Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 7, 2017

Memories By The Tree

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.  Remain in me, and I will remain in you.  No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine.”  John 15:1&4a (NIV)

Christmas calls memories to mind.  Inescapable ones.  Mine include the year I received a hand-crocheted blanket from someone whose acceptance I sought.  My late brother-in-law napping under the Christmas tree following the afternoon meal.  Placing ornaments on the tree that enclosed the pictures of my newborn sons; I treasure those early days.

Christmas is a time of memories.  There are memories we’d be glad to live over again.  And for some, there are memories that are tucked away and we pray will never re-surface.  Somewhere in the cavities of our souls, they taint the glory of Christmas just a bit.

Most of us would rather have a Christmas tree with much foliage and symmetrical–like that of Rockefeller Center.  A tree born to be great and of purpose.  Healthy branches that point towards a root system capable of sending nutrients to all branches of the tree.  Branches firmly in place and pulling in the goodness from the tree’s base.  Strong enough to sustain the weight of ornaments, flickering lights and perhaps even an angel on top.  Should water and nutrients be denied from the branches, the tree will brown and be unable to sustain its adornments.  It most certainly will fail to resemble that of Christmas card caliber.

If we apply Christmas agriculture to the principle found in John 15 of remaining in the Vine, we must take the time to ensure we are well affixed to the sustenance provided only through Jesus.  Amongst the busyness of the season, this can be quite a challenge indeed.  As we allow His wonderment to light our ceremony, we will experience the mercy, fruit and miraculous for which He came to embody.  And should we allow Him, He will comfort our souls, restore hope and bring forth good news and great joy.

“Father, this is a season rich in gifts and glamor.  May we shine forth Your glory as we drink Your Word and remain close to You for our sustenance, strength and purpose.”

For His Glory,

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 6, 2017

What Really Matters

“And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.” Luke 2:6-7 (NLT)

We investigated options. We researched available amenities at each facility. We took tours before making a final decision. We filled out paperwork. We planned a date for admittance. None of that mattered in the end.

The hospital was beautiful with spacious rooms, kind nurses, and pampering services for new moms. The doctor planned to deliver our baby the next afternoon whether he was ready or not. My bag for the hospital was packed. Our three-year-old was headed for a sleepover at Grammy and Poppy’s house.

… Until our baby decided he was ready to make his appearance six hours early. The beautiful hospital had no rooms available. We grudgingly checked into the hospital we had decided against. The room was stark and cold. The nurses were efficient but not very friendly. The birth did not go at all like we planned. Then we met our second son. The room no longer mattered. We suddenly appreciated how the nurses cared for us but allowed us the privacy to bond with our new bundle of joy. Ultimately, all that mattered was Kaden.

Mary gave birth to the Son of God in a manger—no beautiful room. She was surrounded by animals and hay—no doting nurses. The gospels do not record specifics, but I imagine pampering services were not part of the birthing package.

How did Mary handle the less than ideal circumstances for the birth of the Messiah? “She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger.” The surroundings didn’t matter; the birth is what matters. Looking into the eyes of the Son of the Most High, Mary was holding the One who would be the salvation of all mankind. Before she even met her bundle of joy, she praised the Lord for him: “Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” Luke 1:46b-47 (NLT)
As we approach Christmas, may we see what really matters—not the gifts, decorations, or parties. Ultimately, the birth of our Savior is all that matters.

Thank You, Lord, for working in the life of a humble girl to provide the way of salvation. May we not be distracted by our surroundings, but focus on the gift that is Your Son as we celebrate Christmas.

For His Glory

 

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

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Love

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 5, 2017

Comfort & Joy

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 (ESV)

Don’t you just love the feel of soft fabric brushing against your skin? What about the sound of your favorite music playing, the smell of baked goods, the sound of familiar voices, or the sweet memories you savored with people you love?

Amazing how our hearts warm up to the familiarity of things that brought us joy!!! And how comforting it is! We close our eyes and bring those things back in a matter of seconds. Suddenly our hearts start beating faster and it’s like experiencing those special moments all over again. And we are energized each time we remember!

Imagine how Jesus’ heart felt when He saw a sinner repent and be delivered, or a dead person raised up, or someone’s messed-up-life changed. Imagine how seeing people’s faith in Him to change their circumstances in the snap of a finger, or in a short blessing, or even by a little spit mixed with clay was encouraging to Jesus! Wonder if those memories kept Jesus moving from town to town to help more people? Wonder if while He rested and closed His eyes if Jesus remembered those instances when people’s lives were touched by the power of His Father’s love through Him? Wonder if those memories energized and encouraged Jesus to proceed to the next phase?

What about God? Can you imagine how heartwarming it must have been for Him to watch His son doing His will? And how heartwarming it must be for Him to watch us trusting in Him today?

The journey we are on is a fascinating one and is drawn out especially for us, in every intricate detail. Be encouraged today in the fact that the Father rejoices in our faith in Him.

“Dear Lord, thank You for all that You do to bring us joy, even amidst the storm.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali

TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 4, 2017

The Real Deal

 “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” Luke 1:45 (NIV)

Even upclose it appeared to be real.  The pine needles sprinkled all around the base of my Christmas tree made a convincing attempt at real, but I took it out of the box and  can guarantee you that it is totally fake.  Now don’t get me wrong, I love the perfection and ease of an artificial tree.  It’s exact height, full branches and flawless shape way outshine my previous tree cutting selections.  And did I mention it came conveniently packed in a box that required no trimming, shaping or sap running onto the floor?  Yet despite all its glamour, my tree has been shedding plastic needles every time we touch it.  Guess that’s a sign that 2018 will not be seeing this tree again.

Christmas trees are not the only thing that mimic real.  We don’t have to watch too many commercials to know that promises run out quickly in the small print at the bottom of the screen. We just simply assume the person talking is giving us the exact deal we want and will get.  Note to self:  Become a reader of the fine print.

While lots of things and people won’t deliver on their promises, we can count on God’s word.  From Genesis to Revelation, God’s reputation stands strong, honest and reliable.  We don’t have to second guess or simply hope that what He says is true…we can confidently trust in His every word.

Woven throughout scripture are hundreds of verses proclaiming and promising the birth of the Messiah (Isaiah 9:6, Matthew 1:23).  Beautiful words that acquaint us with His ways before the promises were even voiced to Mary (Luke 1:35). Love the detail God gave us in preparing our hearts with expectation at His Son’s birth.  And that sweet friend was just the beginning of wonderful!  From the moment Jesus entered our world to His death and resurrection, the fulfillment of God’s promises offer us hope, comfort, peace and pure joy (Romans 15:8, 2 Corinthians 1:20).

Looking for the real deal this Christmas?  Searching for a promise keeper?  Tired of “feel good”  tweets and false posts?  Feel like trading fake for real – then welcome Immanuel, God with us, into your heart and life.  Receive the best gift ever – you will never be disappointed.

“Father, Your promises are faithful and true.  Clinging to Your words knowing  without even a shadow of a doubt that what You say will happen.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 1, 2017

Cleaning Up Our Messes

“Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O Lord, And teach out of Your law,” Psalm 94:12 (NKJV)

My water bottle slipped out of my full hands and hit the floor splashing everywhere.  It was the last thing I needed; I was already running behind schedule.  Emptying my hands, I looked for some paper towels.  The janitor’s cart was right around the corner, so I explained my spill and asked for some paper towels.  Quickly she (the cleaning lady) reached for her mop and said she’d take care of it.  Now that would have meant I could walk out of the public restroom and try to regain control over my schedule.  After all it was her job – wasn’t it?

For some unknown reason, definitely a God thing,  I responded that I’d clean up my own mess. She was in shock – after all it was her job – wasn’t it?  People made messes and spills all the time and that’s what she did day in and day out.  But today, God said for me to clean up my own mess. And the payoff, well the cleaning lady walked a little taller and hummed as she went out the door.  I meet her in the hallway still pushing her cart, and she smiled big – priceless.

Ever caused a big spill with your life choices?  Despite our efforts to walk blamelessly, we live in a fallen world and are imperfect human beings. Our sin nature is flawed, tainted and gravitates toward’s doing life our own way.  It takes great discipline and self-control to resist the urge that sin invites.  It’s a choosing that can only be empowered by surrendering to the Holy Spirit living in us.  And for those moments when we blow it and give in to temptation, God offers us a chance to confess and turn back to Him.

Wonder what would happen if we cleaned up after our life messes?  Instead of expecting others to bail us out, we’d value them enough to own up to our mistakes.  Instead of leaving them to do what they’ve always done, we’d surprise them and learn something in the process.  Rather than offer them a list of excuses and rationale for our poor actions, we would confess and seek forgiveness. And the payoff they’d probably walk a little taller instead of cowering in disappointment.  They’d hum His praises as they witnessed the transformation and smile deep as tears flowed – priceless.

“Father, teach us to value and respect the people You have placed in our lives.  Help us to embrace the transforming power that is found in growing through our mistakes.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 30, 2017

Good Gifts

“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Matthew 7:11 (NIV)

The tell-tale sign of Christmas – my children rattling off their most treasured desires.  In an attempt to quiet the fury of flesh, I ask my children to make a list. Perhaps it’s the size of the link that shows the path to the objects of need, but the list seems awfully long.  So too the list of my needs, or so I call them, as I petition the Lord to favor me at every turn.

Last year, I felt honored when asked to be a friend’s accountability partner.  Over tea, she told me of her promotion to full-time with benefits, the car given to her, and her children who were progressing beyond that of the average student.  She wondered if she was on the right track with God.  Seemed like God found pleasure in her progress!  As I left the restaurant, I could feel a need to be with God.  But first, a stop at the grocery store.

Kroger was my destination and mayonnaise was my need.  As I stopped in front of the sixty or so selections, a lady came up who seemed equally overwhelmed at the choices.  Pleasantries turned into conversation regarding much of her life, its challenges and disappointments.  I was blessed with many opportunities to re-direct her assumptions of her world  to the Lord of all truth.  Eventually, I wished her well and remembered a dear mentor who assured me that God could use me anywhere.

Before the Lord, I unpacked the events that had just transpired.  And I lamented at how much the Lord was doing in someone else’s life, but not mine.  I had been on a focused posture of healing for months.  No one had placed on my plate any recognizable sign of God’s pleasure.  But, in the stillness of the moments that followed comparison and complaining, my Father spoke, saying, “If you had need of it, I would have given it to you.”

I did not need a new vehicle, or company benefits or superstar children.  I can only presume this is what my friend needed.  What I did need, desperately, was an opportunity to be available to one of God’s children, to listen supportively and to know that God can use me anywhere, even in the mayonnaise aisle.  This is what I needed and this is what He gave.

“Father, Your love knows no bounds.  You take care of Your children so beautifully.  May we trust in Your provision and care.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 29, 2017

He Will Never Let Go

“Even there you hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.” Psalm 139:10 (ESV)

Grasping her tiny hand jolted the ‘mama bear’ instinct into gear! Protection was my main objective because I could see what she couldn’t, danger looming in the distance. Grownups just have insightfulness little ones don’t. It comes with maturity.

Growing up is hard, isn’t it! I find some areas still need attention even after all these years! Growing involves learning – not necessarily being ‘instructed’ by someone but oftentimes learning from the mistakes we make along the way.

I love a quote from a little girl when asked what was one of the most important things she had learned so far in life. Her answer: ‘Remember you’re never too old to hold your father’s hand.’

Maturity produces independence of parents and sometimes of God. We become self sufficient – feeling we are capable of taking care of all our problems. This independence often affects all areas of our lives, even the spiritual. We lose contact with our heavenly Father because we don’t feel we need him. However, at some point, we will become keenly aware we can’t handle everything. We begin craving encouragement and support.

When this occurs, we are reminded of how much we need our heavenly Father. We are never too old to hold our ‘Father’s’ hand. In fact, we see the necessity of holding on to our Father’s hand even when things are not out of control.

As Job was reminded ‘If you would prepare your heart, and stretch out your hands toward him’ (Job. 11:13). Remember to reach out for His unchanging hand He’ll never let go!! Sometimes, I have to work at remembering this, how about you?

“Lord, remind me of how much I need to hold Your mighty hand.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 28, 2017

Changing Course

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7 (NIV).

In traffic, sometimes we get to a crossroads and must choose quickly which direction to go: left, right, or straight ahead. It is important to choose wisely. One direction will take us where we need to go while another will take us in the wrong direction; thus causing consequences, such as being late or even missing an important appointment. In more tragic instances it may even take us into the path of destruction; therefore, we must be cautious and wise when making our decision.

In life, we also get to “crossroads” and must make a decision as to which direction we should go in our actions and conversations. During a recent gathering, I witnessed a conversation among friends that made me somewhat uncomfortable. I felt like if I didn’t say anything, I would be condoning what they were doing, which I considered improper behavior for a Christian. I pondered at first if I would come across as being judgmental or as portraying myself as better than them. In the end, I decided my walk needed to match my talk so I spoke up and detached myself from the situation.

I am sure I do and say things that are not always praiseworthy. However, when I feel the nudge of the Holy Spirit telling me that I must stand up for what I believe to be right, God always takes care of the situation. In this particular instance, I chose to go home early and had no doubt I did the right thing.

“Dear Lord, search our hearts and help us to seek Your guidance when the path brings uncertainty. If our hearts direct us the wrong way, please help our ears to hear the voice of Your Holy Spirit and bring us back to the path of righteousness.”

 

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 27, 2017

Owning Truth..Carving In Margin for Change

“If we say we have fellowship with Him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.” I John 1:6 (ESV)

 

Transitioning from cool to cold temps takes a little determination for us sun lovers.  For me that means finally packing away all of Summer so I have room for sweaters, coats, scarfs, boots – I think you get the picture.  Since warm weather is my go to place, I put off this task until the chilly winds and frigid temps force me.  I hold on tight to the thought of a warm day with plenty of sunshine that just might resurface. But eventually, I have to embrace the truth – it’s 30 something degrees – cold is here to stay.

Ever found yourself fighting off the truth?  We read God’s word. We hear an incredible message.  We read our fave blogger or share a tweet.  Truths we have no problem applauding yet find it difficult to keep real in our lives. Why?  Because anyone can simply  agree with truth but carving in margin to apply truths ultimately equals transformation.

If we settle down on a truth, we can’t simply dismiss it.  An opportunity opens right before our eyes, we see what needs to be changed, we understand what actions we need to take and we are presented with a challenge to own it. Question is will we embrace it or dismiss it?

Love the way we can read God’s word over and over again and still be captivated by His knowledge of what needs to be changed in us.  Regardless of the familiarity or the frequency in flipping pages of our Bible, God delights in revealing new truths to us.

We’re entering the busiest time of the year.   Our lists will grow longer and longer.  Holiday events and celebrations will consume our calendars.  We know the miraculous truth of Jesus’ birth. We have read it, we have heard it and we have it etched in our minds.  But what if we eagerly asked God to reveal something new this Christmas.  To show us something we overlooked or perhaps a truth that needs to be transformed in us.

Praying for His empowerment  to resist fighting  and start surrendering to the one thing God desires to be changed in us. Asking Him not for gifts or things, but for His presence.  Carving out time to draw near to the One who came near to us.

“Sweet Jesus how blessed we are to know the truth that sets us free – You came, You died and You rose again.  Truth has won – we are no longer slaves to sin – help us to choose  freedom and transformation so that we reflect You to our world.”

 

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 22, 2017

Blessed With His Presence

“And let them make me a sanctuary, that I (God) may dwell in their midst.” Exodus 25:8 (ESV)

Amazing how the holiday rush hovers as soon as calendars flip to November 1. Christmas appears in stores before the first leaf hits the ground. The frenzy to buy, wrap and bake overtakes our calendar before the turkey and dressing hits our tummy. Strategic Black Friday shopping consumes our focus. And where is Thanksgiving in the midst of all this? Perhaps the world scribbles it in just so we can enjoy football, turkey and pumpkin pie.

Quite sure that wasn’t how the Pilgrims celebrated their first Thanksgiving. This gathering was much more than an event – it was a blessing of what God provided – abundant harvest. Simply blessings offered and conversation shared – giving thanks together.

Flip back through the pages of scripture (1 Chronicles 16) and we’ll find a praise gathering in the midst of the Israelites. It wasn’t about harvest, delicious food or abundance – it simply centered on God’s presence. King David assembled all Israel at Jerusalem to bring the ark of the Lord back to the center of where they lived. He prepared a special place – a tent – where the ark would be placed. And the enthusiasm that echoed from marching back with the ark was amazing. Shouts filled the air. Trumpets sounded. Harps and lyres were played, and David danced before the Lord with all his heart, soul and mind. And on that day, David decreed for the first time that thanks be given to the Lord by the priests. No turkey passed around the table. No mashed potatoes or dressing to share. No pumpkin pie for dessert – just simply worship filling the air.

Real Thanksgiving is found in the heart of those who chose to live in awe and wonder of the sweet presence of God. Worshipping and praising Him for who He is – the Most High, Holy God!

“Father, we are so blessed to experience the pleasure and joy of being in Your presence.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Wishing you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving Day!

(Women’s Life Devotionals will resume on Monday – thanks)

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Gratitude, Spiritual Living, Worship

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