. This story is about God, about His power to accomplish His will through people. He knew the situation and chose David to win the battle. David’s heart was willing. He was also much smaller than the giant, inexperienced in war, and without armor. He was the least likely person for the job. That was why God chose him, to demonstrate His power.

How did David happen to be in the right place at the right time? It was by divine appointment, set by God. He didn’t need to check anyone’s calendar or remind everyone to be on time. He simply moved circumstances. He had the Philistine army on one side of the Valley of Elah and the Israelites on the other side, facing them for forty days. The tension was incredible as the giant roared his insults and challenges day after day.

At precisely the right time, God prompted Jesse to send David to the battle site with a donation of food. Then he filled David with His Spirit.

Did you ever have an experience where you felt the Spirit so strongly that you were compelled to take on His assignment? There was a particular instance when I had an urge so intense that I couldn’t obey fast enough despite the risk. I was amazed at the change God produced as a result. I believe that was the kind of holy urge that came over David. God’s hand was on him, giving him such a single-minded goal to take on the giant that he couldn’t stop. It was as if the Lord were behind him, pushing him into position and putting words in his mouth.

We know the story. He stepped up boldly, refusing to wear the king’s armor, and chose five smooth stones from the brook. He only needed one. He aimed at the forehead of the giant, and the stone found its mark. The giant was defeated, and the Israelite army surged forward, conquering the Philistines.

So what is the point of this story? Only that we need to be ready, available, and open to the Spirit, just as David was. Spend time in the presence of God daily, so when He taps you on the shoulder and gives you a divine assignment, you will be ready to take it on.

Father, few of us would ask to be put into an impossible situation, but if You give us an assignment beyond our abilities, we ask Your Spirit to guide us as You guided David at the Valley of Elah.”

For His Glory

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

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 11, 2026

Lost Opportunities

“Live wisely among those who are not believers and make the most of every opportunity.”  Colossians 4:5 (NLT)

Confession time. I am way too often a very poor ambassador of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). Around my friends and church family? No problemo. Even in welcoming new people to church on Sundays, my attitude is love, grace, mercy—my desire is to reflect the Lord and glorify God in my thoughts, words, and actions. The sad truth is that my loss of these godly characteristics usually occurs amid more, um, public settings. It’s bad enough that my cruddy mood or sharp words may strike a fellow Christian who doesn’t know me…in fact, they likely may be thinking, “Good grief, that woman needs Jesus.” Oh, but what does that look like to unbelievers? They probably have some choice descriptors of me in their mind. Although the word isn’t used often these days, an accurate term would be “fool.”

In the aftermath of my foolish words or actions, as conviction kicks in hard, I often shudder at the thought of following up my behavior with, “So, are you a believer? Want to join me at church on Sunday?” Cringeworthy, am I right?

The Bible has a lot to say about fools and foolishness:

  • A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back (Proverbs 29:11).
  • A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion (Proverbs 18:2).
  • The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good (Psalm 14:1).
  • For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts… deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. (Mark 7:21-22).

The opposite of foolishness is wisdom—walking according to God’s Word. In addition to the Psalms and other Old Testament books that are chocked full of wisdom advice, practically every book of the New Testament gives followers of Christ an “ambassador handbook.” A clear blueprint of the words to use, the behaviors to put on (and what to throw off), and the attitudes to embrace. (See all of Paul’s letters, as well as the books of James, John, and Peter.) In fact, because we are filled with the Holy Spirit upon salvation, when we truly yield to Him, His God-glorifying fruit will blossom (Galatians 5:22-23). Paul’s letter to the Colossians, for instance, is a great study on who we are in Christ and how to walk. It’s in chapter 4, verses 2-6, however, that the Lord reminds us of how our conduct around unbelievers—if wise—provides us with gospel opportunities. And if that coin is flipped, acting as the fool leads to lost opportunity. Or worse, giving God—my King who I represent—a bad name.

Oh, sweet friend, aren’t you thankful for the unending mercy, grace, and forgiveness of the Lord? I sure am. And as much as I know it breaks His heart when we don’t act wisely (or my speech is not “seasoned with grace”), He always gives us the chance to honor His Name…to “make the most of every opportunity.” In that same section of Colossians, Paul even exhorts us how: (1) We devote ourselves to prayer; (2) stay alert—keep our eyes open to what God is doing around us; (3) maintain an attitude of thanksgiving; (4) walk wisely; and (5) season our words with the grace we’ve been given. That “opportunity” presented to us may just mean being a conduit through which God brings salvation. I don’t know about you, but I want to be that kind of tool for the Lord…not a fool.

“Lord, keep my eyes open to what You are doing around me. Give me the wisdom and words to make the most of every opportunity for Your glory.”

 

For Your Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 10, 2026

When Chatter Becomes Careless

“When words are many transgressions is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lip is prudent.” Proverbs 10:19 (ESV)

As a kid, I rarely kept quiet. Words spewed effortlessly from my lips, and my friends often called me, “Motormouth.” I’m sure there were many moments when I probably drove my parents crazy with my nonstop chatter. I always had something to say. I was never speechless, despite the fact silence would have served me well on several occasions.

While my childhood chatter was amusing, an unceasing flow of words can easily open the door to carelessness. We’ve probably all experienced the aftermath of speaking without thinking. And if we’re really getting honest, we’ve said some words we meant in the moment but later regretted. Evidence of why pause before uttering a sound is good advice. Silence serves us well when emotions are raging high.

Keeping it real here – gossip, slander and criticism aren’t quite the gracious words mentioned in Proverbs 16:24. No sweetness for the soul who is the hot topic of those conversations. Without a second of hesitation, we can easily tear down, wound and minimize others. Like a thrusting sword, reckless words shred vulnerable souls.

Bottom line – God never intended for our words to destroy or hurt others. The One who breathed life into our lungs and enables us to speak desires words which birth life, love and grace. And if we’re not sure what to say or what not to say, we don’t’ have to wonder. Proverbs and the book of James are full of examples demonstrating the importance of taming our tongue. Great wisdom and knowledge for those who seek to build others up rather than tear them down (Ephesians 4:29).

Perhaps, we all need to evaluate our spoken and written words. Are we reflecting the love of God? Do we find great pleasure in devouring others with our words? Do we say, write, tweet or post without pausing to consider how others may perceive our words? Are we opinionated and argumentative?

Yes, a lot to think about when it comes to unceasing chatter. Lots of words filling the air we breathe in every day. Easy to get caught up in the trap of saying whatever we want, whatever we feel in the moment. Takes great restrain to stop, pause and think before even one syllable utters from our lips.

Love this sweet reminder from Psalm 19:4 “Let the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Plain and simple – God is aware of our internal and external speech – let’s choose to make Him proud by weighing the value of what we are saying before we speak.

“Father, You have given us specific instructions on how we can lift up and encourage others. Help us to heed Your wisdom and speak life to all we meet.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 7, 2026

Why Asking Serves Us Well

“The LORD is my strength and my shield; in Him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song, I give thanks to Him.” Psalm 28:7 (ESV)

Asking has never been my go to. Raising my hand in class rarely happened. Unfortunately, I tend to be a figure it out for yourself kind of person, but it doesn’t always serve me well. Time can evaporate quickly when we’re spinning our wheels relying solely on ourselves to get it done. Independence is overrated when we struggle and give up because we’re too afraid, too proud or just don’t want to ask for help.

Asking questions births solutions. Opening the door for wisdom to grow and knowledge to flourish, we gain confidence to accomplish more than we ever imagined. Asking for help resolves overwhelming challenges. Inviting others into our circle and working together, we experience deeper relationships. Asking empowers and liberates us – now that’s inviting. Yes, asking’s benefits far outweigh any misconceptions we have that hold us back from leaning on self alone.

Love the way God is the instigator of questions. Throughout scripture, He asks questions inviting deep thought-provoking introspection. Choosing to answer our questions with questions. Birthing in us a desire to seek His wisdom. God’s questions move us from simply wanting a response to uncovering the beauty of His divine character and the importance of leaning on Him. No question is beyond His reply. No question is too big for our God. No request is criticized, mocked or ignored. God delights in leading us to truth and greater dependence on Him.

So, sweet friends let’s deny our instincts to rely on ourselves. Let’s purposefully choose to seek help and ask tough questions. Let’s resist the urge to discredit the wisdom of those God has strategically placed in our circle. Let’s forego the need to do it all ourselves and forsake the help sitting in front of us. Let’s lay down pride. Let’s release fears. Let’s embrace help and give help. Let’s lean on God’s character and rely on His provision even if it requires welcoming others into our circle.

“Father, You know exactly what we need. You provide help and answers in ways we could never have imagined. Praising You for the beauty of asking that unveils Your divine provision.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

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