Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 27, 2019

Blinded By The Obvious

“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy.” James 3:17

Nothing more embarrassing than looking in the mirror and seeing the tiny remains of food wedged between two teeth. We quickly remove the evidence, head back to our table and wonder why didn’t someone tell us. How could they sit there and not whisper, “You’ve got food in between your teeth.” That’s all it would have taken; just simply bringing it to our attention.

Sounds quite so simple, but not really. We often hold back from the food dilemma because we don’t want to embarrass someone. Really. The real truth is excusing the truth staring us square in the face leaves our friend running for cover when the big reveal occurs.

Wonder if we ever find ourselves in places where we wished someone had simply questioned the obvious? Blinded by our own choices and excuses, we often land where we never intended. And by the time we figured it out, we wondered why no one helped us see through our mess.

Keeping it real here – it’s hard to confront. Definitely not my fave thing to do to shed light on someone else’s dark. But then haven’t we all been there when looking in the mirror unveiled more than we wanted to see. Pretty sure we’ve all rationalized and built walls to keep out the ones we need the most. Afraid to admit what’s staring us straight in the face.

There’s something so indescribably beautiful that happens when eyes are opened to the truth. Requires listening ears and soft hearts to receive the truth. Requires sweet friends who are brave enough to whisper what needs to be brought out into the light. God’s perfect plan for community and accountability (Proverbs 27:17) pushes us past embarrassment, excuses and intimidation.

Don’t know about you, but this Jesus girl is so thankful for those who shed light on my dark even when I denied it. Little seeds planted that grew to expose what needed to be changed and transformed. So let’s welcome the bringing to our attention, seek God’s guidance and choose wisely so we can avoid the pain of our obvious wrongs.

“Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy in those moments when I fail to choose well. Blessed by the ones You have placed around me that shed the light of Your wisdom into my life.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 26, 2019

Creating A Wonderful Life

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (ESV)

Some of you may agree with me when I say that “It’s a Wonderful Life” is not only the best Christmas movie out there, it’s also the best movie ever. We’re inspired by George Bailey’s constant selflessness and perseverance despite obstacles. We adore the love he and Mary have for each other. And of course, we’re brought to tears when George’s slightly dimwitted guardian angel shows him what life would look like if he was never born. And by unveiling the voids of his life unlived, Clarence (the angel-sans-wings) reveals the astonishing impact George has made on the lives of others—and how their respective lives then made additional impact.

For me, it’s not just the joyous Christmas Eve conclusion that gets me every time…I am repeatedly convicted about the way I live my own life all year long. See, like George, we each have daily opportunities to touch the lives of other people and make a difference. Sometimes, we receive immediate “feedback” as to the effect—a grateful smile for a simple kindness (perhaps amid the Christmas shopping chaos) or the knowledge of practical needs met (like with an Angel Tree contribution).

But more often than not, like George Bailey, we don’t recognize the incredible impact that our actions—small and large—make in life. In fact, the effects may not be revealed to us until we’re standing in the Lord’s presence. But know this: Every word and deed do have a ripple effect.

And sisters, it’s not just the good stuff.

So, during this Christmas season—and all year long—let your light shine as you bear the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control). You’ll be making a powerful, positive impact on those around you…and, with every ripple, to the whole world. Even if you don’t see it.

Plus, as Christians, when we shine, we magnify our Namesake, Jesus Christ, and glorify God. And, ultimately, this brings joy to our own souls in knowing we’ve brought a smile to the Audience of One.

What could be more wonderful than that?

Lord, let me seize the daily opportunities I have to share Your love with others and help create a wonderful life in this world.

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 25, 2019

The Gift Given

“But these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God; and by believing you may have life in His name.” John 20:31 (HCSB)

Hidden beneath the pine branches in the far back of the tree was the gift. The one missing. Its once beautiful wrapping was torn, and the package was bent. The bow squished by the other presents. Overlooked in the midst of names called and gifts given. Till one who had not received wondered if they had been forgotten. And so the reaching and searching began until the not pretty package retrieved was given.

Now let’s just admit it – no one wants to be left off the Christmas list. We want the perfect gift. We drop hints in anticipation of receiving amazing and not settling for less. We eagerly exchange the gift we don’t want. It didn’t fit. It wasn’t the right color. We already had one. Easily discarded because we wanted something else.

Tucked away in the little town of Bethlehem, a gift was given. The coming of the Messiah was the long awaited Savior of our world – the very Son of God breathing life into darkness. He was to be our King and Deliverer, yet His arrival was not the expected. A lowly manger, where a child was born of the virgin Mary seemed uncommon, too ordinary. No room in the inn and no nurses to care for this little One destined for greatness. Hidden away from palaces and wealth, yet the Messiah’s entrance was full of humility, hope, peace, joy and redemption. The perfect gift from God to man.

Wonder if we’ve overlooked His gift in the midst of seeking perceived perfect? Wonder if we’ve given up on receiving held captive by the words forgotten?

Wonder no more sweet friend. The babe in the manger – the Messiah – came for you and me. Despite His humble beginnings on that first Christmas morn, the Savior of the world is everything we need. Forgiveness, grace and healing; the perfect gift we’d never exchange. To the seemingly forgotten, He welcomes with open arms. And in the midst of our searching and seeking, the Messiah offers Himself.
Don’t settle for less, simply believe and unwrap the glory of the One who came.

“Father, too many times we’ve overlooked the priceless gift of Your Son – the Messiah – coming to our world. Draw our hearts to the babe in the manger and help us to receive the most wondrous gift of all.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Gratitude, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 24, 2019

Constant Change

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 (ESV)

It has been said change is the only thing that is constant. No two days are ever the same – a phrase my mother left with me following the birth of our firstborn. At the time I didn’t understand but have since realized it held much wisdom.

Nearly all would agree most expected changes are welcomed but unexpected changes rock our world. I’ve experienced both – most recently, an unexpected change surfaced. Do I like it? No. Will I adjust? It will be a daily surrender. Why? Because some, not all, unexpected changes ignite unforeseen emotions – sometimes anger, sadness, panic, or fear of the unknown.

So many Biblical women handled change well. Eve’s world went from perfection to chaos yet she persevered. Ruth, a young widow encouraged her mother-in-law by keeping a positive attitude which God blessed. Esther knew a change must happen for her people and trusted God to help her accomplish it. Hannah trusted God to take care of Samuel when she left him with Eli and his wicked sons. And Mary didn’t fall apart when the angel proclaimed she would bear the Son of God. This list could go on and on. How these characters handled change is how they handled life – looking past the present and viewing into the future.

Change will happen. Why? Because God created change. Just think of all the major changes that occurred in heaven during creation and when God sent Jesus to die for sinful man. His familiar existence was turned upside down.

How did Jesus handle change? Exactly how God the Father wants us to handle it. With a godly, submitted attitude – trusting. God never owes us an explanation but requires us to trust Him with all our heart and lean not unto our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).

Through changes God remains constant! He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Isn’t that comforting? Whatever your challenges He can be trusted; after all He’s got the whole world in His hand.

“Father, please help me adjust to change with the attitude of Christ.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 23, 2019

Beating The Holiday Blues

“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:13 (ESV)

Let’s be completely honest here. For all the “merry” proclamations we give and receive this Christmas, merriment can be far from a reality. In fact, for many of us, depression and despair mark our world this season more profoundly than joy. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, an unexpected medical report, or an emptier nest than you anticipated, grief and sorrow can fade the festive colors to a dull gray.

Sisters, the truth is, depression is fed by focus. When we stare at and consider the darkness, it grows deeper and blacker. Like water to a garden, washing our fear, sadness, and grief with attention makes them bloom—so they cast a shadow over anything else that may be trying to push through the soul’s soil.

So, what do we do to win the battle of the blues (and grays and blacks)? Stop. Feeding. It.

Firstly, as the old hymn proclaims, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.” Throughout the Bible (from Job and Nehemiah through Paul’s exhortations), we are encouraged to focus on God and take our attention off what ails us. Nothing makes our seemingly huge troubles shrink more than comparing them with our immense and awesome God.

Secondly, get involved in the life of others. Serve. Help. The Christmas season provides such richness of opportunity right in our own communities. We can start close to home and make a meal for a neighbor, or perhaps join a local outreach organization for an activity or two…maybe even volunteer at an animal shelter. And, certainly, your church home will have countless opportunities. Giving to others—of our time, talents, or resources—takes us out of ourselves and focuses our mind, heart, and spirit away from the dark chasm within.

C. H. Spurgeon, in talking to his congregation about his own ongoing battle with depression, eloquently described this very anecdote: He said that he needed to “stop gazing into the black hole of his own soul.”

Are you entrenched in the darkness this Christmas? Sister, you’re not alone. You have a gracious Savior who loves you. Look up. Reach out. And step out of the darkness. As you serve, joy will break through the clouds, and you’ll feel the smiling face of God.

“Lord, help me focus on You, despite my circumstances, and lift me from the mire of sadness as I reach out to show Your love to others this Christmas season.”

[If you, or someone you love, suffers from depression, reach out to your church pastor or a Christian counselor for help.]

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 20, 2019

Unwrapping Christmas

“After seeing them, they (shepherds) reported the message they were told about this child (Jesus) and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” Luke 2:17-18 (HCSB)

Shepherds – not quite the group of people you would expect to proclaim the birth of Christ. But isn’t that just like our God to reveal Himself through ordinary people like you and me. No media blasts, no tweets or posts just lowly shepherds doing their job in the dark night. Chosen to be the first to receive the good news of the Messiah’s birth. And the telling was not by just one angel but a celebration by a multitude of angels praising God.

I wish I could glimpse the fear and awe in their faces. The moment the angel appeared declaring a Savior had been born in the city of David. The telling of how they would find this sweet One lying in a manger. Compelling them to go straight to Bethlehem. Guardians of their own flock, protectors of their sheep leaving all to pursue the Messiah.

Wonder if there is something we need to leave behind in order to pursue Christ?

Shepherds were known for feeding, protecting and guarding their flock. Yet nothing stood in the way of their pursuit to see the Savior.

Lots of things keep us entangled in our day to day. Distractions are a given. Other responsibilities can consume all our time and focus. Christmas can simply become a calendar of activities, hustle and exhaustion. Doing and going, but little seeking.

Don’t know about you, but I’d rather be filled with awe and wonder than overwhelmed with lots of somethings stealing away my joy. Baking, shopping and hosting are fun don’t get me wrong – I love it all. But right in the midst of all those holiday traditions and doings, we need to steal away moments to pursue our Messiah. The greatest shepherd ever known (Hebrews 13:20). The One who came to bring us life (John 3:16). The very breath of heaven seeker of those who are lost (I Peter 2:25). Worthy of our complete devotion especially during the busiest time of the year.

So gather with me, sweet friends. Welcome Christ into your Christmas – it’s the best gift you can unwrap.

“Father, ignite within us a renewed wonder and awe of the true meaning of Christmas – celebrating the birth of Your Son – Immanuel, God with us.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 19, 2019

Choosing To Rejoice

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4 (ASV)

The Bible is pretty clear about when we should rejoice. Always! That includes those times when things are not going our way. The prophet Habakkuk (3:17-18) says it this way: “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”

I don’t know about you, but I am prone to complain when things don’t go my way. And, I had been deceived into thinking that a little complaining or ”venting” never hurt anyone. This week, as I read Philippians and Habakkuk, I was convicted that rejoicing and complaining cannot coexist. So, if I am to rejoice always, then I should complain NEVER. Ouch. This is going to be hard. But if I really desire to live a life that reflects God’s glory, then a life filled with rejoicing, and not complaining, should be my goal. Even, when life kind of stinks. Even, when losses are real and significant. I can always rejoice in the fact that God does not leave me to handle life’s messes on my own. 2 Peter 1:3 reminds me that, “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.” Knowing that Christ’s divine power in me provides all that I need to live the life that He calls me to live, gives me sufficient reason to rejoice! Even on those days when nothing seems to be going my way…

How might the church better reflect God’s glory if we become known for rejoicing, not complaining, in every circumstance?

“Lord, You know how hard this is going to be for me. Thank You for modeling a life lived without grumbling. Thank You for Your divine power in me that equips me to live a godly life. Help me to daily choose Your power over my weakness.”

For Your Glory

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Spiritual Living, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 18, 2019

Counterfeit

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)

You are walking on a sidewalk on a brisk fall afternoon, your hair flowing with the breeze and your body feeling rejuvenated by the sunshine. The color of the changing leaves warrant the perfect background for that selfie you want to take when you meet up with your friends for your weekly ladies time. Suddenly you spot a $100 bill caught in the edge of a brick wall, and you rush to it before it flies away with the wind. As you bend down to pick up that bill, you are already fantasizing about how you are going to spend it. Nonetheless, as you look closely, you realize the $100 is a fake, it is nothing but a replica that someone made in order to lure others to pick up an advertisement for some brokerage firm.

What a disappointment, right? Almost instantly your plans for that money fall down the drain. Your countenance changes and you are suddenly not as excited as you were before you spotted it on the ground, as it waited to catch your eyes.

What a good illustration of the works of Satan to lure people into doing that which is displeasing to God, wouldn’t you agree? Sin seldom looks bad at first. On the contrary, in order to “hook” you into falling for something that will hold you captive and ultimately destroy you, he will make it seem like a pretty good option. It may be an X-rated movie that will turn into an addiction to pornography or a “feel-good pill” that will turn into an addiction to drugs, or a little pocket change you find in someone else’s purse that will give you a thirst for big bucks and lead you to actually steal. It may also be a little “secret” that will become a gossip that will tear someone else’s life down (and yours, too) or a secret friendship with a married someone who makes you feel good about yourself for a time but will tear down his or her family and break hearts.

Friend, listen to God’s voice. If you sense a nudge telling you NOT to do something, that is probably because He is telling you just that. Do not risk it. The joy offered by sin is counterfeit and will bring you nothing but heartache. Choose the joy of the Lord.

“Lord, the devil is sly. Please help us to be watchful and wise in our decisions.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 17, 2019

Shifting Focus

“But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge.“ Psalm 73:28

The primary focus of our culture at Christmas is stuff. The sales, the giving, the getting. And, sadly, all this Holiday consumerism often leads even us to start looking around with eyes and hearts of envy. We home in on how prosperous “everyone” else seems to be because of what they are purchasing (for others or themselves).

Even a simple dog walk can turn us green. It happened to my hubby just this morning when we strolled by a neighbor’s post-Black-Friday trash pile, and he said, “Wow, he actually got two 55-inch TVs.” Sigh.

But this envy can go beyond tangibles. When we hear how many parties others are invited to or the number of family and friends around their table, comparison sets in and bitterness can take root. We begin perceiving our reality as “less than”—and we may find ourselves even crying out to God, “Why them and not me?” Perhaps you’re even struggling with big challenges like health issues, finances, or relationships…all especially burdening during this season.

In Psalm 73, Asaph wrote of the abundance of the wicked he witnessed around him—and he admitted the jealousy he felt amid the lack and suffering in his own life. But this Psalm-writer demonstrates how we can nip the bud of bitterness, just as he sang in verses 15-24. He turned his focus away from what others had and what they were doing, and he looked toward his eternal heavenly future.

Even more, in verses 25-28, Asaph relishes in the relationship he has with the Lord today—and so can we. The closer we are with Jesus in the moment, the more difficult it is for us to be bitter. I mean, what greater gift could we get than eternal life through Jesus? And what other relationship is as steadfast and unshakable than that which we have with our Lord? Thankfulness for our Savior, and for all His graciousness toward us, becomes like blooming flowers that fill our lives with the fragrance of joy—no matter the season.

“Lord, thank you for your unfailing love, amazing grace, and relentless mercy. Help me to keep my eyes on You, and please sever any roots of bitterness clinging to my soul.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 16, 2019

Tracing His Story

“And Jacob fathered Joseph the husband of Mary, who gave birth to Jesus who is called the Messiah.” Mathew 1:16 (HCSB)

Oil painting was ever my fave in high school, but that sweet friends was decades ago. Not too many occasions to grab a brush and let my creative side emerge in this adult life. So when a chance to gather with friends for a paint night was an option, I seized the moment. And let me just say it didn’t disappoint – I absolutely loved it. We painted on wood pallets -a first for me – totally fun. My masterpiece was Frosty surrounded with fluffy snowflakes on a golden brown backdrop. Ever so pretty and the best part was the white lights shining through my snowflakes making them twinkle bright. Now before you become too impressed and think I’m quite the artist, the real trick was the stencils we used to trace the outline before a drop of paint hit the pallet. Painting was a whole easier than freestyling it.

Reminds me of the way we can trace Christ’s entrance into this world. From the very moment when sin was birthed in the garden, Christ’s redemptive story began. A long awaited Messiah. The One anticipated to come and set His people free. The very Son of God walking and talking with us. Isaiah 9 foretells His coming most beautifully. A child will be born and He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Matthew & Luke perfectly trace His genealogy through the imperfect people, like us, to His arrival on earth in the manger. Eye witness accounts – not mere speculation. Makes believing a whole lot easier.

We are blessed with the Word of God which gives us an inside look at Christ’s birth and life. And as believers, we can trace His entrance into our life as well. Christmas is a wonderful time to reflect and trace the moment we accepted Christ and how that one tracing has birthed change in us. It’s also an incredible time to remember the greatest gift we can give Him is to share His story with others. Someone really needs to hear and see the masterpiece God has been painting in our lives. Makes this little light of ours shine the brightest when we are sharing His story in us.

“Father, You willingly gave Your Son to us – a babe born in a manger – a Savior for all people. May this Christmas be a time when we seize open doors and share Your story.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Worship

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