Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 3, 2017

Pursuing Peace In The Midst of Opposition

“Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.” Proverbs 3:17 (NIV)

The dreaded confrontation – no one eagerly embraces conflict. In fact, we often bury it deep in hopes that it will never resurface again. Ever done that? We want what we want now. We know the best way to do the task – to accomplish the goal – our way is the most productive way. We like things the way they are – we don’t want to change or compromise. And so underneath all those wants, we shrug our shoulders, stomp off and give in for the sake of harmony on the surface. Deep below nothing could be further from the truth – boiling conflict always rises back up.

So why do we  avoid dealing with tough differences? Is it the fear of being wrong? Or perhaps it’s just the admitting that we don’t know how to maneuver through to a win-win. Maybe avoiding the issues convinces us to falsely believe that not talking about it will somehow ensure a safe resolution.

Conflict quickly resolved has the potential to quickly dissolve. Conflict left to simmer has the potential to continuously overheat.

The best way to face differences is found on bended knee. When we bring conflict before a Holy God, who sees and knows all things, we can trust Him to show us how to respond. Humility has a way of unveiling impure motives and levels the debater. It reminds that God has always been the instigator of unity even in the midst of opposing opinions.  We change in the midst of prayer even if others don’t.

Gaining the advantage, dominating and asserting our authority without consulting God will either escalate the issues or squelch the voice of one. Wouldn’t it serve us better if we honestly listened to God and others? Choosing to let go of self and determined that resolving a present issue would strengthen the relationship. Never met anyone who regretted working through to reach win-win.

“Sweet Jesus, we lose sight of You when we focus on us – what we want. Help our eyes to always focus upward and seek peace rather than conflict.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 2, 2017

Conquer Your Jellyfish Fear

“I sought the LORD, and he answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4 (NIV)

 

Jellyfish are known for their gelatinous appearance, which is soft to the touch, and for tentacles that emit strong stings caused by the release of toxins, which feel like a bad burn. Because of their beautiful appearance, one may desire to grab a jellyfish and hold it in her hands (remember Dory in the movie “Finding Nemo?”); nonetheless, the fear of being stung by the creature may cause an extreme adrenaline rush followed by the decision to not continue the pursuit to touch this free-swimming aquatic animal.

 

Last weekend, my son Andre and his three boys, Jayden, AJ, and Nio took me on a wonderful tour of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, MD. While at the aquarium, among the many types of fish and other aquatic beings we saw, we had the opportunity to also see – and touch – jellyfish. The person in charge of the jellyfish tank warned all guests whose hands would immerse in the tank to touch the jellies, that they needed to wait until the bells faced downwardly, because if they were facing up with their tentacles visible, that person would be stung. So, there I stood, really tempted to touch the jellyfish, but so afraid to be stung, that my hand would go in and out of the water in less than a second’s time. I think I even clapped nervously in between re-immersions of my hand. Eventually, I overcame my fear and acquired the courage to touch the jellyfish, which made me feel really proud of myself as I exited the aquarium.

 

Sometimes in life, we are faced with situations that make us think we are beneath pursuing or that we don’t have what it takes to overcome. Has that been the case for you lately? Do you find yourself pacing back and forth, wondering if you will be able to bypass the sting to get to your jellyfish? Believe you can. Trust your instincts and ask the Lord to empower you to conquer your jellyfish fear.

 

“Oh Lord, how we wish to trust at all times and yet we allow fear to deter us! Please help us to believe beyond our own humanity, through the power of Your name.”

 

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Success

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 1, 2017

Completely Helpless

“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.” Romans 5:6 (NLT)

 

There was a time when my younger son screamed about everything. When I say scream, I mean it sounded like he was auditioning for the victim in a horror film. Granted, stepping on a Lego is painful, but there is absolutely no reason to scream when you lose your pencil or can’t get your sock on straight.

The screaming left every last nerve in my body frayed. I finally warned Kaden that if he kept screaming about everything, we might not come when he really needed us.

A couple of days later, I came in the house from getting some orange juice out of the refrigerator in the garage when I heard screaming. I was tempted to ignore the screaming and vacuum the sunroom like I planned. Something (or Someone) blocked me from going about my business so I reluctantly checked on Kaden first.

I turned the corner and froze in fear. Kaden balanced precariously at the top of the stairs dangling over the banister. He was in a plank position with his belly on the banister. His feet hung over the stairs while his head fought gravity over the hard floor fifteen feet below. His strength began to fail him, tipping his feet higher and higher. He couldn’t get himself back on his feet since his palms were facing the wrong way. His arms were shaking with the effort of trying to hold on.

I raced up the stairs and pulled him away from the banister. As I held him in my arms, he cried over and over, “Thank you for saving me!”

Just as Kaden was helpless on the banister, we are helpless in our sin. Our pride and rebellion mire us in the quicksand of sin, pulling us down deeper as we struggle to break free in our own strength. We need a Savior to rescue us in our helpless state. Christ came at just the right time.

We may have trusted Christ for salvation one day in the past, but do we entrust Him with our needs each day?

“Thank You, Lord, for coming at just the right time to rescue me from my sin. I entrust You in all my helplessness with my daily needs.”

For His Glory

 

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

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 31, 2017

God’s Mystery

“I don’t think the way you think.  The way you work isn’t the way I work”. Isaiah 55:8 (MSG)

 

I have a confession to make.  Lately, my husband and I have been watching Hallmark movies.  Watch enough movies and you know how the plot will begin, turn and land.  Attractive, talented, everything you wish you were girl meets whatever you need me to be guy.  In two hours, well actually usually within the final fifteen minutes of the film, their lives are perfectly re-configured for an eternity of togetherness and bliss and positioned for a follow up story next season.  No mystery, no surprises with an ending exactly as expected.

 

If only life were this way! And we try!  We specify, itemize and organize.  Craft timelines, goals and milestones.  Leave out no detail lest the outcome be altered.  Compare our path with others and adjust to come out ahead.  Control is our driver as we blindly make plans with no promise and serve a god void of vision.   We would be well advised to heed the words spoken through the prophet Isaiah that God’s thoughts are not our thoughts and our ways not His.  Does this mean that all of my preparation is in vain?  No, a devotion to God’s purpose is a critical first step.  As a plan unfolds, the basic framework needs to be established.  However, in our zeal to accomplish and our haste to attain, we often fail to leave room for God.

 

Do we allow God to go before and prepare the paths we will take? Surrendered, we trust He is good and that He delights to give good things to His children.  Are we willing to be uncomfortable and wait until He gives direction and purpose?  In obedience, we study His Word, commune with Him and follow His decrees. He will not fail or forsake and carries us even into the most difficult places of life.  With preconceived ideas as to how things are to play out, we will miss out on God’s response and solution if we’re not open to seeing Him work in unexpected and unique ways.  Many times, I’ve delayed or circumvented my healing because God was doing a work in a way that I wasn’t receptive to receive.

 

Will we deny self, pick up our cross He created us for and daily follow our path’s light, as dim as it may seem?

 

“Father, we are a people in need of You for we so easily go astray.  Today, moment by moment, may You guide our steps, may we listen for Your voice and choose obedience over want.”

 

For His Glory

 

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 30, 2017

Embracing The Struggle

“How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!   How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand.   I awake, and I am still with you.” Psalm 139:17-18 (ESV)

 

I kept telling myself it was just a word.  Yet the weight of its message crushed my spirit.  No one wants to feel the sting of rejection –  the book proposal remaining on the shelf, the husband who walks out, the promotion that doesn’t happen, the friend who excludes – I think you get the picture.

Despite our determination to capture every thought in the aftermath of disappointment, we still hear the lies of the enemy – “You’re just not good enough.”  Amazing how quickly he arrives on the scene to rain on our drenching downpour of self pity.  As if we didn’t need anyone else cheering us down, Satan picks up the mantel and slays us even more.

Perhaps you too have experienced those moments when dreams fade, persistence appears to be wasted and giving up resurfaces.  Maybe you’ve entertained Satan’s taunts and received his fiery darts.  Could it be that you too have heard words spoken over you  – rejected, unworthy, not good enough, etc.  echoing deep down into your soul.

Sweet friend, our enemy loves to sneak in when we are down, but we don’t have to accept his dance.  God has equipped and empowered us to resist and flee the very presence of Satan.  We are not powerless but powerful when we exchange the lies of the enemy for the truths of God’s word.

Life will always present us with wins and losses, but they don’t dictate who we are.  The real wins are moments bathed in obedience despite seasons of drought and emptiness.  It’s staying the course, pressing through despite how we feel or what other’s may say.  It’s holding on to God’s dreams and releasing our timetable.  It’s trusting big and determining to never quit. It’s embracing the struggle, rising above the disappointment.  It’s drawing closer to the One who never leaves our side.

We don’t have to wonder –  our identity has been sealed – we are His beloved. We are clothed in His righteousness.  We are precious in the sight of our God. What more could a girl want?

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 27, 2017

The Strong Foundation

“The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” Proverbs 14:1 (NIV)

A hammer and nails we will not find in our designer purse but building, constructing, reinforcing and repairing is on the agenda. What projects are we constructing?  Erecting a barrier, condemning the space and blocking grace is often our favored option rather than building a relationship. Perhaps there’s a bridge of forgiveness to be extended, but ending that relationship seems sweeter. Navigating a new design to an old pattern – wow that’s just too much work. You see, we are great purchasers of new when old is no longer appealing. But what happens when the exchange involves people?

A little Construction 101 reminds us that a house is only as stable, strong and unshakeable as its foundation. Same principle applies in relationships. A weak foundation is easily disturbed, and the crumbling underneath is devastating. If we are not careful we will tear down, cast aside and discard a priceless treasure – sweet people God has woven into our lives. It takes supernatural strength to repair, re-construct and reinforce lives dangling by a thread. Isn’t that where God found us? Isn’t that where God empowers us?

Relationships built upon the rock of grace reflect a strong foundation – a wise woman. I love the way Proverbs challenges us to build up our own relationships, our own home and our own work environment. It’s the Restorer, Redeemer and Reconciler inviting us to react and live wisely. It’s the Sovereign One compelling us to weigh the cost of foolish emotions that tear down and destroy. How we long to be wise women whose house and relationships are built daily upon the truths of God’s word.

“Father, I am so thankful that You build up my life with Your wisdom and grace. How I need You to navigate all the relationships in my life.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 26, 2017

Turn Your Eyes Heavenward

 “But one thing I do: 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)

 

Recently, I was sitting at home in Lynchburg, VA, while my youngest sister was sitting in the ER at a hospital in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. In spite of our physical location, we were together for a good deal of time – through FaceTime – and I got to keep my sister company while she awaited medical care for a deep cut on her pinky finger. I was determined to keep my sister’s mind off of the pain and throbbing of the wound.  I was very successful at derailing her thoughts from it and into something totally non-related and without any basis at all, which she was only aware of when I finally finished and told her that it was just me talking. Oh, the joys of sisterhood! In spite of all the years we’ve put on between childhood and the stage of life we are in now, I can still get her with my stories! My point though, is that I got my goal accomplished, which was to have her thinking of anything but her hurt finger.

 

Sometimes, though, people use these tactics of thought-derailing in order to do evil. Remember Samson, who was the miracle baby to a sterile mother? He was a promise from the Lord, to help make things right for the Israelites after they had been in bondage by the Philistines for forty long years (Judges 13). God had required that the boy be a Nazarite – set apart to God – and his hair should never be cut. Then, the boy grew and became a strong warrior. Evidently, he also had some ounces of naiveté in his blood, because he got involved with two Philistine women, and both women betrayed him to protect their people – the enemy. Samson was not wise in his choices and defiled God’s command to remain a Nazirite, pure and at His service. And the rest of the story, we all know. Sometimes, flesh gets in the way of our relationship with the Lord, but if we remain in Him, our focus will  be fixed on Him alone.
 

“Lord, thank You for being the guide and light in our path.”
 

For Your Glory

 

Luska Suzano
TRBC Women’s Lie

 

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Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 25, 2017

Layering Our Minds

“…Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think…” Romans 12:2 (NLT)

Weeds abound in our yard. They snake under and through the bushes. They migrate to our potted plants. They pretend to be grass.

Our new yard guy has some big shoes to fill. The previous yard guy parked in front of the house every two weeks or so pulling a trailer full of equipment. Not only did he mow, edge, and clean up the yard, he released me from any responsibility on my part from even thinking about the yard. He rid the yard of leaves (a monstrous job with all of our trees), spread mulch, trimmed branches, cleared out the gutters, pressure-washed the house, and re-sealed our deck.

Why would we turn aside from such a great yard guy to recruit a new one? Our new yard guy is my 15-year-old son. Our old yard guy was very reasonable but the new one throws himself on our mercy for any payment at all. It’s hard to beat free labor.

Bags of mulch stacked like the pyramids of Egypt wait patiently in our yard to be spread around. From what I understand, the mulch blocks weeds from growing in the beds of bushes and flowers. Our new yard guy has been fighting a losing battle against the weeds invading our yard for the last month. He can continue to waste time pulling each weed or he can cover the invaders with a thick layer of mulch, smothering and driving out the weeds.

Unhealthy thought patterns invade our minds just like weeds. We can exhaust ourselves battling each thought individually or we can spread a blanket of the Word of God over our minds, starving those unhealthy thoughts.

“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11 (NLT)

Just as mulch prevents weeds from growing and promotes the growth of healthy plants, so layering our minds in the Word of God prevents the feeding of unhealthy thought patterns and promotes our transformation by changing the way we think.

What will you do today to protect your thoughts?

Lord, we surrender our thoughts to You today. Free our minds of unhealthy thought patterns and change our thinking to all that glorifies You.

For His Glory

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

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 24, 2017

Restoration’s Gift

“What shall we say about such wonderful things as these?  If God is for us, who can ever be against us?  Since He did not spare even His own Son but gave Him up for us all, won’t He also give us everything else?”  Roman 8:31&32 (NLT)

She holds on to the phone waiting for the call that never comes.  She determines she must not matter.   Another waits by the window sure that he said he’d stop by today.  Moved down the list again, she never was a priority.  A stranger in her own house, there but unnoticed, nothing special about her.  No cries, no arguments, no resistance but somewhere in the depth of her soul is edged a pit that labels her unlovable, damaged and unwanted.  And her heavenly Father cries.

Our Father in heaven has given a remarkable responsibility to each earthly father.  His assignment is to love and nurture his children into the full will of God.  Through compassion and instruction, love and kind discipline, wisdom and patience the father is to lead his children from infancy to adulthood preparing them physically, emotionally and spiritually to blaze paths of light in the world and illuminate Jesus in its darkness.  Many fathers strive towards this task.  What happens when they don’t?

The unassuming girl sees her father as distant, unavailable and uncaring.  For starters.  How she sees her earthly father is how she sees her heavenly Father.  And of equally tragic consequences, she believes her heavenly Father views her just as her earthly father.  I didn’t matter to my earthly father so I must not matter to my heavenly Father.  And the sin is passed to the third and fourth generations.

Fortunately, the Lord’s compassion is greater than His curse.   And so, sweet daughter of the most High God, without even knowing you, I can assure you of this:  your heavenly Father longs to hold you close; to protect you, to be near always.  He desires to give you the love for which you hunger.  He delights to give you every good gift that you’ve inherited for which Jesus died.  He thinks of you always.  You have great worth, great purpose.  He sees you as beautiful.  Cherished.  Valued.  Favored.  And you know what?  I, I am too.

“Heavenly Father, thank You for healing the broken places of my heart that only You can heal.  Jesus, thank You for enduring death and the cross so that what was withheld can be restored.  I love You, my Abba, Father”

For His Glory

 

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Hope, Love, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | October 23, 2017

When Wantings Steal Our Joy

“But godliness with contentment is great gain,  for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.” I Timothy 6:5-7 (ESV)

Wanting what others have never serves us well.  Why?  Because wantings left unchecked can easily override our joy.  They steal away contentment and leave us with a sense of rejection, unworthiness and emptiness.

You don’t have to go far into scripture before you see the devastation of wantings gone bad.  Sarai wanted children like the other moms, so she allowed her wantings to led her away from God’s perfect plan.  Plan B, giving her handmaid to her husband, seemed good for the taking but quickly backfired.

Leah and Rachel’s wantings drove these two sisters apart.  Leah wanted Jacob’s  love so birthing children became her cupid’s arrow.   Jacob’s profound love for Rachel should have dazzled her eyes, but her gaze was fixed on Leah and envy consumed her.  Contentment was nowhere to be found among these competitive sisters who longed for what the other had.

Joseph’s brothers wanted to be their father’s (Jacob) favorite.  When those wantings  weren’t fulfilled, jealousy convinced them to sell Joseph into slavery.  Perceived rejection on their part resulted in deeply embedded family wounds.

The Children of Israel wanted freedom from Egypt but they didn’t want the discomforts found wandering in the wilderness.  Complaints freely flowed from their lips because their wantings weren’t being met. Years later we find them wanting what everyone else had – a king – instead of trusting God to be their Deliverer and Redeemer.

We can blame our tendencies to covet others’ things to social media, but God knows it really started the moment we entertained the thought we’d been overlooked.  We fixed our gaze on others’ stuff and found ourselves lacking.  Or perhaps it wasn’t stuff but better jobs, cuter spouses or perfect children that drew us to reframe our lives in a nonfavorable way. We didn’t really need Facebook or Twitter to enlighten our senses – we just allowed “less than” thoughts to steal away our joy.

Contentment is a beauty worth seeking.  It shouts gratitude, fulfillment and peace. It gives voice to trust, confidence and surrender.   It embraces total freedom found in God alone.  It overflows from the heart of one who is satisfied with the more than enough that God provides.
Nothing serves us better …nothing protects our hearts like the sweetness of contentment.

“Father, our view can easily distort Your goodness leaving us lacking and empty inside.  Teach us the power of true contentment found in You alone.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Gratitude, Spiritual Living

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