trbccoffeebreak

“Unto thee, O Lord do I lift up my soul.” Psalm 25:1

As a child, I always demonstrated an independent spirit. I actually think I learned this trait from one of my grandmothers who was a business woman.  She was confident, smart, wise and had no problem making tough decisions.    I had no idea what an impact she would make on my life.  Those very traits that at times intimidated me as a child, later sparked that independence in me as a young woman.  I found it easy to make decisions at work or home where I was a singleparent to my son; but when huge challenges arose, I eagerly sought out God’s guidance.  Gradually, I learned that God wanted me to turn to Him even when my common sense and natural instincts knew what to do.   It was in the day to day aspects of life that God molded my independent spirit to be dependent on Him regardless of my resources or capabilities.  Have you ever found yourself maneuvering down that path?  The decision is simple, a no brainer –   organize a yard sale, lead a Bible study, discipline a child, mentor a friend, hire an assistant, run a business, etc.  We’ve done it before a million times – made those daily little decisions that seem insignificant.  Yet in God’s eyes all our decisions made independent of His Spirit are significant.  His insight, wisdom and sovereignty provide a safety net that covers all aspects of our lives.  All we have to do is seek Him out daily allowing our dependence to be in Him rather than ourselves.

“Father today belongs to You.  Revolutionize my spirit so that my heart is confident in You alone!”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break

“Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” Mark 10:35b (NIV)

Looking out for  #1 is as common place as the dusty roads leading to Jerusalem.  Who would have ever imagined that two of Jesus disciples would make such a demand to the One who had spent His time unselfishly serving others?  Jesus sought no earthly throne; in fact He was adamant that all glory belonged to His Father.  Yet James and John sought an exalted position:  one sitting at the left and the other sitting at the right of Jesus in His glory.  We would never ask such a thing for ourselves or would we?  We would never demand that Jesus do whatever we ask or would we?  Looking out for our best interests will always lead us down a road of increasing demands.  Without even realizing it, we will find ourselves pushing for the best seat, picking out the best job for serving in our church, and impatiently expecting others to serve us.  Jesus knew the secret of influence and it was found in serving others.  He not only demonstrated those words, but He created opportunities to train His inner circle to follow in His footsteps.  Maybe this week, we need to take a reality check and listen in to our prayers, demands and selfish requests.  Are we seeking God or are we simply demanding that He do for us whatever we ask?

“Father, may our requests be filtered through a heart of service to others.  Keep our prayers balanced and our motives pure so that we will be living expressions of Your love.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin

TRBC Coffee Break