Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 26, 2020

Two Powerful Words

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10(NIV)

What currently has you crippled with fear? Think hard and come up with just one thing right now. Fear has a way of creeping into our lives without us even realizing it many times. It could be fear of rejection, job loss, failing a class – think about what it is in your life. Take a few minutes to write down what you are currently battling on a piece of paper.

Take the next few minutes and think about what would happen if that fear were to become reality. Write it down.

Now grab a red marker and as big as you can write BUT GOD to cover most of what you wrote. Stop and take a look at it again, focus on the words written with red marker over the top BUT GOD. What are you feeling, thinking?

Do you see how God can cover that fear? How would God change things? What would he provide as answers for you? Are you willing to hand it over to him and let him take that weight off of your shoulders and let him carry that burden?

Maybe giving it to him isn’t going to solve everything right at this moment. But God can give you the strength to get through it. He can carry you and give you the wisdom and discernment to move forward. He wants us to hold out our hand so he can grab ahold of it and help us move forward.

But God….two three letter, powerful words. Rest in his righteous hand. Feel his strength rush through you. Let him take the lead.

“Father, take my hand and let me feel your power rush through me. Let me feel your strength take over. I want to feel your presence Lord.”

For His Glory

Debbie Struble
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 25, 2020

The Good O’l Days of Slavery

“The Israelites said to (Aaron and Moses), “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.” Exodus 16:3

If you’re older in the faith, you’re probably familiar with the narrative of Exodus. It’s like a great novel. In it, we’re amazed at Pharaoh’s hardened heart as plague after plague hits, yet he doesn’t free the Israelites. Then, we gasp as the angel of death passes through, leaving every firstborn dead but those who’ve painted their doorposts with sacrificial lamb’s blood. Finally, we’re thrilled as millions of Jews walk on dry land through the Red Sea, escaping the pursuit of the Egyptian army…and we celebrate that army’s demise.

Ah, but then we find ourselves shaking our heads in disbelief as the Israelites—freed from bondage and daily terror—begin complaining to Moses about God. “Oh, our days in Egypt were so awesome! Remember the delicious food and good times?”

Really? Despite the constant presence of God—a pillar of smoke by day and fire by night—and miracle after miracle, the Israelites had the audacity to complain? They whined about their current circumstances and pined for the past.

But, before I get too self-righteous, I am going to admit that I do the exact same thing sometimes. In fact, just the other day, I was whining and pining…and I did so in spite of the Lord’s amazing grace, mercy and provision.

In direct parallel with the Jewish people, we were once slaves to sin, destined for death. But God, through Jesus, freed us and gave us new life. And if that weren’t enough for us to be eternally grateful, He is also gracious to provide us with family, friends, food and shelter—not to mention the very breath in our lungs.

Yet, despite all this, it’s way too easy for us to look around at our circumstances and wish for what used to be. To look back with rose-colored glasses at a past from which He clearly rescued us. There are stones of remembrance all along our paths—and His glory right in front of us. But the enemy whispers in our ears, “Don’t you remember how great life was before?”

Sisters, let’s not let the evil one turn our eyes from all the Lord has done. Let’s stay focused on where He has us now…because it’s just where He wants us. And, remember, the Promised Land is not that far away.

“Lord, forgive me for my ungratefulness and forgetfulness. Keep my eyes on You and Your miraculous grace.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Freedom, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 24, 2020

When Neglect Leaves Us Empty

“Take care lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them.” Deuteronomy 11:16 (ESV)

Neglect – there’s just no other word to describe it. The wilted, dried up leaves of my hydrangea plant screamed for attention. It’s beautiful flowering buds may never come to life again. No one else to blame. I’d been nurturing this plant all winter in hopes to plant it this spring. Not sure what happened but I got sidetracked, distracted and the obvious is staring me in the face. So today, I drenched what’s left and prayed it would be enough – only time will tell. Neglect never serves us well.

Sweet friends the one thing we should never neglect is worshipping our God. Celebrating the wonder of who He is….acknowledging His goodness…in complete awe of His glory and majesty. Have to admit there are days when I give little attention to the very One who never forgets me. Life happens. Schedules get crazy. Thoughts swirl in and out of my mind. Consumed with little ole me, I can easily forget to worship the One holy God who is so worthy to be praised.

What’s forgetfulness look like? Grumbling and complaining are a direct reflection of a parched, empty soul. Being consumed with our blessings versus being in awe of the blessing Giver reveals our misplaced focus. Rushing into His presence with our list of demands unveils our “me” agenda and leaves little room for honoring His will. Blessing our Lord in one breath and then tearing down others in the next – definitely not a lifestyle of worship.

How do we ignite our worship? As we study God’s word and meditate on scripture, we learn more and more about the way He interacts with His people. The continuous explosion of worship within us is birthed in the unveiling of God’s character. Singing to the top of our lungs oblivious to anyone hearing our voice reminds us our divine Creator takes great pleasure in our sweet off tune offering. Slowing life down and being captivated by His work, presence and beauty surrounding us elevates our hearts to a deeper level of worship. Choosing to live a life surrendered to His will and completely devoted to Him is the sweetest melody ever. Simply put it’s giving God our undivided attention and being overwhelmed by His presence.

“Father, You simply take my breath away. All praise, honor and glory goes to our sovereign Lord.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 21, 2020

When Evaluation Serves Us Well

“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” (ESV)

My least fave place to go is to the doctor. Can’t say I ever look forward to a visit or sitting in the Waiting Room. But a new year means I have to get my annual physical. You know like step on the scales – shoeless of course. Fill out the forms. Update all my personal information. And then answering all the questions from the man with the stethoscope dangling around his neck. Yes, it’s the dreaded visit and the anxiousness revolving in my head – just hoping nothing is wrong – keeps my stomach in knots. Early detection is the key and despite the unpleasantries, we are wise to not avoid having our physical each year.

Wonder if we approach a spiritual checkup the same way? We don’t have to leave home for this appointment. We don’t have to step on the scales or update our current info. We simply need to pull ourselves away from the busyness and chaotic noise. Settle ourselves open before the Lord. Seeking His evaluation and gaining insight about ourselves we’d much rather avoid. Quite simple to discard this appointment for more important things. Dreading the diagnosis, we put off looking inside for fear of what we will find.

While early detection is critical to our physical health it is equally important to our spiritual health. What’s our checklist look like:
 What am I learning from God’s Word?
 How am I applying God’s word in my life?
 Is my focus centered on “my way” or am I surrendered to His will?
 How would you describe your prayer life?
 How do you cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude and worship?
 When was the last time you shared the gospel?

Just a few to get us going….no shame….no condemnation…we live in an atmosphere of grace here. But if we want to flourish in our relationship with God then we must take our relationship seriously. God honors those who diligently search for Him (Hebrews 11:6). He reveals Himself to those who draw close (Proverbs 8:17). His truths speak deep into our souls and those who choose to apply His word find wisdom (James 1:22).

Early detection is still the key – best way to examine our hearts is to seek God’s help. It’s one appointment we don’t want to cancel. He is our gentle Savior – One who disciplines us for transformation out of the depths of His compassion. We can be real with God because He knows us completely and desires the very best for our life.

“Father, Your kindness leads us to repentance – a turning away from what displeases You. Help us to welcome stillness and seek examination of our hearts so our motives and desires will align with Yours.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 20, 2020

Off With The Old…On With The New

“…throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.” Ephesians 4:22-24

I’m not sure how many of you ladies can relate, but my closet is filled with clothes that are a variety of sizes (and, I’ll admit, styles). I just can’t seem to get rid of some things, no matter how long it’s been since I’ve actually worn them. I think, “What if I lose some weight—then I’ll fit into this again.” Or, “If I gain that weight back, at least I’ll have this to wear.” There’s even the self-rationalization that goes, “Well, I know I haven’t worn this in the past two years, but I might need it at some point.”

Chances are, I’m not alone in this because there are a lot of current online videos, TV programs and podcasts about simplifying and getting rid of our “stuff”. One popular author and host advises that if you don’t absolutely love something and it doesn’t bring you joy, it’s got to go. Others say that if clothing doesn’t fit your today-body, it shouldn’t be in your closet. And if it’s out of your current style, just let it go.

Interestingly, this is all wonderful spiritual advice as well—right from God’s Word. Once you become a Christ-follower, you are not the same person you were before. Your life has been washed by the blood of Jesus, and you have the Holy Spirit within you to guide and direct your path. Even though you’re in the world, you’re no longer to be of (or like) the world (John 15:19; John 17:14-16).

So, regardless of how long we’ve been walking with the Lord, we each have to assess the “spiritual wardrobe” we wear. Does our attitude bring us—and others—joy? Do we put on unconditional love to reflect Jesus? Or are we, perhaps holding onto a few choice pieces from the “good ol’ days” that still hang in the dark corner closets of our soul…things like lust, envy and deception.

Sisters, if something doesn’t “fit” our new self, if it doesn’t make us “look” holy and honorable to others and to our Lord, if it doesn’t create joy in our life…it’s time to toss it and clothe ourselves with the righteousness of Christ.

“Lord, help me clean out my spiritual closet and put on a holy attitude every day in order to glorify You.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 19, 2020

Are You Believing The Lies?

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10(NIV)

Discouragement, hard times, heaviness, that’s what we hear all around us. Marriages crumbling, illnesses, losses, addictions, so many battles. Satan wants to isolate us and deceive us into feeling like we are battling alone. He wants us to feel the weight and discouragement because then he has us trapped. He wants us to wallow in our pits of despair. We look at social media and see how “good” everyone’s lives look, their clothes, marriages, kids, families. He fools us to believing we are the only one in this dark place. But friend let me tell you it’s LIES, LIES, and MORE LIES! Don’t let him fool you. We are not alone.

God created us for relationships. He gave us circles of friends to wrap around us and pray for us. Just recently I sent out a text to several asking how I could pray for them. Each of them was dealing with something hard. But God was there in the midst of it all. He showed up by a simple text message asking how can I pray for you? He wants to remind you that you are not alone.

Fight those attacks my friend. Don’t get caught up in your pit. Get up and fight. Text those around you to pray. Don’t wait for a text from them. Tell others how to pray and ask how you can pray for them. Open your Bible and read. Let God speak to you and use you in your pit to minister to others and enjoy the blessing of being ministered to as well. Look up scripture to send with your prayers. Don’t just promise to pray, send a prayer in response. Let God shine light where Satan tried to darken. God has a fresh new perspective and a light to shine on your path.

“Father, let me not wallow in my pit but use me to minister to others and fight Satan’s desperate attempt to destroy me and my friends. Let me see clearly with your light shining.”

For His Glory

Debbie Struble
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 18, 2020

Necessary Wounds

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a difficult time.” Proverbs 17:17

Would you consider yourself a “good friend” to others in your life? What does that mean to you, and what kind of action is required in being a friend? Of course, friendship is about fun times, laughter and adventure. And it’s about support and encouragement in those darker seasons of life. Friendship involves saying the right thing at the right time…and saying nothing at all. Those of us who have even one close friend are incredibly blessed.

Like the Proverb above says, “A friend love at all times.” In joys and sorrows. Through thick and thin. (Wait, is anyone else thinking waistline here?)

But there’s another nugget of truth in Proverbs worth acknowledging: “Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” (Proverbs 27:6)

Sometimes, out of her love and faithfulness, a friend has to reveal a truth unseen or unveil a deception unrecognized. And. It. Hurts. When this happens—and it will within true, godly friendships—how will you respond?

Not long ago, I warned my friend of 15 years that a teacher she follows speaks heresies and has some shady connections. I spoke these words kindly—in love—sharing my discernment within Biblical truths. But, despite my emphasis on my love for her, she viciously attacked my intentions and my character. Now, it’s important to note that we’d been through the ringer together, upholding each other through indescribable pain, heartache and trials. She knew my character very well. And my faithful friendship over a decade and a half.

But she didn’t want to delve into a discussion about the situation or talk about our disagreements through a Biblical lens. Her anger quickly built a high, thick wall between us. And, instead of trusting the “wounding” as faithfulness and love, she chose to dissolve our relationship.

Sister, a good friend does love at all times…we need that from each other. But also, we must be brave enough—faithful enough—to wound when necessary in honor of our Lord. You won’t be able to predict the outcome. Your friend may open their eyes to the truth or appreciate the revelation you made as a sister in Christ. Or, she may turn around and walk away for good.

But this is what godly friendship requires of us. So, let me ask again…are you a good friend?

“Lord, help me be an authentic, honest and faithful friend—even when it’s hurtful or hurts. Give me the grace to recognize that the wounds of a real friend can be trusted.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 17, 2020

When Unrealistic Slays Us

“I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope.” Psalm 130:5 (ESV)

It wasn’t supposed to look like this – our expectations were totally off. We’d dreamed, planned and could even envision the perfect outcome. We prayed, waited and hoped. But when the moment arrived (the result we had so anticipated), our expectations screamed unrealistic. Discouragement quickly rose to the surface. Disillusionment seized us – did God hear our prayers? Was He truly interested in the desires of our heart?

Let’s be real here, we’ve all experienced moments which fell majorly short of our desired outcome. And it only takes a second of harsh reality seeping in to slay our spirit. The relationship dissolving right before our eyes. The job opportunity we just knew was ours for the taking goes to someone else. The repeat cancer diagnosis after months of laborious treatment. The prodigal taking one step forward and then ten steps back. Yes, disappointment hits us from all angles…unexpected and unwanted. Leaving us filled with “why” and totally consumed inward.

Now sweet friends, we can stay in this mode of disappointment cherishing our hopelessness indefinitely. Or, we can choose to release our agenda, plans and expectations for God’s greater glory. Scripture reminds us His ways our higher and far more grander than any we could ever imagine (Isaiah 55:9). Our limited perspective of best for us doesn’t even come close to the awesome ways He desires to bless our lives. If He closed the door and whispered no then we can count on Him to have our best interest in mind.

So while we simply readjust, wait and lean in close to our Creator, we purposefully chose to extinguish runaway thoughts attempting to sabotage our hope. We surround ourselves with those who speak truth and encouragement over us. We determine in our hearts to remain faithful even in the wake of whys. We claim His promises and draw strength from His words. We actively move forward in obedience keeping step with the Father who loves us dearly. We examine our dreams and strive to realign our heart with His.

When life doesn’t look the way we intended, we keep our eyes on God and our heart filled with His truth. We wrestle through and never let go trusting in the One who specializes in birthing a greater glory than we could ever imagine.

“Father, when hope flees turn my eyes on You. Discipline my mind to settle for nothing less than Your very best.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 14, 2020

When Love Reigns

“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35 (ESV)

Roses are red, violets are blue everybody knows I truly love you.

The writing was on the wall or so I thought – how could he not get it – we were made for each other. If love is blind, I was and he wasn’t. The proverbial woes of my teen years.

Ever whispered those words in hopes that the one whose name was scribbled all over your paper would recognize the depth of your love and return it to you? Yes, us girls always seem to identify the love factor sooner than our guys.

But there is One who has proclaimed His undying love for us and swept us off our feet. The One who loves us deeply despite our flaws and imperfections. The One whose love has no limit. The One who pursues us relentlessly. The One who etched our names on the palm of His hands. The One who laid down His life for us – our Redeemer and Savior, Jesus Christ. The lavish Lover of our soul who declares His love passionately.
So how’s a girl to respond to His perfect love…the real deal….we never need to question?

Jesus kept it simple…love one another as I have loved you (John 15:12). Aim for restoration; comfort one another (2 Corinthians 13:11). Stir one another to love and good works. (Hebrews 10:24). Above all….keep loving (I Peter 4:8).

When love for God and love for others is center stage, our lives are no longer about “us.” We see people through the lens of love, reaching out is no longer discriminated. We will love our brothers and sisters in Christ so the world will want what we have. We will move towards unity and oneness. The world will no longer see our disagreements blasted on social media or hear our opinionated tweets strategically target at our own. We will lovingly hold each other accountable. We will embrace the truth shared in love and extend grace. And in divine moments, we will practice tough love; setting boundaries into place which serve us both well.

Sweet friend there is no better way to draw others to the Father than to demonstrate His amazing love. Who are you sharing God’s love with today? Seize every moment to showcase the beauty of His love radiating within you.

“Father, we are presented with opportunities to love large and love deep – help us to not ignore the nudging of the Holy Spirit to be imitators of Your love.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Love

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 13, 2020

Grafted

Image: Philip Quirk/Getty Images

 

“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. 1 John 3:1

The calendar has flipped to February (already!). I don’t know what’s it’s like in your home, but if it didn’t happen by January first, it’s probably happened by now. All those Christmas gifts so carefully chosen and excitedly received have been used, forgotten, lost, or broken. When my kids were younger, this typically occurred December 26.

Not this year. This year, I got my 17-year-old son a gift that cannot be misplaced or disregarded. This year, I took him to a local shop where he received the very permanent gift of tattoos. (I know, you’re either thinking, “What a cool mom!” or “You’ve got to be kidding.”) Let me explain.

My son is adopted—welcomed with open arms into our family from another. Forever. He was removed from a situation that would surely have led down a dark path if he remained. But through God’s grace and miraculous plan, this boy’s life was woven into ours. He was grafted into our family, so that his unique characteristics and gifts merged with those of our family’s…he has been rooted into a new, solid foundation to grow strong, while retaining from eternity past who the Lord created him to be.

Adoption is a life eternally transformed.

The Lord is now leading my son to use his adoption—the miracle of it and the pain—to forge his future. So, as a point of remembrance, of focus, he got “grafted” tattooed on one wrist and the date of his adoption on the other.

Sisters, does your spirit stir at this story? Do you know? This is you and me when we trusted Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We have been welcomed into a new, forever family. We have been removed from a situation that was leading down a dark path if we stayed on it—a path of certain destruction. But through God’s grace and miraculous plan, our life was woven into His. We were grafted into His family, so that our unique characteristics and gifts merged with the family of God…we have been rooted into a new, solid foundation to grow strong and develop into who the Lord created us to be.

Salvation is a life eternally transformed.

Now, you may not want any ink permanently set into your skin with a shrilly buzzing needle. But never forget, sisters, that you have been grafted into the Royal family of the Living God. You are a daughter of the King, meant to glorify Him with your life in this world…and praise Him forever in the next.

“Father, thank you for picking me up out of the mire and grafting me into Your family.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living

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