Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 18, 2020

Nothing’s Changed

“I am the LORD, and I do not change.” Malachi 3:6

You hear it constantly. Things like, “This is the new norm,” and “it’ll never be the same,” and, of course, “everything’s changed.”

Yes, this is most certainly true when we look around at our circumstances. In fact, I don’t even know what would be on a list of aspects of our lives, culture, nation, and world that aren’t different. (I’ve been doing my best to live under a proverbial rock, and I still hear way more than I want to.)

The key word regarding all this change/transformation/metamorphosis/transition is “around.” When we keep our focus on the world (which, by the way, is the dominion of our enemy), it is so easy to be overcome and overwhelmed. Fear, anger, discouragement, and pain will soon follow. Oh, and lots of tears.

Sisters, let me remind you that there is good news—no amazing news!

NOTHING. HAS. CHANGED.

When we stop looking around and start looking up, oh, how our perspective can shift. Our nation and lives are in turmoil, but God is not. The temporal things of earth are failing, but eternity remains intact. Our suffering and fear and pain in this life are for a moment—the blink of an eye…our joy will last forever. Things may seem hopeless now, but we can abound in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit in us and the promise of our eternity with the Lord.

Keep these Biblical reminders close to your heart:

• Our Sovereign God is still on the throne. (Psalm 29:10)
• Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8)
• The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of heaven and earth. He does not faint or grow weary. (Isaiah 40:28)
• God remains faithful (even when we are not). (2 Timothy 2:13)
• There is NO ONE like our God. (Isaiah 46:9)
• Our Lord is the Rock—unshakable, unbreakable. (Deuteronomy 32:4)
• God is always just and upright. His works are perfect. (Deuteronomy 32:4)
• The Lord God is the Alpha and Omega—the first and the last, the beginning and the end of all things. (Revelation 22:13)
• The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. (Lamentations 3:22)
• All majesty, power, and authority forever belong to God. And all glory and praise—from before time, now, and beyond all time—belong to Jesus Christ, our Savior. (Jude 25)

Drop the mic—I mean, “Amen.”

“Lord, You make it very clear that, despite what we see changing around us, You are the same. As I struggle with what’s going on around me, help me rest in this Truth.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 17, 2020

When Regrets Become Powerless

“I tell you, her sins – and they are many – have been forgiven…” Luke 7:47a (NCV)

A person on a mission is evident by their body language and tenacity. No matter what…their mind is set. Nobody or thing is going to derail their assignment…especially if it’s personal. This courageous woman (Luke 7:36-48) didn’t knock on the door; she “came in” Simon’s house and interrupted supper. She probably took a deep breath as she maneuvered her way through the crowd holding her alabaster jar. She heard the whispers knowing some of the gossip was true. Nevertheless, her eyes were fixed on the Lord as she politely said, “Excuse me, but you can’t help me…I’m here to see Jesus.” Finally reaching Him must of felt like an eternity with the snares and dares. She broke open the seal on her offering pouring out all her many sins on the head of Jesus. Falling at His feet as her tears flowed using her hair as a towel…kissing the feet of her Savior.

This woman is unnamed because we all have an alabaster jar filled with life’s oil of past mistakes and regrets. Only Jesus and you know the expense of the oil in your alabaster jar and how much was truly paid for your forgiveness. Jesus has deemed your sins powerless to berate or disqualify you. When judgement raises its ugly head just remember…your alabaster jar was broken at the feet of Jesus. It was smashed into a million little pieces, so it could never be used against you again. Your expensive perfumed oil of “Please forgive me” flowed down the head of Jesus as a declaration of repentance. He has forgiven you! Your past faults have been paid for in full.

“Thank you Father, You willingly except our heartfelt remorse. Your love transforms our broken clay jars into beautiful vessels. Lives filled with testimonies of Your love and power to forgive. It’s humbling to think You use our Good News testimonies to impact our little worlds around us.”

For His Glory

Kim Lacey Schock (www.kimlaceyschock.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 16, 2020

It’s Getting Real

“And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word.” Acts 4:29

I am 53 years old. I have been blessed to live in this great nation my entire life, enjoying American liberties and the privilege of free speech. And I have been a Christ-follower for 23 years. Over the past two decades, as I’ve talked about Jesus to others and given a reason for my hope (1 Peter 3:15), my words have sometimes been accepted and other times, ignored. Sometimes, I’ve lost friends—or potential friends—because of speaking the Truth of the Gospel in love. But those words have always been allowed.

This is changing fast.

Our brothers and sisters in Christ around the country are not just being disagreed with when they speak Truth. They are being shouted down (by the monster of social media or face to face), threatened, kicked out of organizations, fired from their jobs—canceled.

Make no mistake: Christian persecution in the United States of America is getting real.

I’ve often written about being bold for our faith. For standing firm on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sure, speaking the Truth is scary! It requires courage that only comes from our rootedness in the Word and by the power of the Holy Spirit. And there’s always been risk…loss of a friendship, strained or damaged family ties, discomfort and mocking at work—I’ve been there.

But as our nation, which was built upon a foundation of religious freedom and diversity of ideas, is being rapidly redirected and transformed by mob-mentality, the “risk” of being a Christian in America is greater than ever. What has been the norm around the world throughout all of history is becoming our reality. Fundamental persecution with devastating consequences has stormed the beaches of America.

It is time to dig deeper into the Word of God as our solid foundation of Truth—because everything else is just shifting sands. And, although the risk is huge, we have to muster more courage than ever to stand our ground, kneeling to no one but Jesus Christ.

As I write these words, I’m thinking, “Lord, am I strong enough to profess my faith in You, regardless of the consequences? Am I prepared to lose my job, reputation—life?” These are questions I never thought I’d have to ask myself in my country and in my lifetime. Yet, here we are.

Sisters, are you ready?

“Lord, prepare my mind and heart to stand firm on the Gospel Truth and not be ashamed. Despite the risk, help me be brave.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 15, 2020

When Wantings Steal Our Joy

“But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.” I Timothy 6:5-7 (ESV)

Wanting what others have never serves us well. Why? Because wantings left unchecked can easily override our joy. They steal away contentment and leave us with a sense of rejection, unworthiness and emptiness. You don’t have to go far into scripture before you see the devastation of wantings gone bad. Sarai wanted children like the other moms, so she allowed her wantings to led her away from God’s perfect plan. Plan B, giving her handmaid to her husband, seemed good for the taking but quickly backfired.

Leah and Rachel’s wantings drove these two sisters apart. Leah wanted Jacob’s love so birthing children became her cupid’s arrow. Jacob’s profound love for Rachel should have dazzled her eyes, but her gaze was fixed on Leah and envy consumed her. Contentment was nowhere to be found among these competitive sisters who longed for what the other had.

Joseph’s brothers wanted to be their father’s (Jacob) favorite. When those wantings weren’t fulfilled, jealousy convinced them to sell Joseph into slavery. Perceived rejection on their part resulted in deeply embedded family wounds.

The Children of Israel wanted freedom from Egypt but they didn’t want the discomforts found wandering in the wilderness. Complaints freely flowed from their lips because their wantings weren’t being met. Years later we find them wanting what everyone else had – a king – instead of trusting God to be their Deliverer and Redeemer.

We can blame our tendencies to covet others’ things to social media, but God knows it really started the moment we entertained the thought we’d been overlooked. We fixed our gaze on others’ stuff and found ourselves lacking. Or perhaps it wasn’t stuff but better jobs, cuter spouses or perfect children that drew us to reframe our lives in a nonfavorable way. We didn’t really need Facebook or Twitter to enlighten our senses – we just allowed “less than” thoughts to steal away our joy.

Contentment is a beauty worth seeking. It shouts gratitude, fulfillment and peace. It gives voice to trust, confidence and surrender. It embraces total freedom found in God alone. It overflows from the heart of one who is satisfied with the more than enough that God provides.

Nothing serves us better …nothing protects our hearts like the sweetness of contentment.

“Father, our view can easily distort Your goodness leaving us lacking and empty inside. Teach us the power of true contentment found in You alone.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Gratitude, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 12, 2020

Fostering Growth

“Teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:20a (HCSB)

Awkward doesn’t even describe it well when we attempt something we’ve never done before. Everyone else makes it look effortless, simple and easy. So we decide we can do it too and then the hard work kicks in. If it’s beginning an exercise routine, you can guarantee soreness will follow a few days later. If it’s a new job, you will experience moments of being overwhelmed with all the new information. Regardless of our attempt at new, the trick is to not give up when new seems more than we can tackle.

Ever wondered if new believers feel this way? For those of us who were raised in the church and have been following Jesus for years, the Christian life is engrained in us. But for new believers it can be quite daunting. Simply flipping through the sticky pages of a new Bible and not landing where the preacher is teaching can be enough intimidation to not open those pages during the week. Listening to a group of believers praying eloquently and effortlessly can easily silence the voice of those who just accepted Christ. Attending Bible Study and being challenged by the “Christian slang” can make one feel excluded.

To be honest, we feel so comfortable in our own skin, we don’t often think about others especially the newbies. Walking alongside a new believer is a beautiful experience and it’s not optional. Jesus left us with specific instructions: “Go and make disciples. Teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you (Matthew 28:16-20). So what can we do to help foster growth for those new in their faith?

Recognize discipling others is an act of obedience – we are to be active participants in helping others grow in their faith. Ask God to reveal to you someone who you can encourage.

Invest time in helping new believers learn their Bible and how to find passages.

Invite a new believer into one on one prayer time. Share how God has taught you about prayer and the simplicity and privilege of conversation with Him.

Explain clichés known to all Christians but foreign to newbies.

Share your own personal faith journey and how God has faithfully led you each step of the way. Don’t gloss over difficulties – choose to be authentic and real so they will gain a greater understanding of God’s grace and love.

Treat newbies with grace – spiritual growth is a process, and we need to patiently walk alongside those who are pursuing a relationship with Jesus.

Recognize discipleship is not a solitary journey – Jesus promises He is with us always to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). Don’t miss out on a chance to invest in the life of a new believer.

“Father, Your plan was never for us to do life alone. Thank You for the gift of those who made an investment in my spiritual journey.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Success

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 11, 2020

How Great Is He

“For He whom God has sent [Jesus] speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure.” (John 3:34 NKJV)

Aren’t there some conversations you just want to share with someone? Recently in our life group, we were discussing a headline. One of us had read that we generally feel closest to one person of the Trinity: Father, Son or Holy Spirit. Upon reflection, several expressed feeling closest to Jesus. In fact, for one, tears flowed effortlessly as precise details were given of each miracle performed, teaching offered and sacrifice made. God felt a bit elusive for some. Difficult to comprehend. And the Holy Spirit, a mystery and not well understood. Misunderstandings and misuses represented reasons to forego exploration. We were all left wondering if we were missing out on something. Of our own doing, not God’s.

God can be difficult to grasp or define. He transcends anything the human mind can conceive. Out of reverence, in Jewish tradition, one does not pronounce aloud any of the names for God except when reading the Torah or in prayers. And, once having written the Name of God, Jewish law prohibits the erasing or defacing of any name for God. God has been given many names throughout the Old Testament that show indeed, there is no one like Him!

And because of Jesus’ sacrifice we can access this very same God. Through Jesus we see the character of God. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who came to earth with the mission to restore our relationship to God. Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith and as such, is the head of the church. Knowing His time on earth was limited, Jesus assures his disciples that “Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you.” (John 16:7b NIV)

Amongst many gifts Jesus has given us, one is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the witness that we are God’s children. The Holy Spirit dwells in us and is our counselor, teacher, guide into all truth and giver of new life.

And so, my encouragement is that each of us who bears the name Christian may reflect on the role of each person of the Trinity. Let us come to more fully know the character and role of each. In so doing, may we claim the richness and inheritance that is ours to powerfully declare His name to a world longing for truth and direction.

“Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I need You. All of You. May Your greatness be revealed through me so that others might see your Glory and turn their hearts to You.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 10, 2020

Count It All Joy

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4

I don’t know about you, but joy isn’t typically my ”go-to” emotion when I find myself in trying circumstances. But, over the years trial after trial has confirmed that hardships are fertile ground for growth. I have also seen that this growth—being complete, lacking in nothing—isn’t guaranteed, it is merely one possible outcome. So what differentiates suffering that produce growth from trials that are just trials?

James points out several things that lead to the trials that produce joy. First, he says that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. In order for your faith to be tested, you must have faith. So without faith, trials can’t produce spiritual growth. Second, you must steadfastly cling to that faith. Recently while studying this passage in a group, someone pointed out the word “let” and that changed everything about how I read this passage. We are not passive in the process of maturing through trials. We must choose to let, or allow, our steadfast faith to have its full effect.

What does this process of “letting” steadfastness have its full effect look like? I am predisposed to grumble when I find myself in unfavorable circumstances. So, for me, this often looks like trusting God enough to accept that He is in control of the trials that come into my life and, based on that, holding my tongue and quieting my grumbling thought. Accepting that God is allowing this trial for His glory and my ultimate good. Lingering on that word “let” and recognizing that whatever this “letting” looks like for you, it is hard but fruitful work.

So, let’s trust God when we cannot see what He is doing. Trust God when we feel like He is not even there. Unwavering faith; steadfastness that leads to joy. The contentment we have when we, in Christ, are lacking in nothing. Because He is our everything.

“Lord, thank you for the trials you allow into our lives. Help us to “let” them produces the growth you desire to see in us.”

For His Glory

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 9, 2020

Satan Is Having A Field Day

“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

I’m not sure if schools today still have field day. When I was young—and when my kids were young—field day was awesome. A whole day outside, unconfined by classroom walls. Running, jumping, shouting. While there was some structure (organized games and rotation order, for instance), the day was about as close as a free-for-all as one could get at school.

With that explanation, it’s no surprise that the expression, “They’re having a field day,” is used to describe someone who has abandoned all order and expectations to do whatever they want, how they want—no holds barred.

I don’t know about you, but that’s exactly how I see that nasty enemy of our souls behaving right now. Oh, don’t get me wrong, Satan’s always a jerk—scheming, lying, prowling around ready to pounce. But all we have to do is look at what’s happening in our nation today to recognize that he is having a free-for-all.

Amid the images of anger, hate, and destruction, you can almost get glimpses of him in the background, his faced contorted by a malevolent and satisfied grin. You can hear his voice, almost like a ventriloquist, behind the vitriolic shouts (literal or digital) between once-upon-a-time friends.

What’s worse, he can also be found within our own four walls right now—in our Jesus-loving homes that should be havens of agape love and spiritual safety. He is using the external anger, uncertainty, and emotional panic (an environment I wholeheartedly believe he has created) to get a foothold in Christian families. And he is creating havoc.

I’ve talked with several friends engaged in full-on home combat. And my own family had quite a week, and we’re all recovering from battle fatigue as I write this. We must put an end to the enemy’s field day. As much as it depends on us, sisters, we must restore order and peace within our homes.

The battle is on—it always has been and always will be until Jesus returns. So, let’s put on the armor of God and make it a priority to protect ourselves and loved ones from the enemy. He hates you. He hates me. Do not let him win.

“Lord, protect our minds and hearts from the schemes of the enemy. Maintain harmony within our families…and bring peace to our world.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Success

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 8, 2020

God Loves All The World

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (ESV)

Have to admit I greatly miss having a Christian bookstore in town. I’m one of those nerdy readers who love to touch the pages of a book. Browsing up and down the aisles, I can spend hours checking out my next best read. And the first thing that always caught my eye was a compelling and beautiful cover. It drew me in like frosting on the sweetest cupcake ever. Totally delish to read – a story unraveling page by page.

Wonder how many times I missed a bestseller simply because the cover was different than the norm? Probably passed by many excellent books which where squeezed in with famous authors’ elaborate designs and completely missed out. Last summer, I read one of those Plain Jane covered books and found the most beautiful story packed full of truth and inspiration.

You just simply can’t judge a book by its cover, and the same is ever so true with people. We’ve all met individuals who look different from us. We’ve seen their tattooed covered skin and summarized their lack of character. We’ve distanced ourselves from those who clothes are torn, dirty and leave a distinct odor as they walk by. We’ve turned and walked a different way to avoid different which stirs fear within us. Sounds a lot like judging doesn’t it? Deciding on character, integrity, and intentions without choosing to entertain or invite different.

We all want to be included, accepted, invited and definitely not judged. No one desires to be viewed as unworthy of our conversation or interaction. Yet, we often default to keeping ourselves away from those who aren’t exactly like us.

“All” is one of the most beautiful words because it never excludes anyone. Jesus portrayed it best as He walked on this earth. He loved all. Came for all. Reached out to all. Wasn’t afraid of different. Never distanced Himself from anyone. Why? Because His Father loves us all. He created each and everyone of us uniquely different – all colors, sizes, backgrounds, preferences, etc. – we are beautiful and worthy in the eyes of our Creator. And the best way, we can demonstrate our love for God is to love all without reservation or judgement.

“Father, forgive us for moments when we choose not to love others. Show us who we need to extend love to and help us to decide judgement is better left in Your hands.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Love, Mercy, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 5, 2020

Winning The Battle

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” I Peter 5:8 (ESV)

War movies are definitely not my fave to watch. I’m more of a Hallmark movie perfectly predictable ending kinda girl. Love and romance are far more appealing than blood, gore and fighting. Keeping the peace is my style, but sometimes we must ignite our souls for the battle, especially when Satan is the one seeking to defeat us.

I love the way Roman soldiers prepared for battle against their enemy. Strategically, they grabbed their shields in formation for the “tortoise” mode. Soldiers on the front battle line held their shields in front of them edge to edge connecting themselves together. Additional soldiers kept the sides protected edge to edge. And troops in the middle balanced their shields on their helmets. The “tortoise” game plan kept them totally protected from an enemy attack – like a turtle protected by its shell. And if that weren’t enough protection, the Romans drenched their leather covered shields with water ensuring the fiery darts of the enemy couldn’t penetrate them. Quite the battle plan and very effective as long as they stayed together and kept their shields in place.

While I have never been in a war, as a child of God I am always a moving target for Satan’s fiery darts. Choosing our default for peace will not work against this enemy. He needs to be eliminated, extinguished and removed from our path. Like a hunter seeking His prey, Satan waits for just the right time of vulnerability to seize his attack. And the “tortoise” mode is one way we can ensure victory. When we choose to hold up our shield drenched in God’s faithfulness and lock arms with others, we create a mighty fortress that even Satan can’t break through. Saturating our shield of faith in His word we are no match for the enemy’s schemes, and God’s mighty power is unleashed when we choose to trust in His unfailing word.

Sweet friends, we must always be prepared, actively watching and alert to the traps of Satan. Armed for battle. Abiding, remaining and clinging to our God. Surrounding ourselves with those who are willing to lock arms and proclaim God’s truth against the attacks of the enemy. We are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus!

“Father, when the enemy seeks to slay us may we draw closer to You and stand firmly on Your truth.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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

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