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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Posted in Encouragement, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 26, 2013

Stronger Together

MP910216391[1]“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 17:17 (NIV).

A good friend’s advice, comforting words, and presence can go a long way when one is walking through difficult situations.  In Exodus 17:8-15, we read about three friends – Moses, Hur, and Aaron – who had this kind of relationship. Faced with the tough leadership decision of assigning Joshua to fight a battle against the Amalekites, Moses told Joshua, “Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.”  Moses knew that as long as his arms held up the staff of God, victory would be certain.

The battle lasted all day, and Moses soon found that holding his arms up all day was no easy feat.  If his arms faced down or brought down the staff of God, the Amalekites would start winning, so he needed to keep his arms up until the battle was over.When Moses’ friends saw that he was not able to fulfill his task alone, they quickly ran to the rescue.  Finding a stone for Moses to sit on, they held his arms up until sunset, i.e. until Joshua won the battle against the Amalekites.

 “There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 (NIV).  Like Moses, we are blessed with “Hurs” and “Aarons.” When the going gets tough, good friends are always present to pray with us, to cry with us, and to uplift us.  Is your battle too hard to go through alone? Are your arms too heavy to keep up? Let your friends stand in the gap with you.

“Father, we are so blessed to be called the family of God. And through Your love, we find the strength to encourage one another when the need arises. Thank You for blessing us with godly friends.”

 

For His Glory

Luska Suzano
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Prayer

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 25, 2013

Priceless Words

Two Young Women in Front of the Computer Talking“Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” Exodus 4:12 (NIV)

Do you ever struggle with knowing the right thing to say?  I sure do. As a writer I’m always editing, proofing, changing and attempting to perfect those words that fill my pages.  I’ll read them over and over again to ensure clarity.  I verify my scripture references carefully, and my knees get worn out on the floor as I bathe what I’ve written in prayer.  And the cool thing is when I seek God’s guidance, He shows me the revisions I need to make and assures me when the edit is done.  Unfortunately, I don’t always treat the spoken word with the same respect.  It is so easy to just let those words flow carelessly off our lips, rather than pause and seek God’s guidance.  As women our nurturing tendencies can often rise to the surface quickly handing out advice to solve anyone’s dilemma.  We love to help our husbands, children, siblings, friends, co-workers and even strangers.  We have a remedy for every situation that arises.  Why?  Because we want to help.  But sometimes, those words and our inquisitiveness can do more damage than good.  Like sandpaper on a glass top, our abrasiveness scratches the surface of tender hearts.  Not everyone wants a solution – sometimes they just want a shoulder to cry on. While our intentions are good, timing is critical when it comes to sensitive matters of the heart.  Unlike my writing, once those words are spoken they can’t be erased or revised.  Maybe that’s why God instructs us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. When we take the time to listen first, pause and seek God’s guidance then our words are priceless treasures.

“Father, help us to partner together to bathe our words in prayer.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Attitude, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 22, 2013

What A Wonderful World

devo feb 21“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”  Genesis 1:1 (NIV)

As much as I grumble about getting up and taking the dogs out in the morning, I have to admit, secretly I enjoy this time. Often it is still dark. Although I can be a little fearful out in the yard in the dark, all of that goes away as soon as I look up. The beauty of the stars and moon in the sky takes my breath away. And I’m not afraid, I am in awe.

It has always amazed me that when God created the earth and everything on it, that He did so in such a beautiful way.  He could have just as easily created a no nonsense practical world with the very basics.  Things could have been bland in color, lacking in creativity or even uninspiring, yet at the same time we would have had everything we needed. But He didn’t. Instead He gave us a gift. God with His infinite love for us made this world beautiful. Just look around and you will see. He created plants to not only provide food and oxygen but that were lovely to look at as well. He gave us a sparkling night sky and a bright sunshine day sky that is also our calendar. He made animals that give us entertainment and joy as well as nourishment.  All of this was done for our benefit and our enjoyment.

So what is it for you? Animals, flowers, the moon and stars, the sun and clouds, ocean waves or mountain tops? Whatever your favorite part of creation is, take some time today and every day to feast your eyes on the wonderful world around us.

“Thank you God, for this beautiful and functional world You have created for us. Help us to take notice of the beauty that is all around us every day.”

For His Glory

Josey Bozzo
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Gratitude, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 21, 2013

The Lord Has My Hand

Infant Grasping Mother's Finger“But You, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; You consider their grief and take it in hand.” Psalm 10:14a (NIV)

God never sleeps nor slumbers; He sees what goes on in our lives 24/7. Even in times when we struggle and think He may not be noticing, He is there as our constant companion. In 2008, I was overwhelmed and struggled to “keep my head above the water.” On Easter Sunday, I lost my beloved Dad.  The month of June came, and funding for the program in which I worked was pulled leaving me unemployed. A month later, my spouse of 25 years suddenly moved out. Devastated and overcome by grief, I felt like my world was coming to an end. I cried out to God in such audible noises that my voice echoed inside my apartment.

One afternoon four years ago, God gave me a wonderful vision.  I saw myself as a tot holding my Dad’s hand and trying to keep up with his step. Gradually, I saw myself as the woman that I am, and I was now holding on to Jesus’ hand, walking side by side with Him. As I think back on that day, I am reminded that God cared enough to show me that He has my hand and walks with me through my trials. God does not leave us nor forsakes us; He is faithful.  If your world is crumbling and you feel your strength fading, look to Him, cry out to Him, and give Him all your troubles. He will see you through.
 

“Abba Father, there are so many times when my own strength fails me and tells me that I cannot keep on going; but I can, with Your help. Please help me to keep my focus on You, Lord, so that the disappointments of this world will not become the focus of my life and that I may always give glory to the One who deserves it: You!”

 

For His Glory
 
Luska Suzano
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | February 20, 2013

Tender Warrior

devo feb 20“One of the servants said to Saul, “One of Jesse’s sons from Bethlehem is a talented harp player. Not only that—he is a brave warrior, a man of war, and has good judgment. He is also a fine-looking young man, and the Lord is with him.” 1 Samuel 16:18 (NLT)

This description of David definitely doesn’t sound like a shepherd. However, God knew that David would be a king and all these attributes would be necessary to lead the people of Israel. God knew that David would have to be sensitive to soothe troubled souls and also be ready for battle at a moment’s notice all while being in tune to His will. That’s a lot to balance, especially when sensitivity can often be seen as weakness. Whether he was a talented harp player or brave warrior, the Lord was with David.

I had the privilege of seeing these characteristics in my Granny. She was the typical sweet, southern grandmother but definitely had the fear of God on her side. She lived out her faith every day, and I thought she had God on speed dial. The words that struck fear in anyone who knew her was, “I’m going to put you on the altar.” My Granny didn’t fight physically; she fought spiritually and took you straight to God.

We may not be called to go to battle physically, but every day there is a spiritual battle going on. We need to be sensitive to the needs of others, while at the same time being on guard and ready for battle against the enemy. In both areas, we need a strong walk with God to discern which way God wants us to go.

“Dear God, Draw me near to You daily so I know which direction my steps should take. If it’s to minister to others help me to be loving and kind. If it’s to stand with You in battle, give me the strength and weapons needed.”

For His Glory

Katrina Redman
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

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