Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 19, 2023

Living In Common Unity

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.: Hebrews 10:24-25

What is a community? Generally speaking, it can be the city or area you live in. It could be your neighborhood, especially if you live in one of those planned developments designed to bring people together with common areas and activities. It could even describe the profession you are part of. These days, “community” is also defined very broadly as a group of people having a particular attribute in common (even if it’s immutable, and even if no other characteristic or value is shared). The forced isolation of the past few years combined with the nefarious plague of social media has brought together people (particularly kids and teens) desperate for connection, manifesting “communities” that are really destructive cultural contagions in disguise.

There are myriad factors at play as to why, but our society is indeed starving for authentic community—a unified body of individuals. Now, you’re probably thinking that all the examples above can be defined as “unified bodies of individuals”—and this is a fact. But they all break down when the superficial aspects are removed to expose core values, needs, truth, and even motivation. Simple case in point: A housing development builds a pool and clubhouse to collect exorbitant HOA fees—they’re not all that concerned if residents actually use the facilities. And we’ve all seen how the “scientific community” has been at hardcore odds for the past several years (and it continues today)—there’s no real unity at all.

Followers of Jesus Christ have a built-in, solid foundation of common unity (community!)—we are unified in the Truth and bound together by the gospel of grace. Despite our respective pasts, we are made new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17), and we wear a robe of righteousness (Isaiah 61:10). Whatever our family or country of origin, we are brothers and sisters—and children of God (1 John 3:1). No matter the level of melanin, we are all image-bearers of God enlivened by His breath (Genesis 1:27).

Every Sunday, we join millions of other Christians around the world to pour out worship to the Lord, be sharpened by God’s Word, and encourage one another to walk in faith and Truth. Isn’t that amazing?! But we can’t isolate this experience to just Sundays and then jump back to living like the world Monday through Saturday. We have to create opportunities throughout the week to strengthen our bonds of unity and deepen this Kingdom community—especially as the god of this world gets more ferocious in his efforts to steal, kill, and destroy as his time gets short. The enemy’s (and culture’s) lies are coming at us fast and furiously. We must devote ourselves to God’s Word, to fellowship, to having meals together, and to praying together (Acts 2:42). We’ve got to drop the nonessentials, focus on the gospel, and live in harmony with one another in accord with Jesus Christ—glorifying God with one voice (Romans 15:5-7). This is true community. And in the discord, divisiveness, and vitriol of this world, it’s more vital than ever that we hold fast to Christian unity and stand resolved on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ.

“Lord, You and You alone are the solid foundation of true community. May we be intentional about creating common unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 15, 2023

Who Is Your Pharoah?

“Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.” Exodus 14:13a (NIV)

The Exodus is one of the most significant Biblical accounts of God’s deliverance. To this day, the Jewish nation recognizes Passover annually to celebrate their people’s triumphant exodus from Egypt. Old Testament highlights never fail to mention Pharaoh’s hardened heart and the defeat of his armies as the waters of the Red Sea captured the captors. The Lord’s might along with his servant’s obedience assured the survival and success of the Jewish people for generations to follow. Pharaoh was defeated and God’s people were freed.

Who is your Pharaoh? Systems, strongholds and sins can withhold our freedom. Others figure prominently as culprits of captivity. Leaders fail to lead, protectors fail to protect and the love of loved ones fails to respond. The realities of a fallen world that increasingly devalues the truth and hope found in Christ further exaggerate the effects of life’s happenings on our fragile emotions, hopes and stability.

Furthermore, if I am honest, often my Pharaoh is me. Plagued with hurts and a history rich in defeat, my internal voice of experience shouts of danger and pending doom and thwarts God’s plans and desires for my life. Pointing my finger elsewhere saves my fragile esteem yet maintains my captivity. God, His Word and godly community allow me to “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5b NIV). I must choose to run towards my God and away from the enemy. God’s wisdom is at hand. And thus, my freedom follows.

As the Exodus powerfully assures, God can change Pharaoh’s heart. God is persuasive and creative in His approach. He persists, even when Pharaoh’s heart is further hardened and the impact on God’s people is harshened. God promises, directs and comforts. He remains until victory is realized, His children are freed and His glory evident.

“Father, reveal to me the Pharaohs that are holding me captive and grant me the wisdom to claim the freedom from captivity that is found in You. May I stand firm and may the victory glorify You alone.”

For His Glory

 

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 14, 2023

This Little Light Of Mine

“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 (ESV)

 Last night, I was driving home just at the time of night when darkness had settled in. I drive a 2006 Camry, she has about 240,000 miles on her, and she is my car. I know the little knocking sound she makes means it is time for just a little bit more oil, and Cammie knows me too. She obnoxiously signals me with the incessant seatbelt ding telling me my purse is the same weight as a small child, and I need to clean it out now!

The only thing about Cammie, her headlights are dim.  I typically drive around with my high beams on and not one single person has ever flashed their lights at me to let me know – ever.  I was headed home one evening on a road that was dark, and a car steadily came up behind me. Now, this car had some headlights.  Suddenly I found myself driving in the light of their headlights.  They were like beacons illuminating everything in front of me. It was wonderful! I could sense my body relax against Cammie’s cloth interior as I drove in that light! I mean, I was just talking car headlights here but imagine how vast and wide God’s light shines! There was something about the brightness of those lights behind me too; it was as if it was clearing the path for me to continue my journey.

Darkness keeps us moving slowly, it keeps our hands white-knuckled on the steering wheel afraid we are going to miss that deer just off to our side, the one we can’t see yet.  But light compels us to move forward. It provides ease and the freedom to push just a little bit outside our normal sight. Here’s the thing, God wants that for you today! He wants you to live in His freedom of His light so you can tell others about Him.

When I was being illuminated by the lights from the car behind me, I was doing nothing but being part of it! What is God calling you to be a part of today while you are in the blessing of His Light? Is God challenging you to show Him to a co-worker? To enter a new vocational field? To start a conversation with that family member who has wounded you deeply? Whatever that nudge may be today, find freedom in His Light and share it with those around you.

“Lord, may we have the boldness to shine your light today! May your Light illuminate around us and may we tell others about You today!”

For His Glory

Rebecca Mahle
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 13, 2023

Broken & Beautiful

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord  plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”   Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

“Broken, useless, an eyesore taking up space.”

Some of the thoughts that went through my mind regarding the pieces of wood that sat in my yard.  My husband – the “inventor”- that he is, had saved them from being thrown in the dumpster. I thought maybe he brought them home to put in our burn pile for nights around the firepit.  However, he shared with me that he had an idea of something he was going to create.

Fast forward over a year later and in my yard there’s a beautiful area to sit and spend time with family and friends.  It has become one of my favorite spots in our yard. I’m looking forward to cooler temperatures to spend even more time in this place made completely from broken pieces of wood.

My husband took time to design his creation on the computer. Then he staked it out in the yard with his laser. He spent numerous hours measuring wood and re-measuring comparing his plans to the layout in the yard.  Once he established a strong foundation for the posts, he started cutting/then hammering.  Continuously stabilizing his work along the way.  Eventually, a couple coats of paint were added for the finishing touch and voila! A pergola was created.

In the hands of a skillful carpenter scattered pieces of wood can be made into something beautiful. A creator can envision beautiful things out of broken pieces.

God, the author of all creation, does that with us.  He has a vision of our lives, long before our earthly birth.

Sometimes He takes us through broken seasons.  Conditions that leave us wondering what good could ever come from the destruction that ravaged us.  Devastation that leaves us so wounded we are certain that we will never be put back together.  But God can take those broken seasons and fashion us into a beautiful new creation.  Filling us with a wholeness that makes us better than we were before.  As part of His plan, our brokenness serves a purpose.

We’ve had people ask us where we purchased the pergola.  The pieces look as if they were always meant to go together – like it came as a kit.  But it didn’t.  Our pergola is a bunch of broken pieces.  Our pergola is also beautiful.  One statement doesn’t negate the other.  In fact, I think knowing what it came from makes me appreciate its beauty even more.

Precious friend rest assured you can be both broken and beautiful through the blood of Jesus.

“Break us, dear Father so that You can mold us into Your image and likeness. We trust You today to complete the plans You have designed for us.  Plans that will be for our eternal good and Your eternal glory.”

For His Glory,

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

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 11, 2023

Why Unity Serves Us Well

“Above all, put on love—the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:14 (ESV)

A breezy day and not too hot sunshine drew me outside for my lunch hour workout.  Earbuds in, my fave podcast playing and I was ready to count some power steps.  There’s something absolutely refreshing about being outdoors, breathing in fresh air and clearing my mind before tackling the demands of the afternoon.

Moving down the hill, I noticed a man running in my direction.  Now normally, I wouldn’t give it a second thought; however, on this particular day my walk was in an isolated area.  No one was around. I was surrounded by big trees and overgrown brush on both sides.  The closer he got, the faster my heart started to beat.  I was walking; he was running.  I was a “seasoned” (in other words older) woman; he was young and energetic. Amazing how quickly fear can seize us when differences are so pronounced.

My game plan was no eye contact – his plan was different.  Within a foot of me, he stopped and warned me about a bee’s nest further up the path.  His caution stated, he picked up speed and kept on running.  My heart slowed and I kept glancing back to ensure he wasn’t coming back.  Relieved, I picked up my pace and was determined to finish my course.  By the time, I made it back around here he came again.  And as he sped by me, I heard him say, “Great job keep up the good work!” Despite our differences, we were focused on a common goal – improving health and getting our workout done.

Wow – great concept right?  Wouldn’t it be great if we intentionally chose to exemplify this runner’s actions?  Keeping it real here, but I tend to drift towards avoiding different.   I love people – people who are just like me.  People who look like me. People who act like me.  People who think like me.  I think we all get the picture.

Different stretch us out of our comfort zone.  Different can sometimes cause fear to rise within us.  Different can easily create a false narrative.  Different can be surprisingly absolutely beautiful. Different can catch us off guard with encouragement.  Different totally works when we embrace the uniqueness God created in each of His creation.

God never majored in cookie cutter designs.  Each of us is created differently with a specific purpose in mind. And when we place our faith in Jesus and embrace our differences, the glory of God shines.

Where does this unity despite differences begin?  It all hinges on the common goal.  As believers, we are commissioned to go and make disciples of all nations.  Sweet friends, I don’t have to tell you that all nations means all people who are uniquely different. We don’t all look alike, act alike or come from the same backgrounds.  Yet God delights in watching us step out of our lane to encourage and strengthen our brothers and sisters.  And when the world glimpses us truly loving our own, they will automatically be drawn in – who wouldn’t want what we have?

“Father what a glorious picture of the body of Christ striving together in unity to share the gospel to our world.  Help us to lay aside our differences and stand strong fulfilling the purposes you planned for each of us.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 6, 2023

Everday Evangelism Part 2

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”  Romans 1:16

Have you been thinking about your calling as an everyday evangelist? I sure have. Even though I’ve been a follower of Jesus Christ for over 25 years, my go-to line (um, excuse) has been, “Well, I don’t have the gift of evangelism.” Yes, I stand firm on my faith. I love God’s Word and I walk in the direction of obedience—repenting when I miss the mark (because I do daily). Shining my light for God’s glory is my thing (Matthew 5:16). I know the reason for my hope (1 Peter 3:15)—I was blind, and now I see. I was dead, and now I am alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:1-10). I have my testimony and the Gospel tattooed on my body for everyone to see, for goodness’ sake! But to weave all this Truth into words during a video call with coworkers? To find openings in daily conversation with acquaintances to share the Good News? Well, that’s a different story.

No matter when our respective surrendering to Jesus happened, we are called to evangelize. We don’t need a theology degree or be able to quote verse and address at will. And we certainly don’t need to have all the answers. We have OUR STORY—our reason for hope: We used to live like the world, but we encountered the Living God and were changed. As my pastor says, “We’ve been hit by the grace train, and nothing is the same.” So, you and I can do this thing.

So, what does everyday evangelism look like for those of us less bold than the Apostle Paul—or even my friend Wendy? Let me explain what it could be by sharing a very recent example from my own life.

There’s a new guy working the overnight shift at my gym, so his last hours coincide with my early-morning workout time. Having introduced ourselves just after he started, we chat a little as I’m on my way in and out. He’s a sweet guy, and I’ve learned that he works 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. at the gym, and he’s currently pursuing a degree in cybersecurity. Well, as I was leaving the gym the other day, I gave him my usual, “Have an awesome day, Shariff!” But instead of him responding, “You too, Julianne,” he made a comment to me that was a literal softball opening—like the Lord said, “Ok, girl, heeeeeeeere you go!” Shariff said to me, “Julianne, you have such a great smile—a joy that flows right out of you.” To this, I boldly responded, “Shariff—that’s the joy of the Lord! See, I was dead! Now I’m alive with Christ—and He has changed everything for me.”

But that’s not what I said. What I actually said was something deflective and dumb, like, “Well, aren’t most of us early-rising-gym-goers happy and friendly?” And as soon as I walked out the door, I did the proverbial forehead slap of regret. I had missed a perfect (and easy) opportunity to share the reason for my hope and joy!

Friend, everyday evangelism can be simple. It’s a matter of being cognizant of these little moments as we walk through our days—at work, at the store, and, yes, at the gym. And because we have the resurrection power of the Holy Spirit living in us, it can be easy too! But we have to stay yielded to Him and ask for His help to loose our tongue. So, today, let’s do this. Let’s walk through the wide-open doors the Lord provides so that we can take up the torch of our Great Commission.

“Lord, I am not ashamed of the Gospel or You. So, make me bold in the everyday moments of my day to give the reason for my hope.”

For His Glory

 

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 5, 2023

Everyday Evangelism Part 1

“And He said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” Mark 16:15

Have you ever met a great evangelist? Maybe in your lifetime you’ve had an opportunity to shake hands with a Billy-Graham-level Gospel-giver (maybe Billy Graham himself!). Even if only on TV or online, it’s always inspiring to experience the power of the life-changing message of salvation given with passion and clarity. My pastor, who launched our Bible-based church about a decade ago, noted in a recent sermon that more than 10,000 people have surrendered their lives to Jesus in that time! The Lord has given our pastor an enormous platform (and gifting), and the Holy Spirit is doing huge things through his leadership. It’s amazing to be part of this movement of God and breathtaking to view its impact firsthand—especially how the Gospel is intricately woven into every sermon, every gathering.

Of course, inspiration is no further away than our Bible—the go-to example being the Apostle Paul, who always did whatever it took to share the Gospel (1 Corinthians 9:22). You can read Acts, as well as the 13 books in the Bible written by him to learn more.

“Oh,” you may be thinking, “that’s PAUL! I can’t be that bold.” Well, my friend Wendy would beg to differ. This woman has the gift of evangelism oozing out of her every pore. She goes out to dinner, and the server will hear about Jesus. Gas station coffee run before work? The three circles will no doubt be scrawled on a napkin for the cashier. Her immense enthusiasm and sheer joy to tell others about the free gift of salvation is truly astonishing. Again, you may be thinking, “Well, evangelism is her gift—that’s not mine.” Friend, I hear you…

It’s true that upon salvation, believers are gifted differently by the Holy Spirit (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Peter 4:10-11; 1 Corinthians 12:4-7). And we must each recognize how the Lord has equipped us to glorify Him and impact others for the Kingdom—and, of course, we must be using those gifts accordingly. That said, the Great Commission has been given to every Christian (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). (I’m going to start preaching to myself now…you can listen if you want.)

If you have made Jesus your Lord and Savior, you are an evangelist.

Yes, we’re to shine our light before others (Matthew 5:16). Yes, we are to show love to one another, so everyone will know we’re a Christian (John 13:35). But we’re also to open our mouth and share the Truth with words (Romans 10:17). In fact, if we’re living differently than the world, others should notice! And when they do, many will comment about it—or outright ask. In 1 Peter 3:15, we’re told to always be ready to tell others the reason for our hope! This is everyday evangelism—a readiness to share the why behind our set-apartness, our joy, our hope.

So, let me ask: Are you ready? Am I?

“Lord, You have called me to be a disciple who makes disciples. Prepare my heart, mind, and mouth to share the eternity-changing Truth of Jesus.”

For His Glory

 

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 4, 2023

Avoiding Merge

“And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:2 (ESV)

I’ve never been a fan of merge lanes…especially a few on my commute to the office.  Early morning traffic can be quite crazy.  Guess we’re all headed to work with a few minutes left to spare. Running late never serves us well and neither do those merge lanes which also serve as exit lanes.  Cars merging into traffic and cars attempting to merge onto the exit ramp. Despite my careful maneuver into traffic there have been several times when “Thank you Jesus,” flowed from my quivering lips as I barely avoided a crash.

Found it interesting that Webster defines merge not as something to avoid but as combining, gradual blending and unifying. Our world could definitely use more of merge especially when it comes to the people we do life with.

Amazing how holiday weekends or special gatherings automatically merge us into spaces with people we haven’t seen for a while or just plain avoided.  And sometimes that merging finds us carefully trying to maneuver different personalities and past wounds to simply keep the peace for 24 hours.  Perhaps the hardest merge is with those we truly love – family.

Wouldn’t it be awesome if instead of staying in our corner, we courageously sought to merge? A gradual approach that requires seeing good in those who may not do life the same as us.  A determined peace that holds back unnecessary words for the sake of unity around the table.  A quiet resolve to showcase God’s love, mercy, truth and grace versus demonstrating our own judgmental rights.

Now don’t misunderstand merge – it doesn’t dictate that we compromise our values, morals or standards to blend in.  Rather merge simply suggests we seek to see value in the person.  We actively resist the urge to isolate, dominate or manipulate.

Jesus was the greatest demonstrator of merge.  He did life with a crazy brood of fishermen, tax collectors, etc.  He sat and ate with sinners.  He had a conversation with a Samaritan woman at the well.  Jesus drew near to the sick, wounded and unclean.  He came as a unifier – a bridge between God and man. Nothing stood in His way.  Merging the hearts of mankind with His Father’s. Even in His darkest hours on the cross, Jesus promised to welcome the repentant thief into paradise.

Gatherings can be challenging and hard – not everyone has the Norman Rockwell perfect moments at the table.  How will we handle those uncomfortable moments?  Will we demonstrate our love for God by loving people or will we choose to avoid merge and stay in our own lane?

Don’t get me wrong here – there are definitely situations requiring boundaries to ensure our safety – that’s not what I’m referring to.  Wise godly discernment leads us to know the difference.  If we’re real here, we know the difference and for those relationships that simply challenge us -let’s prayerfully choose to come to the table with hearts bent towards love and unity.

“Father, You know our circle, the dynamics which can often drive us crazy and broken at the same time.  Show us how to demonstrate Your love and share Your hope.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | September 1, 2023

When Weak Invites Strong

“Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9b-10 (NIV)

Don’t know about you but there are lots of moments in my day when I feel utterly powerless. Life gets crazy, chaotic and overwhelming. We get out of bed ready to conquer our day and within moments it all swirls out of control. Our superwoman cape slips off, and the reality of our vulnerable weaknesses hits us square in the face. Emotional eating doesn’t fix it. Crying doesn’t solve it. Outrage only makes it worse. And wallowing in self-pity pretty much stinks. Just keeping it real here – pride would easily slip in if we thought we had it all covered all the time.

So what’s a girl to do when her authentic self unveils her weaknesses? We could just keep pressing through relying on self but eventually burnout will win and exhaustion will slip in. Perhaps we might consider hiding behind our weak spots allowing them to sideline us and cower in intimidation. Shrinking back rather than stretching forward.

Not quite the solution for brave, courageous women of God. Absolutely love these words from the Apostle Paul reminding us that weakness isn’t to be ignored or dreaded. Delight and joy should rise within us when we allow God to transform our weaknesses into strength. He is our true power source, and we can depend on Him to empower us to do what only He can do.

We all have weaknesses and like Paul, those rough spots are what keep us humbly dependent on our mighty, gracious God. We can resist the independence urge and allow His strength to enable us to do more than we dared imagine. So glad, God sets us up to need Him more and more each day – the perfect place for His glory to shine through us. For when we are weak then we are strong in Him alone.

“Father, too often we run from our weaknesses or attempt to outplay our own strength. Teach us the value of viewing our lack from your perspective and reap the benefits of Your strength.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 31, 2023

Desiring Easy

“Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. For the yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light.” Matthew 11:28 & 30 (GNB)

Lay down your burdens. Leave your cares at the cross. I’ve heard it all. I’ve done it all. In good faith, emotions high, desiring to be set free. And then, life happens. The darkness returns. Hope fades. The walls come up and my desire to run, far away, returns. How did my mountaintop moment descend into inescapable bondage?

“We have too many Lego bricks”, I murmur as I look across my children’s play area. I too have bricks. One pile is called “Not Listened to.” As a child my parents divorced, spent little time with me, drank too much and allowed me to be abused; no one listened. Another pile is called “Rejection.” That’s the deluxe Lego kit for those who want to impress with the number of pieces in the box. Rejection from the earliest I can remember: not being invited, not being good enough, not having the right look, not being part of the in-crowd or the chosen leaders. If something even feels remotely similar to rejection, I pull up my pile of Rejection bricks. And from that mountain of pain, I operate. I judge, analyze, replay details over and over. Of course, I added a few more bricks to the pile. I like to think that these bricks were put in place only in childhood but truthfully I’ve added too many to count as an adult. I have numerous stacks of bricks of varying heights and ages; some have toppled over, others stand strong beckoning the addition of a few more.

May we bring our stored bricks of hurt, wounding and pain to our Father’s throne. May we receive grace to recognize the difference between today’s hurts and those of yesterday. We beg for the healing of both. May we be reminded that God’s touch caused the deaf man to hear. As He placed His hands on the blind man’s eyes, he saw. God has ordained all our days and has provided for us wholeness in Him. We simply need to receive it.

“Father, may I use the bricks of life for what you intended – creativity, fun with friends and to make beautiful structures that hold dreams and possibilities for the future. And I do this all for Your Glory for my only hope is in You.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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