Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 27, 2020

They Made It Look So Easy

“Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with their whole heart.” Psalm 119:2 (ESV)

Spent one Sunday afternoon at the shooting range – yes, me little Annie Oakley! My husband is teaching me how to shoot a pistol. So before we got to the range, I thought this is going to be a piece of cake. A pistol is so much easier than a shotgun – no real kickback. Easier to aim, I thought – not so. TV makes it look ever so easy to shoot a gun. They run, jump, glance back and aim perfectly. Me, I was lucky to get a part of the target – easy it is not.

Same is true in so many areas of our lives – we think a task or goal is easy, breezy. We see the results in others and are confident we can do it until we attempt it. Then we realize it’s not as easy as it appears. My husband graciously reminded me it takes a lot of practice – we were there for the practice. Practice is a lot like discipline – we just have to keep at it until we achieve it.

Perhaps we’ve set some spiritual goals for the year or we’ve desired some changes thinking it’s gonna be easy, breezy but we didn’t count on the practice and discipline part. Or perhaps we’re discouraged about the work required for change and haven’t even made an attempt to strive towards anything.

Life always looks easier from a distance than upclose and personal…..where the real work resides. If we want to grow closer to God, then we’ve got to schedule time to study, memorize and mediate on His word. If we want to deepen our relationship with God, then we’ve got to carve in strategic time for prayer and quietness to hear His voice. If we want to share our faith in 2020, then we need to engage with others and accept open doors. Basically we’ve gotta put into practice the very things we desire, discipline ourselves to stay the course and embrace His grace for those moments we fall short.

We’re almost through the first month of 2020 – great time to reflect on how we want to grow and deepen our faith. There’s plenty of time to make the adjustments for hard work……which yields great results….you won’t be disappointed.

“Father, You reward those who diligently seek You and discipline themselves for godliness. Our faithfulness and obedience will not go unnoticed.”

For His Gory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Success

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 24, 2020

Sunday Morning – More Than A Tradition

“For zeal for your house has consumed me, and the reproaches of those who reproach you have fallen on me.” Psalm 69:9 (ESV)

One child in one arm and the other tagging behind barely clinging to my hand as we maneuvered the busy parking lot. Getting to church seemed like a gigantic accomplishment in my early parenting days. If someone didn’t spill their breakfast on their clothes, then the other one would definitely spill something on me. Quite the circus to just make it out the door.

By the time I landed in my seat and took a deep breath, my mind was all over the place. Perhaps you’ve felt that way too. Simply trying to recover. Interesting how many disasters, distractions and interruptions can evolve in just one Sunday morning regardless of our best laid plans.

Fast forward to our empty nester season and its’ a breeze to make our arrival but that doesn’t minimize the distractions. The familiarity of Sunday church can seem effortless and routine – simply the place we go each week. Walk in, shake a few hands, smile, sing, listen and go home. Another event penciled in on a crazy schedule – following hard after tradition.

Scrunched in the midst of a weekly checklist, church can be a place where we say all the right things, play the role and then resume our true self. It can become a casual event consumed with what’s in it for me or who will I see. We can rush in just like we rush through life and multitask through the sermon as we fill a seat with digital devices in hand.

Don’t quite think this is the way Jesus viewed God’s house. When moneychangers and sellers dominated the temple price-gouging, He didn’t waste time righting the wrong. Jesus’ passion to restore holiness and worship in the temple propelled Him to take immediate action.

What would He think of us today?

Sellers and money-changers we’re not, but dare we consider if our passion for His house has taken second seat to our agenda and entertainment. Keeping it real here do we prepare our hearts before entering God’s house? Do we get caught up in the emotion of song and rhythm rather than worshipping from an undivided heart devoted to His?

Sunday is coming sweet friend, and God’s been nudging my heart – step back, evaluate and enter His house with a renewed awe. Come with anticipation and eager to worship with all of our heart, soul and mind. A zeal for His house – a passion for His presence – not simply a ritual or habit to check off our list.

“Father remove the distractions, agendas and diversions which seek to steal away my heart from Yours.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 23, 2020

Rest

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Sisters, I don’t know about you, but sometimes I get so tired of running the race. Earning money to live, keeping up a home (cleaning, cooking, shopping, etc.), and managing our “little ones”—whether they’re in diapers, college debt, or divorce court. Then there’s the desire to serve the Lord and the associated activity (volunteering, working at church, etc.). Oh yeah, and there’s all the mental and emotional effort involved in trying to maintain relationships, remain healthy, and stay sane through it all.

So. Tired.

Too often, we turn our attention to things that we hope will remedy the exhaustion, like mind-numbing television shows or the latest best-selling novel. Worse yet, we self-medicate with food, alcohol, or drugs, which may bring temporary relief, but always—always—makes us ultimately feel worse.

So, where can we find rest for our weary souls?

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” He implores us to give Him our burdens and learn from Him. Sure, we can talk and shout and cry to Him, unloading our weighty worries. But how does the Lord talk back? How can we “learn from Him”? Sister, Jesus is the Word (John 1:1-4). He speaks to us through the 66 books of His love letter to us.

I know what you’re thinking…reading the Bible can easily become another to-do item on our already-long list. But it’s not meant to be! Time in God’s Word is designed to refresh us, renew our minds, and refuel our souls. Girls, God’s precious Word is the guidance we need as we navigate our life’s journey each and every day. It’s the cool glass of water handed to us as we propel ourselves along our race route.

The Bible—the very words of Lord and Savior, Jesus—is our hiding place (Psalm 32:7). And God’s Word is the glue that holds us together when we’re falling apart. Run there and find your rest.

“Lord, thank you for your Word. Let me run to it, not as a burdensome task, but as a shelter and refreshment in the race of life.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 22, 2020

Faithful Even In The Midst of Trouble

“Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.” Daniel 6:10 (NIV).

Daniel was doing fine in Jerusalem until king Nebuchadnezzar besieged it and took everyone into exile, including him. Then Daniel and some others were trained to serve the king in his court. While there, Daniel’s three friends were thrown into a fiery furnace. And what happened? They prayed to their God, the Lord Almighty, and nothing happened to them!!! They came out without wounds or burns.

Daniel kept his allegiance to the Lord, and he developed a gift for interpreting dreams. In all the troubles Daniel faced, God honored His faithfulness. Because the people were envious about his gifts and the fact that the king liked Daniel, some guys plotted against him. What’s next… right? He got sent to the lion’s den. All night long Daniel was shut in the den with those lions and not one of them harmed him. Daniel came out without scratches or bruises.

Get the picture? Daniel remained faithful to the Lord, and God honored him. He got into trouble, and God saw that he came out unharmed. Trials will always come, but if we remain faithful, God will see us through. Let’s look to Him; let’s seek Him; let’s be like Daniel, and not be ashamed to get down on our knees when trouble comes.

“Lord, sometimes we just get too scared about the lions and forget that You can shut their mouths and make them look like small kittens. Help us to trust in You like Daniel did and to not be afraid of fire or beasts, because we serve a God for whom nothing is impossible.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 20, 2020

This Little Light Of Mine

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5 (ESV)

With a simple breath, the candle’s flame was extinguished. What was once bright, flickering and welcoming was no more. The aroma lingered in the still air reminding us of its warmth and light. Maybe that’s why I’ve always loved candles – their silent brightness twinkling in the darkest of nights. The fragrant hue of simplicity mesmerizing us.

Reminds me of the eternal light, Jesus Christ, who came into this dark world illuminating truth and reflecting the very image of God. The only Light who can never be extinguished; darkness can never overcome Him. The world can dismiss Him, ridicule Him, ignore Him but they can never quench His presence.

And to those who put their faith and trust in Him, Jesus compels to shine bright – His very light living within us. A sparkling light drawing others to Jesus. A beacon of hope illuminating His love, wisdom, grace and forgiveness. A light shining ever so bright birthing glory to the Father.

Our world will offer us lots of imitations. Flashy brightness disguised as real but lacking much. Seeking to steal our attention and quiet our voice. Little flickers of pretense which are doused easily. Blending into darkness.

Best way to shine – to leave a sweet aroma – is to live the truth. To deliberately put on the new woman clothed in His righteousness. Full of compassion, kindness, humility and meekness. Wrapped in patience, forgiveness and love. Allowing God’s word to dwell (live) within us taking up residency in our old bodies transforming us to new. A welcomed flame mesmerizing others to want what we have – the light that is never hidden but forever shines bright.

Sweet friends if you find your light dim or barely a flame don’t lose hope. Even the tiniest little spark can birth forth the most glorious shine. Darkness of the soul can’t extinguish what God has placed deep within us. We are His, and He is ours. No one can take that away from us. So choose to fan the flame, ignite the spark and watch as God’s glory radiates through you.

“Father, I want this little light of my to shine, forever leading others to Your glorious light.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 17, 2020

Yielded To His Wisdom

“Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him. James 1:5 (HCSB)

How often do we dismiss the persistent feeling we have that something isn’t quite right? We slide back and forth between something is wrong to it’s probably nothing to worry about. Like a pendulum swinging carelessly wherever our thoughts land for the day. Eventually we rationalize our concerns or dive in deeper to uncover whatever doesn’t feel or look right.

Takes courage to face the truth especially if that truth unveils a dreaded conclusion. No one wants to admit they’re struggling just to get up and face another day. No one wants to share the devastating loss of a job, home or finances. No one shouts through a crowd that their marriage is falling apart. No one longs to disclose their child is behind bars. No one dances for joy when the doctor reveals a cancer diagnosis.
Tough truths that confirm our nagging feeling that something wasn’t right. Moments where we might be tempted to wonder if we’d paid closer attention to the warning signs would the results be the same.

When normal no longer looks or feels normal early detection is crucial. In the medical field it broadens our options and increases our chances of survival. In the emotional realm it positions us to seek help before depression and anxiety overwhelms. And when it comes to matters of the heart and soul, early detection minimizes the aftermath of sinful actions. By confessing disobedience quickly, the barriers to God’s wisdom and blessings are removed.

God has given each of His children the gift of the Holy Spirit which leads and guides us to truth. Positioning us to heed the warning signs and proactively responding to what doesn’t seem quite right. Wisdom is ours for the taking – we just simply need to seek Him and He will show us the way to respond.

“Father, Your wisdom is without judgment and offered freely to those who come seeking Your will.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 16, 2020

Reversals For Advancement

“But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel…” Philippians 1:12

When setbacks happen, our natural response can be frustration, even anger. We had a vision for where we were heading and a specific plan of action…then things just veered off track. This can be a small impediment, like hitting every red light on your way to an important appointment, or a more substantial obstacle—a frightening medical report or an unexpected layoff.

As he was writing to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul was in prison, literally chained around the clock to a Roman guard. And this certainly wasn’t where he expected to be in his vision for advancing the gospel. But he wasn’t frustrated or angry at all. In fact, Paul saw his imprisonment as purposeful to God’s strategy. Now that’s the kind of attitude to have.

Can we do this? How can we see our trials and tribulations as progressions? It’s all about perspective, really. About looking around at the situation and the people involved to see how it could be used to glorify God. All those red lights? Perhaps the Lord is timing your trip to avoid a wreck or get you to your appointment just in time to connect with someone who needs to hear your friendly, “Hello.” That layoff? Maybe a coworker needs to see what a Christian really looks like, as you handle the news with grace and godly confidence. (And, just maybe, the Lord has something much better in store for you—and He knew you’d never leave on your own.)

A change of circumstances, seemingly backward, can really be creating spiritual progress, so we end up exactly where He wants us. It’s all part of God’s curriculum in the classroom of our lives.

Are you in the midst of a reversal right now? It’s likely that the Lord is orchestrating it so He can advance your life or the life of someone you’ve come in contact with because of that reversal. So, sisters, let’s look around with this fresh perspective and take on a new attitude of grace and gratefulness in every situation.

“Lord, I know Your plan for my life is perfect. Help me to see how You are moving, acknowledge the seeming reversals, and look for how I can use them to magnify You.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 15, 2020

Spilled Tea Leaves A Sticky Mess

“Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.” James 3:5-6 (ESV)

I’d been off from work since Christmas Eve and on this day, my goal was to do some major writing. I got up t early morning, ate, showered and glued myself to that chair. By late afternoon, I had finished my project and decided to clean up a very messy desk.

One pile moved to another so I could work on the pile sitting right before my eyes. As I twirled my chair around to work on the back of my desk, I hit my stack of piles on the other corner and graciously tipped my tea glass over my computer. I quickly moved into recovery mode but my tea saturated laptop was hopeless. The motor powered up and then shut the computer down never to come alive again. Tea and laptops don’t mix and did I mention it was sweet tea. Sticky over my desk, pouring out of my laptop and on the floor.

Saddest moment! How could the perfect writing day end in such a disaster?

We can’t control spilled tea once it’s out of the glass. So true in life when our “spilled tea” saturates others. Those words we shouldn’t have spoken. The actions we took in haste. The right word in the right moment which we chose to ignore. The thoughts sabotaging our relationships with others.

Words to consider as we begin a new year – make sure we guard our tongue, mind and actions. Damage control is overrated. I tried hard to rescue my drenched laptop – turning it over and shaking the tea out, but my efforts were futile. There is no guarantee for recovery when we carelessly allow our “spilled tea” to impact others.

I love the grace of our God who doesn’t get bogged down by our “spilled tea” and offers forgiveness in abundance. We can secure peace and comfort to move forward without shame. But a word of caution; forgiveness and grace doesn’t guarantee restoration with others. Wounds run deep and our testimony is at stake. Let’s choose to intentionally be wise women who exercise control and discernment over our words, thoughts and actions. No recovery required when the tea is still in the glass.

“Father, how many times have I allowed the unsweetness of my lips to spill over on others. Amazed by Your grace that still covers all of me.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 14, 2020

Parade Perspective

“I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.” Isaiah 46:10

Do you like parades? Around the country—and world—there are parades, large and small, for almost every occasion. There are the biggies, like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day and the Rose Bowl parades. But all year long there are processions of marching bands, floats, and clowns in tiny cars to celebrate myriad aspects of life and culture.

And wherever we are standing alongside the parade route, we get to enjoy the sights and sounds of what’s right in front of us. Sure, we may hear the drums of an upcoming band or look down the block at a giant balloon that has passed by. But we don’t really know how many performers there will be or what the big finale is in store. No, we only have a singular perspective—a point of view.

Isn’t this just like life? We experience what’s right in front of us—and get to choose our response. We can remember and learn from what has been…and although we may have a sense of what’s coming, we’re not certain. And this can be very frustrating—am I right?

But God has an eternal perspective! He knows the beginning from the end of our lives. He is the parade Designer.

This concept can be confusing—the thought of God’s eternal knowledge of your life. But think about a blimp (or a drone) flying over a magnificent parade. From that view, the entire parade can be seen, from grand marshal to grand finale and everything in between. This perspective also captures the crowds, standing along the route and uniquely responding to what’s right in front of them.

Let’s consider God’s perspective of our lives in this way. We can’t see what’s coming or how it ends. But He can. He knows what’s down the line of our lives—and He wants us to cherish each moment of what’s right in front of us. Savor it, learn from it, and prepare to experience what’s next. Remember also that He has it all under control.

So, c’mon…let’s enjoy the parade.

“Lord, help us remember that You are Sovereign. You know us because You have created us for Your purpose, so let us rest in that knowledge each day.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Hope, Spiritual Living, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 13, 2020

A Little Help From My Friends

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” I Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV)

Us independent people, you know like me, usually have no problem doing life solo. We press though when times get tough, we anchor down when storms rage and we coast through the mundane. From a distance, we appear to be ideal – never missing the mark.

Couldn’t be further from the truth. Despite our picture of doing it well, we’re really a snapshot of those who cheer us on and keep us real. Solo may steer us, but the real driving force is found in those we do life with.

Reminded of this today when a sweet friend texted about studying God’s word together. We’re in different cities, hours apart, but that has never stopped us. While she thinks she is the one who needs the discipline and structure, I thrive in our conversations over God’s word. She asks big, deep questions, ones I usually don’t have the answers to. But knowing we will be wrestling it through keeps me disciplined, focused and dependent on God’s wisdom.

While one might feel they are the benefactor of our insight, real truth is we both bring a lot to the table. We all need a little help from our friends – iron sharpening iron. Whether you are a mentor or mentee, God polishes us all in the realities of life. God’s word and the Holy Spirit’s leading enables us to gain personal revelation. And when we lock arms with another, the potential for growth is multiplied.

Desiring to flourish in 2020 – who will you personally invest in? Who will you seek out to invest in you? We need to pour out and we need to receive. God is great at orchestrating the right person we need and uses us to simultaneously meet a need for them. Best win – win ever!

Life is simply to hard to imagine solo. My sweet friend and I have been doing Bible study together for years. We don’t always agree, we don’t always get our reading done in time for discussion. Sometimes the urgency of life totally redirects our conversation. Grace covers us and love binds us. Nothing sweeter than a little help from our friends.

“Father, thank You for the gift of friendship which sharpens us, encourages and spurs us on to be more like You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living

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