Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 22, 2016

Leaving Our Chains Behind

jan 22“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 (ESV)

The only thing worse than bondage is to be freed and still cling to our chains. Impossible? No, not really. How many times does God set us free, empower us to move out of the very thing that held us captive and we refuse to let go? We want to be rescued. We seek deliverance. But moving on and letting go – well it means leaving our chains behind. Locked in the past remembrance of what enslaved us, we choose to stay connected to the very things that robbed us of freedom.

Why? Perhaps it’s the replaying of injustices or the reoccurring emotions that keeps us locked into place. Sometimes we can simply deny the hard work of healing. Sometimes we simply just don’t want to be free because chains of defeat have stolen our hopes and dreams. We’d rather stay bound than risk the chance to finally break free and live in the abundance God has promised. Like a bird whose cage is open we slide back afraid to believe we can fly.

Freedom never comes easy and never without a price. A dying Savior on a rugged cross covered our stains of sin. His piercing side – the perfect sacrifice – offers you and me a chance to forever be free. Whatever holds us back has been released. What stood in our way has been removed. What has robbed us, cheated us or defeated us is gone. What held us captive is loose. What stole our joys, hopes and dreams has been washed in the blood of the Lamb.

Life never looked so good; our chains are gone. The choice is up to us will we stay or will we run into the arms of freedom?

“Father, there is nothing keeping us back but our own unwillingness to be free. Help us to desire letting go more than holding on.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Freedom, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 21, 2016

Facing Your Giants

jan 21“That roused the Philistine, and he started toward David. David took off from the front line, running toward the Philistine.” I Samuel 17:48 (MSG)

I’m so thankful tears are a language God understands because I’ve definitely shed my share!! For example, I love the worship song, ‘Never Once Did I Ever Walk Alone.’ Inevitably the tears come, and I am overwhelmed that God has never once asked me to walk alone or left me on my own during so many battles. He has been and continues to be so faithful.

In I Samuel 17, David was confronted with his own giant and battle. Verse 48 teaches us that he took off from the front line and ran TOWARD the giant, fully confident he would deliver his people that day. He also chose to come in the NAME of the Lord, not with sword or warrior apparel but robed in humility, dependent on a mighty God, and courageously confident.

It made me contemplate how many times I haven’t run toward my personal giant/battles, because I have tried praying for a way out or a perhaps a way around it. When I have done this, I have prolonged the victory. Regardless of the outcome running toward the battlefield with confidence and faith in God ensures my deliverance. Running toward our battles enables us to tearfully sense God’s presence and power. It is then, we can joyfully proclaim we never once walked alone nor He left us on our own.

Thought for the Day: “It brings comfort to know God never leaves or forsakes us.”

“Lord, please give me strength to run TOWARD my battles knowing You are with me.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 19, 2016

Boundaries

cb devo sept30“The day is yours, and yours also the night; you established the sun and moon. It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.” Psalm 74:16-17 (NIV)

I love going to the beach and watching the waves. It fascinates me how the water only goes so far. One of many details God took care of when He created the earth. The only time when the water goes further is during a major storm or disturbance underwater. Even then God is in control.

Our lives have the same built in boundaries from the beginning with common sense. Later on as Christians, we have the Holy Spirit that gives us additional boundaries. At times we cross those boundaries when there are storms in our lives or we go against common sense and God to exercise our free will. Even then God is in control.

Just as the waves are controlled through the moon and gravitational elements we can’t even begin to comprehend, God can help us stay in control. Through daily time in His word, prayer, and listening to the Holy Spirit we too can stay in sync with God’s boundaries.
“Dear Lord, You’ve given us everything we need to live an abundant life. Help us to not overlook the boundaries You put in place to guide us towards Your blessings.”

For His Glory

Katrina Redman
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 18, 2016

Plenty of Time

jan 18“Your (God’s) eyes saw my unformed substance; in Your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.” Psalm 139:16 (ESV)

24/7 – it’s the span of time from the first wake of dawn to the last ellipse of night. We share it , we experience it and we breathe it each and every day we’re alive. A treasured gift that elusively slips through our fingers. A simple blink of the eye and it evaporates ever so quickly.

“I’ve got plenty of time” used to usher from these lips that now wonder if I’ll get to finish it all. Excuses are often our worst enemies and yes, even the most disciplined aren’t immune. The higher the birthday years roll, the faster the clock ticks.
It’s 2016 – the time when the gift of days seem plentiful. We’ll start the diet tomorrow – we’ve got plenty of time. We’ll finish that project next week – we’ve got plenty of time. We’ll reach out to a friend later – we’ve got plenty of time. All assuming we will have 365 days of health, wisdom, energy and life.

Wonder if we could just slow down 24/7 long enough to linger and absorb the beauty of one simple day? To recharge, reboot, and reignite the passion that moves us closer to God’s divine purposes. To seek His direction, His calendar, His agenda and not our own. To unwrap the gift of 24/7 and actually finish what we start. To discipline our time to reach the goal that seems so out of reach. To lay excuses down and step outside of the box. To reach out to someone who’s been on our mind for days. To pray without ceasing for what seems so unattainable. The possibilities are endless when we accept the gift of a day.

Despite the warmth of soft covers over my head this morning, I got up today. I made it to the bathroom and felt the splashes of water on my face. The clock was already ticking…..ticking….ticking.

“Father, today is a precious gift. I pray we will all use it well – to seize the moments and glorify You with our 24/7.”

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 15, 2016

Facing Our Fears

jan 15“I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4b (NIV)

Life forces us to let go of something or someone. Our new normal doesn’t resemble the familiar, and the uncertainties challenge us to the core – that’s when fear loves to move in. The economy depletes our savings. Our dream job ends, and we find ourselves facing a stack of bills – that’s where fear loves to reside. Loved ones slip out of our lives as disease wins and overwhelming grief seeps in – that’s when fear loves to control us.

Losses can quickly land us in the pit of paralyzing fear – unable to cope, function or move on. Challenges and tragedies will always strip away our perceived securities unveiling the raw human nature that resides deep in our souls. And it is in those moments that fear rises to the surface and that’s absolutely normal. But when fear moves from a healthy respect of our circumstances into unhealthy fear consumed with our circumstances, we’ve charted a dangerous ride.

So how do we get our perspective back on track before our fears spill over and impact the lives of others too? The Psalmist David knew that speaking his confidence in God out loud would send the enemy running for cover. Even in his darkest valley, David boldly proclaimed that God’s presence, accompanying him in those hard places, would strengthen and sustain him.

Letting go and embracing new normals will still test our faith, but they will no longer paralyze us and keep us locked in the past. By trusting in God’s character, we too can face our fears boldly and move forward knowing that we do not walk alone.

“Father, You have sent Your Spirit to live within us, to teach us and to comfort us. Help us to proclaim Your name even in the midst of fear and doubt.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Hope, Prayer, Success, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 14, 2016

Loved By The Father

jan 14“If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?” Luke 11:13 (KJV)

Are you a mom? Do you think your baby is absolutely precious, and that there is just something so special about them? Guess what? You’re right!

I have been a teacher for many years, and have loved my students, but it wasn’t until I became a mother about a year ago, that I began to understand love a little differently. I find myself playing with my son and just laughing at how funny he is, smiling at how sweet he is, and amazed at how quickly he learns! I see a part of myself in him, from his musical ability yes even to his stubbornness, and think wow! Often times overwhelmed and at a loss for words.

God allowed me a little glimpse at how He too sees us, His creation! We are made in His image! As much as I love my son, whom I had a part in creating, and as much as I know my son, God knows him more because He created him! We are His children, and he loves us! Such an encouraging thought!

So my fellow mother, yes your child is special because he or she is yours! They are a special part of you! Let your love for them remind you that our heavenly Father has love that is even greater! What an awesome God we serve, meditate upon that and rejoice and be glad in 2016!

“Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You that we are made in Your image, thank You for Your love. Please remind us daily of Your goodness, and let us rest in Your loving arms.”

For His Glory

Julia Forystek Bergstrom
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Gratitude, Love, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 13, 2016

Surviving Cold

jan 13“All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 (ESV)

Brrr…… it is cold outside. We slipped through December coatless and didn’t even get a chill. And now January brings in an Arctic blast. No matter how much we resist it or attempt to ignore it – coats are here to stay at least for the next few months. I’ve never been a winter, cold person. Love my sunshine and warm temps. But despite my love of balmy summer days; I live in a place where winter does come. So I plan to endure winter – socks, boots, sweaters, coats, etc. – got the picture – I’m bundled up.

Ever find yourself not ready for the cold inside? Silence in the presence of those we love. The empty stare or the cynical response – the bitter chill that steals away our warmth. Hearts like ice hardened to the people around us. Hurt rises to the surface, and we become reactive. We resist growth and hunker down vowing not to compromise, give in or reach out. Painting the pretty picture that all is okay when deep inside we’re struggling to survive.

How do we pick up the pieces when reconciliation and healing seem foreign – unattainable? Perhaps it starts with the courage of one kneeling, seeking and resisting the urge to be right. Maybe it’s found in one who’s willingness to bend invites conversation. Could it be that when one stops looking out for self then the two can find their way?
Solution – loving God and loving others will always position us to extend and build rather than withhold and destroy.

“Father, it is so easy to wound those who wound us. Help us to love others even in the midst of conflict.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Freedom, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 12, 2016

Be The Church

jan 12“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 (NIV)

As I looked out from the 15th floor of our condo while on vacation one thing rose above everything else, a church steeple. Great reminder that the church should be a beacon of hope for those in our community that are hurting, need assistance, and above all else; need Christ.

We, as Christians, should stand out above those around us as a representative of the church and God. People should be able to see such a difference in our life that they feel free to turn to us in a time of need. Obviously, we can’t meet every physical need of those around us but there are small things that we can do to make a powerful impact. A hug, a quick prayer with someone, a note, taking time to have a cup of coffee with someone.

As a New Year has begun, ask God to help us be a beacon of hope to those around us and to be aware of ways to minister to those in need.

“Father God, Help us clear out the cobwebs of this past year and help us start a clean slate in this New Year. May we be mindful of those around us and obedient to minister according to your leading.”

For His Glory

Katrina Redman
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 11, 2016

Wait – Our Happy Place

jan 11“And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in You.” Psalm 39:7 (ESV)

The “wait” is rarely our happy place. Quick, convenient, and easy serves us so much better we think. But waiting – well that slows us down. Stops us. Delays us. Prevents us. Frustrates us. Robs us of peace. Leaves us anxious. Amazing how that four letter word can negatively impact our day.

Wonder what would happen if we allowed the “wait” to become our friend? What if we embraced wait rather than run from it? We’d definitely be stretched, but it would serve us well more than we dare think.

Wrapped up in wait are some incredible life lessons ready to be unpacked. Those who persevere, discipline themselves and endure the wait miss out on rushed mistakes. Endurance and patience follows those who learn to wait. Steady preparation is birthed in the midst of wait. Anticipation and faith are enlarged. Hope and trust are deepened.

Like a long lost friend, wait ushers us into the presence of God where reliance on Him takes center stage. We no longer look for the quick fix or the easiest escape. We linger longer and listen more intently. Waiting…leaning into…. abiding….watching….. to see what God will do. Self no longer dictates our choices or manipulates our circumstances. Our hope and peace rest in Him alone.

God paints the picture loud and clear for those who refuse to wait. Moses couldn’t wait for God to deliver His people and ended up in the wilderness. Sarah’s refusal to wait for God’s promises landed her in a sea of regret. Rebekah’s manipulation robbed her of her son’s life. I think we’ve got the picture – trusting God and waiting on Him is far better than taking matters into our own hands.

So the next time wait slides into our life – let’s choose to embrace it and watch in expectation for what God will do – its’ the ultimate happy place.

“Father, You long to teach us deep lessons found only in the brink of waiting. Enable us to place our hope in You alone.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 8, 2016

Our God Story

jan8“Then the (Samaritan) woman left her water jar, went into town and told the men, “Come see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could this be the Messiah?” John 4:28 – 29 (HCSB)

My remote knows one path usually to HG-TV. Love architecture and design. Love watching people find their “perfect” house. Love exploring other countries and seeing how people live without leaving my couch. And my fav all time show is the Fixer Upper. Why? Because this program centers on taking the old, run down and discarded and bringing it back to life beautifully. The worst homes are transformed into works of art beyond the imagination of the new owners. And I get to witness this amazing happy moment – priceless.

Nothing sweeter though than watching God transform lives. 2015 offered our church a front row seat into the lives of people who were radically changed. Each Sunday, the “My Road” video clip has reminded us that God is still actively working in the hearts and lives of people. Each story has been unique, different, compelling and yes, even bringing tears to our eyes. We’ve heard about health struggles, financial challenges, addictions, divorce, abuse – you name it we’ve seen their stories. And in those few short moments where we get a glimpse of their testimony, we are reminded that our God is the official Fixer Upper. He never discards anyone. He reaches down to lift up those who are helpless. He specializes in bringing life back to those who are dead in their sin. God’s love for the world is exemplified in His great artistry in restoring what the enemy sought to destroy.

What’s your story? Wouldn’t it be incredible if we chose in 2016 to share our story – our road with the people we meet? It’s okay if we hit a few bumps along the way. It’s okay if we didn’t do life right all the time. The key is an authentic, humble unveiling of our God story that is guaranteed to inspire others and renew hope. Isn’t that what our world is looking for?

“Sweet Jesus so thankful for my God story – for Your tender working in my heart and rebuilding my broken places – utterly amazing!”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

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