Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 10, 2017

Following Him

jan-10“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”  Psalm 119:105 (NIV)

I am a planner.  I love writing things in my calendar and checking things off my to-do list.  I love setting and achieving goals.  Maybe too much.  Maybe that’s why God, in his mercy, has not allowed me to make many plans the past few years.  He has moved us five times in four years.  That will put a crimp in your five-year plan!

Through all the moves, God has shown me how good I am at building altars, setting up idols… good things, like planning and goal-setting, that I have made into “ultimate” things.  Things that made me feel secure, when my security should have been found in Him alone.  Slowly, patiently, He is teaching me to turn to His Word for direction —not the words I have scribbled on my to-do list.  This is hard for me.  Really hard.  His Word is a lamp to my feet—allowing me to safely take the next step. If I am honest, what I really want is a spotlight that will illuminate the days, months and years ahead.  I want to know what tomorrow will bring, and what lies around the curve ahead.  But even as I write this, my future is uncertain and another move looms on the horizon.

Uncertain, yet secure. “Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” (Psalm 139:10).  Wherever “even there” is for me, I know who holds my hand.  In the words of Oswald Chambers, “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading.”

When your circumstances seem uncertain, trust that He is in control and your future is secure.  Rest in His plan; taking life one step at a time as His Word lights your path.

“Lord, thank You for loving us enough to patiently teach us how to walk with You, one step at a time. Thank You that You are always with us…You go before and will be our rear guard.  We are always safe when we put our trust in You.”

 

For His Glory,

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 9, 2017

The Perfect Classroom

jan-9 “And the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had said. There was famine in every country, but throughout the land of Egypt there was food.” Genesis 41:54 (HCSB)

Nothing sweeter than easy times – abundant times when life flows effortlessly.  Challenges appear minimal and self-dependence appears to work.  But I wonder what God desires for us in those places of ease?  I’m sure self dependence doesn’t rank at the top of the list.  I’m confident that He doesn’t want us to simply slide through those days without Him.

Relationship is always paramount on God’s mind.  Why?  Because when we cultivate and participate in an active relationship with God, He fills us with His wisdom, guidance and discernment.  He shapes, prunes and molds us in just the right way to birth growth and transformation.   The perfect classroom setting – enjoying ease and abundance – stockpiling for the days ahead, because God doesn’t waste anything.

Seven years of abundance in Egypt – the good and plenty –  was the news Joseph gave Pharaoh from his dream.  The flipside was the plenty would then empty into seven years of famine.  During those years of abundance, Joseph carried out a plan to prepare for empty.  Instead of allowing overflow to lead to waste or over indulgence, Joseph stockpiled for when severe famine would come. Wise preparation saved the lives of many.

Wonder if we lean in during the good times so we will be prepared when life dumps on our happy?  Ease isn’t always our stride.  God’s word reminds us that we will face trials, struggles and challenges.  Real question is are we attentive and engaged students when ease is our stride?  What are we storing up for the famine of our souls when life breaks in difficult, hard places?

Like Joseph, we must have a strategic plan.  Saturating our lives with God’s word, deepening our prayer life and applying His principles provides us with a surplus to draw from. Every verse we memorize, every moment spent at His feet, every truth embedded deep in our hearts creates a memory bank of God’s faithfulness.  Unlike Joseph, our empty usually arrives without notice or warning.  However, wise preparation in ease will sustain us in the unexpected hard places.

“Father, help us to release self dependence in moments of ease and hide your word deep into our hearts.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Living, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 6, 2017

A Better Deal

jan-6“Only be careful and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live.” Deuteronomy 4:9a (NIV)

Wrong size, wrong color, doesn’t work or just plain don’t like it – so we head to the store and wait in line.  Like we didn’t wait in line long enough Christmas shopping.  I don’t know about you but I hate to exchange or return anything, but my co-worker is a return Queen.  The back seat of her car is proof a return is on the way back to the store and it doesn’t bother her one bit.

Wouldn’t it be great if we could rewind the clock and make a few personal returns?

We could gather up all our don’t likes or things that just didn’t work the way we envisioned and exchange them for a better deal. If so, that line would probably be very long. Unfortunately that’s not how life works.  Once words slip off our tongue or reactions hit us square in the face, the recall button is nonexistent.

Difficult choices made without consulting God first can land us deep in unknown consequences.  Maybe that’s why God warns us to keep a guard over our lives.  Maybe that’s why we should carefully watch how we make decisions.  Maybe that’s why scripture reminds us to remember what we have read in His Word and how we have seen Him work.  Consistency is God’s trademark, and He has given us all the guidelines we need to be successful  – we just need to hide them deep in our hearts so that they impact all our choices.

“Father, You have shown us how to live and the consequences of moving outside your protection – help us to stay within the boundaries of Your perfect will.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 5, 2017

Sifted For His Glory

jan-5Saying, “…Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.”  Revelation 7:12 (ESV)

The Lord miraculously called me out of the spiritual darkness I grew up in, and into the light of His salvation.  I have seen His hand upon my life: His provision, love, and guidance in times of trial.  It pains me to think of my sin and my failures—but I know that God has forgiven me and washed me clean with the blood of Christ.

I also know that I have held tightly to my own dreams and expectations.  I have had one hand on His Word and one hand on the world.  I often  think more about things like, “how to get out of debt” than I do about the debt He paid for me on the cross. My new prayer is this: “Lord, I offer up my life to You as a living sacrifice: my hopes, dreams, expectations, wants, wishes, and deepest desires.  The rest of my life is an open book for you to write, Lord.”

I am nothing without God, and He is everything to me. With trembling hands and humble heart, I ask that He sift me for His glory! That every trial and triumph in my life would serve to bring Him glory!  That I would let go of my “self” and allow His Spirit to sanctify me for His glory!   “Lord You are GOOD, You are HOLY, You are AWESOME in power!”  I’m ready to take the plunge – won’t you join me – to TRUST God with our entire lives, front to back.  “Lord, please leave no stone unturned!  Cleanse us of sin and fill us with Your Spirit!”

“Lord I humble myself under Your mighty hand, and I cast all my cares upon You!  May blessing,  glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power and might be to You oh Lord my God forever and ever.”

For His Glory

Ruby Sand
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Freedom, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 4, 2017

2017 – Best Year Ever

jan-4“But they could not find a way to do it, because all the people were captivated by what they heard.” Luke 19:48 (HCSB)

Smooth talk .. persuasive words – we’ve all heard them.  Sometimes it’s the caller asking for a donation or a salesman trying to convince us their product is the one we can’t do without.  Regardless, they attempt to move us toward belief in what they have or motivate us to give to what they need.  Words that seek to birth their desired reaction.

Flip back through the pages of scripture and we find One who didn’t need smooth talk or persuasive words.  Jesus, the living Son of God, spoke only the truth and the people were captivated.  They listened and hung on His every word as He taught in the temple.

The Chief Priests, Scribes and leaders didn’t like the appearance of Jesus in their space.  When He came on the scene and threw out the sellers cleansing was not an element they desired.  Monetary gain and control was their driving force and now the center of attention was clearly focused on someone else.  Jesus’ captive audience was temporarily derailing their plan to destroy Him.

Wonder what impact God’s word has on our lives?  Are we captivated, motivated and inspired to obey His truths?   Do we cling to every word seeking to understand His message?  Or perhaps we are more interested in what makes us feel good.  As seasoned believers, do we long for the spotlight of self-righteousness wrapped up in our hidden agendas and the message we long to convey? Or do we simply embrace familiarity while excusing our response?

Threatened by Jesus appearance and His words, these religious leaders missed the blessing found in embracing the truth.  Let’s not join them.  Let’s determine in 2017 to be captivated by God’s word.  Let’s commit to being doers of the word and not just hearers.  Let’s be intentional about obedience  and promoters of His agenda and not our own.  Let’s approach His words with awe and anticipation.  Let’s welcome transformation and never forget the power of His words to birth change and holiness in our lives.  Let’s pray His words, hold them tight to our hearts and be amazed, captivated and challenged by the very words of One who loves us more than we could ever imagine.

“Father there will be many things to keep us from Your word…distractions…. pursuits…many other things to do – empower us to choose the best – to gather at Your feet and listen closely to Your words.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 3, 2017

Guardian Angels In Uniform

jan-3“Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.” Psalm 127:1 (NIV)

Our country has been experiencing some attacks against authority figures for some time, but lately those attacks have been targeting law enforcement officials. It is very sad and unfortunate that people will turn against the very ones who put their lives at risk to save theirs.

Jesus, before drawing His last breath on the cross, interceded on behalf of the very soldiers who followed through orders to kill Him, by praying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 (NIV) Jesus forgave all of the trespasses that were made against Him; unjust, unfair, inhumane suffering placed on Him by soldiers following orders. Yet, our people are going around killing innocent law enforcement workers simply because they hold a grudge against people in uniform.

Sometimes television shows depict law enforcement officials as corrupt cops who give in to the greed of money and drugs, making it seem like that is the norm. The tough reality is that many families must sacrifice time without their loved ones who serve in law enforcement because they must work dangerous jobs and long work hours, oftentimes being on call for when crisis arises. Unlike other careers, one who works in law enforcement must be ready at any time an order is given to protect their fellow citizens.  Without hesitation they march out, one by one, ready to die, if needed, ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of mankind. They do not question the orders, they simply go, serving with pride.

Families live in fear today because their loved ones who enlist to serve and protect may end up following orders to march out and will never make the road back to their homes. Freedom is not free. While we rest at night, there are valiant people standing guard and keeping watch on our behalf. Let us pray and let us make a conscious decision to protect – as much as we can – those who freely choose to protect us.

 

“Lord, please help us to honor those who place their lives on the line for us.”

 

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Gratitude, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 2, 2017

Bookends & The Stuff Between

jan-2“I remember the days of old; I meditate on all You have done; I reflect on the work of Your hands.”  Psalm 143:5 (HCSB)

The end of 2016 and the dawning of 2017 – the closing of one chapter and the unveiling of another.  This week is always a time when I reflect on all that God has done for me in the past year and a prayerful time of seeking what He has for me in 2017. I call it my bookends – the period of time between old and new.  Seems to come ever so quickly anymore – I’m sure you feel the same.  If only we could get time to stand still long enough to drink deep and take in all that God does for us even in a moment.

What have your God moments been in 2016?  If you don’t keep a list of those things God has done, I would challenge you to do so in 2017.  Why?  Because it’s that list of His unending blessings that propels us through hard places, complacency, discouragement and lukewarm days.  I was talking with a friend a few months ago who was overwhelmed with life and couldn’t even see a glimpse of God’s goodness.  So together we started her list and that ongoing list has carried her through many more days….enabling her to see His goodness despite the darkness.

The word “remember” is sprinkled throughout scripture; isn’t that just like God to challenge us to not forget what would so easily get misplaced in our crazy, distracted world.  When I reflect on 2016, I remember most of all that He has never left my side.  That God has enriched my journey with dear friends who have encouraged and inspired me in many ways.  I remember little things jotted down on ragged, tear stained pages that lifted me through weary days and convicted me on grumbling rants.  So thankful for the grace of God that covers my forgetfulness overshadowed by daily life.

What will our moments in 2017 bring?  So glad, I can’t answer that – instead I take joy in knowing that God has it all covered.  I can rest confidently in Him and yes, continue to keep the list of His blessings and faithfulness in my journey.  Praying you do the same.

 

“Father, life evaporates right before our eyes – Your goodness is too easily forgotten.  Help us to write down our blessings and  teachable moments– living proof that You are intimately involved in all our days.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 30, 2016

Cleansing Needed

dec-30“Take away my sin, and I will clean.  Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.”  Psalm 51:7 (NIV)

Packing up the Christmas decorations left me wondering why I had put off so many projects.  Now that everything was back in its place, I realized how badly I needed to paint one of the rooms.  And if that wasn’t enough, opening up the closets revealed a major overhaul was long due.  Kitchen cabinets weren’t any better; my endless holiday baking had caused a chaotic mess.

Overwhelmed, I collapsed on the sofa paralyzed at the thought of getting started.  While waiting to tackle these projects isn’t a huge thing, my procrastination will definitely not get anything accomplished.  However, if I at least get started doing one of those items on my list, I will move closer to getting them all done.

Often we are faced with the same challenge in our spiritual lives.  Bad habits and unconfessed sins have been covered up by layers of pretense.  No one would ever know, but lurking beneath the surface of “all together” a lot of renovating needs to take place.  Unfortunately, Satan loves to keep us stalled and overwhelmed. Too much needs to be changed, and we don’t know how to get started.  Procrastination slowly creeps in creating unwanted delays in our spiritual growth and blessings from God.

Simple solution confess one area that needs to be changed and seek God’s help one day at a time.  As we witness the beauty of a God’s cleansing in our lives, we will be empowered to make other changes as well.

Can’t think of a better way to bring in the New Year.  No better time than the present to leave old behind and press into new.  Best year ever when we partner with God for cleansing!

“Father navigating the waters of personal change is never easy, but when we come to You we find change is exactly what we needed.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Freedom, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 29, 2016

Peace Amidst The Storm

dec-29“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”  Psalm 46:1 (NIV)

The doctor’s visit entails arrival, check-in at the window, vital signs check, and changing into a not-so-comfortable gown. Once the nurse notes all updates on your chart, he or she tells you that the doctor will be in shortly. After what seems like an eternity, there is a short knock on the door and in comes the doctor, greeting you somewhat matter-of-factly. Seconds later, he examines you and asks how you are doing and almost simultaneously, he spills the beans: “Well, Ms. Patient, the path report is in and it looks like we must go back in because the report showed cancer.”

Have you ever experienced a situation like this? The time when you seemed to lose grip of yourself, stop paying attention to anything else, and all you can hear is the word ‘cancer,’ the last thing you’d ever wished to hear in your lifetime.  Well, I have. It was back in March, 2010. I had the right lobe of my thyroid gland removed two weeks prior, due to a small growth that was detected.  After the path report came in, I had to undergo a second surgery to have the left lobe removed. The type of cancer was one that is common to the thyroid gland and is usually contained within the gland.  Since the other lobe was clear, I was blessed to not have to undergo chemotherapy or radiation. Still, the time that elapsed between the first surgery, the wait period for the path report to come back and the second surgery seemed like an eternity. I did not want cancer living in my body, and I prayed hard that it wouldn’t be cancer. But in all, I was ready to allow God to be sovereign and asked Him that His will, and not mine, be done.  Today, with the aid of thyroid hormone replacement, I live a normal life.

When I think back on that day, I thank God for His strong presence in my life, which gave me the strength I needed to believe and to accept His will for me. I could have lost hope, but I didn’t.  Sometimes the hard times come, but the assurance of His presence gives us peace amidst the storm.

“Dear Lord, Your presence calms the storm and quiets the desperate heart. Thank You.”

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Gratitude, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 28, 2016

Intentional Growth

dec-28“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18 (NIV)

I love seeing flowers bloom in the Summer.  I gasp when I see the colorful Fall mums lining my sidewalk and this Winter, I’m admiring pansies in my window box.  Simple everyday reminders that growth occurs no matter when or where we are planted.

Each season of life introduces opportunities for us to grow and be stretched in our faith.  Carefree, sunshiny days bring growth naturally.  However, some seasons are transitional when life seems to crumble at our feet. As our dreams get tossed in the wind, intentional growth is required.  Regardless of the season, God desires to use all things in our lives to transform us from where we are today to His divine purposes tomorrow.

So how do we ensure that growth takes place?  Quite simply we start with prayer –  Asking God to teach and empower us to respond.  Each time we open His Word, go to church or attend Bible Study – it all begins with praying for an open spirit to hear His message.

Take it another step and growth occurs when we are real about where we are now.  Spending time in quiet reflection opens the windows to our hearts.  Moving us from complacency to vibrancy.

Take it one more step and growth occurs when we do life together. Having a group of trusted Spiritual mentors keeps us accountable and fosters growth even in the most difficult seasons. Spurring us on to holiness.

When we choose growth, God smiles as He watches each of us stretch, reach and deepen our walk with Him.  And those sudden, smooth movements that everyone notices are really just a glimpse of God flourishing in our lives.

“Father, Your Son came to this world so that we might have life abundantly – help us to not settle for less.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

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