Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 1, 2016

His Grace Is Greater Than Our Sin

dec-1“Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.” Psalm 119:11 (NIV)

The wound almost cost him his life. It started halfway down his inner thigh and sliced his leg all the way to his lower sheen. Billy was lucky to survive, as he had three very quick and wise men to grab him, wrap him in a towel and rush him to the hospital before he lost consciousness. One of those three men was Billy’s daddy, the other two were my daddy and one of Billy’s uncles.

The men were playing a game of cards on the porch while the women brewed tea and talked about their neighbors in the kitchen and all the children played outside. The girls were playing jump rope, and the boys were playing a game of street soccer. The soccer game was going well until one of the boys performed a high kick, and the ball landed over the neighbor’s house, which had a tall wall with broken glass bottles on top to keep the burglars away (that is standard practice in third-world countries). Anyway, as the neighbors were not at home and Billy and the boys did not want to stop their game, Billy decided to jump that wall and ignore the glass spears.

Bad choice! Billy tripped and fell, but not before getting his leg sliced by the glass and falling down, unable to get up. The adults took the children inside, as the sight of Billy’s leg was too gory for women and children to witness. His father was crying and begging God to save Billy and enable him to keep his leg. The women were screaming inside and someone said one of them fainted.

Billy could have died that day, but God spared him. The nasty scar that covered most of his leg would be a constant reminder for the rest of his life that sin comes at a cost. He should not have trespassed the neighbor’s property.  God gives us free will and allows us to make our own choices. Sometimes our choices land us in the hands of danger and sometimes death. By His grace, and His grace only, can we receive forgiveness of sin and the gift of eternal life.

“Lord, thank You for redeeming us to Yourself even when we do not deserve it.”

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Gratitude, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 30, 2016

Desires Of Our Heart

nov-30“Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4 (NKJV)

The key to unlocking the desires of our heart is to have a solid relationship with God –  to be in His word and communicate daily through prayer. The ultimate goal (Psalm 37:5) is to be so in tune with God that when He tweaks our desires, we totally trust Him for the outcome.

2014 was a difficult year of back to back losses of my brother and mother-in-law. My desire was that nothing bad would happen in 2015, and we had the best year ever.  We spent tons of special moments with my parents, checking off bucket list items, and making SO many amazing memories.

As 2015 came to a close, 2016 started off with the most unimaginable heartbreak. I suddenly lost my dad in January, just a month after spending a magical trip with him and our extended family at Disney World. Did God give me the desires of my heart? Absolutely! However, God had other plans in mind for me and the loss was a launching point towards new dreams and goals.

I’m learning that God is a loving Father that knows what’s best for me. Part of my desires for this year was to go back to work as I’ve been dealing with a debilitating chronic illness. He gave me that desire in the biggest way possible working at Walt Disney World – the place that held a special part in my heart as it was the last place I spent time with my dad. God continues to guide that process as I’ve been able to work less because my illness just isn’t letting my body handle it. Again, I’m learning that God’s plans are good in the midst of disappointments and frustration. I’ve been able to use some of the time off to be with my mom,  spend time with friends,  be available when our family visits, and use the good days and energy to volunteer at church.

It’s okay to dream and dream big!! God wants to bless us in BIG ways. Sometimes it’s a process to get there, and we have to trust God knows the right route. We can enjoy the blessings and embrace the tough turns because the joy at the end of the journey is so worth it.

“Father God, how thankful we are that You love us and only want the best for us. Sometimes that means our desires and dreams get changed a bit. Help us to look for the joy in the journey and focus on the eternal outcome.”

For His Glory

Katrina Redman
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 29, 2016

Igniting The Fire Within

nov-29“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe,  for our “God is a consuming fire.”  Hebrews 12:28-29 (NIV)

What is your first reaction when you see fire?  If I see a flame on a candle, I would not act the same as if I were in my house cooking and the stove caught on fire. Honestly, I would try to put it out, then I would run away from it. Why would I react this way? Because fire spreads and if I am not quick to be cautious, it can do a multitude of damage.

As Christ followers, we tend to use the phrase “on fire for God” and sing songs that say “Lord, I’m running to your heart with a soul on fire.” ON FIRE! Waaaaaaaaiiiiiiiiittttttttt a minute! FIRE!!!! STOP, DROP, AND ROLL! The world sees fire, spiritual fire, as a threat to the way they want to have control over their lives, so they try to put it out, and when they can’t, they run from it. Our jobs, our relationships, money, “religion” may try to make us stop what we are doing for the kingdom, drop our preparation in the word and in worship, and roll over as if we give up.

Most of us, whether we grew up in church or not, have heard “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.” What is that mysterious light you talk about? FIRE! Hebrews 12:29 says: “For our God is a consuming fire.”      If we take the verse from Hebrews and replace the word “fire” with “God” in the song, you get: “This God of mine, I’m going to let Him shine, let Him shine, let Him shine, let Him shine”.

Being on fire for God is an amazing thing, but just be aware your fire is meant to spread. Your fire will also have many attempts to be put out, so prepare yourself by staying in the word (“the word” = His promises = the Bible) and praying. Pray that unwanted fires in your life be put out immediately. Pray that you can show the love of God to everyone you come in contact with.

“Father, help us to stop being afraid of what others think. Drop the negative “what if” thoughts, and just let You breathe through every moment of each day as we roll into the pool of Your mercy and grace.”

For His Glory

Denise Crouse
Women’s Life Devotional

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 28, 2016

Best Holiday Ever

nov-28“And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord   and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,”  Luke 1:46-47 (ESV)

Just in case we didn’t shop enough on Black Friday, we can experience the wonders of Cyber Monday.  Shopping online without even leaving our home is the ticket in this crazed scheduled world.  Don’t know if you are like me, but when that calendar flips to December the pages seem to keep flipping.  The days disappear quickly and if we aren’t intentional, the Christmas season will evaporate right before our eyes.

Now’s the time to steal away some time with Jesus before December arrives.  Ask Him how we should spend our holiday. Trust Him with our overwhelming schedule.  Allow Him to show us what needs to go and what needs to stay.  Seek His direction in where our money goes.   Commit to bringing peace and harmony into challenging family situations.   Ask for open doors to share our faith.  Seek God’s guidance in who we reach out to – who needs to be reminded of His love and grace. Lean in close and listen to His voice.

Cyber Monday can wait, but leaving Jesus out of the holiday season isn’t optional if we want to glorify Him. Resist the urge to saturate every day with nonstop activity.  Cultivate a hunger and passion for the Christmas story.  Read it slowly.  Linger longer.  Chew on the facts.  Step back in time and feel the emotion, wonder and glory of Jesus arrival.  Ask God to reveal Himself in a new and fresh way.  Apply His truths and carve in margin to reflect on His incredible birth.  Give up the hustle and bustle for a chance to worship the sweet babe in the manger.

Bargains will come and go.  December’s festivities will cease too soon, but the Christmas story will last forever.  Don’t miss out on a chance to draw near to the One who drew near to us.

“Father, help us to lay down our list and unwrap the gift of Your presence this holiday season.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 23, 2016

His Divine Goodness

nov-23“And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his deeds in songs of joy!”  Psalm 107:22 (ESV)

A celebration of divine goodness – that’s how Webster defines thanksgiving. Grateful hearts acknowledging the favors of Almighty God is how George Washington proclaimed the first thanksgiving.  How would you describe thanksgiving?

Is it the picture perfect family gathered together?  Perhaps pumpkin pies baking in the oven.  Turkeys dressing our tables and gratitude filling our lips.  Is it a one day event that ushers in the Christmas shopping season with an extended list of things to do, places to be and gifts to buy?  Or is it a chance to watch endless football surrounded by family and friends?  Have you ever considered that thanksgiving isn’t just a one day event?

Giving thanks should be a part of the very air we breathe.  Waking up in the morning should usher in a deep well of gratitude before feet even touch the floor.   Praises should rise from dawn to dusk.  Silence should be welcomed moments to reflect on God’s goodness.   Blessings should fill our mental checklist and recognizing God’s faithfulness should flow effortlessly.

Wonder what life would be like if we truly celebrated His divine goodness?  Mercy giver and gracious Savior.  Loving compassionate Father.  Loyal dependable Friend.  Redeemer of our days.  Restorer of our dreams.  Holy righteous One.

What would happen if instead of making lists of things to do, we crafted lists of things God has done?  Endless gifts poured out and sprinkled over days and days showered by His loving kindness.  Divine moments perfectly orchestrated to serve us well.  Sweet surprises of hope and encouragement.

What if we looked deep into our hard places and praised Him for lessons learned?  Priceless treasures unfolding one by one. Glimpses of gratitude even when darkness hovers around us.  Sacrificial praise rising to glorify the One who knows our suffering.

Thanksgiving an opportunity every day to celebrate God’s divine goodness with a grateful heart acknowledging the favors of the Almighty.   Praying our hearts never cease to praise Him.

“Father, too many days slip through our fingers without even one simple moment of gratitude. Forgive us for wanting more and seeking more when we are already blessed beyond all measure.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Wishing you and your family a joyous Thanksgiving!  Women’s Life Devotionals will resume on Monday, November 28.

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Posted in Gratitude, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 22, 2016

Thankful

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nov-22

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Psalm 100:4 (NIV)

 

For clarification purposes getting caught in school traffic is not one of my favorite things to do!  If possible I avoid it! Recently however, during the morning rush hour, I came to a standstill at a red light blocking a school entrance.  Concerned for student’s tardiness, I allowed approximately fifteen cars to turn into the school parking lot! While my motive was to be a blessing surprisingly only one person took time to thank me!

In Luke 17: 11-19 I wonder; was Jesus was surprised as well? Jesus is found healing ten lepers.  While all ten must have been happy they received this marvelous gift, only one realizing he was healed, returned to Jesus and with a loud voice glorified God, fell on his face at His feet, and thanked Him.

‘Thank you’ were two words introduced to my children as toddlers hopefully teaching when someone exhibits kindness or gives a gift no matter the monetary worth it is only appropriate to react with gratitude. It values the giver and conquers perceptions of entitlement.

Gifts are precious whether they are as small as being allowed to turn at a red light or as grand as being healed.   In Luke 17:18, Jesus’ words teach us it pleases our heavenly Father to give God the glory.  Have you ever noticed when the word Thanksgiving is reversed it becomes Giving Thanks!  Let’s follow the leper’s example; run to Jesus, thank Him, and glorify God!!!  We are blessed!!!

 

“Lord, teach my heart to be ‘Giving Thanks’ during this Thanksgiving season and beyond.”

 

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

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Posted in Attitude, Gratitude

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 21, 2016

Count Them One By One

nov-21“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1

Why is it that parents try to instill a sense of gratitude in their children from a very young age? Based on my own experience as a parent, I would say that my children’s gratitude warms my heart. A simple ‘thank you’ when you give them food or buy them a new toy, shoes or clothing can go a long way. However, it is not the words that matter, but the action. When a child expresses gratitude from the heart, it penetrates the heart of a parent like the sweet aroma of heavenly roses. In some instances, it even encourages the parent to do more than what the child has asked just to reward the good behavior.

Have you stopped to think how much more would God bless you for your simple expression of gratitude? Take a look around you! How many blessings can you count with just one glance? Are you like the child who joyfully thanks her parents for something she just received or are you like the one who grabs that gift and walks away as if nothing has happened?

The Bible spurs us to thank the Lord in the good and in the bad times (1 Thess. 5:18). Why? Because God delights Himself in our praises; this is His will for us. Do you remember a man named Job, who had it all and saw it all taken from him, and yet he remained in God and praised God for ALL of it (meaning the good and the bad)? If you check out Job 1:21-22, you will see that Job recognized that God was sovereign over all areas of his life and he trusted God to get him out of the misfortunes he had been facing.

Take a moment to talk to God one-on-one. Think of some things for which you are thankful. Praise Him. Thank Him. Bless Him. Allow yourself to be enveloped by His presence, and you will see how good it feels to be there, just you alone with Him, letting Him know you are thankful for all your blessings, counting them one by one…

“Dear Lord, we could never name each and every one of the blessings You bestow upon us, as they are many, but know that we rejoice in all that You do. Thank you!”

 

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Gratitude, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 18, 2016

The Gift of Solitude

nov-18“I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.”  Psalm 119:16 (NIV)

Flipping the pages unveils some of the most amazing stories in scriptures –  the truths of men and women’s lives . How can they become so familiar that they don’t touch our hearts?  How could that happen?

For me it happens when reading His Word becomes a mark off my list rather than a mark on my heart.  Simply put…I’m doing my time in the Word rather than allowing His Word to transcend my time in His presence.

Sad truth…but an authentic reality in this world.  Too many times we read, we skim and we think we already know.  But regardless of what we know or knew yesterday, God has incredible insights for us today.  And if we flip the pages without searching deep into His Words, we will miss out on the freshness each day brings in His presence.

So how do we slow the pace? How do we visit with Him uninterrupted?  Solitude is a gift we give the soul. It’s the treasured moments in the stillness of the morning before tiny feet hit the floor or husband’s coffee cup is filled. It’s the precious hour where quiet reigns in the midst of our day before lists show up or distractions still us away. It’s the sweetest silence in the night where breaths can be heard before eyelids shut and minds fade.

Slowing our pace offers us a chance to unwrap solitude and cherish the gifts found in His Word. What are we reading today?  How is it impacting us in the moment?  Are we multi-tasking God into the segments of life that are left over?  Won’t you join me in sitting at His feet in the quiet of your day?

“Father, You invite me to dwell in Your presence.  Prepare my heart to be transformed, infused and enlightened by Your Words.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 17, 2016

Not Problem-Free But Praise-Filled

nov-17“Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”  Luke 18:27 (NIV)

This past week I had a lot on my mind as I watched friends going through hard times, and I wasn’t exactly equipped to get them out of the tough situations they were in. We spoke about trusting God for the outcome, keeping believing and persevering through the trial. It wasn’t exactly the problem-free philosophy described by Simba’s friends in the movie Lion King, as the Hakuna Matata song rocked my car. Oh yes, I listen to children’s movies’ songs as I drive.

While life is not problem-free and not everything goes according to our desires, we can always withstand the storms of life through faith. The trial comes and we soak it in prayer. We cry out to God, we plead and we do it all over again, if we need to. And we even throw in a little fasting, you know, when you abstain from eating something you really like – such as chocolate and desserts – or even an entire meal, or refrain from using something you really can’t stand living without, such as TV shows, or cell phones and video games. Giving up something that is dear to us is like a sacrificial offering to the Lord. Jesus was known to fast and pray during tough situations.

Do you remember how the Israelites, led by Moses, were pursued by Pharaoh’s soldiers, and how they did not know how they’d get out of that predicament until the Lord parted the Red Sea for them to cross? (Exodus 15) Whew… what a time, right? I mean, after wandering in the desert, going through many struggles, and then being so close to death when suddenly, supernaturally God parts the waters and they cross.  Thus, in gratitude, Moses, and a throng of people, led by Aaron’s sister Miriam, who danced and played her tambourine, offered worship to the Lord for what He had done.

Are you facing a Red Sea in your life right now and need the Lord to part the waters for you? Never cease to praise Him, because God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3) and your miracle may be just around the bend.

 

“There is nothing too hard for you, Lord. My troubles I leave at Your feet.”

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | November 16, 2016

Clarifying My View

nov-16“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”  2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV)

A purse, baby rattle and the Bible – three pieces that survived a devastating tornado in the mid-west.  When a mom returned to the site of her scattered home she clutched her purse, her baby’s rattle and the ravaged Bible close to her chest.  And the words that uttered from her lips were: “The holidays will be different this year…we’ve been blessed…we have each other.”

Puts everything into perspective doesn’t it?  Inexpensive belongings yet in the aftermath of a tornado they’ve become priceless.  Linking this family to each other and connecting them to our hearts.

I’ve never experienced a tornado, but I’ve walked the path of clarifying.  You know the kind that reveals what’s not important and what is truly priceless.  In the single breath of a moment life can change and priorities are shifted.  What seemed urgent or a “must have” now fades to unveil what’s really needed. Contentment takes on a new face and blessed – well it’s no longer viewed by the depth of our wallet.

Like this mom standing in a heap of rubble –  we know that having each other  is truly enough.  And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

So what’s the three clutched to our chest? What would happen if they slipped out of our grip? Would we  still be “blessed” or would we become “distressed” because life is devastating without them?

Perspective is a gift  – it propels us forward – sustains us – compels us – but most importantly it whispers what is really important.  Our relationship with God is the one thing that should never slip through our fingers.  Our grace story is one thing that should never escape us.  Our circle of people, entrusted to us by God,  souls we should never take for granted.  A threesome worthy clutching to our chest.

“Sweet Jesus, how blessed we are when we look at life through your eyes of wisdom and love.  You are more than enough for all we need.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Wisdom

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