Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 12, 2020

Wishing For More

“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them.” Luke 9:16 NIV

I don’t know about you, but often I find myself wishing for more. More time in the day to do the things I need to do plus the things I want to do. More financial security, so I never have to worry about the future. More space in my home for entertaining. I have a closet full of clothes, but I want more so that I always have just the right thing to wear for every occasion. And, don’t we all find ourselves longing for more peace…in the world, our country, our families and sometimes even in our churches? We want more when what we have doesn’t seem like enough.

Jesus, when faced with the very real problem of not having enough food to feed a hungry crowd of over five thousand, gave us the prescription for this dilemma. With just five loaves and two fish, looking up to heaven, He gave thanks.

This simple formula helps us in two ways. First, looking up to heaven helps us distinguish between real needs and those things we desire. When my focus is on Christ, it is easier for me to see this. God promises to meet my needs so if it is a genuine need, I can rest in His promise. In the same way He provided manna, quail and water for the Israelites in the wilderness, He will meet my needs and yours. Secondly, when we give thanks for what we already have to the One who is the giver of all things, our gratitude and trust increases. When our trust increases, we can accept that what God doesn’t provide, we don’t really need.

Throughout Scripture God promises to care for our needs. In Matthew 6, Jesus says: “ …do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Sweet friends, we can trust God to meet our needs…even when what we have doesn’t seem like enough.

“Lord, we all know that sense of longing for more. When it comes, gently remind us to look up to heaven and give thanks for what we already have, trusting that you love us and will meet our every need.”

For His Glory

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Gratitude, Spiritual Living, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 11, 2020

When Weak Invites Strong

“Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9b-10 (NIV)

Don’t know about you but there are lots of moments in my day when I feel utterly powerless. Life gets crazy, chaotic and overwhelming. We get out of bed ready to conquer our day and within moments it all swirls out of control. Our superwoman cape slips off, and the reality of our vulnerable weaknesses hits us square in the face. Emotional eating doesn’t fix it. Crying doesn’t solve it. Outrage only makes it worse. And wallowing in self-pity pretty much stinks. Just keeping it real here – pride would easily slip in if we thought we had it all covered all the time.

So what’s a girl to do when authentic self unveils our weaknesses? We could just keep pressing thru relying on self but eventually burn out will win and exhaustion will seep in. Perhaps we might consider hiding behind our weak spots allowing them to sideline us and cower in intimidation. Shrinking back rather than stretching forward.

Not quite the solution for brave, courageous women of God. Absolutely love these words from the Apostle Paul reminding us that weakness isn’t to be ignored or dreaded. Delight and joy should rise within us when we allow God to transform our weaknesses into strength. He is our true power source, and we can depend on Him to empower us to do what only He can do.

We all have weaknesses and like Paul, those rough spots are what keep us humbly dependent on our mighty, gracious God. We can resist the independence urge and allow His strength to enable us to do more than we dared imagine. So glad, God sets us up to need Him more and more each day – the perfect place for His glory to shine through us. For when we are weak then we are strong in Him alone.

“Father, too often we run from our weaknesses or attempt to outplay our own strength. Teach us the value of viewing our lack from your perspective and reap the benefits of Your strength.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 10, 2020

The Power Of The Word

“Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” Matthew 4:10

Temptations come in all shapes and sizes. In fact, they come in just the right size and shape for each of us. The enemy knows us—really knows us. He and his minions have listened to and watched us over the course of our lives. He’s made careful study of our verbal reactions, even those slight facial movements made in emotional response. To him, we are each a well-read book.

In today’s vernacular, Satan knows what triggers us.

Until we leave this world through death or rapture, we are in a war. And going to battle against this ancient enemy of our souls is not an easy task. So, why don’t we take fighting lessons from the Master—our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ?

When He was in the desert before launching His ministry, Jesus was tempted by Satan three times (Matt 4:1-11). Each approach targeted specific aspects Jesus’ fully-man and fully-God nature. But Jesus knew how to hit him back with pinpoint precision. With each effort to thwart God’s great plan for our salvation, Jesus fought back with Scripture (from Leviticus, no less!).

Sisters, we need the hard-hitting Truth of God’s Word as ammunition—and for this, we need to know the Bible. The more familiar we are with Scripture, the more specific we can be against the enemy’s lies.

And beware! Familiarizing ourselves with a few favorite verses here and there will not do. See, Satan knows his Bible too. And since he slithered into the Garden with Adam and Eve, he’s been methodically twisting God’s Word to confuse, trap, and deceive us Christians.

We must delve deeply into our Bible in preparation. Read it, study it, meditate on it, and memorize verses. Like training for a sport or preparing for a final exam, taking in God’s Word is a discipline—it’s hard work! But it’s required of us in this life as we pursue godliness. Plus, in our earthly quest to become more and more like Jesus, we can use Him as our ultimate battlefield example.

So, next time Satan whispers some lie or twisted half-truth in your ear, let him hear you say, “It is written…”

“Lord, may I know the power of Your Word in my life and prioritize learning—and loving—it.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Gratitude, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 7, 2020

Why Asking Serves Us Well

“The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” Psalm 28:7 (ESV)

Asking has never been my go to. Raising my hand in class rarely happened. Unfortunately, I tend to be a figure it out for yourself kind of person, but it doesn’t always serve me well. Time can evaporate quickly when we’re spinning our wheels relying solely on self to get it done. Independence is overrated when we struggle and give up because we’re too afraid, too proud or just don’t want to ask for help.

Asking questions birth solutions. Opening up the door for wisdom to grow and knowledge to flourish, we gain confidence to accomplish more than we ever imagined. Asking for help resolves overwhelming challenges. Inviting others into our circle and working together, we experience deeper relationships. Asking empowers and liberates us – now that’s inviting. Yes, asking’s benefits far out weigh any misconceptions we have that hold us back leaning on self alone.

Love the way God is the instigator of questions. Throughout scripture, He asks questions inviting deep thought provoking introspection. Choosing to answer our questions with questions. Birthing in us a desire to seek His wisdom. God’s questions move us from simply wanting a response to uncovering the beauty of His divine character and the importance of leaning on Him. No question is beyond His reply. No question is too big for our God. No request is criticized, mocked or ignored. God delights in leading us to truth and a greater dependence on Him.

So, sweet friends let’s deny our instincts to rely on self. Let’s purposefully choose to seek help and ask tough questions. Let’s resist the urge to discredit the wisdom of those God has strategically placed in our circle. Let’s forego the need to do it all ourselves and forsake the help sitting in front of us. Let’s lay down pride. Let’s release fears. Let’s embrace help and give help. Let’s lean on God’s character and rely on His provision even if it requires welcoming others into our circle.

“Father, You know exactly what we need. You provide help and answers in ways we could never have imagined. Praising You for the beauty of asking that unveils Your divine provision.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 6, 2020

Freedom

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. ~John 8:36

Freedom.
We think of nations
Of rights,
Government-given
And God-ordained.

We pledge allegiance,
Embrace patriotism.
Some fight to keep it,
And die so others live in it.

But there’s a freedom
That’s above nationality,
Beyond borders.
Individual freedom
Transcending this world.

Freedom
From addiction,
From loneliness,
From depression,
From self.

And Someone suffered,
Dying a brutal death
To win this freedom.
One paid the price
For all.
For you.

Jesus conquered death,
Breaking the bondage
To sin in this world.
Through Him
Our chains fall.
And we can live.

In freedom.

“Lord Jesus, thank you for paying the price for my freedom. For freeing me from my past and making the way for my eternal future with You.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Freedom, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 5, 2020

Pressing On

“Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13 (NIV)

Just a few weeks ago, we celebrated the start of a new year and a new decade. One thing I always loved about a new year was getting organized. I developed a habit many years ago of using the down time from Christmas to New Year’s to sit down with my calendar and plan out my year. Anxiously awaiting all the wonderful things that year would bring.

Eleven years ago when our son died, I felt like the calendar became an enemy of mine. What at one time documented so much hope, now only held sorrow. The silence of empty days overwhelmed me and paralyzed me with fear.

Paul writes in Philippians 3:13-14 “forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” When we lose a loved one, moving forward in life seems an insurmountable task. Fear tells us that if we move forward, we are letting them go. That we will forget them. There’s this feeling of guilt that we have let them down by continuing to live. Fear says there’s no way you can live without them.

But fear is a liar.

There were many days of overwhelming sadness and years of sleepless nights. There were numerous occasions where I felt the pain would certainly kill me.

I made a conscious decision to continue to press on towards Christ. In pressing on, I had to let go of the fear that kept me paralyzed. I had to surrender it under the powerful blood of Jesus Christ.

Pressing on means lifting the heaviness of the heartache we bare to Jesus. We don’t forget our loved one. They are never more than a thought away. But the heaviness of our load lessens in time, if we keep our eyes on Jesus and not the pain.

During this most recent holiday season, I purchased my new calendar for 2020. I sat down and started doing what I did so many years ago. Writing in dates of birthdays and events coming up. In doing that, I found myself grateful at how God hears our prayers and restores. My calendar is no longer empty. It is very full of life. Down time happens when I intentionally pencil it in.

If you are facing a season of loss, I want to encourage you to press on toward Jesus. Allow Him to bring life into those empty days. Letting go of fear is not letting go of your loved one.

“Father, remind us that until you call us home we are here to reach others for the Kingdom. The only way we can do that is by pressing on heavenward into Christ. Help us not be paralyzed by our fear.”

For His Glory

Laura Holmes (www.EphraimMinistries.org)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 4, 2020

Greener Grass

“Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish.” Psalm 73:7

Do you ever cry out like the Psalmist does here? When reading through some of the Psalms, I all too often agree and think, “Yeah! Everything comes so easy for them. Why do other people have everything they want, while I struggle?” The proverbial grass “over there” seems a bit greener and more vibrant than mine.

Girls, comparison like this breeds envy. And envy seeps into our soul’s soil, establishing roots of bitterness and discontent.

The struggle is real (and promised in this life). Physical pain, loneliness, job loss, marital woes…the list is endless, and we each have a unique set of challenges. So, how do we stop our wandering gaze and escape the traps of “woe-is-me” and “if-only”?

First, we have to focus on our own grass—our own circumstances. Sometimes it’s so easy to look away and see everyone else’s seeming blessings and miss our own. Here’s an idea: Really assess your life…home in on the Lord’s gifts. Did you see the sunrise or sunset that God made today? The bursts of colors glorify the Creator—and so does your vision to be able to see it. Do you have a roof over your head to stay warm during these winter months? Did you go to bed hungry last night (well, don’t answer that if you’re on a diet)? Is there one person in your life you can count on to be there for you?

Sister, you are richly blessed.

When you peer with intention into the meadow of your life, you’ll be astounded by the splendor that exists and the glorious blessings. Focus on what you have to be thankful for—the big things and the small things. Even our struggles and pains are purposeful, ultimately resulting in beauty. When we look for weeds, that’s all we’ll see…but when we look for the blessings, our perspective will change completely.

Most importantly, if you’ve accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior then, regardless of any rocks, weeds, or dead grass in life, you can choose contentment in His saving grace. You are the greatest miracle: once dead and now alive forever in Christ. And your pasture can’t get any greener than that.

“Lord, help me to focus on the countless blessings in my life and not get caught up in discontentment. Let me choose thankfulness and joy each day.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 3, 2020

When God’s Plan Unfolds

“And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and take you to myself that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” John 14:3-4 (ESV)

Nothing worse than feeling left alone. We’ve probably all experienced moments when someone failed to tell us they were leaving and we’re left behind. Did they simply forget? Perhaps we miscommunicated about how we were getting home. Would they come back to get us? As those crazy thoughts run wild in our minds, abandonment takes center stage – they simply left without us.

Being left doesn’t just regulate itself to rides home or failed pickups. Relationships we value and cherish often come in and out of our lives. People move. Jobs change. Schedules alter our social plans. Difficult conflicts destroy even the closet of friends. Illness sidelines us. Separation and divorce screams “we’re left alone.” And the loss of a loved one we thought would always be present in our lives leaves us overcome with grief.

Wonder if these were thoughts the disciples felt as Jesus prepared them for His departure? This group of men had abandoned everything to follow the Savior. They left jobs, families – whatever it took to walk with Jesus for three amazing years. And now, they found themselves hearing the difficult words, “Where I am going you cannot follow me now.” Words uttered from One who had just washed their feet and shared a meal with them. Words following the abrupt departure of one of the twelve. Life was changing. Jesus was leaving, and they would be left behind.

But sweet friends He was not abandoning them – Jesus was going ahead so He could prepare a place for those who believe in Him. They were not forgotten, overlooked or dismissed. Right in the midst of His darkest hours, Jesus makes sure they know He is not leaving them as orphans (John 14:18). His words echo the assurance of His love and the promise of the Holy Spirit who would come to comfort, lead and guide them. “Let not your heart be troubled,” resounds from His lips. “Don’t be afraid,” fills the silence. Jesus was leaving, but one day He would return and take all those who put their faith and trust in Him to live forever in the very presence of God.

So what was so difficult and hard to imagine was God’s perfect plan unfolding right before their eyes. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

“Father, abandonment was never on Your mind – extravagant love flowed from the lips of Your Son reminding us we are never alone.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 31, 2020

Avoiding Repeat…Offering A New Song

“He put a new song in my mouth a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.” Psalm 40:3 (ESV)

I could recite those words perfectly. Why? They had been blaring out my car stereo for weeks. Ever been there when your fave song hits the air? Yes, I can totally surround my ears with the sound of the same – familiar fits for quite a while but eventually I’m ready for another beat.

Wonder if the song we’ve been singing to God needs a refreshing uplift? Easy to zone into the same “Woe is me” tune. Don’t even have to concentrate to blare out the “Why me, Lord” discourse. And what about those moments when we stay on repeat for days, weeks, months settling for “What’s in it for me” or “Do You really love me?” An old song left in the past, lost in the present or overwhelmed by the future – not exactly what God longs to hear.

Psalm 40 echoes sweet words from a shepherd boy who became King. David’s heart of worship desired to offer God a new song not simply a repeat. Lyrics richly embedded in thankfulness and gratitude. Rhythmic beats from a heart of devotion. Tunes God hadn’t heard before but definitely ones He passionately loved.

So what’s the song we’ve been singing? Are we stuck on repeat totally satisfied with the melody flowing from our heart? Don’t know about you, but I can hum that “Woe is me” tune nonstop. And when life gets tough, challenging and hard, we are definitely tempted to resound “Do You really love me?”

What’s a girl to do?

Cultivating a heart of gratitude and contentment with our God’s sovereign plan naturally orchestrates the most glorious song. The One who loves to hear our voice equally loves new. Flourishing, growing, deepening our relationship with Him guarantees our song won’t be the same old tune we’ve sung time and time again. Newness is His signature trademark – stagnant repeat isn’t. With our eyes fixed on the inexhaustible character of our God, our song will ignite our deepest melody. And for those who are blessed to hear about our incredible God, they will desire to know the One whose praise is forever on our lips.

“Father, I’m coming back to a heart of worship – bringing a new song I’ve never sung before and it’s all about You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Gratitude, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 30, 2020

Speak Out

“And they overcame him (the accuser) by the blood of the Lamb and the by the word of their testimony…” Revelation 12:11 (ESV)

Throughout the Bible, the enemy of our souls is called “the accuser.” And, sisters, I know you know that’s a fitting moniker for Satan. He stands before the Throne of God accusing us to God (Zech 3:1). You can almost hear the hiss from his smelly mouth, “Did You hear what she just said?” And, “Don’t forget about what she did all those years ago—how can she possibly be forgiven?”

But that’s not all! Satan and his minions lurk around us, hissing those same accusations in our ears in an attempt to steep our minds and hearts in shame, aiming ultimately at discouragement. Better yet—so he believes—is when he accuses God to us. Things like, “God won’t help you with this—you’re on your own.” Or, “Oh, with the way you’ve lived your life, God can never love someone like you.”

Ladies, we must never forget that Satan has been defeated by the precious blood of Jesus Christ! He is living on borrowed time, doing his best to take us down with him. He wants to prevent as many people as possible from God’s redemption…and keep the redeemed as quiet as possible. That’s why Revelation 12:11 declares that he is overcome by the Lamb’s blood and the word of our testimony.

He despises our praises, prayers, trust, and obedience. And his accusations are meant to silence us from sharing with others God’s amazing grace, mercy, forgiveness, and love.

So, we must speak out. We are sinners, but we’re saved by grace. We will mess up (daily), but we’re forgiven. God may not be answering our prayers the way we want Him to…but He will answer them in His timing, for our good and His glory. We have all been through fires (and more flames are waiting). Each of us has a powerful testimony to what the Lord has done and what He’s doing.

Most importantly, when you accepted the miracle of salvation, Satan lost the war for your soul.

But he’ll still attack with daily battles to conquer some ground in our lives with pinpoint accusations perfectly designed for each of us. So, keep on talking, girls. Speak your testimony. Speak the truth of God’s unfailing, perfect love. And shut that scoundrel up.

“Lord, help me stand firm in my testimony and glorify You to those around me.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Faith, Gratitude

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