trbccoffeebreak

“The LORD rewards everyone for their righteousness and faithfulness. The LORD delivered you into my hands today, but I would not lay a hand on the LORD’s anointed.” 1 Samuel 26:23 (NIV)

Devoted even when the cost is high. Faithful even though others are not. Yielded and submissive even against our best judgment. Not quite common traits of those who seek their own justice, but David’s determination to be righteous and faithful to the Lord shouts his integrity.

Three thousand chosen men joined Saul in his attempt to find David, yet God delivered this king right into the hands of a shepherd boy. Even though the world would have rightly justified David defending himself. Even though he was justified in his own mind, David chose to be different – his integrity kept him on the right path. Hearing the advice of a friend and confidant – “Today God has delivered your enemy into your hands” -sounded good. However, integrity is never measured in black and white but rather shades of gray. Moments when the temptation unveils a perceived right in justifying a wrong. An attitude ruled by resentment camouflaged as vindicating unfairness.

Regardless of the unfolding invitation, God is the only justifier of our lives. There is no relief in our getting even, but peace adorns those who humbly submit and totally surrender to God’s authority. Ultimately, God rewarded David by sparing his life on many occasions and ensured his destiny as Israel’s king. Releasing our defense – not the popular vote. Relinquishing our rights – not a common trait. Accepting God’s verdict – shouts integrity – and that’s what He desires.

“Father, when our wounds yell justice may our hearts whisper Your name.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33b NIV)

Imagine the year is 1962 and it is time to start making plans for summer. Now picture yourself (in your best June Cleaver summer dress) preparing a young child for a week away at camp. But this is no ordinary camp. This is Alcatraz, America’s premier maximum security prison. Preposterous, isn’t it?! No one would willingly allow their child to experience such hardship. Yet, isn’t this similar to what God did when He sent the children of Israel to inhabit a land filled with wicked idolaters? (Wasn’t there a vacant country somewhere that wasn’t brimming with criminals and reprobates?! )

Sometimes it is hard to understand what God is thinking. But, despite our natural inclination to insulate ourselves (and those we love) from harm and opposition, EASE and COMFORT are never God’s primary intention. FAITH IS! Although we would never willingly invite hardship and resistance into our lives, God knows these are the exact ingredients necessary to develop our faith. As this passage from John 13 reminds us, our focus must never be on the troubles that surface (though they may be plentiful). Instead, our focus must remain on God and the fact that He has already overcome every problem. So today if you are facing giants or unexpected hurdles, just hold tight to your faith as you remember that the point of this journey is not to escape, solve or even conquer life’s challenges. The point is to fully rely on Him through it all.

“Father: As we come before You today, we ask that You help us have the right perspective as we engage life and all of its challenges. Build our faith so that our focus remains on You – even in the midst of life’s bumpy moments.”

For His Glory

Claudia Dempsey
TRBC Coffee Break

‘And, we who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)

One in a crowd of strangers isn’t quite my idea of fun especially if that crowd is 600+. Yet standing among a sea of writers and speakers, I never felt lonely or disengaged. Smiles and light conversation welcomed me. Adoring praise rose as voices worshipped. Energy filled the room as inspiring messages challenged and refueled our souls to pursue God’s calling with devotion, discipline and perseverance. How sweet for God to ordain and provide my own personal retreat. Quiet moments of reflection mingled with deep conversations between women who shared a desire to give God’s message of hope.

Settling into my room each night, I allowed my heart and mind to savor the wisdom. I cherished the solitude God placed before me – forcing self out of comfort into obedience. Uninterrupted, unplugged and readily accessible – I had no trouble hearing His faint whispers . The rush of deadlines, stress and craziness was discarded miles away, and now I was free – free to know Him in a deeper way. To listen intently as He shared His heart with me. To experience unity with those who exchanged comparisons and resumes for the shared joy of bringing God glory. Perfect moments orchestrated by a God who delights in seeing His daughters grow.

In a world that thrives on drama and discord – how awesome to see a better way – a better choice. To cheer one another on to greater heights. To encourage the use of our gifts for His glory. And to exchange self for the best – to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind and soul.

“Father, the joy of serving You is intensified when we join hands and hearts together in perfect harmony.”

For His Glory
Janet Martin