Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 28, 2019

When Leaving Sounds Sweeter

“My (Jesus’) prayer is not that You(Father) take them out of the world but You protect them from the evil one.” John 17:15 (NIV)

One is taken and others are left behind. Saying goodbye has never been my best trait. If you’re a part of my life, I simply want you to stay forever. Even as a little girl, I hated when people came to visit and then left for home. Sadness always seemed to consume me….why couldn’t they just stay or take me with them.

Can’t imagine what it would have been like to walk, talk, eat and do life with Jesus. A circle of ordinary men who gave up everything to join Him on the adventure of a lifetime. Witnessing miracles, captivated by His voice, and challenged by His Spirit suddenly confronted with the reality His journey on earth was about to end. Everything would change..their lives would never be the same.

“Can’t I take them with me?” Those are the words I would have said. “I just can’t leave without the ones I love. We’ve been through so much. Saying goodbye would be more than I could bear.”

Not the sentiments of our sweet Jesus. His great love for all the world meant He had to leave them here for now. This band of ordinary men would share the gospel and tell the story of One who came and taught them all things. Just another reason why if believing meant leaving then our lives would miss the blessings of incredible testimonies of faith, struggle, commitment and devotion. Jesus knew the greater picture….we would be His hands and feet in this world. We are the ones He entrusted to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

Love this prayer Jesus offered in His final moments – words for our protection not our ease. He knew the enemy would seek to steal, kill, destroy and sift like wheat those who proclaimed His name. So Jesus prayed, prayed and prayed protection over the ones He’d leave behind. And sweet friends, He is still interceding today sitting at the right hand of the Father. Don’t know about you, but that comforts me, encourages me and convicts me to release fears and boldly proclaim His truth. We are here for a reason – let’s seize the moment and share the good news.

“Father, You have given us a sphere of influence – a chance to leave a mark on this world for Your glory. Help us to be courageous women unafraid to do your will.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 25, 2019

God’s Thoughtfulness

“How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!” Psalm 139:17 9 (NIV)

I love pansies – I’ve planted some in my front yard. Why? Two reasons:
• They brighten my days because they bloom all winter – through ice and snow!
• And I love their meaning. Did you know the name pansy is derived from the French word pensée “thought?”

Isn’t it fun when someone thinks of you for no particular reason? One Spring, I was surprised with a hand delivered unexpected gift one afternoon at work! My precious friend said the gift she chose made her think of me! I loved it!! I welcomed this as God’s sweet way of encouraging me since I had resigned, I would not see my children on Mother’s Day. I didn’t realize He wasn’t finished only beginning. Mother’s Day, I was pleasantly surprised when both my children rearranged their schedules to come be with me!! I was one happy mama and blown away by God’s thoughtfulness of me!

Psalm 139 is a familiar scripture filled with wonderful truths. Verse 18 teaches God’s thoughts toward His child is more in number than the sand. Wow!! That’s a lot of thoughts!! Then it made me think: how often do I think of Him? Do I rearrange my schedule to meet Him? Do I make Him feel special? What makes Him a happy Father? God is always thinking of us. Pay close attention He may have an unexpected surprise!!

“Lord, thank You for thinking of me. Teach me to be thoughtful of You and share Your love by thinking of others”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Love

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 24, 2019

More Than Enough

“Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation…” Luke 2:28-30a (NLT)

Have you ever wanted something so much that it consumed your thoughts? When I was young, my friend had a Cabbage Patch doll. I wanted my own Cabbage Patch doll so much I could hardly think of anything else. I studied the commercials like I would be tested on them later. I gazed at the boxed dolls at the store—that beautiful yarn hair, dimpled face, and snuggly body signed by Xavier.

Not having much money at the time, my parents bought me an imitation doll. I knew immediately she wasn’t the real thing; she had the yarn hair, but the face wasn’t dimpled and she certainly wasn’t signed by Xavier. I tried to love her but she wasn’t quite right. I thought if I pretended to love her, eventually I would. No matter how hard I tried, the doll didn’t measure up. A few months later, I unwrapped my first Cabbage Patch doll, a Christmas gift from my aunt and uncle. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Was I dreaming? Hugging her to me, my life felt complete.

Where is that coveted doll now? She’s hibernating in a box in the garage waiting to be given to (and eventually cast aside by) a granddaughter. The gift I thought I could not live without—the doll I thought would make my life complete—was forgotten in the end.

Simeon “was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.” (Luke 2:25b-26 NLT) Simeon wanted more than anything to see the Messiah. He waited with anticipation, having received the promise that his greatest desire would be met before he died.

Do we have the same passion as Simeon? Do we want more than anything to see the Lord? Are we anticipating Christ’s return as much as Simeon anticipated the birth which brought salvation?

‘Thank You, Lord, for the salvation You provide through the birth, death, and resurrection of Christ. As we celebrate this Christmas season, may we want You more than any other gift. Our lives are complete in You alone.”

For His Glory

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

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 23, 2019

When Leaving Familiar Behind Serves Us Well

“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love Him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations,” Deuteronomy 7:9 (ESV)

Familiar passages of scripture can convince us that we know the story…we don’t need to read it right? Wrong. So this weekend, I was planning to excuse some Genesis reading because I knew the story. But God drew me to His words, and I was captivated by all He showed me. Things I would have missed if I had settled for familiar. Things I would have skimmed over if I hadn’t slowed down.

I didn’t have to go far before God caught my eye. Genesis 1 details the beginning of creation. The transforming of nothing into amazing something. The hovering of His Spirit over that nothing, void and empty. God speaking and it becoming our world full of beauty and wonder. As I read through those words I had read far too many times, I settled on this phrase “And it was so.” In other words, God spoke and it happened.

Don’t know about you but I need to be reminded of His power to speak over my life. This Jesus girl desperately needs to be reminded that God’s Spirit hovers over empty. He transforms all our nothings into absolutely amazing. I need to remember that He is the Faithful and True One. I need to cling to the promise that what He says does happen. We can count on God to deliver. We can know without a shadow of a doubt that He created us. We can reflect on His finishing words:  “And it was so. God saw all that He had made and it was very good.” Genesis 1:30b-31

Sweet place to rest our minds this week – we can trust God to be more than enough for all that we need. All He has to do is speak and it will be so. Nothing is too hard or impossible for our mighty God (Luke 1:37). But if He chooses to speak in a way that disappoints our plans, we can always trust that He makes it all very good for His glory.

“Father, we are truly in awe of your power and majesty. Love the sweet reminders that Your Word is fresh and new every day – leaving familiar behind.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 22, 2019

Always Safe In His Embrace

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1 (NIV)

The first two verses in Psalm 91 always make me think of God as someone in whose arms we can always find solace for hard times; the One who wipes our tears away and soothes all our fears. He is our refugee, our fortress, our constant help in times of trouble. No matter what we are faced with, God is there.

In Isaiah 40, God is depicted as a shepherd who gathers His lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. Can you envision this picture in your mind? Getting that close to someone else and placing your head on his or her heart; being able to hear that heart beating! Friend, this action would mean that you are very dear to that individual. People don’t allow just anybody to come that close, unless they wish to show them that they are loved.

There was a disciple of Jesus who was known for being His beloved. That disciple was named John, and he was known for reclining his head on Jesus’ chest, even though the moment when that happened was not the best one for the Lord. At that moment, Jesus already knew that after sharing that meal with His disciples, He would be betrayed by one of them – by someone He had trusted. Yet, even with all the thoughts that could be haunting His head at that moment, Jesus allowed for His disciple to lean against Him and feel safe and loved.

In this day and age, a “I-Love-You” special moment can be experienced even from afar. Sometimes, it is not feasible for us to actually be with someone during his or her time of need, to physically hold him or her in our embrace. Nonetheless, by staying near through prayer and communication (e.g. phone call, text, mail, etc.) we may bring into others’ hearts a sense of security that they otherwise would not feel. Our loving gesture may feel, to them, just like leaning against their Father’s heart, safely into His embrace.

“Use us, Lord, to spread Your love to others, leading them into Your arms.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 21, 2019

Avoiding The Truth

 

“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! Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV)

What do you do when you really don’t want to do something? Doubt if any of us goes running full speed ahead with the unwanted things. As a teenager, I hated homework so I would allow my projects to pile up until I absolutely had to get them done. Lots of stressful moments all because I avoided, procrastinated and resisted carving in adequate time to accomplish the goal.

Glad I learned my lesson and released my tendencies to procrastinate or so I thought. While I am a diligent planner and organizer at some things, you might still find me dragging behind doing some “unwanted things.” Cleaning out the fridge isn’t at the top of my weekend list. Balancing my checkbook usually gets pushed aside to a “better time.”

Let’s just admit it we all procrastinate about some things – it’s just my “some things” are not always the same as your things. Regardless, operating in slow mode or delaying a task doesn’t really remove it off the list. Wonder how often we excuse away what really needs our attention so we can pursue something more exciting, fun and easy?

Whatever needs doing or dealing with won’t go away just because we choose to ignore it. Whatever we push aside for later will eventually rise back up to the surface. Especially true when it comes to dealing with the stuff God desires for us to face, deal with and work through. Dismissing the prompting of the Holy Spirit never serves us well.

Courageous women admit their lack of enthusiasm to tackle the tough stuff and press through. Brave women avoid becoming stuffers and face their issues with grace and beauty. Wise women avoid delay in dealing with “little sins” recognizing the devastating effect they have on our relationship with God.

Sweet friends what’s got us postponing the truths staring us in the face? I think we all get the picture – the procrastination game is not the way to do life. So the next time we’re tempted to put off what needs tackling lets trust God to get us through and follow His plan.

“Father, too many times we avoid the very things You keep bring up to the surface – help us to embrace Your timing and Your leading for transformation.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Spiritual Living, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 18, 2019

When Dressing Up Is Crucial

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11 (ESV)

Who wouldn’t love a playdate with friends? It’s every kid’s dream. Running, building, playing ball – it’s the stuff little boys love. The rougher the better until someone gets hurt. Not so much fun. Simple solution if you’re playing with someone who might just get a little rougher than you like then dress for the occasion. That’s exactly what my friend’s son did. He grabbed some protective gear and headed out the door to play because he didn’t want to get hurt. Love the proactive nature of this sweet boy. Despite his love for his friends, he wanted to protect himself from bumps and bruises.

Wonder what would happen if we did the same? The enemy is guaranteed to attack, and he usually doesn’t look the way we thought. We probably didn’t even see him coming. Blindsided by the schemes of the evil one, before we even grabbed some protection. That nasty attitude that came out of nowhere. Those defeating thoughts sending our minds spiraling down a depressing trail. Our seemingly insignificant reactions that offended or wounded someone. Casual talk that erupts into gossip. Overspending that compromises our finances. Jealousy that creeps up at the mention of a name. Anger and bitterness sabotaging our joy. Do I really need to go on?

The enemy is definitely alive and active in our world today. You don’t have to look far to find him. Maybe that is why scripture compels us to put on the full armor of God. We never know where or when the enemy will sneak in or maybe we do. Perhaps we’ve grown accustomed to his bruising and bumps. But sweet friend, today could be the day we silence him. Grab your belt of truth (His word) and tie it tight – don’t miss a single loop. Cover your heart and soul with the breastplate of His righteous (no condemnation). Raise up your shield of faith (remembering who He is). Grasp the helmet of salvation (securely His). Use your sword (God’s word) aggressively. Give no occasion for the enemy to sneak in. Lace up your feet with the gospel of peace. And then brave warrior, pray. Pray like you never prayed before. Alert, equipped and ready to stand against the one who loves to take us down.

“Father, we have been given the perfect armor to defeat the enemy. You have taught us the battle plan. Now help us to seize your weapons and stand strong.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 17, 2019

Victory Awaits On The Other Side

“…he instructed his disciples to cross to the other side of the lake.” Matthew 8:18b (NLT)

We’re all familiar with the story in Matthew 8: 23-27. Jesus and His disciples get in a boat and head to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. A sudden and terrible storm comes up with breaking waves that threaten to sink the boat. Obliviously, Jesus is not worried because He is in the boat sleeping. The disciples are terrified and wake Jesus asking him to save them. The disciples are scared for their lives, afraid they’re going to drown. Jesus asked why they are so afraid then states, “you have so little faith!” Jesus stands up and rebukes the wind and waves. All becomes calm leaving the disciples in awe and probably scratching their heads.

How many of us miss Jesus’ prior instruction in verse 18? Jesus instructs the disciples “…cross to the other side…” When Jesus says you are going to the other side make no mistake about it, you ARE going to the other side! There’s no storm of life, scheme of man, or obstacle of the Oppressor going to stop what the Lord says will happen. When we are in the middle of the lake of life and our boats are being tossed about, the winds are swirling, and the waves are crashing. Stand strong and courageous. You may have lost your oars, your boat may be full of water and the winds taking you in the opposite direction. Stay calm having the faith to rebuke the fiercest storm. Our Father is taking us to the other side.

The storms of life have no other choice but be still, be calm and step aside and get out of our way because God says we’re going to the other side where our victory awaits.

“Father, how sweet to ride out the storms of life with You by our side.”

For His Glory

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

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Success

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 15, 2019

Conforming To Christ’s Image In The New Year

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NIV)

After days and weeks of planning, decorating the house, buying and wrapping gifts and meal preparation, the holidays are over. Christmas decorations have been put away and the New Year has begun. Left behind are sweet memories…and for some of us, maybe some painful ones tucked in there as well. Because despite all the careful planning to create the perfect Christmas, we fall short. It could be my expectations that were unmet or realizing that I failed to meet someone else’s. Maybe it’s a careless remark made by a family member, or something I said that I regret. Whatever the source of the sorrow, we can trust God’s ability to use that very thing for His good purpose of conforming us into the image of His beloved Son.

We see Romans 8:28 at work in the life of Joseph who says to his brothers who sold him in to slavery, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20). This does not mean that Joseph escaped the grief and sorrow caused by his brothers’ actions. Familial wounds are always painful. Not to mention the years he spent in prison as a result of their betrayal. But Joseph trusted God and his faith told him that God was using his plight for good. Romans 8:28 is also powerfully displayed in Christ’s crucifixion. The worst thing that ever happened, is also the best thing that ever happened.

When we are on the receiving end of insensitive remarks or when loved ones fail to meet our expectations, our emotions try to tell us they meant it for evil. But the reality is that God wants to use even that for good—His ultimate good, which Paul describes in the very next verse: “For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers” (Romans 8:29). This is the good God desires for us, and what I struggle to want most for myself. I do want to be conformed to Christ’s image, but sometimes I want other things more. To feel understood, to be right, or to feel appreciated by others. So, I cling to I John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” And I trust. Trust that God will use all things to conform me to the image of Christ as I pray for Him to create in me a pure heart that desires this above all else.

“Lord, create in me a heart that wants what You want. Forgive me when I want other things more. Thank you for loving us enough to send Jesus to the manger and then to the cross. Help us to love you more than anything else.”

For His Glory

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 14, 2019

Leaving Margin For Growth

“Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.” Psalm 140:13 (ESV)

Got to admit, I’ve always been a follow the program girl. Give me a set of instructions and I’ll follow them explicitly. Show me a path to take and I will stay on course. Disciplined to the core. But sometimes simply following a program doesn’t leave margin for growth.

Repeat your exercise routine every day and your body gets accustomed to your pattern. Eat the same foods and your body doesn’t have to work hard to digest them. Drive the same route to work and you could coast into your parking spot. Doing the same things over and over again guarantees boredom will settle in, complacency is sure to follow.

Our minds are powerful tools geared to be challenged. We can’t just follow a ritual and expect new transformation. We need step out of the box moments to stretch us. We need intentional depth rather than skim to teach us. We need margins of quiet to think …..not just respond. And we need passion to fuel us in the right direction.

Expecting growth in 2019? What are we willing to forego to invite depth into our life? For me that means embracing a slow deliberate study of God’s word. Not my usual fast reads to accomplish a goal. Desiring wisdom, understanding and clarity rather than completing a checklist. Longing for His presence and revelation more than just “getting it done.” Deciding now to prioritize my schedule to ensure there’s room for His presence.

Seeking perfection…oh no, I’m sure there will be moments in my 365 where I will miss the mark. Cherishing His grace and patience when I fail to savor His truths and allow His Spirit to guide me. Aiming for what I know only God can enable me to do…..to draw near to Him because He is drawing near to me. Expecting growth rather than settling for less.

When December 2019 rolls around will our love for God and His Word be the same or will our hearts long for more and more of Him? Will we find ourselves overwhelmed by His presence or will we regret the moments we gave to lesser things? The flipping of a calendar happens ever so quickly – choose today to be captivated by the One who longs to have our undivided attention – it’s a goal worth pursuing.

“Father, so many things will attempt to steal Your place, but You alone are worthy of our worship. Free us from what holds us back so we can love you more and more each day.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Love, Spiritual Growth

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