Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 31, 2014

Relying on God’s Strength

cb devo 30“I can do ALL things through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)

Do you ever wish you could “clone” yourself? One could go to work, one could go shop and cook, one could be responsible for field trips, extra-curricular activities and homework, one could rest and be ready to greet everyone with a cheery attitude. And at least right now – one could do Christmas shopping and wrap packages! Sound great? Unfortunately, it doesn’t happen that way. We all deal with most of those priorities every day as we try to figure out which are going to be the top to bottom on the list! Sometimes all our plans are thrown out the window with the first telephone call begging for immediate help. How can we cope? Not easily, for sure! But relying on Christ to help us with those things that matter most certainly defines our character and having a flexible, cheerful attitude is a necessary response. When I was homeschooling my young children “flexibility” was my most used word. “Don’t major on the minors” was also necessary to remember. “People matter more than tasks” was a third. And my favorite was, “If you won’t remember it in twenty years, let it go!” Satan likes nothing more than to see us so busy that we have no time for God, reading our Bible, or taking time to fellowship with friends and family. Make time each morning to give your day to God, to order it as He sees fit, and then rely on His strength.

“Oh, Father, we need You in our daily lives, to see clearly the things that are important–not from our perspective, but from Yours! Give us wisdom to discern what we need to be doing, that we may be about “our Father’s business!” Help us see life from Your eyes, Lord, so that we can bring glory to You!”

For His Glory

Sandy Day
TRBC Mountain Blend

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 30, 2014

Patience & Peace

cb devo dec 30“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3(NIV)

Life is full of ups and downs. It is not predictable. It is not stable. It ebbs and flows without much warning. Yet, it is important to try and stay joyful in all circumstances. In trying to accomplish this difficult “task,” I have focused on being patient and peaceful. Patience for what is to be and peaceful for what is now. And, then, I heard a lesson that turned this a little on its head.

Paul writes in his letter to Ephesus that they (and, really, WE) should “live a life worthy of the calling” (v 4:1). In order to do so, they (and, again, WE) should be humble. Gentle. Patient. Forbearing. Peaceful. The two “P” words stuck with me because I have been focused on them for myself. Then I realized this truth:

It’s not about me.

I should be much more focused on others than I am on myself. I should be focusing on patience and peace, but not just for myself. Instead, I should focus on demonstrating these traits in action towards others. Besides, we can’t escape the fact that if we focus on others, we are less focused on ourselves…and that’s a good thing!

Friends, as we go through life’s ups and downs, perhaps we can try to be more patient. More peaceful. But also more humble, gentle and forbearing. Knowing that if we focus on others, we will be closer to living a life worthy of the awesome calling we have received.

“Dear Lord, I pray that You will fill me with the Holy Spirit so that I will have the ability to demonstrate peace and patience towards others. Thank You for the patience You show me and the peace You give to me.”

For His Glory

Laurel Shaler (drlaurelshaler.com)
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 29, 2014

God Said…..

CB devo 29“This is how everyone will recognize you are my disciples – when they see the love you have for each other.” John 13:35 (MSG)

Turning the key in my ignition, I didn’t expect to hear silence. Now all I could do was wait for my sweet husband and the battery charger to rescue me. Pulling beside my car, he got out and raised the hood, “You must have left the lights on,” he said. “No, I didn’t; I checked that first when the car wouldn’t start – I didn’t leave anything on.” The infamous He said…She said…. had begun and my battery could have cared less. When the engine started up, I drove out the parking lot debating with myself. I got home before that sweet man and followed his instructions to leave my car running. A few minutes later he arrived, and I watched as he studied under my hood. “I know I didn’t leave anything on,” slipped through my lips even though he hadn’t even made it through the front door. The closer he got to the house, the more she saids I had to say. “It was just the battery,” he said walking into the kitchen. “The trunk was left open.” Me said, “I haven’t been in the trunk.” He said, “I know, but I did yesterday.” Problem solved… it wasn’t me…..it was him! I drew pleasure in that thought – until later when I realized it wasn’t important who was right or wrong. What really mattered was that he stopped everything else to rescue me. How often do we take pleasure in proving we are right versus honoring the people in our lives? I hadn’t even thanked him… those words had totally escaped my she saids.

“Father, the world will know we are yours because we love one another. Help me to embrace Your words instead of mine.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Love, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 24, 2014

The Christmas Story

CB Devo Dec 24“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son….” John 3:16a(NIV)

It was the question I had to ponder – dwell on. If I were given a chance to interview anyone in the Christmas Story who would it be? My first thought was Mary, the mother of Jesus. As a woman and mother, I would love to know how it felt to hold the Son of God – to cradle Him in her arms. I would love to hear the stories of Jesus running and playing with His cousins and siblings. How did they celebrate Christmas – His birthday each year? Were there presents? And then I thought of Joseph, the husband of Mary. The one who stood by her side faithfully embracing all that was foreign to him. Perhaps defending his position to stay in the picture for a lifetime. Teaching the Son of God how to be a carpenter …how to build…what He already knew. And let’s not leave out the angels who were the first to bring the news. Filling the night sky with amazing worship. Wise men who came from afar – what were they thinking as they traveled? How did they choose their gifts to lay before the King?

So who did I pick? Who was the one I’d love to have a face to face chat? Who would I bring all my intriguing questions – the things pondered?

God would be the one I’d gather close to and interview. He saw the whole story – every single detail. He heard Mary’s response and saw Joseph’s obedience. He heard the angels’ song and watched as shepherds and wise men worshiped the King. God knew redemption’s song that first Christmas – the life, cross, death and resurrection, yet He still chose to let it all begin because He thought of you and me.

“God, how I love the way You love us – holding nothing back – inviting us to receive the greatest gift of all Your Son.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Gratitude, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 23, 2014

Strength To Endure

cb devo dec 23“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 (ESV)

As I was driving down a road headed to an appointment that had me a little anxious, I spotted an orange construction sign that read “Steel Plates Ahead.” I immediately chuckled and thought to myself, “How did they know I was going to be in the vicinity?” After this silly encounter, I headed to my appointment – which went very well, by the way – and was no longer nervous. Sometimes in our life, we need reminders that we will be alright.

Three months ago, I had to undergo surgery to fix two major bone breaks in my left ankle, which called for a steel metal plate and ten screws to be implanted in the ankle bones. The pain and recovery time, I went through was intense. But lo and behold, it didn’t last forever!!! The mere fact that I was able to laugh at the construction sign I’d just spotted was a reminder that what I was facing that morning would be no different. God was going before me, and He would intervene on my behalf, and – no matter the outcome – I would be ok.

Are you dreading something today? Are you anxious about a decision you must make or an intervention that must take place? Do not fret, my friend. I am sure if you look around, you, too, will see your road construction sign, even if it is in another shape or form, to remind you that you have overcome adversity before and that you will again.

“Dear Jesus, we are so very blessed to have You as our role model. Teach us, Lord, to trust that, as You overcame the world, we, too, will overcome circumstances we are faced with that scare us, because so long as we have You, we have the strength to endure.”

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 19, 2014

One Star…The Way

cb devo dec 15“And there it was – the star they (wisemen) had seen in the east! It led them until it came and stopped above the place where the child (Jesus) was.” Matthew 2:9b (HCSB)

Ever been geographically challenged? Sometimes, I feel like it’s my middle name! Pouring rain, broken windshield wipers and heavy traffic didn’t help my lack of direction. And did I mention it was dark? Nothing like missing an exit, but a good GPS will get you back on track. It might take longer and take you down a totally different route, but eventually you will reach your destination.

Ever find yourself spiritually challenged – wandering around in circles not sure which way to turn? Ever find yourself lost, drifting and unsure of how to get back on course? Life can lead us down many paths of our own choosing – some good and some not good. We can set our course in one direction, yet allow detours to lead us down a totally different route than we envisioned. Determined to achieve happiness and success at any cost, we may find ourselves desperately searching for things that never satisfy.

Love the beautiful star of Bethlehem. Love the way wise men determined to follow that star. Encouraged by their pursuit and the relenting of their own wisdom to follow. Captivated by their willingness to stay on course – looking up and not out. Challenged by their focus – undivided and not distracted – steadfast. Amazed how one star led to deep everlasting joy in the presence of the Christ child.

Where are you traveling? There’s only one route to Jesus – simply believe, follow and trust the One who is lighting your way.

“Father, the star of Bethlehem still guides us today. Help us to follow Christ – undivided and steadfast – illuminated in His rays of everlasting joy!”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Success, Wisdom, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 18, 2014

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

cb devo dec 18“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” I John 3:18 (NIV)

Remember the ‘ole saying, ‘actions speak louder than words?’ There are special people who fall into a silent category when actions do speak louder than words – caregivers. Any normal day would consist of routines, financial decisions, doctor office visits, tried patience, long lonely days, and physical and emotional exhaustion. Describe anyone you may know?

Ever consider Mary was Jesus’ caregiver during his short earthly existence? She was present at his birth, death, and multiple times in between. Do you think she became irritated, drained physically, and at times ready to throw in the towel? Of course she did, but she also knew it was all for a purpose – far exceeding her ability to comprehend.

Caregivers, you are not alone. For the past eleven years, my personal life has evolved around caring for my 95 year old mother. She is blind, confined to her bed or wheelchair, has severely impaired hearing, and dementia. When this journey began a really good friend offered an important word of wisdom: find humor. For example, recently on mother’s 95th birthday, she informed me she was 25 and sang happy birthday to herself. Laughing and having a good time there was no need to correct her – she was happy! I felt God kissing me on the cheek – His sweet way of encouraging my heart; He is with me every step of the way. God was with Mary every step of her journey, and Jesus became the Savior of the world.

Perhaps this Christmas bless an unnoticed caregiver – your actions will speak louder than any words – because all too often none are adequate. Blessings are adorned in varied ornate packaging – all they need are to be unwrapped!

“Dear Father, please bless those who unselfishly care for others and use me to bless them.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Love, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 17, 2014

Beyond Our Dreams

cb devo dec 17“I (Jesus) came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of,” John 10:10b (MSG)

One day my father announced we were going to have a yard sale. I couldn’t believe his treasure trove, the garage, was going to be cleaned out. And the neighbors did not disappoint us. One man was so proud of a gadget he found and declared, “I have been looking for this all of my life.” He asked, “How much is this?” My dad answered, “Four dollars.” The man humphed and then walked on. We still talk about how that man’s dreams could have been met for four dollars, but he turned and walked away.

How many times do we long for a dream such as a husband, a child, a job, or a home? Then one day it is there for our taking and after the, “I do’s, “ changing of the diapers, on our feet for 8 hours, or the pipes burst, we grumble and say, “Humph.” We think we want something but when we get it, we decide we really don’t want it after all.

For years, the Pharisees waited for the coming of the promised Messiah. They preached about it. Prepared for it. Then when Jesus showed up, they turned their backs and probably a “Humph” was heard. God held out His Holy hand with the most magnificent Gift of all time. Love, joy, peace personified in His Son, Jesus Christ. And He is still all we need to make our dreams come true!

“Heavenly Father, You have given me all that I need through Jesus Christ. Please forgive me for turning my back on Your amazing gifts and trying to fill my longings myself. I know that nothing will ever satisfy my desire for peace, love, and joy except Jesus.”

For His Glory

Melissa Tucker
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Gratitude, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 16, 2014

Comfort & Joy

cb devo dec16“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

Don’t you just love the feel of soft fabric brushing against your skin? What about the sound of your favorite music playing, the smell of baked goods, the sound of familiar voices, or the sweet memories you savored with people you love?

Amazing how our hearts warm up to the familiarity of things that brought us joy!!! And how comforting it is! We close our eyes and bring those things back in a matter of seconds. Suddenly our hearts start beating faster and it’s like experiencing those special moments all over again. And we are energized each time we remember!

Imagine how Jesus’ heart felt when He saw a sinner repent and be delivered, or a dead person raised up, or someone’s messed-up-life changed. Imagine how seeing people’s faith in Him to change their circumstances in the snap of a finger, or in a short blessing, or even by a little spit mixed with clay was encouraging to Jesus! Wonder if those memories kept Jesus moving from town to town to help more people. Wonder if while He rested and closed His eyes if Jesus remembered those instances when people’s lives were touched by the power of His Father’s love through Him? Wonder if those memories energized and encouraged Jesus to proceed to the next phase.

What about God? Can you imagine how heartwarming it must have been for Him to watch His son doing His will? And how heartwarming it must be for Him to watch us trusting in Him today?

The journey we are on is a fascinating one and is drawn out especially for us, in every intricate detail. Be encouraged today in the fact that the Father rejoices in our faith in Him.

“Dear Lord, thank You for all that You do to bring us joy, even amidst the storm.”

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 15, 2014

Life Interrupted

cb devo dec15“And they will name Him (Jesus) Immanuel which is translated God with us.” Matthew 1:23b (HCSB)

Jingle bells, warm sugar cookies, holiday tunes filling the air, trees covered with bright shiny lights – gotta love the sights and sounds of Christmas! Holiday photos fill our mail boxes. School and church programs crowd our schedules. Shopping dominates our mind as we search for the perfect gifts counting down the days.

But what happens when Christmas normal, Christmas familiar and Christmas joy is interrupted? Lonely looms large in crowded malls. Sadness overwhelms when happy surrounds. And yes, avoiding the “Big Day” can seem like the better option.

Life interrupted ……. wasn’t that Mary’ story? Engaged to Joseph yet expecting the Christ child, Son of God. What she had planned, what she had anticipated totally changed in a single moment. Her new normal unexplainable. Maybe we find ourselves this Christmas interrupted by the unexpected. Maybe life isn’t as we thought it should be. An empty chair around the table evokes precious memories. An empty house silences our joy. Perhaps chemo overrides our appetite or family drama drowns out the gifts under the tree. Finances deplete our menu or work exhausts every waking moment of our day.

Love Mary’s response to interrupted. Love her joy and praise of the One who changed and altered her life. Love her words that resonate deep of God’s holiness, love and greatness. Embracing rather than rejecting. Believing rather than doubting. Accepting rather than demanding. And in the midst of the unexplainable, Immanuel, God came near. The very Son of God lay in her arms, brushed against her cheek and transformed her world.

Whatever we face this Christmas, Immanuel is near. His presence wraps around the weary. His presence collects the tears. His presence fills our empty and transforms interrupted, unexplainable into extraordinary.

“Father, in Your presence life interruptions are transformed into glorious praise!”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Attitude, Faith, Hope, Worship

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