Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 28, 2023

Blessing Hannah

“Eli answered, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of Him.” I Samuel 1:17 (NIV)

Have you ever heard the phrase, “We should not judge others by their appearance?” Well, I am going to share with you the story of a woman named Hannah. She was loved by her husband, Elkanah, but she could not conceive. The trouble was that Elkanah had another wife named Peninnah, and Peninnah bore him sons, so she would constantly pick on poor Hannah because God had closed her womb. Hannah really wanted to conceive a child and one day, while the family was in Shiloh to worship, she was so bitter in her soul that she began to weep and pray to the Lord. I don’t know if you can fathom the kind of crying that Hannah did on that day, but it was a lot.

I recently poured my heart out to the Lord during a church service. Afterwards, I looked in the mirror and saw little red dots all over my face (from busted little blood vessels). My eye makeup was all gone, and I looked like I had taken a beating. In short, I looked rough. So, imagine poor Hannah at the temple, crying like there was no tomorrow, asking God to give her a son, and yet unable to speak her words audibly. Her heart was definitely praying loudly, but no one could hear her muttered words. So, temple-keeper prophet Eli gets up and reprimands Hannah for “being drunk with wine.” Poor soul! Not only is she barren and now she is taken for a drunk. Hannah explains her plea to the prophet, who blesses her. Soon after, her wish comes true: she bears Elkanah a son named Samuel, who becomes a prophet and is well respected by all who encounter him.

Even godly men such as Eli, the prophet, can make mistakes. He judged Hannah by her appearance. Yet, there she was, a tormented woman, crying out to her God, asking for nothing else but a baby of her own. She wanted to be a mother, nothing else.

Do you know any “Hannahs” out there who could use some encouragement today? Who knows, you may just be the Eli in their lives, not to condemn them, but to bless them.

“Dear Lord, please help us to love beyond appearances.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 27, 2023

Write It Down

“And now, go, write it before them on a tablet   and inscribe it in a book, that it may be for the time to come   as a witness forever.” Isaiah 30:8 (ESV)

“I have enough on my plate to do every day. Why in the world would I want to sit down and write about it? Living through it is hard enough – you want me to write about it?”

I had attended a women’s conference and heard several of the speakers talk about the importance of journaling. Those were the words I mumbled to myself over thirty years ago. As a young mother of two little boys – I had no time to write.

However, I did have a lot of stress and felt convicted by the Holy Spirit to try.

Once a prayer is answered we think we’ll never forget. But we do. Remember how quickly the Israelites forgot all the miracles God had performed for them? We are the same way.

Why do we forget? Everyday stressors and traumatic events affect the neural processing of the brain, causing our brains to get stuck in replaying bad memories. Ultimately shutting down our ability to think clearly/calmly.

While it may be more convenient to type on laptops/tablets – typing doesn’t stimulate the brain like handwriting.

In fact, the act of writing by hand engages the left brain – stimulating the Reticular Activating System. The RAS categorizes what must have immediate focus and filters out the rest. While the left side is engaged, the right brain becomes free to create and feel again. Basically, writing removes the mental blocks hindering you from utilizing your full brain power. When both sides of your brain are fully engaged, you are more capable of understanding yourself, others and the world around you.

When we heed the words of Habakkuk 2:2 to “write it down” – we not only see spiritual, but mental, emotional and physical benefits.

In addition to helping us sort out our thoughts, find control and clarity; did you know that regular journaling also –

  • Strengthens your immune cells – T-lymphocytes
  • Decreases symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Reduces stress – writing about painful emotions helps release their intensity

Science is now catching up with what the Bible has told us for years – handwriting (journaling) has positive impacts on our bodies.

In my home office, I have a credenza filled with journals that contain over thirty years of prayers. I’ve referred back to them as a “witness” of God’s faithfulness over the years. At times, encouraging myself as David often did – to keep moving forward. (Psalm 42)

If you have never tried journaling, let me encourage you today to start.

God has given you access to a powerful tool dear sister – don’t waste it!

“Father, thank You for our brain’s unique design. Teach us to be more disciplined to utilize this precious gift You’ve given us – the ability to write and its many benefits.

For His Glory

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

 

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 26, 2023

Confession Of The Do

“And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion on the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6

The most amazing thing about saving grace is that it is a free gift—not as a result of anything we do, so none of us can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is in Christ alone, through faith alone. We can’t earn it. We don’t deserve it. In every other religion (and even within the denomination I grew up in), you have to do, working your way to the finish line…hoping you did enough for your eternal reward. When I came to understand and accept what Jesus accomplished on the cross, conquering sin and death for me, the knowledge of “do” versus “done” brought overwhelming freedom. I no longer had to constantly strive to do better, do more, do enough. It is finished (John 19:30).

For me, that acceptance of amazing grace was 25 years ago. Since that time, I totally get the do-versus-done truth—and try to share it often. I know I can’t earn my salvation—and I don’t try. But my efforts to try and earn value in the eyes of the Lord (and others)…well, that’s been a different story.

In response to His grace, a believer wants to do for the Lord (serve)—that’s the natural (or rather, supernatural) outpouring of salvation. We do this out of love for God and love for others (the top two commandments) and to bring God glory. But when we take action because we think the Lord will “love us more,” that’s where we go so wrong! Nothing can make God love us any more—or less—than He does! And no “bad” action can separate us from His love (Romans 8:31-19). What’s more, it’s also easy for us Christians to get caught up in serving the Lord to show (or prove) ourselves worthy of His grace and love.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that our service/action is primarily motivated by “being seen.” In fact, we could very well have jumped into serving because the Holy Spirit within us lit a flame of passion that aligned with the gift(s) we’ve been given. But then, thanks to that tricky, deceptive enemy of ours, we start thinking, “Oh, people will know what a ‘good Christian’ I am by how involved I am in church activities!” Or we hope, “With all this ‘doing’, God is certainly seeing greater value in me than before.” But then, Satan, who’d been waiting for those misguided thoughts, pounces and accuses, “Oh, how prideful you are! Look at you trying to look good to others—you don’t really care about God!” It’s a vicious cycle that leads only to dark places.

Does the Lord want us to do for Him and others? Yes, of course! But our value to Him (and to the Body of Christ) is not in the doing. Our activity is meant to be an outpouring of who we are! The Lord has given each of us a unique personality, gifted us with spiritual gifts, and placed us in a particular time/place for His sovereign purposes. We don’t have to be obsessed with, “Lord, what do You want me to DO for You?” We just need to abide in who we ARE in Him. The better question is: Lord, who have You made me to BE? Then, we simply walk in that. The result? Unspeakable joy (and even greater freedom) that rises to complement that amazing grace.

“Lord, as a child of God, I am created to be who You say I am. May I not get trapped by the “doing”…but rather, let my service to You and others be a beautiful expression of my “being” in You.”

For His Glory

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

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Love

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 21, 2023

The Significance Of Shepherds

“That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. ‘Don’t be afraid!’ he said. ‘I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!’” Luke 2:8-11 (NLT)

Shepherds. They were minding their own business, tending, feeding, and guarding the sheep in their care. So why, in the account of the birth of the Son of God, the Messiah, the Savior of the world, are shepherds listed as the first (after Mary and Joseph) to hear the good news?

The chosen people endured 400 years of silence from God. They watched for signs of the prophecies and waited for the coming of their King. The birth of Christ could have been announced at the synagogue or in the throne room of the king who reigned over the Jews. Instead, the angel of the Lord along with the armies of heaven announced the news of the birth of the Lord to humble shepherds in a nearby field.

In Genesis 48:15 Jacob blesses Joseph in the name of “the God who has been my shepherd all my life.”

Jesus, during his three years of ministry, says of Himself, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 (NLT)

Revelation 7:17 (NLT) again names Jesus as the shepherd: “For the Lamb on the throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to springs of life-giving water.”

The good news of the birth of Christ, the good shepherd who sacrificed His life for us, His sheep, was announced to shepherds in a nearby field. As we celebrate this Christmas, may we respond as the shepherds did: “After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child.” Luke 2:17 (NLT) Just as the shepherds did, let’s share the “good news that will bring great joy to all people.”

“Lord, we praise You and thank You for the good news of the birth of Christ. As our hearts are filled with joy, may we share the good news with others this Christmas season.”

For His Glory

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

 

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 20, 2023

Comfort & Joy

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 (ESV)

Don’t you just love the feel of soft fabric brushing against your skin? What about the sound of your favorite music playing, the smell of baked goods, the sound of familiar voices, or the sweet memories you savored with people you love?

Amazing how our hearts warm up to the familiarity of things that bring us joy!!! And how comforting it is! We close our eyes and bring those things back in a matter of seconds. Suddenly our hearts start beating faster and it’s like experiencing those special moments all over again. And we are energized each time we remember!

Imagine how Jesus’ heart felt when He saw a sinner repent and be delivered, or a dead person raised up, or someone’s messed-up-life changed. Imagine how seeing people’s faith in Him to change their circumstances in the snap of a finger, or in a short blessing, or even by a little spit mixed with clay was encouraging to Jesus! Wonder if those memories kept Jesus moving from town to town to help more people. Wonder if while He rested and closed His eyes if Jesus remembered those instances when people’s lives were touched by the power of His Father’s love through Him. Wonder if those memories energized and encouraged Jesus to proceed to the next phase.

What about God? Can you imagine how heartwarming it must have been for Him to watch His son doing His will? And how heartwarming it must be for Him to watch us trusting in Him today?

The journey we are on is a fascinating one and is drawn out especially for us, in every intricate detail. Be encouraged today by the fact that the Father rejoices in our faith in Him.

“Dear Lord, thank You for all that You do to bring us joy, even amidst the storm.”

For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Faith, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 19, 2023

Peoccupied

“Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth.”  Colossians 3:2

Christmas is almost here, and most of us can safely say we are preoccupied with it. Some of us are preparing our homes for family and friends, ensuring every room is clean, organized, and ready for our guests. Others of us have been decorating with vigor (some since October—you know who you are) so that each space satisfactorily declares holiday spirit. And many people (me included) are furiously trying to meet deadlines and check off all work boxes, so when those precious days—and people—arrive, we can truly pause and enjoy.

There is so much to be preoccupied with during this season that it’s easy to get trapped in the various black holes, often with associated frustrations that create a simmering of negative emotions in this “joyful” time. I don’t know about you, but I’ve found that there’s an awful lot of crankiness and “me-firstness” out there right now.

But this season truly has One thing (well, Person) to be preoccupied with: Jesus Christ. He is the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place. The gift-buying, giving, and receiving, the delicious treats, and the gathering of loved ones can all be wonderful…but they are still merely earthly things. We are to “set our minds on the things that are above”—maintaining an eternal perspective. What does this mean, exactly? Well, in an everyday sense, this exhorts Christians to walk according to God’s Word and submit to the Holy Spirit—to pursue holiness and be set apart from this world (1 Peter 1:15-16). It means to think differently as well, filling our minds with noble and virtuous thoughts (Philippians 4:8).

But keeping heaven-focused is especially necessary right now, when it’s so easy to get lost in the stuff of cultural Christmas. We are celebrating the first coming of Jesus—Immanuel, God with us! And whether they acknowledge it or not, much of the world is inadvertently confessing that God sent His Son to earth, taking on human flesh (fully God and fully Man) to bridge the chasm between us that sin created. Just listen above the chattering voices in whatever store you’re hustling through—you can hear the Gospel being piped through the sound system with every traditional carol played.

And we must also keep fixated on the fact that the manger is not the end of the story. That precious Baby whom we sing about grew up to take on the penalty we owe, die an excruciating death we deserve, and rise again to forever vanquish death. By accepting this Truth, we are reconciled to God—made righteous in His sight, despite our sin and fallen nature. Because that Baby was born in Bethlehem, we can be born again and made new (John 3:1-8; 2 Corinthians 5:7; 1 Peter 1:23).

Finally, friend, we must stay preoccupied with the things above because Jesus’ birth 2000 years ago was only His first coming—He is coming back. And all the things of this world that seem so important (or stressful, frustrating, and maddening) won’t matter at all. So, if you haven’t yet decided to surrender your life to Jesus, why not accept the Gift of His amazing grace this Christmas?

“Thank You, Father, for sending Jesus to reconcile us to You. I pray that people turn their hearts and minds to You this Christmas, changing them forever.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 18, 2023

Sweet Refuge

“Great is our Lord and abundant in power; His understanding is beyond measure.” Psalm 147:5 (ESV)

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 (ESV)

Red, green, blue, gold, silver – every color you can imagine adorns our trees each Christmas, and there’s nothing more beautiful than those handmade ornaments.  Memories of our childhood.  Favorites made in school.  Sentimental decorations dangling on lit up branches that transport us from Christmas present to Christmas past.  Sweet reflections.

Just hung my newest treasure on those limbs tonight – a promise of presence – God’s unmoveable presence.  Silver embossed scripture reminds me “God is within her, she will not fall” (Psalm 46:5a).  Unlike all the things around the psalmist, he could find his strength and refuge in our Mighty God.  The instability in his world had the propensity to cultivate fear, but he sings of the presence, power and safety found in God.

Music connects to our souls in a unique way – one that settles in our thoughts and brings to remembrance words we would have otherwise forgotten.  Love the psalmist’s song recounting God as his protector and source of stability.  A confident trust in our God.  Words to be sung especially in times when fear shows up.

Psalm 46 boldly declares “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” This refuge (Machaseh in the Hebrew) shows up repeatedly in the Psalms.  A theme resonating with promise and defining God as our safe retreat and place of healing/renewal. A call to not fear even in the shakeable scattering of everything surrounding us.  At the very voice of God all else melts and is dismissed.

Wow, I don’t know about you but I need those words. We need them to resonate deep in our souls.  To echo the faithfulness and presence of One who is ultimately totally in control of all things even if we don’t see it.  Our God is all powerful – nothing is too hard for Him – He has no limits. He is our ever-present help, refuge and stability.

Not sure what’s surrounding your life as we head towards the end of 2023, but I do know that nothing is beyond His sovereignty.  We can fully trust the heart of the One who resides within us – the One who lovingly chose to orchestrate the entrance of His Only Son into our sin-filled world that first Christmas morn.  The One who divinely covers us under His protective wing.  The One true God who isn’t limited by time or place.  The One who heals, restores and renews.

Sweet friend embrace Machaseh – the refuge of our God – the One we can count on to be our safe place. A forever welcoming of His presence.  A clinging to the truth of all He is and provider of all we need. Rest dear one and cherish God’s peace, power and refuge this Christmas.

“Father, Your presence surrounds us calming our deepest fears and reminding us of Your Mighty power.  May we cling to Your promises and dismiss the noise around us.”

For Your Glory

 

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Gratitude, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 15, 2023

Jesus’ Gift

“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” (Luke 2:10)

“Christmas comes but once a year, but when it comes it brings good cheer” reveals my Google search when digging for descriptors of Christmas.  This 19th century nursery rhyme delighted children, no doubt, who anticipated a candy stick and home-made toy to mark the celebration.  In the same Google search, another site identifies that 45% of North Americans who were surveyed dread the holiday season.  Less than two centuries later, as we count down to Christmas, our anxiety increases while our bank balances decrease.  The complexities of the season mask the simple gift presented to the world in Bethlehem.

Angels heralded the arrival of Jesus.  The shepherds gathered to welcome the Lamb of God.  Gifts of one’s heart were given.  Word spread to all and all were amazed; including King Herod, the chief priests and teachers of the law.  Theologians speculate the Magi bearing gifts of gold, incense and myrrh did not present themselves to Jesus until he was two years of age.  Gifts given as a symbol of submission from earth’s royalty to the King of all kings.  And we focus on the tangible gifts.

In this world that highlights the bling regardless of the cost to the soul, may I focus on submission and not the tangible.  May I be thankful for that which draws my attention to the miraculous in Christmas and decidedly steadfast on the Savior and what He came to bring.  Jesus, the fulfillment of Old Testament law and prophesy, able to save me from my sins, restore my soul from destruction, giving life its purpose and power through the Holy Spirit.  All of these availed through my acceptance of Jesus’ gift; Himself.

During this Christmas season, may we come together with those from far and wide and herald Jesus’ arrival.  With the millions of saints that have gone before us, may we, in loud voices declare, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!  Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” (Luke 19:38). May our evaluation as to whether this was a good Christmas be that at its conclusion there would be more of Jesus evidenced in us and less of the ways of the world.  With this good news, I venture to say that our resulting great joy would leave us anticipating next year’s Christmas.

“Jesus, forgive us when our focus at Christmas becomes things rather than You.  Thank you for the gift of abundant life that you’ve given to us.  May we share that gift with others.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Hope, Spiritual Living, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 14, 2023

More Than Enough

“Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation…’” Luke 2:28-30a (NLT)

Have you ever wanted something so much that it consumed your thoughts? When I was young, my friend had a Cabbage Patch doll. I wanted my own Cabbage Patch doll so much I could hardly think of anything else. I studied the commercials like I would be tested on them later. I gazed at the boxed dolls at the store—that beautiful yarn hair, dimpled face, and snuggly body signed by Xavier.

Not having much money at the time, my parents bought me an imitation doll. I knew immediately she wasn’t the real thing; she had the yarn hair, but the face wasn’t dimpled and she certainly wasn’t signed by Xavier. I tried to love her, but she wasn’t quite right. I thought if I pretended to love her, eventually I would. No matter how hard I tried, the doll didn’t measure up. A few months later, I unwrapped my first Cabbage Patch doll, a Christmas gift from my aunt and uncle. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Was I dreaming? Hugging her to me, my life felt complete.

Where is that coveted doll now? She’s hibernating in a box in the garage waiting to be given to (and eventually cast aside by) a granddaughter. The gift I thought I could not live without—the doll I thought would make my life complete—was forgotten in the end.

Simeon “was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.” (Luke 2:25b-26 NLT) Simeon wanted more than anything to see the Messiah. He waited with anticipation, having received the promise that his greatest desire would be met before he died.

Do we have the same passion as Simeon? Do we want more than anything to see the Lord? Are we anticipating Christ’s return as much as Simeon anticipated the birth which brought salvation?

“Thank You, Lord, for the salvation You provide through the birth, death, and resurrection of Christ. As we celebrate this Christmas season, may we want You more than any other gift.  Our lives are complete in You alone.”

For His Glory

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

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Living, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | December 13, 2023

Beautiful Name

“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. And the government will rest on his shoulder. These will be his royal titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (NLT)

These words were written by the Prophet Isaiah more than 700 years before the birth of Christ. Two thousand years later, here at Christmastime we still celebrate the fulfillment of prophecy by Isaiah when the Lord left His throne in heaven and came to earth as God’s Son.  Let’s focus our hearts on His beautiful name as we head into the Christmas season:

WONDERFUL: the root word in Hebrew is “pele,” which means God is a doer of wonders, miracles, marvelous things that are beyond mere human understanding (Ps. 78:12).  Pele is used in Judges 13:18 meaning incomprehensible or beyond understanding. In other words, the verse spoken by God says, “You wouldn’t understand if I told you.” When Isaiah called the promised Child pele he was referring to the divine God Himself coming in the form of a baby.

COUNSELOR: refers to perfect wisdom enabling the King to make right decisions knowing the will of God of what’s right and God’s purposes. This Counselor would not need a team of advisers. God is more than able (Is. 28:29). Wonderful Counselor is a clear statement of deity.

MIGHTY: the Hebrew root word is “gibbor,” which means hero; a doer of great, mighty acts for people who cannot do for themselves. God was the power in David’s swing against Goliath. God was the calm in Abraham as he walked up Mount Moriah.

GOD:  the simplest Hebrew word for God is “El.” El refers to the one true God, the creator, the Supreme Being. El is used in conjunction with other names like El Shaddei or God Almighty.

EVERLASTING: forever, perpetuity, no ending, but also no beginning. The God who lives forever (Is. 57:15) in the forever and inhabits eternity. Never restricted by time. God does not change, never getting older, slower or frail. He doesn’t need to mature, grow or learn. He is the way He has always been and will always be. A child born into this world; yet He’s called everlasting. This child did not come into existence when He was born. He is forever…no ending and no beginning.

FATHER: a good father is compassionate (Ps. 103:13), loving (Jer. 31:3), protective (Ps. 91:4), guider (Ps. 48:14), supportive (Ps. 54:4), encourager (Rom. 15:5). Throughout scripture God is called our Father.

PRINCE of PEACE: God’s kingdom will be one of peace…forever. It will not be established by fighting wars and no military might will be needed. God’s peace surpasses all human comprehension.

“Father, there’s no doubt this Christmas, the Child we celebrate is nothing less than You, come to earth as a human baby, to fulfill Your promises.”

For His Glory

Kim Lacey Schock (www.KimLaceySchock.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Worship

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