Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 9, 2025

Changing From The Inside

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us”   Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)

That’s a portion of scripture that many of us love, one that gives us great encouragement when we’re stuck between a rock and a hard place with no place to turn. I’ve been in a situation like that recently, and you probably have been, too, at least within recent memory. It’s the human condition.

We humans love to be in control of our own lives, don’t we? We love to think of ourselves as self-sufficient, not a burden on anyone. But when our resources suddenly dry up, our health fails, or circumstances twist our path in unexpected directions, we find ourselves in that scary place where life is out of our control, where life spins in a direction we didn’t choose. We see our cherished plans crashing and burning. The future stretches out before us as a great unknown, or maybe we even see the future being cut short. Maybe our old ways of handling crises don’t work in the new situation.

That’s when we turn to the words of Paul, describing our God – “who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine . . . ” When you let those words sink into your heart, they are indeed a source of great peace and comfort. But we can’t stop there. What about the rest of the verse—according to his power that is at work within us?

Yes, it’s His power. Yes, it’s at work within us. That may mean that we need to take action, but not always. Sometimes that means His power is changing us from the inside, and we can trust Him to do everything according to His great love for us. Change is often difficult. It’s scary. If you feel the pull of God trying to change your thinking or your heart, you are most blessed. Don’t resist. Let Him do His work so you can break free of the emotions and ideas holding you back. I have never regretted allowing God to change me. Even though it has sometimes been a gut-wrenching experience, it has always, always been for the best. When that happens in your life, you can stand back and be amazed at what God can accomplish when your erroneous notions get out of His way.

God is sovereign! So “trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Following God is an exciting adventure. Blessings on you as you put your life and your efforts in His hand!

“Lord God, our heart’s desire is to align ourselves with Your will, so give us the courage to submit to Your work in our hearts and minds.”

For His Glory

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

 

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 8, 2025

What Are You Looking At?

 

“… at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”  Philippians 2:10-11 (NLT)

My husband runs the cameras for the local high school football team. He loves it! Every Friday night he is out in the end zone working with remote cameras and twenty foot wires. Last week the cameras were not working correctly and he was disappointed, but he made a comment about actually getting to see the game. He went on to explain that although he was at the game and even on the field each week, the scoreboard was behind him, so he rarely knew the exact score—though he always knew who was winning. He is so concentrated on getting each play recorded; therefore, he is focused only on his part.

That made me think of what my life should be like. I know Who wins. I have read the end of the story. Philippians tells us that every single knee will bow to Him, and every single tongue will acknowledge Jesus is Lord! This will happen when God says it is time for it to happen. What an amazing day that will be for those of us who have bowed our knee to Him here on this earth. What a tragic day that will be for those who have denied Him here on this earth.

Since I have no doubt this day will happen,  my job here and now is to focus on the game. Whatever role He has called me to, wherever He has placed me to influence others, and whoever He has called me to share Him with, that is all I need to do. I don’t need to worry as the score goes back and forth or coaches change up the play calls. I just need to concentrate on my part in the game.

Can we just imagine what our world would look like if each of us did our part and stopped looking around? The football players on the field are not wondering why the quarterback is not playing defensive back or why the running back is not doing the part of a wide receiver. Each knows his own job, and each one works hard all week to do his part correctly. They are all working for the team to win!

I am challenging myself to this – keep my focus on what He has called me to do and to allow everyone else to do what He has called them to do. As we work together, we can see this world change. Each one added to His kingdom brings the score up just a little bit more! Why do we do this? To win souls to Jesus Christ because that is ultimately the only thing that really matters.

“Father, help us to do our part in Your kingdom so many will come to see You as their Lord.”

For His Glory

Terrie Tollerson (feel free to follow me @TerrieTollerson)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 7, 2025

The Gospel According To Isaiah

“Seek the LORD while He may found; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the LORD, and He will have compassion on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:6-7

Reading the Old Testament prophets (major or minor) can be confusing, complicated, and overwhelming. To me, understanding these prophesies in the context of the nation of Israel, as well as their pointing to Jesus, requires intense study by way of theologians, commentary, and the Holy Spirit Himself! But then I come to particular chapters of Isaiah, and I am overjoyed in seeing clearly the message of salvation and our beautiful Messiah.

In the opening chapter, verse 18, for instance, Isaiah proclaims, “’Come now, let us reason together,’ says the Lord. ‘Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool’.” Then there is the terrible and stunning chapter 53, which describes in prophetic detail the suffering of our Savior and His satisfaction of the wrath that belongs to you and me.

So, as the headlines of this evil and broken world continue to pummel my soul with Davidic questions like, “How long, oh Lord?,” it’s easy to get discouraged. And it can be hard to keep one’s eyes on the Sovereignty and Goodness of our God. But then I open my Bible to Isaiah chapter 55, where the precious promise of God’s grace poured out in a refreshing Gospel reminder.

Here, Isaiah starts by asking why we’re trying to satisfy our soul with the things of this world—we hunger and thirst but chase things that cannot quench our deep needs. No, he says—there is a free gift of God that is yours for the asking! Seek the Lord—call upon Him in your desperation. Forsake your wicked ways and repent—turn back to God. When we recognize that there is no way we can buy, earn, or achieve God’s standard on our own and so surrender to Him, He completely pardons us. (A pardon! Think about this in our modern legal terms! A guilty, convicted criminal is fully forgiven and freed—as if he or she never committed the crime at all. Oh, sweet friend, how amazing is our pardon from the Living God?!) When we call on the Lord in the recognition of our sin and unworthiness, and then surrender to Him, we receive the righteousness of Christ (the suffering Servant of Isaiah 53). And as an extra bonus to exclaim how mind-blowing this free gift of salvation actually is, Isaiah goes right into saying, “And you know what? It is impossible for our puny brains to fathom this abundant compassion, mercy, and grace” (vs. 8-9).

Are you tired and thirsty? Seeking satisfaction from the things of this world? Are you frustrated by the headlines of darkness that make you question whether there is a light that can overcome it? Beloved, from before time began, there has been a plan of Victory! Jesus, the Second Person of the Godhead, came to earth as a Man to suffer the penalty for all who call on His Name, overcoming sin and death. He is the Light that makes all darkness flee. He is the Bread of Life, the Living Water that fully satisfies the “God-shaped hole” in your soul. Won’t you invite Him in and accept His free gift of grace?

“Oh, sweet Jesus, thank You for exchanging my sin and wretchedness for Your righteousness—forever changing me and my eternity. Thank You for Your Word that, from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 shouts of Your redemptive plan.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 6, 2025

Confident Trust

“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.” Psalm 91:4 (ESV)

This weekend, I pulled out the mower and once again took care of the yard. The temps were nice Friday night, so I barely broke a sweat. With the days getting shorter, I didn’t get finished so as soon as I got home from church Sunday, I mowed the last part and took the mower back to the lower end of our garage. Just as I was entering the garage, I saw something in the grass. When I checked it out it was the remains of a black snake, possibly one I had mowed over on Friday.

So you have to know my ritual every time I mowed this summer, I always prayed and asked God to protect me from ticks, snakes and any other creatures (raccoons, skunks) that might be hiding out in the lower garage. Yes living near a farm, I see all kinds of animals. And God totally protected me, yet today my mind was consumed with the fact that an actual snake was in my yard. Oh how quickly we move from confident trust to daunting fear.

Definitely had to pivot on this because God, who knows me intimately,  was gently reminding me over and over again – the snake was dead! He had truly protected me, and the fact I saw it was reassurance He is taking care of me in so many other ways. Don’t you just love that our God knows exactly what we need and especially when we need the visible, tangible reminders of His constant protection.

The past seven months since my husband suddenly left this world for his eternal home have definitely invited moments of fear, doubt and insecurities. My soul has felt vulnerable and exposed, yet there are endless ways God has met my every need and protected me. In a sea of ever increasing paperwork, God has given me clarity and taught me how to lean into His understanding. When sleep evaded me, He calmed my aching heart and held me close. When daily tasks increased, God strengthened  and encouraged me. And when the enemy attempted to create doubt and confusion, God protected my mind and assured me of His deep abiding love.

Sweet friends, whatever you’re facing this week – breathe out a prayer to the One who can provide all we need and protect us in every way. And when the enemy shouts doubt choose to trust the One who whispers I’ve got it – I’ve got you covered, you don’t need to fear or worry – you are totally safe with me.

“Father, if only we could see all that You are protecting us from we would be totally amazed. You shield, provide, surround, calm and lovingly care for us. How could we ever doubt Your goodness even in the hard places.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 3, 2025

Dancing In The Joy of Forgiveness

jan-30“Then I let it all out; I said, I’ll make a clean breast of my failures to God.”  Suddenly the pressure was gone – my guilt dissolved, my sin disappeared.”  Psalm 32:5 (The Message)

The joy of forgiveness is only birth in authentic confession.  Sounds simple – we  confess, He forgives and we live happily ever after. It’s so easy to simply come to Jesus and say:  “I’m sorry for what I did or please forgive my sins.” True confession, however, stems from a specific acknowledgement of our disobedience. In other words – name it, confess it and turn from it.

It’s so easy to grab grace on the go and dismiss the holiness of God’s character.  It’s more comfortable to be general than specific because then we would have to admit our wrongs and turn from them.  Much more pleasant to minimize or excuse our actions versus coming clean with Jesus.

Recently, I have been challenged to name one of my sins – disunity.  Faced with a challenging person, I’ve jumped on the bandwagon of complaining and grumbling.  Sad thing is this person is a believer – double strike against me.  Rather than continuing to join in with the critics, I’ve had to confess that my words have not been uplifting or building up this person.  I’ve just sung the same song as everyone else.  And God’s word is very specific about disunity among believers and criticism. When I confessed my sin and truly repented, I experienced the beauty of God’s forgiveness.

“Will I sin again?  In my flesh, I am sure I will but learning to confess my sins by name propels me to walk closer in obedience.  It frees me from the clutter of dirt residing in my heart that clogs my relationship with God. It opens up the prayer lines so that God can draw near to me.  Instead of drowning in sin, I can dance in the joy of God’s forgiveness.

“Sweet Jesus, I would much rather vaguely excuse away my wrongs then name them one by one.  But I know that You long to break the chains of bondage that so easily pulls us down.  Help each of us to evaluate and respond to Your conviction over the things in our lives that displease You.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 2, 2025

When Yesterday’s Release Is Hard

“For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land – a land where you will lack nothing.”(Deuteronomy 8:7a&9a NIV)

The Lord had spoken. He had seen the misery experienced in Egypt and freedom was imminent in a land flowing with milk and honey. Pharaoh posed obstacle number one and the Israelites were quick to condemn the giver of the message. Relief was not immediate so the way things had always been, even if it was in slavery, must have been better than any possible future outcome. Thus commenced the cycle of impatience, pointing fingers, discontentment and ultimately worshipping other gods. Heart attitudes and behaviors that God could neither accept nor reward.

In a knowledge era that reinforces what we don’t know, in a time of fast everything that slows our ability to live in the here and now, have we lost the art of surrendered souls that trust God’s hand at work?

Too often, I find myself looking back. Sometimes, great achievement was realized that is pleasurable to replay. Most often, my cup half-empty self meditates on those encounters that failed or went off track. In the meantime, I am unable to hear God’s voice in the now that is calling me to prayer, presence and purpose. It’s difficult to move forward when every part of my being is looking back and analyzing the past. I reinforce my trust in the known, but faith comes up short as I take my eyes off what the Lord wants to do today. The path of the past does not meet the path of the now rendering my service ineffective for anyone. Excellence in today’s pursuits is not possible. Sensitivity to see the Lord at work unattainable. Peace in the circumstance an illusion.

As I let go of yesterday and focus on today, regardless if it seems to contain more or less glamor, I am more fully able to express all that God has called me to. What is behind filled a purpose for a time that has come to an end. With learnings in hand, may I then embrace today’s mission knowing that God has me in His perfect will, watches over me and is pleased.

“Lord, we are a people, obsessed with the past and future but resistant to view the truth in the present. May your children depend on you for daily sustenance, peace and protection. May we be an example to the world of your love, care and sacrifice.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 1, 2025

Proverbs – Wisdom’s Way

“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.”  Proverbs 1:7 (NLT)

I love receiving invitations in the mail! Whether it is to a bridal shower, baby shower, wedding, graduation, or birthday party, I am always excited to receive them, and I look forward to celebrating the exciting occasion! Invitations almost always mean celebration and joy, and they mark a momentous occasion.

As I have been reading and studying the book of Proverbs this past year, it occurred to me that the book of Proverbs is written almost like an invitation to be a part of God’s plan. Proverbs is written to invite us to walk the path that follows Jesus — a path marked by wise moral choices based on God’s Word, and one that can often save us from pitfalls, though not always guaranteed. Proverbs are not written as the Ten Commandments; they are written as fences to keep us in the healthy pasture. Can wild animals break into fences and cause destruction? Yes, they can. Proverbs are written so that we can choose to stay in the pasture – not go looking for the wild animals.

As stated above, staying inside the fence is not a guarantee for success, but it does alleviate some of the danger. The book of Proverbs presents general principles for how society would function if everyone followed God’s wisdom. Are there exceptions to the rule? Always! That is where Job and Ecclesiastes come in. These two books show the exceptions, and there are always exceptions, as many of us have lived out.

Proverbs offers us a glimpse of Jesus. It shows us how He was with God the Father at Creation, how a healthy respect for Him leads us to make the right decisions, and how we can apply the knowledge we learn in His Word to our daily lives. These are not vague concepts; these are decisive actions to take as we encounter the world around us. Proverbs addresses such issues as mental health, emotional health, anger, narcissism,  relationships, money, sex, alcohol, friendship, character, and forgiveness. God is not surprised by the world we live in, and He made a way to steer us through the decisions we need to make and the sins we want to avoid.

The Hebrew word for wisdom is Chokmah (חָכְמָה). Chokmah is the same word used for artists and craftsmen in Exodus 31. It is more than just knowing the right thing to do; it is doing it. It is using the practical wisdom God gives us in Proverbs for our daily lives. It is applying what we learn!

As I said, I love receiving invitations and looking forward to an exciting occasion! I want to invite you to join me to read the book of Proverbs in October. Thirty-one days in October and thirty-one chapters in Proverbs = thirty-one nuggets of wisdom! That is something worth celebrating!

I am so excited to see what God will do with each of us when we read and apply His principles to every area of our lives.

“Father, help us to see You have made a way for us as we walk through all the different situations in our lives. Help us to follow You.”

For His Glory

Terrie Tollerson (feel free to follow @TerrieTollerson)
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 30, 2025

Unstoppable, Incomprehensible

“The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend [overcome] it.” John 1:5

It’s getting more obvious, the darkness and the light. The chasm between them is growing wider in our culture, nation, and world—making that gap harder and harder for people to straddle. In just the first few verses of John’s gospel, he introduces us to the concepts of light and dark. “Light” refers to holiness in people, the truth of God’s word, and the Word Himself (Jesus). “Darkness” connotes sin, corruption, and lies—and it’s also the preferred environment of Satan, whose purpose, along with his minions, is to keep the world and its people in darkness. The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:8 that before surrendering to the Lord, we ourselves were darkness, but are now light in the world. Jesus also tells us, point blank, that He is the Light of the world, and whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12). I could go on and on, but you can do a simple word study on “darkness” and “light” to further explore the concepts.

As we look around (and read the headlines), evil is afoot—the darkness is darkening. But that’s why John 1:5 is so very hopeful for believers! Interestingly, even between two of the most accurate Bible translations—the ESV and NASB—there is a discrepancy of translation that could at first be perplexing…but is actually quite glorious. The ESV says when the Light (Jesus) shines in the darkness, the darkness has not “overcome” it. This is awesome! We can proclaim, “Yes! In the resurrection of Jesus, He is victorious over sin and death—and darkness! As scary and evil as things may look now, He already won—so the light will win!” Despite more Christian persecution and murder around the world than ever before in history, and even the growing rage against the light (and Light) in our own country, Jesus has not been (and cannot be) overcome. For this, we can have peace, joy, and bold confidence in our faith.

Ah, but then there’s the NASB (which I, as an aside, personally prefer because this translation always capitalizes pronouns referring to God and Jesus—could be just the writer geek in me). Here, instead of “overcome,” the Greek word is translated “comprehend” (NASB1995) or “grasp”. Friend, doesn’t this concept stir up even more hope in your heart, mind, and spirit, especially as we look around us at the mounting madness? It’s as though John is reminding us, “As Jesus shines into this dark world, just remember that the darkness simply won’t get it.” Satan, the god of this world, promotes spiritual darkness and rebellion against God—keeping people from turning to the Light and attempting to stumble those walking in the Light. Yet as Jesus shows up on the scene through His people, the world responds with utter confusion, perplexed at what they see. They shake their heads, mock, attempt to destroy. We have clearly witnessed this over the past few weeks, as a revival of sorts has broken out in our own nation…as the Light shines brighter, the darkness looks on with disdainful incomprehension.

So, Christian, let these two concepts further embolden you! Speak Truth, Life, and Light into the darkness of your own world—your family, work, community. No matter the response or consequence. The darkness won’t win—it can’t! And, God willing, your words may usher someone from darkness to light, transforming their lives and changing the trajectory of their eternity! But if they scoff, rebuff, spit, or worse, know that they just don’t get it. They are blind, the walking dead. And never forget: we were once like them (Ephesians 2:1-10)…so let’s not ever give up.

“Lord, remind me daily that I am to be light in this dark world, to shine before others that they may turn to You. Embolden me to speak Jesus in the confidence that even though some may not comprehend, the Light wins.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 29, 2025

The Perfect Gaze

“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?” Psalm 121:1 (ESV)

How do you face life’s challenges? If you’re like me when life gets hard it’s super easy to cast our gaze vertically zeroing in on our circumstances. Looking straight out in front of us and allowing all those preconceived scenarios to play out in our minds. And we all know where that will land us – paralyzed with fear, drowning in self pity and making all kinds of compromises. Why? Because overwhelmed never serves us well.

Wonder what would happen if instead of focusing out at the  challenge, we chose to gaze up? To lift our eyes off the obvious and intentionally view whatever we are facing with a mind set on God’s eternal purposes. To reflect upward and know that our God is ever present, and He is all knowing, fully aware of what we need, ready to rescue us from overwhelmed and reassure us of His goodness.

It’s a hard fought journey to resist gazing in a direction that sets us up for fear and being consumed with the challenge staring us in the face. However, it is the right choice to lift our eyes toward the One who sees, hears and knows all that we are facing.

If you think it’s totally impossible to pivot your gaze, then grab God’s word and read the amazing story of Stephen. Acts 6 introduces him as a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Stephen’s attributes were defined as full of grace, power and wisdom – just a little bit too much for the jealous religious leaders who sought to silence him. And when Stephen’s accusers became enraged, his gaze pivoted away from their impending threats and grinding teeth. As he lifted his eyes up toward heaven, he saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Faced with complete opposition and impending stoning, Stephen glimpsed heaven – he didn’t run, he didn’t argue, he was intimidated – he simply lifted his gaze.

How I love the faith and boldness of Stephen. His courage and ability to face the hardest journey ever gives me strength to lift my gaze off my challenges. The grace he exhibited toward his accusers as they stoned him to death leaves me speechless. Jesus standing during Stephen’s persecution and hardest place ensures me that Jesus sees, hears and knows all that is touching my life.

So sweet friends, what challenge is staring us in the face? Do we have the courage and discipline to lift our eyes off our circumstances and gaze upward fully confident that God has us in the palm of His hands? Fear will fade, calm will flow, perspective will change when we release our hard journey for His eternal purposes – a focus that always serves us well.

“Father, You welcome us with open arms – ready to act on our behalf and reassure us of Your ever presence. Steady our gaze and help us to resist the urge to become overwhelmed by our circumstances.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 26, 2025

Why Capture Really Does Matter

“For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.” Romans 8:6 (ESV)

Taking the perfect picture has never been my talent. While I might have an eye for the best shot, my photos definitely don’t reflect any expertise. Don’t really know how I do it so imperfectly every time. Probably why selfies weren’t on my radar until I discovered this cool feature on my smartphone. Who knew you could simply say “Capture” and your phone would take the picture for you? No hitting a button. No trying to keep my hand out of the lens area. By changing the setting on my phone’s camera, my lack of photography skills has been revolutionized.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if capturing our thoughts was as simple as capturing the perfect pose?

Neuroscientists believe we have 60,000 – 80,000 random thoughts in a day. Our mind is constantly going; the only time our brain waves go to zero is if we are brain dead. From the moment we stretch and get out of bed, we realize our mind is soaring. For some of us it might be remembering our endless list of things we have to get done. For others it may be deep thoughts trying to unpack relationship issues. For some, the first thoughts we recognize in our morning could be fragments of a dream we had. And all these bombard us before we even hit the shower. No wonder we feel mentally challenged.

Positive thoughts centered on God’s word energize us, lift us up and encourage us. Filling our minds with the truth of what God says about us and our challenges. Focusing on His promises positions us to face even the hardest places with courage and boldness. These are thoughts we want to entertain moment by moment.

Sweet friends let’s keep it real here – positive thoughts are not what we get so lost in  – it’s our negative thoughts. It’s a daily struggle to short-circuit thousands of thoughts creeping in and stealing our joy. And the more we entertain unhealthy thoughts, the easier it is for our minds to settle there drowning out the positive. Creating pathways – grooves and ruts – which makes it easier for our minds to go in the same direction moment by moment.

God’s word reminds us in 2 Corinthians to take every thought captive, to seize our thoughts and ensure they are glorifying Him. Just like it took action on my part to program my phone to recognize “capture” when I wanted to snap a photo, we must take action to “capture” our thoughts. If we want our thoughts to serve us well, then we must be intentional in extinguishing negative and unhealthy chatter in our brains.

Speaking God’s truth out loud in the face of unwanted thoughts forces our minds to zero in on every word, thus ending the noise attempting to slay us. Coming up with a game plan in advance postures us for victory.  The past few weeks, I’ve mentally shouted “capture” at the slightest hint of a wrong thought. And my voice was constantly on repeat; however, I am finding I don’t easily entertain those negative thoughts to self like I used to. I’m finally taking captive what wasn’t serving me well.

Capture never sounded more beautiful….the perfect way to keep our thoughts aligned with God’s.

“Father, You have equipped us with minds capable of creativity, innovation and cultivating deep truths. Help us to actively capture any thoughts which don’t glorify you or serve us well.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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