Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 4, 2020

Love Harder

“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” John 13:34

We live in a fallen world
among fallen people.
There is evil.
And it comes in every color.
When evil rises to kill and destroy
because it will,
Don’t paint everyone
in that category or system
as evil.
That’s what the enemy of our souls
wants you to think.
It creates division.
That’s his plan.

Hate exists.
And it acts.
But, in response, we must
love harder
(not hate louder).
Keep loving.
Because when we respond to hate
with more hate
we are divided
and evil wins.

How can we love harder?
Be a light.
Be salt.
Words won’t matter—
no one’s listening right now
(they’re too busy shouting).

Love like Jesus loved.
Serve like Jesus served.
Forgive like Jesus forgave.
Jesus is the only Answer
to hate—
the only Healer
of division.

“Lord, help me hold my tongue and take action to love harder in this time of so much hate.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | June 3, 2020

From Emptiness To Abundance

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” Isaiah 61:1 (NIV)

We’ve all been there; each in her own way. Discouraged, at rope’s end: no hope; desperate; alone. Our efforts were supposed to result in fruit. Our faith was sure to bring forth a happy ending. But the end appears to be here and it’s not happy. Oh yes, even those of the Bible had days like this.

The widow in 2 Kings was no ordinary woman. In a land overtaken with evil, her husband had set himself apart as one of the company of the prophets, a loyal follower of God. She likely was accustomed to hearing of God’s heart towards His people. Knowing full well God’s compassion on His people and the efforts taken to free His children from Egyptian slavery. But now, her husband deceased, the creditors were coming to take her sons into a slavery of their own.

The answer? Empty jars. Her own and her neighbors; all that could be found. Inviting others to participate in God’s workings. In obedience, the emptiness was gathered.

And shemen flowed. Shemen, the Hebrew word for oil, is used 192 times in the Old Testament. Oil was a sign of the Lord’s blessing. Sanctification practices and consecrations of priests included the anointing of oil. Oil was symbolic of the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Empty. Pour. Set aside. Empty. Pour. Set aside. Bring the emptiness. Watch the pouring of oil. And continue. Each and every jar filled. From emptiness to abundance. The widow had enough funds to pay her debts and future expenses. There would be no slavery for this family.

Rather than effort and expectations, may it be our emptiness that we bring to the Lord. In obedience, may we follow His commands and statutes. Allow ourselves to be filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit: pure, stable and holy. And each good fruit will become ours. Faith to see the inexplicable will become a way of life. And, freedom will prevent our captivity.

“Father, you are a Good and Holy God who wants only the best for me. The answers lie not in my own understanding but in You. Holy Spirit fill me that I would have no lack.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 29, 2020

When Change Seems Unthinkable

“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV)

Ever find yourself reciting those things which are absolutely unchangeable for you? Words we’ve echoed firmly, “I can’t …… I won’t.” Feet firmly planted on a resounding no because attempting different or making a change seems unthinkable. Or is it really?

Since early March, the unchangeable has been experienced by us all. Worship has transitioned from sitting inside a church building to facing a laptop for live streaming. Our job, for many of us, has moved from the office to working remotely from home. For other essential workers, the change evolved into increased safety precautions, long hours and new protocol. For our children, the classroom became our living room and homeschooling took on a new respect. Eating out, shopping and any of those normal activities evaporated quickly.

Yes, a lot has changed in the past few months – all things we had no control over. Crazy how we learned to adapt and gained new perspectives. Have to admit, I definitely have a greater appreciation for simple pleasures. Miss my co-workers. Gained patience in sharing my office space with my sweet husband.
Pulled out old board games. Planned meals and enjoyed sweet solitude. And the gym I frequented weekly is now a quick few steps to my living room exercise routine.

Change is definitely doable and opens the door for growth – ultimately a good thing. While none of us would want a re-do of the past few months, we have found ourselves more resilient than we probably thought. So why do we still adamantly resist making a shift from norm to different?

Talking ourselves into moving away from routine and familiar to embrace different is scary uncharted territory. We get so comfortable with us and our defaults – even the thought of change screams hard. We resist, negotiate and often defy those areas of our life which desperately need changing. Stubbornly we echo I can’t….I won’t. Yet with Gods’ help, He knows we can. And the best part, we don’t have to wonder where to start. God gently nudges, highlights and teaches us of those things which don’t align with His will. He is the One who will enable and empower us every step of the way to cultivate godly living – a radical transformation we never thought possible.

“Father, my old ways never seem to serve me well. Cultivate within me a heart which embraces change and transformation so I will reflect You to all I meet.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 28, 2020

Leading With Kindness

“You must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way.” 1 Peter 3:15-16a

I am convinced that on May 19 there was an amazing celebration in heaven, one which included millions of people that would not otherwise have been present if not for the guest of honor: Ravi Zacharias. (If you are not aware of this incredible apologist-evangelist, please check out his ministry website at rzim.org.) There are also countless YouTube videos of Ravi debating the great atheists of our culture, as well as answering thousands of questions from lost and misled students. One thing you will notice, even after watching just a few clips, is that Ravi Zacharias consistently spoke to audiences and adversaries with kindness.

You can listen to podcasts of those close to him and read articles of many whose lives were impacted by him, and you will see a pattern within the memorial commentary. Ravi’s life was marked by his humility, respect of others, and a sincere desire to connect personally. He was intentional and passionate in his desire to see others come to know the love, forgiveness, and grace of Jesus. And all around the globe, his harvest was great.

You and I may not be renowned apologists—we may even be terrified to witness to our next-door neighbor. But we are all leaders, demonstrating to the world what it means to be a Christian. And we can learn from the example set by this great man of God, as he lived each day surrendered to follow the example of Jesus. Here are a few reminders for us all:

• Be gentle and respectful when sharing the Gospel…or ordering food from a waitress. (1 Peter 3:16)
• Be kind because you never know what battles another person is fighting, and your kindness may save the day—or a life. (Ephesians 4:32)
• Be humble. Throughout God’s Word, we are called to be servants, show humility, and avoid the dangers of pride.
• Love sincerely. Look upon others—all others—as they truly are: holy creations in the image of God. What better motivation is there to put love in action with sincerity? (Romans 12:9)
• Have a heart for the lost. It’s so easy to feel indifferent (or even a bit delighted) when thinking about the eternal fate of evil people. But the Lord does not want anyone to perish (2 Peter 3:9), nor should we. After all, we were once “evil” and without hope—am I right?

Again, if you’re not familiar with Ravi Zacharias, please take some time to listen to, watch, or read his teachings, presentations, and debates. Since he was converted at age 17 after attempting suicide, he relentlessly served the Lord and pursued the lost. You are sure to be inspired.

“Lord, help me to always be gentle, kind, and respectful in my words and actions, faithfully representing You to others around me.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 27, 2020

Faith In Action

“But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” James 2:18 (ESV)

Since saying “I do” thirty-three years ago, my husband and I have moved a lot. We have belonged to nine different churches and it has been fascinating to identify the cultural differences and then watch how they play out in the activity of the church. Each of these churches were Bible-believing, Christ-honoring churches with the same core belief that we are saved through faith, not of own doing or as the result of works, that no one may boast. (Ephesian 2:8-9). Yet, each of these churches was known for the “works” they did within their respective communities. The works may have looked different, but they were always a visible part of the life of each church.

This is how James explains the relationship between faith and works. “But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works”. James 2:18 (ESV). Works are not the path to salvation, but rather evidence of saving faith. Because, there is another kind of faith, or belief, in God. James 2:19 says, “You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!” This is merely an intellectual faith—a nod to the existence of God, without trusting Him for salvation. This is what James calls dead faith, faith without works. (James 2:17)

I love the coffee cup analogy. If someone bumps into me while I am drinking coffee, what gets spilled? Coffee, right? Because that is what is in my cup. In the same way, when life bumps into us, whatever is in us is what spills out. If we have been filled with the Spirit of God through faith, then the fruit of the Spirit should be evident even in our messy works. But what if your cup isn’t quite full so nothing is spilling out? Doesn’t matter if you view your cup as “half full” or “half empty” because your cup is refillable! So keep filling your cup with Scripture, the knowledge of God’s grace towards us, and times of praise and worship, fellowshipping with the one true God. Then show your faith, by your grace-soaked works, to a world that desperately needs to see faith in action.

“Lord, help me diligently refill my cup with your love and grace so that those who bump into me today get splashed with You. And let my works be evidence of my saving faith in You.”

For His Glory

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 26, 2020

Convicted By The Unconscionable

“For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Galatians 5:13

I need to share a secondhand experience. Not to gossip, but to serve as an example—a burst of revelation akin to seeing the brightest explosion of fireworks that in mere moments burns out to blackness. Therefore, the names (and entire setting) have been changed to protect the guilty.

There are so many levels of horror in this scenario. But each aspect of the wrong provides a reflective surface, allowing me—and us as professing Christians—to assess our own behaviors as we walk through the world. I’ll address this situation using a series of negative questions.

1) Do we use our actions and/or words to intentionally shame and embarrass others? This could be pointed at the person we’re directly interacting with…or, because of the way we’re interacting with some third person (shouting at or shaming them), we embarrass the one(s) we’re with. How is this representing Jesus?

2) Are we unaware of those around us who might be (well, they are) looking at us to personify a “Christian”? Do we act like the world (or worse) and then expect those witnesses to want anything to do with Christ?

3) Worse, do we act like the world (or worse) in front of young Christians who may be looking to us to exemplify what it means to be a mature Christian? Do we care that those harsh words or actions could cause someone on the fence to jump off on the side without Jesus and walk away?

4) Do we forget that we are called to be leaders and shepherds (whether it’s to our children, friends, or a massive organization), and that our behavior imprints on those we lead—especially the negative behavior? I like using the analogy of baking a delicious cake and using just a teaspoon of dog poop—I know, gross. Clearly, that small additive ruins the whole cake. And no matter how beautiful it looks, how many layers of enticing icing are added, those witnesses know it’s full of, well, you know.

Convicted? Yeah, me too.

Sisters, if we profess to love the Lord and His Word, let’s focus daily on reflecting that in our actions. Will we slip up? Of course! Will we shout in anger or say the wrong thing? Absolutely! But how we live—at work, at home, at play—must always be filtered through the glorious righteousness bestowed on us through the precious blood of Jesus.

“Lord, remind me every day to share Your love through my life. Help me to not turn others away from You but bring them closer.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

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Posted in Attitude, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 25, 2020

When Minimal Seeks To Define Us

“And I (God) have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence with knowledge and all craftsmanship to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.” Exodus 31:3-6 (ESV)

“I’m just a ______________ (fill in the blank). Quite easy to regulate ourselves to a title or job. I’m just a stay at home mom. I’m just a secretary. I’m just a waitress. I’m just a teacher. I’m just a single woman. I think we all get the point. The “I’m just” statements minimizes the very essence of God’s divine work within us.

When God instructed Moses on how to construct the tabernacle, He gave specific instructions. And when it came to who was to help, God didn’t leave out any details. And the best part was when he reminded Moses that He had filled these men with the Spirit of God. All of their gifts and abilities were empowered by God’s Spirit flourishing within them. Everything they brought to the table was not their own talents, but those entrusted to them by their Creator God which made them accomplished craftsmen.

We, sweet friends, are no different. Whatever our title (mom, secretary, waitress, teacher, single woman, etc), we are not minimal in the eyes of God. We are remarkably and wonderfully made (Psalm 139). Destined for great works. The very moment we accepted Christ into our heart, His Spirit took up residence in us. Regardless of our skillset and education, it is God’s Spirit infusing us with divine abilities and equipping us to fulfill the role He has for each of us.

People may label us or tag us as insignificant. We may latch on to those titles and own them, but God desires for us to embrace His equipping. Without Him we can do nothing. When we finally come to grips with His power working within us then we no longer see minimal. Long gone are the “I’m just” statements. All that we are, all we accomplish is a direct reflection of His Spirit working within us.

I’m a wife, mother, daughter, executive assistant, writer and lover of God – one who puts doubts of her own significance aside for the glory of pleasing her God. Covered by grace for those moments when minimal still seeks to slay me.

“Father, help us to not lean on our own abilities, but to welcome Your Spirit’s indwelling work with us.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 22, 2020

Below The Surface

“Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.” Proverbs 3:17 (NIV)

The dreaded confrontation – no one eagerly embraces conflict. In fact, we often bury it deep in hopes that it will never resurface again. Ever done that? We want what we want now. We know the best way to do the task – to accomplish the goal – our way is the most productive way. We like things the way they are – we don’t want to change or compromise. And so underneath all those wants, we shrug our shoulders, stomp off and give in for the sake of harmony on the surface. Deep below nothing could be further from the truth – boiling conflict always rises back up.

So why do we so avoid dealing with tough differences? Is it the fear of being wrong? Or perhaps it’s just the admitting that we don’t know how to maneuver through to a win-win. Maybe avoiding the issues convinces us to falsely believe that not talking about it will somehow ensure a safe resolution.

Conflict quickly resolved has the potential to quickly dissolve. Conflict left to simmer has the potential to continuously overheat.

The best way to face differences is found on bended knee. When we bring conflict before a Holy God, who sees and knows all things, we can trust Him to show us how to respond. Humility has a way of unveiling impure motives and levels the debater. It reminds us that God has always been the instigator of unity even in the midst of opposing opinions.

Gaining the advantage, dominating and asserting our authority without consulting God will either escalate the issues or squelch the voice of one. Wouldn’t it serve us better if we honestly listened to God and others? Choosing to let go of self and determined that resolving a present issue would strengthen the relationship.

Never met anyone who regretted working through to reach win-win.

“Sweet Jesus, we lose sight of You when we focus on us – what we want. Help our eyes to always focus upward and seek peace even in the midst of conflict.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Love, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 21, 2020

What Makes You Bold?

 

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15

Maybe it’s because I’ve been alone for 24 hours in my house (which generally isn’t the case). But, despite the waves of blaring praise music and inspiring podcasts and complete silence, I am a bit melancholy. I glance up from my laptop at shelved family photos of my parents and two handsome brothers—photos I see every day sitting in this same spot. Today, though, I’m overcome by rush of sadness.

See, my mom died 25 years ago—actually, I am right now the same age as she was when she left this world. My dad died 13 years later…and my oldest brother will be gone 10 years this Thanksgiving. And today is his birthday. Both my mom and brother died very suddenly; but I was given the opportunity to talk with my Dad about death and fear and hope and Jesus. And for that I am eternally grateful.

I say all that to offer up some questions: Who do you need to talk with about Jesus? Why are you waiting? Is it a family member? Your best friend? A coworker? Are you thinking things like, “Well, I’ll witness through my actions,” or “I don’t want to preach at them, because I might lose the relationship,” or “I’m afraid I won’t be able to answer their arguments”?

Sisters, I am right there with you. But let me say—to you and to myself—we must find what makes us bold.

For me, today, in this weird emotional place I’m in, it was hearing that a dear lifelong family friend is in the hospital (not COVID-related). I know for a fact he has not trusted Jesus as His Savior. I know he struggles with the existence of God. And although I’ve been privileged with the opportunity to share my faith walk, send him books, and email links to the great apologists, he has not surrendered his doubt. And he lies in a hospital bed—alone because of COVID-19—in pain, depressed, and afraid. This makes me bold.

Because writing is my thing, I composed a long plea and emailed it to him. No holds barred. Because, what if he doesn’t make it out of the hospital? I pressed “send” and I prayed.

So, what if today is last opportunity for you to share with your family member, bestie, or coworker? What if, like with my mom and brother, you are awakened by a phone call telling you they’re gone—and you lose your chance? None of us knows when we’ll take our last breath.

It’s time to be bold, sisters. Let’s share the reason for our hope. How can we not?

“Lord, give me boldness to share the Truth of who You are and what You’ve done—time is of the essence.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 20, 2020

An Assignment From Jesus

“They were completely amazed and said again and again, “Everything He does is wonderful. He even makes the deaf to hear and gives speech to those who cannot speak.” (Mark 7:37 NIV)

Biblical accounts of miracles. Loved since childhood. Jesus heals a man of leprosy and the man was quick to spread the news. Jesus asked the man with a shriveled hand to stand in front of the crowd. Jesus healed so all could see. The man possessed by demons was told to tell his family what the Lord had done. And Bartimaeus, not ashamed to cry out to Jesus, receives his sight. Freedom restored. Health made whole. Acceptance regained. Ready to follow Jesus.

In some manner, some fashion, each of us has an area of life that has been wounded. Unavoidable in a world of fallen condition. Perhaps healed in quiet. Perhaps waiting for healing fully aware of the fragile state of our condition. Wondering if people can see the scar our soul carries. From time to time the hurt that causes more hurt. The good news today is that Jesus heals.

And when Jesus heals, or when we’re expectantly waiting for the healing, what do we do? I’ve heard from others the exact same agony that I’ve heard in my own mind: God can’t use me. Each time I hear this phrase, something inside cringes. I’ve learned it’s a lie. It’s a lie told to me and it’s a lie told to my brothers and sisters in Christ. I know where it comes from: Satan. Our adversary. The prince of death and destruction. He wants to stop the very thing the Lord has commissioned. The telling of the miracle of freedom, restoration and grace paid for by Jesus, the King of kings. Dear one, God can use you. We need not remain quiet about what He has and can do, but we must readily tell. Tell the wonder of the Lord.

This is how He will use us. Our story. Our healing. Our hope. A hope that never fails and never forsakes. Righteousness revealed from the beginning of time. As the clock moves forward to the global revealing of the one true Savior, we must refuse to be quiet.

“Father, may I acknowledge the miracles that Jesus has done in my life. May I see the opportunities that You provide to declare my amazement to those around. May my words glorify You and be used to draw others to Christ.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

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