Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 19, 2019

Walking In His Steps

“Then He (Jesus) said to them all, If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow.” Luke 9:23 (NIV)

Wounded beyond recognition, broken from the weight of our sin, surrendered completely to the Father’s will – a Holy sacrifice to cover all of our past, present and future. No greater love has ever been shown. No price has ever been higher. No sorrow has ever been deeper. The world saw a rugged, blood stained cross – God saw our Savior, Redeemer and the Holy Lamb of God.

Broken, crushed and wounded – we all find ourselves in desperate need of a Savior. We embrace His gift of salvation. We enjoy the peace of eternity; but do we emulate His life, His choices or His sacrifice? Do we seek to be changed so that we are more like Him?

We can cherish the cross, we can admire the cross; but we will miss the mark if we don’t allow the cross to transform who we are. Change for someone else is great, but changing ourselves that’s another story. We get comfortable with who we are – our attitudes, actions, decisions and thoughts. Changing ourselves means allowing God’s will to dictate our lives, even to the point of drinking a bitter cup of suffering. Changing ourselves requires desiring Jesus more than anything else the world has to offer.

If the cruelest of deaths on the cross could bring the greatest of joy, then how amazed we will truly be as the cross changes us. It won’t be easy or painless – but it will make us more like Jesus – true followers walking in His steps.

“Father, we are so unworthy of Your incredible sacrifice. The depths of Your love far surpasses our understanding, the greatness of Your mercy far exceeds anything we’ve ever known and the riches of your grace frees us!”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 18, 2019

A Crown of Betrayal

“When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand. And they bowed the knee before Him and mocked Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” Matthew 27:29 (NKJV)

The scene is hard to imagine. Jesus, the Son of God, the One who had lived amongst His people teaching them, healing them, and delivering them from spiritual bondage has just been betrayed by one of His trusted ministry partners. What a disappointment! What great pain from such betrayal!

Jesus, being who He was – and is – could have made a choice to not go through physical torture and death on the cross. It was the most humiliating and painful type of death an innocent man could endure, but He did not defend Himself to anyone. He didn’t point fingers at anyone. And He didn’t curse anyone. He remained silent, instead. I can only imagine the turmoil in His head, knowing what was coming to Him and not getting out of it even though He had the power to do so.

The Son of God was mocked by the very people He defended. And what did He do when He was betrayed and mocked by those people? He endured. He allowed His Father’s plan to unveil.

And thank God that He did! Because Jesus willingly took upon Himself our sins on that cross, we can have hope of eternity in heaven with Him.

“Lord, so much pain and sorrow came to You before the world saw You fulfill Your Father’s plan for You and mankind. Still this day we suffer with betrayal and mockery, but through You we overcome the pain they cause us. Thank You for the cross. Thank you for the blood that was shed for us.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 17, 2019

Beyond Fear

“He (God) will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.” Isaiah 33:6 (NIV)

Four letters packed with power – f – e – a –r , but not the kind of power we’re looking for. Fear has the power to derail our dreams and sabotage our future. Fear has the power to keep us safe, predictable and far from taking faith steps that will transform our lives. Instead fear lands us on the sidelines watching everyone else moving forward. It fuels regret because we long for what we are afraid to seize.

I glimpsed this first-hand in the life of a friend. Her life had been characterized by bouts of fear that kept her captive looking out the window yet bound within the safety of her self-imposed prison. How did she land in this place? Fear was a trait her mother taught her well. Every opportunity for something new turned into a list of don’ts because of a tragedy that “could” happen. To this day she still hides behind the drawn blinds of what “could” happen. Disillusioned and unsatisfied, her life is drenched in regret of what “could” have been.

Sadly, too often we exchange the all consuming peace that God offers for generational fears that leave us locked into safe rather than victorious. God’s formula for power leaves no room for the chains that fear generates. Instead, He offers us the opportunity to trust Him in all things – even the unsettled, unpredictable, and at times risky moves of transformational belief.

Are we allowing fear to dominate our response to God’s instructions? Are we imprisoned by what “could” happen rather than capitalizing on the “fear nots” that God promises? Real empowerment only comes when we trust and believe that God is the ordainer of our days.

“Father, trusting You will always position us to move past fear into victory.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 16, 2019

Aligned With God’s Divine Will

“My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will, not mine.” Matt. 26:39 (NLT)

Hours before Jesus’ crucifixion, He was in “a place of pressing,” an olive grove called Gethsemane praying. This was the place where His human will would come into alignment with divine will.

As Jesus’ fate drew near, He was on His knees crying out to God… praying…in so much distress that He prayed the same prayer over and over. He was crushed with grief, pressed above measure, beyond strength and at the breaking point. He was under pressure, dealing with agony and the emotions leading to the final stage of a difficult death. His surrendered will became His power. His power to be beaten beyond human recognition, carrying His cross up a hill, nailed with spikes, mocked, lifted high, stretched wide, pierced in His side and die a criminals death. Dead…carried away to be buried in a borrowed tomb.

Darkness fell across the earth. Jesus uttered “it is finished!” The veil tore from top to bottom in the temple that separated the Holy of Holies. All the earth shook, rocks split apart and tombs opened. The only sound was all hell rejoicing. Demons clapped and danced with glee. The devil was in a state of euphoria shouting a victory chorus.

One day, two days…then on the third day early Sunday morning! The earth quaked with a hallelujah shout…arise My Love, an angel descended from heaven and rolled the stone away. The guards shook in fear and fainted. Hell could not hold our King. Death has been defeated. Jesus folded His grave clothes as a sign He would return again one day. He stepped out of the tomb as demons watched their victory fade while the keys of death were snatched from the devil’s grip.

God’s power and promise underlined Jesus’ resurrection. Death lost its sting and the grave its victory. God had conquered the sin of the world once and for all. Standing triumphant His arms stretch out as Savior of the world.

“Father, thank you Jesus has risen from the dead and the tomb is empty!

For His Glory

Kim Lacey Schock(www.kimlaceyschock.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 12, 2019

When You Feel Left Behind – Hold On Tight To Him

“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Phillipians 3:13-14 (ESV)

I’m not the best gardener. Watering my flowers gets pushed further down my list than I would dare admit. Wilting in the hot, humid air describes them most days because I just simply get distracted and forget to water them. But despite my neglect, they somehow survive. And to my great surprise, I found a new flowering plant springing up amongst the weeds of an old window box. Not really sure what it is and I’m positive I didn’t water, nurture or plant it. It simply appeared in mid-summer – a beautiful shade of bright pink – my sweet late bloomer.

Wonder how many times we shortchange growth for our “late bloomer” moments? Ever stifled the gifts, callings and purposes God has for us because we should have done it sooner? It’s so easy to think we should have achieved, accomplished or surpassed where we are. We glimpse those around us running full speed ahead and become overwhelmed at our lack of progress. Sadly those words settle in and deprive us of moving forward, stretching and reaching. Lingering in the land of what ifs never serves us well.

Wouldn’t you rather bloom late than never bloom at all? Even if we appear behind schedule to others watching our arrival, wouldn’t we rather keep pressing toward the prize. God is more impressed with our obedience than He is with someone else’s time table. His plans are unique and strategic. He knows the paths our life will take and the story that will unfold from start to finish. Unlike me, He is the Master Gardener who won’t neglect His late bloomers.

So sweet friend in case you’re feeling left behind or cast aside – hold on tight to the One who knows exactly the moment for His glory to shine through. Don’t give up or step aside. Don’t listen to the voice of defeat or regret. Instead lean in close and wait for His timing. And just when we may think we’ve missed the mark, God will burst forth our greatest growth if we stay in step with Him.

“Father, You are forever cheering us on – not zeroing in on where we might have been – but completely in awe of where we are going with You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 11, 2019

Simply Beautiful

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NIV)

My grandsons Jayden, 5, and A.J., 4, were shopping with their mom Liz on the day before her birthday. The little lads were informing every person in the store that it was their mama’s birthday and they needed to tell her she was beautiful. Their actions were making Liz blush as complete strangers walked up to her and told her she was beautiful and wished her a happy birthday. At the same time, it made her feel very special, because it was an action started by her children, out of their love for her.

I recently read in TRBC’s Family Time devotional that “friends of God tell their friends about God,” (p. 13). When I read that, I tried to imagine how God must feel when He receives the praise and worship of His children, which originate out of their love for Him!

After God parted the waters for the Israelites to cross the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites sang to the Lord. Prophetess Miriam, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand and led the women in music and dancing (Exodus 15). King David praised God with his harp since the time he was a boy. When he was really excited about a victory, he and the entire company of Israel were in a parade, singing at the top of their lungs, and playing mandolins, harps, tambourines, castanets, and cymbals! (2 Samuel 6)

We mustn’t forget that others are always watching us. Our God is awesome; He is still in the miracle business, and He loves His children. The question for us, then, is, “how are we showing others His love?”
The little incident with Liz and the boys has reminded me of Jesus’ words, “from the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise.” (Matthew 21:16). In their own way, my grandsons knew how to brighten their mama’s day. I hope that my words and actions will do the same for my Lord Jesus.

“Lord, You are beautiful and more precious than silver or gold. Your love is unconditional and never-ending. My lips praise Your name.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Love, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 9, 2019

Gather Around

“One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, and he began to teach them.” Matthew 5:1-2 (NLT)

We stepped off the bus and the children eyed us with curiosity. As we moved through the neighborhood inviting all to a puppet show, children realized we had what they wanted: candy, small toys, and attention. They gathered around, setting aside their scavenging to see what we were about, these strangers. They followed us down one street and up the next. They held our hands and tried to communicate with us in spite of the language barrier. Surrounded by children whose bellies had never been full, we gave all that we had. We drew a crowd for foodstuffs and toys, but filled their hearts with the grace and love of Jesus as we presented the gospel and handed out Bibles. We applied for passports and visas, raised money for the flights, and spent vacation time for these precious ones.

Our key verses constitute the introduction to the Sermon on the Mount. The crowds gathered because Jesus alone had what they wanted. Had the people heard of Jesus teaching in the synagogues? Had they seen a friend healed of illness or disease? Had rumor spread of the Man who could free a demon-possessed boy? Whatever the reason the crowds gathered, God in the flesh was about to feed His people with the truth that gives life. I just love the simplicity of the verses. They gathered; He taught.

Do we gather? We gather at our kids’ school for meetings and assemblies. We gather at sporting events—professional and amateur. We gather at celebrations: birthday, graduation, anniversary, etc. Do we gather together as believers around Jesus?

“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25 (NLT)

Do we desire what Jesus offers enough to set aside our plans? Gathering at churches, small groups, Bible studies, and ministries puts us in a place to hear from God. He alone has what we want. He alone provides all that we need.

Gather around.

“Lord, may we never take advantage of the privilege we have to gather together in prayer, worship, and learning. We desire what only You can provide.”

For His Glory

Tammy Randlett (http://staletoast.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 4, 2019

Investment Pays Off

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35 (NIV)

I saw her recently. A quick hug combined with a beautiful smile assured me she was well. Verbal confirmation quickly followed. Spiritually I ask? ‘Yes. I am.’ she answered. My heart rejoiced.

Why? Because our first acquaintance was in a one on one mentoring program where a troubled teenager, insecure in her identity was introduced. Little did she know her life would be radically transformed. Sadly, no one had taken time to teach her commonsensical things a young teenage girl should have known; therefore, those months were filled with a multitude of questions, practical and spiritual. Most importantly she was spiritually lost and quite open about it.

Gratefully, behind the scenes God was working and answering many prayers! About halfway through our journey I had the privilege of leading her to Christ. The investment paid off!! Over time she’s learned to walk independently, make godly decisions, find a job, finish high school, and grow in her walk with Christ.

Jesus was the greatest example of investing in others. He personally chose twelve men to pour spiritual truth into over a three-year period. Mentoring at it’s finest. They had set backs and didn’t always listen, yet he continued to devote Himself confident they were worth the investment.

What about that neighbor you have been meaning to visit but haven’t? Or the co-worker whose life is falling apart? Or that teen without a role model? Who do you see that is worth the investment?

Someone saw value in you. Investments take time. Ask God to bring someone into your life that will benefit from time well spent. It will be worth it; it may even determine their eternal destiny. It did with mine!

“Lord, please allow me to see the importance of investing in others.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 3, 2019

When Threats Surround Us

“And Hezekiah received the letter from the hand of the messengers and read it; and Hezekiah went up to the house of the Lord and spread it before the Lord.” Isaiah 37:14 (NJKV)

Ever found yourself in a place of great intimidation? Have the threats of the enemy filled your soul with overwhelming, paralyzing fear? That’s exactly where King Hezekiah landed. His enemy was coming against him and not just with force but with words. “Do not let your God in whom you trust deceive you,” echoed from the king of Assyria. His game plan was to plant a simple seed of doubt in the heart of the people of Judah. In simpler terms, ‘Hey guys your leader King Hezekiah is leading you astray. You can’t defeat us.”

Familiar tactic wouldn’t you say? We may not have a band of warriors headed our way, but Satan is alive and well seeking to devour us. Our enemy barks the same threat, “Your God can’t be trusted. He’s holding out on you. Look around you see the destruction – your God can’t protect you.”

Wow how many times have we bought into that lie? And unlike Hezekiah we don’t go running to the feet of Jesus, we often cower in a corner as if Satan’s truth trumps our mighty God! Even worse we allow doubt, dread and hopelessness to settle in dragging us to a deep pit of despair. We run away as if we can escape the uncertainty totally disillusioned to all we once believed. And that sweet friend is how the enemy seizes control -one doubt, one lie at a time.

Love the way Hezekiah resisted the urge to believe the words haunting him. Love the way he goes immediately to the Lord and spreads it all out before the only One who can change his circumstances. Shows a girl a lot about what do when the enemy shouts loud – run into the arms of Jesus. Take him the very words of intimidation and release them there. Leave the negativity and threats. Pour out our heart and then watch our God move on our behalf.

Hezekiah’s God showed up in a big way annihilating the Assyrians (and when the people arose early in the morning there were corpses everywhere Isaiah 37:36). He’s got us covered too, so when the enemy deceives us with lies of defeat let’s remind him – we serve a Mighty God!

“Father, You are our powerful warrior. We can rest in Your promises and Your word. Help us to defeat the lies of the enemy and stand firmly on Your truth.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 2, 2019

Moving In The Right Direction

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope”. Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)

The children of Israel had been liberated forty years earlier. So why were they still wandering in the wilderness after forty years of freedom? You would think they would get tired of the same old same old. Going in circles wandering around Mount Seir year after year. Their destiny was the Promise Land; however, they were still in the wilderness. God had delivered the Israelites from Egypt, but the wilderness journey was to get Egypt out of the Israelites.

The time had come to change course. God told the Israelites they had been wandering long enough now “turn north” and head towards the Promise Land where their destiny and victory was waiting. Even though the Israelites had a destiny waiting for them action was required on their part. They had to make some changes. They had to turn north.

We also have a supernatural destiny charted by God. No matter what your natural may look like at this very moment. God has a good plan. Are you believing Him for an incredible destiny? If you are ready for a change in your life. If you are weary from going around the same mountain. If you are tired of the enemy whispering in your ear you can’t. Declare today you can and you will! It’s time to take back what the enemy has stolen by way of fear, doubt and intimidation. The enemy can no longer keep you in the wilderness. Decree from this day forward you are promise bound.

God has taken a lot of thought in making plans for your life. He has outlined your life using multiple ways to bless and benefit you. God said it, therefore, He meant it! You just need to believe it! Take action! The time has arrived to make the necessary changes to live the promise!

“Father, thank You our lives are full of hope and blessings because You have planned our good and secure futures taking us from faith to faith, strength to strength and glory to glory.”

For His Glory

Kim Lacey Schock (www.kimlaceyschock.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom

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