Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 19, 2012

Serving Kindness

“What good does it do if, when you sin, you patiently receive punishment for it? But if you suffer for doing good and receive it patiently, you have God’s approval. This is, in fact, what you were called to do, because: The Messiah also suffered for you and left an example for you to follow in his steps.”  1 Peter 2:20-21 (ISV)

When we suffer for doing good, we tend to retaliate, prove our point, and have the last word. Eating out  with a couple of friends, we were surprised that the waiter only got one order correct.  We all remained calm as he got very upset, impatient and acted as if it were our fault that he brought the wrong food. We did not react to him, but rather showed him lots of love. He came back afterwards apologizing for his behavior.  Now we could have responded the same way he responded to us.  We could have defended ourselves and justified our behavior. Instead we showed mercy, patience, and extended grace. He couldn’t believe we didn’t get upset. We told him we knew he probably had a lot on him and ended up giving him a nice tip. By responding with kindness, he saw how he had acted and apologized.  When we are treated badly or unfairly, we must show the love of Christ. It speaks volumes, and God might speak to the person through that incident.  When someone mistreats us wrongfully remember, they did it to Jesus too. How have we responded lately to people and situations? Was it Christ like? Are we willing to humble ourselves and not have the last word?

“Father, help us to follow Your example of love and humility in times of suffering wrongfully. May we extend grace to those around us as You have extended it to us.”

For His Glory

Linda Reyes Shepherd
TRBC Mountain Blend

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Posted in Attitude, Love, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 19, 2012

Priceless & Proud Moments

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.  And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:16-17(NIV)

Everyone that has children, a sibling, niece or nephew, and even our four-legged children, can tell stories of their proud and not so proud moments. My son is a new dad, and I’ve told him several times when you have children, it’s not about you anymore. Recently, he spent a couple of hours assembling a toy for his son and friends. He didn’t even stop for food; he was determined to get the project finished.   What a selfless moment this new dad showed and it definitely made me a proud mom.

When we think of Jesus making God proud, we know that Jesus is perfect and there’s nothing He could do to be better. Oh but there was – when He went through the full baptism like any other person, He showed obedience to God’s will. Just like a proud Father, God burst forth from the heavens and said He was well pleased with Him.  God’s first words were “this is my Son.” Words of love and affirmation are the greatest parenting tip ever given. God is up there in the stands rooting for His children – the ones adopted into His family through the blood of Christ on the cross. When we are obedient to His will, He is up there shouting, “They are my children, I love them and am pleased with them.”

“Dear God, How thankful we are that You call us Your children and have adopted us into Your eternal family. Reveal to us the areas we need to be obedient in so we can make You proud of us as we follow your will.”

For His Glory

Katrina Redman
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 16, 2012

Amazing Our King

“Out of the midst of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.” 2 Corinthians 8:2 (NIV)

Desperation always takes us to a deeper place. For some it turns their hearts away from the only One who can transform their emptiness.  Cheap imitations fill us with temporary hope that washes away in the rain.  Led down unknown paths, we easily find ourselves deeper down rather than rising up.  Bound and chained by our own failed solutions, desperation’s cry for deliverance fades in the distance.   So how does severe trial and extreme poverty well up into rich generosity – a reaching out when the inner soul is vulnerable, exposed and broken?  Those who seek God allow desperation to draw their hearts closer to His – the One who overflows emptiness with joy.    Leaping over puddles of discontent and raw emotion, desperation finds its home nestled under the shadow of God’s wings.  Protected.  Covered.  Nourished. Under the umbrella of God’s love, desperation births generosity – the moving of one’s focus from self and lack to glimpse the world  through His eyes. That’s where we find the Macedonian church.  Faced with severe trials, persecution and poverty,  their spirits soared up and out.  The secret ingredient – an unwavering trust in the One who conquered death with resurrecting hope.  Remove the essence of hope and you lose the fragrance of joy.  The sweet aroma of one being lifted up in the midst of desperation, clinging to God’s promises and  nestled in His arms produces  a generous offering that amazes our King.

“Father, take us to a deeper place – a closer walk.   Lift our spirits as we dance around your throne praising Your name – Your grace is enough.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Gratitude, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 15, 2012

Letting Go

“But the Lord’s plans will stand forever; his ideas will last from now on.” Psalms 33:11  (NCV)

As a child, I loved roller coasters: the thrill, excitement, and the dare.  Now when I get to the top of the hill and see the drop, I respond in a different way.  My hands tighten on the rail, my heart skips a beat, my stomach goes to my head, and I lose control in fear until we reach the bottom.  The same thing can happen with our walk with Christ. Sometimes, we can be so fearless in sharing Him with others. We can go from wanting no one that we meet to miss the opportunity to learn about Him – to being afraid of what someone might think or say.  We can go from the thrill of complete devotion to Him – to  fearing a deeper relationship.   Satan  makes earthly living seem so enticing.    We can see what he offers on earth: the money, fame, etc.; but we must trust the rewards in heaven.  I love to hear my friend say, “Our reward is in heaven and what a reward it will be.”  She never wants thanks on earth as she trusts completely in the gift of Christ.

Do we trust Christ when we feel ourselves going up and down the big hill of growth?  Are we able to enjoy the ride and let go of that tightly squeezed bar and raise our hands in obedience while screaming  in our loudest voices “Here am I Lord, use me and grow me!”  Join me in letting go and letting Him!  Raise your arms with me and let’s be fearless.

“Father, I’m ready to let go and let you.  Stretch me, grow me, and use me. “

For His Glory,

Debbie Struble
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Living, Success

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 14, 2012

Confidently Surrendered

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 (KJV)

We can be confident that whatever we’re going through God is performing a good work in us. Sometimes we cannot see nor feel what He is doing in us, but we can rest assured He is performing a good work in us. Whatever trials we are going through, He is shaping our character through them. He is giving us wisdom, strength, humbling us, guiding us and developing the fruit of the Spirit in us. He is teaching us many lessons so we won’t make the same mistakes over and over again. He teaches us how we can help others, how to be more compassionate and understanding. He is teaching us to be more patient and longsuffering. Many times we ask why am I going through this, and these are some of the answers. We can be confident that whatever we are going through God is working out a beautiful plan. Some of the trials we go through might not feel good or comfortable while we are going through them, but we can rest assured on God’s promises. This is how we can rejoice through our trials. We do not have to lose our joy and peace when going through trials if we keep in mind that we can be CONFIDENT that God will CONTINUE the GOOD work in us. God will not drop us, He will not stop working in us if we are His children. Be encouraged, be confident, He is continuing a good work in you.

“Father I thank you that I can be confident that you are at work in me and you are doing a good work and will continue it to make me more like you.”

For His Glory

Linda Reyes Shepherd
TRBC Mountain Blend

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 13, 2012

Unveiling My Soul

“For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face.  Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.”  I Corinthians 13:12 (NKJV)

Amazing how we assign holy motives to ourselves as we look into our  hearts.  When I think of what God sees as He looks at me, I stand in awe that He loves me.  The James study with Beth Moore provides many clear spots in my “mirror” as He rubs clean some very small places where I am able to see my heart.  Covetous? Not me! I have more than I need.  Jealous? Hmmm, … Suddenly, I see that these things are not necessarily material.  How many hours and wasted money have I spent trying to lose weight–and what is my reason? Is it truly for health or pride? How covetous am I over the size 6 of a friend?  How jealous am I over the girls who are so well-known that everyone wants to speak to them, and I feel invisible?  These are not pretty characteristics, are they? God says he hates these things! So I try to look my insecurities in the face and realize Satan uses them every day to make me feel unloved, unlovely, and alone.  “I Must Tell Jesus” the song says.. for “Jesus can help me, Jesus alone!”  I want to be so filled with His Spirit that I am a testimony to everyone I meet.  But am I willing to go through pain to get there? What will He ask me to give up?  Only God knows—-but I can trust Him.

“Father, I confess my life is filled with pride, my wanting to “belong” and looking for acceptance is sinful, as it’s only YOU that I should care about.  Help me to pour out myself daily, so that You can fill me with the Holy Spirit, until nothing is left but You.”

For His Glory

Sandy Day
TRBC Mountain Blend

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Posted in Encouragement, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 12, 2012

Something To Sing About

“Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:19 (KJV)

The familiar voice singing melodies to God amazed me. Most of my visits to the nursing home don’t go so well – memory loss and confusion cloud most of mother’s days but this day was different.  Growing up I often awakened to mother singing hymns usually at the kitchen sink overlooking our backyard. This time there was no kitchen sink or backyard only a worn, wobbly wheelchair.   Unaware I was present, she gently paused as I knelt to ask her if she was happy.   Without hesitation quiet humorously she replied, ‘No!!’   Resuming her song I asked, ‘Well, mother do you love Jesus in your heart?’ to which she replied ‘Oh, yes!’

Mother is 92 years old, blind, almost deaf and with dementia alongside limited mobility.  I began thinking how happy she is in Jesus and marveled at the beauty of Jesus naturally flowing from her heart.  No one can prompt her joy since her surroundings definitely do not permeate happiness.  Yet, she was being a great testimony for Him and openly displaying what He means to her. Leaving her room that day, the Lord encouraged and challenged my heart.   Do others observe Him in my daily life?  Though difficult, it should be our heart’s desire regardless of what circumstances we are facing.  It is apparent mother is manifesting one of the fruits of His Spirit – joy.  It is her strength and can be ours.  Then like her, we will have something to sing about!!

“Lord, may You come forth in my life naturally as I go about my day.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 9, 2012

Impeccable Timing

“May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you.” Psalm 25:21 (NIV)

Celebrating our anniversary, my husband and I headed out of town leaving Lynchburg with sunny skies and warm temperatures. Headed towards the DC beltway, the skies released buckets of rain so hard we could barely see to drive.  Hours later we would be within miles of Inner Harbor, Maryland only to be greeted with a traffic jam near the toll booth.   Four lanes of creeping traffic attempting to merge into two.  My only consolation was the promise of a romantic dinner overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.   However, awaiting us on the other side of the bridge, the  Resort had lost power.  If only we had been on time, we would have checked in already and  enjoyed our dinner.  But a conversation with the hotel staff dispelled that theory.  A tornado had touched down knocking out power several hours earlier.  If we had been on time, we may have been on that long bridge right in the midst of the tornado as a tractor trailer was overturned.  My impeccable timing was definitely off,   but God knowing the path of the storm chose to setup delays to keep us safe – maybe He’s doing the same for you.  We often view life through our lens of perfect timing and ease, but God has an unobstructed view of all things swirling around us.  He alone knows the best time for us to accomplish our dreams. He sees the potential pitfalls of moving ahead when our spiritual maturity is lagging behind. By releasing our expectations to Him, we can walk in full confidence that He will complete His work in us.

“Father we don’t see the dangers that lie ahead, and we often don’t recognize the protection you are setting before us. Help us to trust in Your timing to keep us safe.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 8, 2012

Meditating On The Names of God

“And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee:” Psalm 9:10 KJV

It is so important to know the Names of God. We can find comfort and assurance in God as we study His name. Take time to look up these scriptures. Whatever areas we are lacking in faith, we can look up the scriptures and meditate on them and thank God for who He is. Our faith will rise as we study His Names.

  • El Shaddai (Lord God Almighty) Genesis 17:1, Psalm 91:10
  • El Elyon (The Most High God) Genesis 14:20, Psalm 9:2
  • Adonai (Lord, Master) Joshua 24:19-21, Revelation 17:14
  • Yaweh (Lord Jehovah) Deuteronomy 6:4, Daniel 9:14
  • Jehovah-Raah (The Lord My Shepherd) Psalm 23
  • Jehovah Rapha (The Lord Heals) Psalm 34:6, Psalm 3:1-8
  • Jehovah Shammah (The Lord Is There) Ezekiel 48:35, Psalm 22:1-3
  • Jehovah Tsidkenu (The Lord Our Righteousness) Jeremiah 23:6, Col 2:6
  • Jehovah Mekoddishkem (The Lord Who Sanctifies You) Exodus 31:13, Exodus 19: 2-6
  • El Olam (The Everlasting God) Genesis 21:33, Psalm 90:1-3
  • Elohim (God) Genesis 2:4, Genesis 17:7
  • Qanna (Jealous) Exodus 34:14
  • Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide) Genesis 22:1-14
  • Jehovah Shalom (The Lord is Peace) Judges 6:24
  • Jehovah Sabaoth (The Lord of Hosts) Romans 9:29, Isaiah 1:9, Zech 1:3
  • Jehovah Nissi (The Lord My Banner) Exodus 17:8-16

As we read these verses, we must believe God is who He says He is. By getting acquainted with His Names we will get to know God in a more intimate way. As we get more intimate with God, we will better learn how to trust Him and take him at his Word. Be blessed as you study the Names of God.

“Father, thank You for Your wonderful Names. Help me to trust You more.”

For His Glory

Linda Reyes Shepherd
TRBC Mountain Blend

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 7, 2012

In All His Glory

“As you do not know what is the way of the wind, or how the bones grow in the womb of her who is with child, So you do not know the works of God who makes everything. In the morning sow your seed, And in the evening do not withhold your hand; For you do not know which will prosper, Either this or that, Or whether both alike will be good.”  Ecclesiastes 11:5-6 (NKJV)

Have you ever noticed when the sky is the most beautiful? It’s either before darkness comes or when darkness is leaving.  God truly shows off His glory through those magnificent colors and a little of the sun shining through.  One thing we can be certain of, the sun rises at daybreak and sets at nightfall. Notice the words break and fall when describing darkness. Sometimes God’s glory comes before darkness falls on our life, and other times God’s glory comes when He breaks through the darkness to bring a new day.

We don’t know everything about how God works, but we need to be faithful and trust Him in the darkness. It is difficult to do sometimes because darkness often brings hurt, heaviness, loneliness, despair, anger, confusion, and even loss. However, God gives us the reminder of His faithfulness that He is shining bright at the beginning of darkness falling and when the darkness breaks He comes bursting forth shining in all His Glory.

“Dear God, How thankful we are that You give us reminders of Your presence even in the darkest of hours. Help us to hold on to You until you break through the darkness and bring a new and glorious day to our lives.”

For His Glory,

Katrina Redman
TRBC Coffee Break

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Living

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