Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 30, 2024

Thermostat Living

“Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world… “Philippians 2:14-15

I’m a cold-natured person—I always seem to be freezing. When we moved to Florida, I was so excited to bask in the year-round warmth. It didn’t even dawn on me that because it’s often hot outside, everywhere you go has the AC blasting. Thermostats are set to “brrrr”—so, no matter the month, my daily wardrobe includes a sweater. I must respond to the environment. Only in my own home do I get some control over the temperature. With power over the thermostat, I can set it on “ahhhh”.

This creates a great analogy for the Christian life: Do we respond to the various environments around us by accepting the temperature in the room that reflects worldly ways and attitudes? Or do we live like a thermostat, creating a God-glorifying environment that is noticeable to others (and may even change their behavior)?

Actually, the Bible has a lot to say about thermostat living—about creating a temperature around us that reflects and honors the Lord. First, there are words we ought to use—and not use. In Proverbs, we’re reminded that a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (15:1) and that gracious words are sweetness to the soul (16:24). King Solomon (the author) even warns us that death and life are in the power of the tongue (18:21). New Testament authors also share hard truths about our speech—the Apostle Paul lists for us how to talk (Colossians 4:6; Ephesians 4:29)…and how not to talk (Ephesians 5:4; Colossians 3:8; Philippians 2:14). And James spends most of chapter 3 cataloging the power of the tongue.

It’s not just our words, though. The Bible gives us solid direction on the right attitude settings for our thermostat. We’re to keep our eyes on the Lord, remembering His steadfast faithfulness and standing firm on His promises so that our glances around at this broken world do not break us. Because our thoughts inform our emotions, which produce our actions, we’re to keep our mind focused on what is honorable, right, pure, and excellent (Philippians 4:8). Throughout each day, we’re to exude the Spiritual fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). We rejoice in all circumstances (even in pain, persecution, and our proverbial prisons)…letting our gentle spirit be what everyone sees (Philippians 4:4).

These exhortations make up the ideal setting (tap-tap-tap—is this thing working?). Yup, it never ceases to amaze me how often I’m just a thermometer in my life, responding in frustration or anger, saying and doing the things I hate—and not saying/doing what I know I should (Romans 7:15-20).

But we cannot strive in our own power to live the thermostat life! Praise God, we believers have the Holy Spirit living in us, available to empower us to live God’s way (when we yield to Him). And, friend, in this fallen, dark world full of broken people, we must set the temperature to “hope”! Through the grace we received in Christ Jesus, we’ve been changed, transformed from the darkness of this world to something new—to light and life! And everywhere we go, the temperature should change!

Every day (at work, in school, at the grocery store) is an opportunity to move the proverbial dial. We can set the temperature instead of setting our own attitude to match the situation around us. Are your coworkers griping? Don’t play along—shift the conversation. Waitress cranky? Sincerely ask how she’s doing—and ask how you can pray for her. Conversation heating up, with rising volume? Answer softly with a desire to understand. Getting worked up in anger or envy while scrolling through your socials? Shut ‘er down and look up in praise and thanksgiving for all the Lord has done.

Preachin’ to myself here, but I want to set the thermostat so that the way I live (my attitude, words, and actions) points others to a loving and holy God (Matthew 5:16). It’s so easy to fall right into the temperature of the room—to be part of the crowd, accepting the cold and putting on a sweater. Instead, let’s set the temp and tone for those around us. As we click the dial to “Glorify the Lord”, we’ll shift the whole environment, creating a noticeable change that just might change lives forever.

“Lord, may I consistently talk and act in a way that reflects who I am in You, setting a temperature for others that points them to You.”

 For His Glory

 

Julianne Winkler Smith (encouraged by grace series)
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 29, 2024

Why Contentment Serves Us Well

“Please accept the present that was brought to you (Esau)  for God has been gracious to me (Jacob)  and I have all I need.” Genesis 33:11 (NIV)

Dysfunction reigned high within the family of Issac and Rebekah – it’s a page turner from start to finish.  Two lovebirds captivated with each other from the moment their eyes met. When Isaac’s wife, Rebekah,  was faced with infertility (barren), he prayed to the Lord on her behalf (Genesis 25:21). Now that’s my kind of man, right?  Rather than seeking to manipulate the circumstances by conceiving children through the cultural standard of slave girls, Rebekah waited and Issac prayed.

God exceeded their prayers with not just one baby but twins: Jacob and Esau.  A double blessing yet one the parents allowed to divide them.  Issac favored Esau; Rebekah favored Jacob.  Favoritism and deception drove a deadly wedge.  Esau exchanged his birthright (inheritance) to Jacob to soothe his hunger.  Jacob later deceived Issac and stole the blessing intended for Esau.  Now the plot thickens. Both brothers wanted something the other one had, and the end result was bitterness on Esau’s part to the point he planned to kill Jacob.

Does it get any worse?  A family divided within their home became a family separated by distance – the family portrait would never look the same. Jacob fled to his uncle’s homeland in order to save himself from Esau’s revenge.  Rebekah would die never more to see her beloved son. Jacob would endure deceptions of his own from his uncle, and Esau would take two idolatrous wives from the Canaanites.

Fast forward twenty years and these two brothers would meet face to face.  I can hear the music intensifying as the reunion ensues.  Anticipation, fear, dread, and strategic placement all played out in Jacob’s mind.  Would his brother receive him or take his life?  Would his family be harmed?

Genesis 33 unfolds this heartwarming scene as Esau accompanied by four hundred men runs to embrace Jacob.  The one who hated was now changed, making the first move with arms wide open. Oh, wouldn’t you have loved to witness that moment – the redeeming of souls weeping – two brothers who forfeited so much finally reunited.

Absolutely love Genesis 33:9 when Esau tells Jacob to keep the gifts he brought to him. Why?  Because he already had plenty.  Jacob’s response, “God has been gracious to me and I have all I need.”  The brothers who desperately wanted something the other one had now completely satisfied with God’s provisions for them.

Sweet friends, we would be wise to be satisfied with the goodness God births in our lives even if it doesn’t match someone else’s.  Bitterness ravages a soul and propels a regretful end.  Esau’s descendants the Edomites remembered the quarrel between the brothers and with fierce hatred they warred against Israel. Envy, jealousy and strife never serve us well.

“I have all I need” is a pivotal mind shift reminding us that our Shepherd is our Provider.  When we keep our eyes focused on Him, we find we lack nothing (Psalm 23:1).  True contentment is only found in the presence of our God.

“Father, You are the giver of all things and You alone know exactly what we need and when we need it.  How blessed we are to place our trust firmly in Your care and provision.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 26, 2024

Removing High Places

“For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9a (NIV)

I have to admit, I have been totally taken by it. Maybe it’s the stories of valor; of storming the enemy confident in God who assures the victory. Perhaps it’s the justice; the integrity of God who means what He says and says and what He means. Then again, I suspect it’s the hope; that God will deliver, restore and bless His people for those who run after Him with their whole heart.

For whatever reason, I have been captivated by 2 Chronicles for a while now. As if about to burst if I don’t begin to write of it, I know that this is only the beginning. The treasures in these words are waiting and I must examine.

This book chronicles the events of the kings that spanned from the ever-so wise Solomon to the ever-so evil Zedekiah. Before one gets lulled by yet another endless reference to genealogies, each account lists additional information. Of relevance becomes the inclusion of Levites, law and sacrifice in one’s kingdom. Of importance is the taking down of foreign altars, high places, sacred stones, Asherah poles and incense altars, all of which were used to worship evil and lying gods. Turning one’s heart towards the Lord and living according to His precepts equated to securing His strength in battle and prosperity in acquisitions. This brings us to Jehoshaphat.

Jehoshaphat had an upbringing that most would envy. He learned to walk in the ways of the Lord from an early age. As king, he appointed men to sing and praise the Lord for His holiness. Jehoshaphat’s Judah became powerful, wealthy and favored by God. Then in 2 Chronicles 20:33, after all the successes and victories while serving the Lord, truth emerged and judgment followed. “The high places were not removed, and the people still had not set their hearts on the God of their fathers.” (NIV) High places, the areas of one’s heart not surrendered to the King of Kings and in so keeping, one becomes vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks. Jehoshaphat would align himself with Ahaziah king of Israel, a wicked king. Destruction proved imminent. All that remains is a well written manuscript to teach and instruct the children of God.

“Father, after my devotion, seeking and service, have I left any high places in place? Holy Spirit, reveal and convict my heart, give me strength to repent and correct, so that I may be totally Yours.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 25, 2024

He Will Never Let Go

“Even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.” Psalm 139:10 (ESV)

Grasping her tiny hand jolted the ‘mama bear’ instinct into gear! Protection was my main objective because I could see what she couldn’t, danger looming in the distance. Grownups just have insightfulness little ones don’t. It comes with maturity.

Growing up is hard, isn’t it? I find some areas still need attention even after all these years! Growing involves learning – not necessarily being ‘instructed’ by someone but oftentimes learning from the mistakes we make along the way.

I love a quote from a little girl when asked what was one of the most important things she had learned so far in life. Her answer: ‘Remember you’re never too old to hold your father’s hand.’

Maturity produces independence of parents and sometimes of God. We become self-sufficient – feeling we are capable of taking care of all our problems. This independence often affects all areas of our lives, even the spiritual. We lose contact with our heavenly Father because we don’t feel we need him. However, at some point, we will become keenly aware we can’t handle everything. We begin craving encouragement and support.

When this occurs, we are reminded of how much we need our heavenly Father. We are never too old to hold our ‘Father’s’ hand. In fact, we see the necessity of holding on to our Father’s hand even when things are not out of control.

As Job was reminded ‘If you would prepare your heart, and stretch out your hands toward him’ (Job. 11:13). Remember to reach out for His unchanging hand He’ll never let go!! Sometimes, I have to work at remembering this, how about you?

“Lord, remind me of how much I need to hold Your mighty hand.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 24, 2024

Look Back & Remember

“Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me.” Isaiah 46:9 (NLT)

“We’re still the worst, but I think we’re getting better.” This is the nearly identical quote I hear every night after swim team practice. My two sons have loved the water from a very young age, but have only just tackled the swim team. They have worked diligently to develop better techniques in their strokes and dives, as well as a higher level of endurance, but they are newbies in a pool full of veteran swimmers.

Two months into preseason swim, our family traveled out of town, staying at a hotel with a pool. “Let’s see what you’ve been learning at practice,” I suggested in order to get their blood moving in the chilly pool water. Kaden took off, performing flip turns and strokes he had not even known existed two months before. Not to be outperformed, Josiah showed off his strokes and flip turns. I was thoroughly impressed. I reminded them of where they were two months ago—struggling to dive properly, possessing no speed or endurance. What a difference two months has made!

Satisfied grins showed me that my words had penetrated, increasing their confidence in their abilities. They needed an outside observer to point out the difference in their past and present abilities. The repetition of daily practice kept them from noticing improvements.

Our daily struggles can feel that way. Same old, same old. Taking a step back may be just the encouragement we need. Looking back at old journal entries to remind us of the incredible work God has already done in our lives can give us the strength we need to trust God with our current circumstances. Seeking the honest observations of a trusted friend can help us to be reminded of where we were just a few months or years before–far less mature than today. Asking God to remove the blinders caused by worry and stress so we can clearly see all that He has done in our lives may be just the confidence-builder we need.

He alone is God. There is no other like Him. He can do immeasurably more than what we may think or imagine. “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” (Ephesians 3:20 NLT)

Let’s take the time to look back and remember the amazing work God has done in our lives.

“Lord, You alone are God and there is none like You! Thank You for Your grace and mercy in working in our lives.”

For His Glory

Tammy Randlett(http://staletoast.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 23, 2024

This Is War

“The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the Law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:56-57

In recent months, the pastor of my church has commented within various sermons that, although the moment of salvation is about surrendering to Jesus as Lord and Savior to experience the transformative freedom in Christ, the Christian life is also war. This is fact. When we join team Jesus, we become enemies of this world, of Satan, and of our own flesh. So, at salvation, we join the fight. This sent my mind reeling to human war, especially as the current geopolitical scene heats up. Then my mental trail led to how men and women enlist in the military to serve our country…or how men (currently only men) may also be drafted to fight, should the situation warrant it. I won’t share my cerebral meandering to the “election” versus “free will” theological chasm, and how one would mean Christians are “drafted” and the other would mean we “enlist”—that is a digression for another day. Suffice it to say that one way or another, believers are at war.

And this is where it gets interesting, Biblically speaking. Is the battle ours to fight? Or does the battle belong to the Lord?

Throughout the Old Testament, we find exhortations to trust the Lord with the fight (of course, in these verses, they typically refer to actual war). See 1 Samuel 17:47 when David trusted God to fight for him against Goliath and 2 Chronicles 20:15, when the Lord assured Judah that the battle was His, and sure enough, the enemy actually defeated themselves—check it out! And in Exodus 14:13-14, before the Red Sea parted, Moses told the Israelites to stop freaking out and be quiet—the Lord would fight for them. These verses can certainly be applied to the proverbial battles of our lives as well.

The battle does belong to the Lord…and so does the victory (1 Corinthians 15:56-57). On this side of the cross, we are privileged to understand that the Real Battle has also been won on our behalf—the Victory that all those other miraculous victories pointed to. As Jesus said before He gave up His life, “It is finished” (the debt is paid, the war is over). If you haven’t heard it yet, listen to the Shane and Shane song, You’ve Already Won, which speaks to our spiritual fight through this world from the vantage point of the Lord’s victory…

…because, although the battle is won, We. Still. Must. Fight.

And as we do, the Lord is with us (Deuteronomy 20:4)! He gets our weakness, pain, and temptations (Hebrews 4:15-16), and He will never leave us or forsake us in the battle (Isaiah 43:2). And He will strengthen us (2 Thessalonians 3:3). But we must also be prepared for the inevitable battles! The Apostle Paul reminds us who our real enemy is and gives us the full battle plan in his letter to the Ephesians (6:10-18).

So, are we to fight—and keep fighting the good fight until the end (as Paul wrote time and time again)? Or does the battle belong to the Lord? The answer is YES! We do fight! However, we fight not for victory, but from victory! Jesus Christ has overcome the world (John 16:33), and because of His victory, we who trust Him in that victory, are more than conquerors (Romans 8:35-39)! So, friend, enlist in God’s army, put on your armor…and join the victorious fight.

“Lord, until You return or call us Home, this is war. May we hold fast to Your victory and fight the good fight until then.”

For His Glory,

 

Julianne Winkler Smith (encouraged by grace books)
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 19, 2024

Living In His Strength

“Abide in me, and I in you.  As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches, Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”   (John 15:4-5, ESV)

Plants that climb typically start by creeping along the ground until they reach a stem.  Upon contact with something, a chemical change is triggered in the plant that stimulates a behavioral change.  The plant then starts to grow upwards against gravity.  Wrapping themselves in a spiral around the object they come in contact with.  Ultimately, investing most of their energy into climbing and growing.

Someone skilled in pruning will need to control the vine to ensure it concentrates more energy into producing fruit (grapes) instead of just surviving.

When a vine’s pruning has been neglected, old woody growth develops.  Sometimes requiring a saw to cut through it.

Life got extremely hard for the disciples after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Yet they continued to endure without yielding to the pressures of this world.  We are the result of the fruit that they bore because they chose to continue to “abide” in Christ.

As Christians, the world will constantly try to pull us down – but once we have had contact with Jesus, the Holy Spirit will trigger a change in us to move upward – from glory to glory.   (2 Corinthians 3:18)

If we are connected to our source of strength (Jesus) then we will be able to go against the weight of this world. (Hebrew 12:1,2) Much like a developing vine, we may want to pursue other things (survival and growth).  Just like a plant, a person can easily be sent into shock when pruning occurs.  Spiritual pruning from God may allow seasons of devastation. Loss of jobs and people that we love.  By staying connected to Jesus, he can take that season of brokenness and redirect our thoughts and energy – making us more productive for the Kingdom. As He applies the needed salve for our hurting hearts (wounds) to heal.

The decisions we make every day will bring us closer to Jesus or create distance.  Abiding will mean remaining stable in our commitment to Christ.  Not perfect but consistently reaching out to him for guidance. Prioritizing our time as we juggle between winning souls for the Kingdom and earning a living. We will have to live in his strength.  Just like the vine, we will have to wrap ourselves deeply around the gospel to endure the hardships of life.   (Psalm 104:2)

“Father help us to be aware of the counterfeit sources of energy and strength that we may seek to bear fruit.  Help us to continue to share the gospel despite the rejection and persecution we may face.  Allow us to bear fruit for Your Kingdom.”

For His Glory,

Laura Holmes  (www.ephraimministries.org)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 18, 2024

Got Friends?

“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)

Proverbs 13:20 tells us that those who walk with wise people become wise people. On the flip side, those who hang with fools are in for some trouble. We have to decide if we want to be wise or foolish. We are influenced by who we spend our time with. Look to spend more time with those who live their lives in the manner that we wish our lives to look like. That’s the first tip: Choose wise people to pursue and spend time with!

Second, what does it mean to pursue? We should be careful about how we pursue people. In today’s society, everyone is so busy…pressuring someone to spend time with us will not increase our chances of building a lasting, healthy relationship. In fact, it will more than likely lead to the opposite. As we pursue, don’t over-communicate. As we pursue, don’t over-flatter. As we pursue, don’t. overdo. it.

Third, and finally, remember that friendships should be mutual. Friendships should be give and take. While we pursue wise people that we wish to be like…what will they get out of their relationship with us? Remember that we have to put something valuable into the relationship as well. Clearly, many friendships consist of one person who may be more spiritually mature or more emotionally mature. One person may have their life together more than the other. One person is likely going to be more wise. All of that is totally okay. At the same time, keep in mind that friendships should be reciprocal.

Seek wise people to become friends with. Pursue them carefully. Remember that friendships should be mutual. Now those are some tips for healthy friendships!

“Dear Lord, thank You for sharing Your wisdom with us. Help me to attain and maintain healthy friendships.”

For His Glory

Laurel Shaler (www.drlaurelshaler.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 17, 2024

Worship Loud

“The Lord is in His holy temple; the Lord is on His heavenly throne. He observes the sons of men; His eyes examine them.” Psalm 11:4 (NIV)

Morning sun rose, knees hit the floor and shower beckons me. Dressed, lunch packed and my stuff gathered on the barstool. Gym bag ready and the aroma of breakfast cooked by my honey leads me to the kitchen. It’s just another day as a smile and kiss greet my morning. Clock ticks away, tv hums news in the backdrop and then we break bread – God’s Word. Savored, chewed and digested before the world invades our space. Covered by my husband’s prayer, we bow heads before feet go out the door.

Amazing the difference – when hearts are turned toward and lifted up before agendas steal us away. Humbling the effect – when breaking bread and fervent prayers quiet angry words or frustrated souls. Challenging to say the least – when cherishing the best takes precedence over all the rest. Incredible the feeling – when doors open and shut knowing love covers all. Wonder if God smiles when morning worships loud before the rush begins?

Traffic whirls, people drift – same places and routines serenaded by tunes. Just another day unfolding. Maneuvering between lanes, I remember His Words – to love my neighbors. I reflect on His Words – to keep a tight rein on my tongue. I pull into my parking spot and step out my car; I remember prayers to glorify Him in all I say, all I do – words my husband spoke over me.

Don’t have to wonder if God smiles when we worship loud. I know He does, because loving God with all our heart, soul and mind propels us to keep Him first before the rest of our world rushes in.

“Father, let the world hear You in me, let the world see You in me and most of all let the world want You because they know You live in me.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | January 16, 2024

Delighting In Decay

“Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer person is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed day by day. For our momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

I’ve been thinking about growing older lately. Specifically, my own aging process. Firstly, it’s amazing how when you’re 30, people who are in their 50s seem so stinking old…until you’re 50. Then, it’s astounding how young the fifth decade of life becomes in the scheme of life. See, in my head, I’m still in my late 30s or early 40s. This self-perception abruptly ends, however, when (a) I talk with someone in that age range or (b) I catch a glimpse of myself in a mirror. Then I reluctantly acknowledge, “Nope, I am definitely not there anymore. I am old.”

To be clear, I’m in my fifties. And although I’m decades away from slowing down too much (Lord willing), there are clear signs of the length of road behind me. Waking up with an injury, for instance. Or being nagged by new random pain, seemingly relocating from day to day. Or not being able to come up with the right word for a concept. (This one is pretty frightening for me, as I make my living coming up with the right words.) And it can all be quite disheartening.

But the Apostle Paul has God-inspired wisdom for us on this topic (as he does on most topics). Now, as he was writing to the Corinthian church, he wasn’t technically talking about getting older, but rather the physical consequences of affliction and persecution that he and other believers were enduring as the Church was growing (2 Corinthians 7-11). However, I love verses 16 through 18, as applied to physical aging: We don’t have to lose heart as our outer person is decaying, because our inner person (who we really are) is being renewed every day! The aches, pains, memory lapses—even disease and illness—are “momentary, light afflictions” compared to our eternal life in glory with the Lord. In the previous chapter, too, Paul wrote that because of our hope in Christ, we are being transformed into the Lord’s image from one degree of glory to another (3:18) through the power of the Holy Spirit.

As the length of our journey in this world increases, we are simply closer to Home. In fact, I believe that the decaying (i.e., aging) process is a sweet reminder from God that we don’t belong here. As long as we’re tethered to this world, we’ll retain the “earthen vessel” (2 Corinthians 4:7) we’ve been given. But we’re in a shedding phase, of sorts. Like the miraculous metamorphosis of a caterpillar to butterfly, we’re meant to slough off our own natural man (day by day, year by year) to more clearly reveal the new nature of Christ’s righteousness given to us at salvation.

Friend, let’s delight in our decay! Because with it, our true nature—the treasure that the Lord created us to be—is being revealed. And one day (decades from now or tomorrow), when He calls us Home, we will be fully transformed, with a glorious, resurrected body, unburdened by pain, tears, or sin. So, with each new ache or frustrating memory lapse, let’s thank the Lord…it just means we’re that much closer to our joyful flourishing in heaven.

“Father, as I struggle with the pain and decay of my body (and this world), may I remember that my home is in heaven and my Real Life is yet to begin.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith (encouraged by grace books)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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