Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 12, 2013

Passing Over An Insult

MP900422200[1]“The discretion of a man deferreth his anger, and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.” Proverbs 19:11(KJV)

Do we ever take things to heart and react quickly  before thinking?  It takes great humility and godly wisdom to overlook an insult.  This is to truly walk in the love of God. 1 Corinthians 13:7  reminds us to bear all things, believe all things, hope all things, and endure all things. Are we willing to bear, believe, hope and endure? It really takes a humble heart and a person who has crucified the flesh to do this. Our old nature wants to rise up and fight back, but when we are walking in the spirit we will look over a transgression. When we esteem others better than ourselves, we won’t be quick to react. It is to our credit to look over an offense. God will be pleased with us, and we will stay in right relationship with him. We mustn’t allow someone’s transgression to get the best of us. We can choose to pass it over. Next time someone provokes us to anger or someone says something to upset us, let’s remember the scriptures (Philippians 2:3). God’s Word will get us through rough places and will give us the strength needed not to react. By meditating on them and hiding them away in our heart, we will respond in the right way.

“Lord, Help me to avoid quick reactions. Help me to esteem others better than myself. Help me to endure all things and pass over a transgression. Thank You for Your word that fortifies me.”

For His Glory

Linda Reyes Shepherd
TRBC Mountain Blend

Leave a Comment

Posted in Gratitude, Mercy, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 11, 2013

The Sweetest Choice

devo mar 11“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8-10 (NIV)

Sitting here at my computer, I’m nibbling on celery and broccoli – not my favorite chocolate snack.  It’s a conscious choice – one I made when I went grocery shopping. One that I’m sticking with despite I’d rather indulge in something else.  Indulge that little word conjures up a lot – it’s the one thing that sabotages my desire to eat healthy.  I’ll indulge just one treat and then tomorrow I indulge again. Before you know it my indulgence has become my mainstay rather than an occasional guest.  In fact, curiosity drove me to Webster to understand it a little deeper – indulge – basically means I’m giving free rein and excessive leniency. Ouch!  That little word catches me unaware just like sin does in my heart.  I’ll indulge a tv show or movie that discredits what I believe. Or perhaps I’ll indulge an attitude that isn’t fit for my King, or I’ll indulge self-talk that wounds my Creator. Regardless indulgence wasn’t meant to stay around my waist or my mind.  Those little thoughts that plague my goals or those tempting treats that ruin my success all end up devouring my best intentions.  So, today let’s face the fact that indulgence can be a trap instead of a treat, and we have a choice to determine what place we will give it in our lives.  I hope you will join me in pleasing the Father  – it’s the sweetest choice we can make.

“Father, help me to remove even the shadow of darkness from my life as I live in the light of Your Holiness.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

1 Comment

Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 8, 2013

Dying To Self

MP900262207[1]“For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God?” Colossians 3:3 (KJV)

What does it mean to be dead to self? Colossians 3:1-17 answers that question. If we are to die to self, we have to keep seeking the things above, not the things of this world. We have to consider the members of our earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. We also have to die to anger, wrath, malice, slander and abusive speech from our mouth. How many times do we want to argue back, have the last word, or say things we regret? The word of God says to clearly not lie to one another. How many times do we justify a “white lie, or just down right lie?” What about greed?  Having to have the latest gadgets, running up your credit, or trying to live up to the Jones. Dying to self hurts, it doesn’t always come natural. We have to make an effort to say no or yes –  no to another helping of food, yes to ministry, or something God is calling us to do. Dying to self is a choice. We will either walk in the flesh or walk in the Spirit. We have to kill our fleshly desires in order to truly live. What are we choosing? We must remember that we are to store up our treasures in heaven, not on earth.

“Lord, I choose to die to the things of the flesh with Your strength. I thank You that my life is hid with Christ in God. Help me to daily mortify the works of the flesh. May I die to the things of the flesh that I may live abundantly in Christ Jesus.”

For His Glory

Linda Reyes Shepherd
TRBC Mountain Blend

1 Comment

Posted in Faith, Freedom, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 7, 2013

Shining In His Likeness

Stained Glass Depicting Jesus Christ“But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.” I Corinthians 12:18 (NKJV)

Yesterday, I walked by the prayer chapel in the church and admired the beautiful stained glass window that forms the front of the chapel.  Taken individually, each piece of glass would not impress anyone: it would be oddly shaped, and although the color might be attractive, by itself it represents very little.

At our Bible Study, one of the girls pointed out that we, as members of the body of Christ, are like a beautiful stained glass piece.  We only bring light and beauty to the world when we are working together with one mind, one heart, for our one Lord.  What a beautiful illustration of our usefulness!

I recently burned my arm, and although the burn was only a couple of inches in length, the pain as it has healed has been a constant reminder of the accident.  So it is with the church: we are all members working together and when one hurts, we all hurt; when one sins, we all suffer; when one rejoices, we all share in the joy—just as our body does.  Would that we would remember that it is only by getting along and loving others that we shine to the world as a beautiful stained glass likeness of our Savior!

“Father, please give us grace as we deal with each other in love, remembering that we all walk different paths of joy and tribulation.  Let our light so shine before the world, Lord, that they would see our good works and give You the glory!”

 

For His Glory

 
Sandy Day
TRBC Mountain Blend

Leave a Comment

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

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 6, 2013

There Is Always Hope In The Lord

MP900444069[1]‘In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, “This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.”’ Isaiah 38:1 (NIV).

No one expects to die from a boil, but King Hezekiah saw his life growing dimmer and he didn’t even have an heir. Turning his face to the wall, Hezekiah prayed and wept bitterly before the Lord saying, “Remember, O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in Your eyes.”   Hezekiah was his own attorney and spokesperson reminding God of his faithfulness.

Many times we find ourselves in similar circumstances. We hear bad news and have no other choice but to fervently plead our case before the throne of the Lord. We decrease, so He can increase. We put our face on the ground, so He can lift us up. We strip ourselves of  pride, so He can fill us with His Spirit.

The Lord answered Hezekiah’s plea and added fifteen years to the king’s life. As a bonus, He also delivered him and his city from the hand of the king of Assyria. Wow, how long has it been since we pleaded our case with the Lord? Do not give up. Our victory may be just around the corner. Do not be ashamed or hesitant to cry out before our Maker. There is always hope in the Lord.

 “Lord, sometimes the going gets tough and our vision gets clouded with the situations we face. Please help us to continue looking to You and seeking You for the solution, instead of focusing on the fears and hardships. We cry before You, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. You are our hope.”

 

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Coffee Break

1 Comment

Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 5, 2013

Pushing Aside The Capstone

devo mar 5“The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone.”  Psalm 118:22 (NIV)

Have you ever heard someone refer to Christ as “the capstone the builders rejected” and wondered what that really meant?  I knew that a capstone was the crowning achievement or finishing stone which completed or accentuated a piece of architecture.  But, I never understood why the Bible talked about “builders” rejecting the capstone.  Then one day I ran across an old rabbinic story that brought everything into light.

According to Jewish legend, when King Solomon was ready to begin building his temple, it was decided that noisy construction would not be allowed at the actual site because that area was to be a reverent place of worship.  So although it took a great deal of time and effort, all major carpentry and stonework were done off site. The legend goes on to say that because the capstone for Solomon’s Temple was the central component of design, it was cut first and sent to the temple.  But since it was not going to be used for a very long time, the builders on site simply set it aside.  Seven long years passed until the time came for the placement of the capstone. Unfortunately, no one had any idea where it was because it had been tossed aside and was now hidden under years of dirt and debris.

As I read this story, everything suddenly made sense.  I realized how a builder of that day could neglect or even reject a capstone…which had no immediate relevance.  I just can’t help but wonder why I am sometimes so inclined to set “The Capstone” aside. There is after all, nothing in this life that I could erect or build which is of greater significance than Christ!

“Father, help us to never reject the crowning work of Your Son in our lives.”

For His Glory

Claudia Dempsey
TRBC Coffee Break

Leave a Comment

Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 4, 2013

Look Up

devo mar 4“I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; From where shall my help come?”  Psalm 121:1 (NAS)

The buzzer sounded. My son’s team ran to the bench for a quick break and pep talk from the coach. Seated behind the team bench, I could hear what the coach was saying. He looked each one of them in the eye as he said these words:  “You gotta look up. When you’re dribbling, before you pass, before you shoot….how will you know what to do with the ball if you don’t? …..Always keep your head up, your eyes up…….. Look up!”  Wow. I don’t even think the coach realized that what he was saying to these boys would help them not only in their basketball game, but in life as well.

Do you need to know which direction your life should go? Look up. Are you unsure what to do about your teenager? Look up.  Unemployed and need a job? Look up. Relationship concerns? Look up.

Life is complicated for sure. But the answer to questions or problems in our lives should always begin with looking up. God knows how hard things can be sometimes. He doesn’t expect or want us to try to navigate life on our own. God is there for us in every way. He is our help in any situation. Instead of hanging our heads in despair when life gets hard or complicated, we should do just the opposite. That’s exactly when our heads and eyes need to remain up. Only when we look up and look to God will we get the help we need.

“Lord, You are my one true help in times of trouble, confusion or heartache. Help me to remember You are there for me, always. Help me to keep my eyes and heart on You.”

For His Glory,

Josey Bozzo
TRBC Coffee Break

Leave a Comment

Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 1, 2013

Fulfilling The Call

Smiling Teacher at Desk with Textbook“And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord that thou fulfill it.” Colossians 4:17 (KJV)

Are we fulfilling the ministry God gave us? What is that ministry? Does it have to be church work? Not necessarily. The ministry God entrusted to us could be being a housewife or mother. It could be working at a bank, hospital,  taking care of the elderly, etc. Whatever we are doing is the ministry God has entrusted to us. Perhaps we are saying, “I am just a stay at home mom.” That’s the highest calling you have. You are raising your children, training and teaching them in the ways of the Lord. What if you are single and you don’t feel like you are accomplishing much? Remember God is your husbandman, and you have your whole live devoted to Him. We can devote ourselves to prayer and that in itself is a ministry. No calling is inferior to the other. Whatever God is calling us to do is worthy in His sight. Some people have private callings such as being a housekeeper.  Some have public callings, such as pastors, teachers, speakers, etc. Both are equally important in the sight of God. We must know what God has called us to do and fulfill it whether we feel like it or not. This morning I woke up at 5:30 a.m. to work on my devotionals. God has called me to write, and I must fulfill it. What has God called you to do? Sometimes there are different seasons in our life, and God calls us to do new things. When we fulfill our calling, we know we are in God’s will and feel content.

“Lord, thank You for the ministry You have called me to do, I choose to fulfill it. Thank You Lord for entrusting me with it. May it bring You glory.”

For His Glory

Linda Reyes Shepherd
TRBC Mountain Blend

1 Comment

Posted in Gratitude, Hope, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 28, 2013

Sweet Endurance

dev feb 28“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2 (KJV)

What an awesome encouragement to us when we want to give up or get frustrated with situations!  Amen to Christ’s endurance and for interceding for us at the right hand of God!  What is your current situation you are called to endure?   This morning, I’m driving to work with snow everywhere and frigid cold temps. Perhaps the Winter weather is the last thing on your mind because the blizzard brewing in your life is gigantic.  Broken relationships, financial struggles, illness, unmet goals – the list goes on and on. I’d like to encourage you that there is joy coming, and not to give up!  Endure that workout plan you started in January!  Yes your body might be sore, but your daily discipline for Jesus is not for naught! Keep up the exercise! Press through the painful growth that comes from brokenness – envision victory is one moment away. That snowstorm that keeps hitting your town,  week after week, fear not – Spring will come, don’t get depressed!  Endure the challenges, allow God to strengthen your faith and experience His unexplainable peace. When we focus daily on Him, and remember what He did for us on the cross, our daily earthly complaints seem to diminish and feel less overwhelming. Thank you Jesus for teaching us how to endure.

“Lord may we remember the joy that is set before us, and praise You daily for Your work on the cross.”

For His Glory

Julia Forystek Bergstrom
TRBC Coffee Break

Leave a Comment

Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 27, 2013

Adrift On the Sea of Life

dev feb 27“Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.”  Hebrews 2:1 (ESV)

Unlike the billboards hit of the 70’s that glorified the idea of “drifting away” (with your rock & roll), I recently heard a pastor warn his congregation about the likelihood of drifting off course.  Strong winds, environmental currents, poor choices or simply a moment of relaxed concentration can create potentially devastating consequences.  Personal experiences coupled with his convictions made this a compelling sermon.  And despite the tiring nature of remaining vigilant, he reminded his listeners that staying on course requires constant and purposeful intentionality.

Honestly, this is something which has been resonating with me as a mom. Because we live in a world which is not well-suited for innocence, I am constantly reminded that I cannot lead my children in excellence with broad-sweeping, “let’s just do our best.”  No, to succeed as a godly mom (and as a child of God), I must be prayerfully and painfully intentional about the things I plan, do, say and allow.

I know how easy it is to veer off-course if I allow myself the luxury of relaxing at the wheel.  So, I cannot help but wonder if that is why Paul urged his Hebrew followers to pay much closer attention to the possibility of drifting.   If we fail to pay close attention to God’s truth and the daily choices we make, we may find ourselves arriving at a destination quite different than the one by which we first set our course!

“Lord, please help us to set our eyes on You and dedicate ourselves to a life of intentional excellence.  Left alone, we will surely drift off course.  But as we seek You and purpose to be diligent, we ask that You keep us on track with Your plans and purposes for our lives.”

For His Glory

Claudia Dempsey
TRBC Coffee Break

Leave a Comment

Posted in Encouragement, Success, Wisdom

« Newer Posts - Older Posts »

Categories