Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 25, 2023

It’s Okay To Not Be Okay

“When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.” The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth.  Jesus said to them, “Unbind him and let him go.” (John 11:43-44, ESV)

 “Girl, why are you so down?  You just need to give it to God.  To let go and let God. You just need to rejoice in the Lord.  He’s going to work it all out for you.”

Ever had someone utter those words to you when you’re in a season of darkness and can’t seem to find a way out? I have. Those words while spoken with good intentions, failed to offer me a lot of guidance. Instead, they falsely give the assumption that because you’re saved – everything will always be well in your life.

As Christians, life on this earth is hard. Sometimes we need help getting out of the yoke of our circumstances.

Lazarus is a perfect example of this lesson.  He had been dead in the tomb for four days. Then Jesus spoke his name and called him out of the grave.

Raising him from the dead was instant – like salvation. But when he came out of that grave, he still had remnants of the ordeal he had just experienced.

The linen cloths were wrapped so tightly he could barely walk.  His vision was also hindered. Jesus could have spoken the words and had the grave clothes fall off.  Instead, he told the crowd to “loose him”.

In the same manner, there are remnants of our previous lives that we will need help taking off as we “work out our salvation” (Phil 2:12).  Not everyone grows up in an environment that perfectly models God’s love.  We are not all taught God’s Word correctly.  Salvation forgives us of our sins.  But it doesn’t automatically teach us how to “walk like a Christian.”  It doesn’t instantaneously change negative thought patterns developed over the years. Some things will require a community to “take off.”  Thus, we are urged in Hebrews 10:25 to “not neglect meeting together.”

As we continue to grow in our journey of faith – life will continue to throw obstacles at us.  Salvation doesn’t keep us from experiencing hardships.  Utilizing the resources in your community like Christian counseling and support groups should not be viewed as a negative.  Lazarus was alive but he would have never been able to interact with others in a healthy way because his hands were bound.  He needed assistance getting out of the bondage of death.

It’s okay to not be okay. To admit you need help.

“Jesus, we thank you for raising us from death to life through salvation. As life throws obstacles that cloud our vision and inhibit us from walking in faith, teach us to reach out to the Christian community around us for help.”

For His Glory

 

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

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 23, 2023

Wash Your Face

“So David got up from the ground, washed, anointed himself, and changed his clothes; and he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped.” 2 Samuel 12:20

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I get into these funks of “if only” and “I wish I would have…” Most recently, for me, it was around Mother’s Day when I considered both my mother and my mothering. I imagine that every parent reading this thinks about these things occasionally, especially if their kids are teens, young adults, or older. Maybe we look at how a child is living and the choices they’re making and wonder, “If I’d only done ___________ when he/she was younger…” or “Maybe if I decided to do X instead of Y, things would be different for them.” Or, if you’re like me and have lost one or both parents, it’s easy to list the regrets of how you treated them, or things said—even rehearsing those terrible teen/20s attitudes and interactions with them that shaped years (or decades) of relationship. Oh, to relive those yesterdays with the wisdom and understanding of today. (Or is that just me?)

But friend, we simply cannot. (First, though, let me remind us all that we did the best we could with what we knew—and who we were—at those times we’re looking back to.) We can’t go back and change our decisions to shift trajectories. Plus, we don’t have any clue about whether that revised trajectory would be better or worse! And we certainly can’t change the words and actions of other people, which ultimately set the path for their lives.

As I was meandering through Regretville, I got to 2 Samuel, chapter 12, where the prophet Nathan rebukes David for his sin against the Lord. (I suggest you go back and also read chapter 11—it’s got all the elements of today’s Netflix hits: adultery, deception, murder…). But it was only when Nathan confronted David that David’s eyes were opened to everything he’d done. The man truly had a lot to regret. And although David was “a man after God’s own heart”, a valiant warrior for the Lord, the king of God’s people, and the ancestor of the Greater David to come, Jesus, there were consequences for his grave sin. Sadly, despite David’s fasting, weeping, and praying, the child he conceived in adultery became sick and died. Then came another fascinating part of this event: David got up, washed, put on fresh clothes, and worshipped the Lord (v19-20). He understood the sovereignty of God. While the child was still alive, David prayed for what he wanted the outcome to be. But when God’s outcome came to pass (a painful, horrible outcome in David’s—and our—opinion), David worshipped the Lord for His providence. Moreover, David’s theology was rock solid, knowing that he would see his child again in heaven—what a profoundly encouraging Biblical truth for us. David turned from the “what ifs” and grabbed hold of his now, determined to be more focused on the Lord.

A few days after I read through these Biblical events, I came across this quote from John Piper that beautifully summed up these Old Testament chapters, along with putting a pin in my mental road trip: “Occasionally, weep deeply over the life you hoped would be. Grieve the losses. Then wash your face. Trust God. And embrace the life you have.”

We all are in different seasons of our life—and, for believers, we’re in different sanctification places. Right now, it could be smooth sailing. But maybe it’s rough waters…or even the storm of storms that are beating you senseless. Wherever we are, GOD IS SOVEREIGN. He’s got you—and me. We pray (and plead), and we trust, knowing that He “causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). And He intends for good even things and people of this world intending evil (Genesis 50:20). Note here, God doesn’t “use” or “turn” evil situations to good—like, “Oops, I wasn’t expecting that, but I can turn that around.” No, these situations are all in His hands, from the beginning, for His glory. We may be able to look back in time and see that…or we may have to wait until we’re in heaven and look back through eternity to understand. Either way, it’s OK. We are in His hands.

“Lord, as we continue to walk through this dark world—yesterday, today, and tomorrow—remind us to keep our eyes on You, trusting You to bring about our good and Your glory.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 22, 2023

It’s All About The Heart

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.” John 5:24 (ESV)

“You must be a Virginia Tech fan,” flowed from the lips of a sweet lady at the gym.  My maroon shorts and orange tank top were a dead giveaway; however, a Hokie fan I was not (sorry).  I’m not really into college sports so my choice of clothing had nothing to do with devotion to a team, but rather what was clean in my gym bag.  While I definitely looked the part of a Hokie fan, this sweet lady was so wrong.  And, you could see the disappointment on her face as she walked away.

Didn’t take me long to realize a powerful truth tucked away in this moment.  How many times have we assumed someone was a follower of Christ because they looked the part?  Perhaps they faithfully attended our church and sat close to the front.  Maybe they were one of those whose worship was igniting and filled with passion.  Could it be they actually never missed one of our Bible studies? And yes, because they looked the part, we excused ourselves from asking about their relationship with God.

On the flip side, how many times have we assumed someone wasn’t a follower of Christ because they didn’t look the part?  Perhaps lots of tattoos caused us to question their faith.  Maybe the guy’s long hair and ripped jeans created doubt or worse judgment.  Could it be they never attended any of our Bible studies?  And yes, because they didn’t look the part, we assumed they were desperately in need of God’s saving grace.

Wow even listening to both of these scenarios convicts my spirit.  Being a follower of Christ isn’t about tucking our Bibles under our arm and heading to church.  Being a follower of Christ isn’t dictated by how expressive we are during worship or how many church activities we participate in.  Being a follower of Christ doesn’t mean our hair is the perfect length and our jeans aren’t trendy.

Being a follower of Christ is all about one’s personal relationship with Him.  Opening up our hearts and confessing Christ is God’s Son.  Seeking His forgiveness for our sins and surrendering to the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying and transforming work in our lives. Totally falling in love with the One who created us, fashioned us and formed us before we even entered the world.  Actively engaging with Christ through studying His word and authentically pouring out our hearts.  Trusting Christ,  obeying His word and reflecting His character to our world.  Keeping Christ at the center of our lives and wholeheartedly worshipping Him in all that we do. Sharing the love of Christ and the reason for the hope within us. Beautiful reminder – being a follower of Christ is about the heart.

The world will know us by the way we love God and love each other, not because we look the part. And loving others is always the best invitation to ask anyone about their relationship with Christ.

“Father, looking the part won’t get us into Heaven – only a personal relationship with You guarantees our eternal home.  Help us to share the truth of Your saving grace with everyone we meet.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 19, 2023

When Pretend Doesn’t Serve Us Well

“Oh Lord, You have searched me and known me.” Psalm 139:1 (ESV)

As a kid, I loved to pretend.  Great adventures leaping off the page of my latest read transported me into a world of make believe.  Sometimes I would glide across the living room floor like a ballerina.  Other times, I became a teacher and taught a room full of dolls.  Or better yet, I was Billy Graham in our backyard passionately giving the altar call to my siblings and cousins aligned in rows of folding chairs.  Just as I Am never sounded better.

While pretend was fun and uninhibited as a child it doesn’t always serve us well as adults.  It is ever so easy to paste on our smiling faces and pretend our world is fine.  We’ve all probably pretended to not be upset with someone for the sake of peace while our emotions were a raging storm about to explode.  Let’s keep it real here –   at times we’ve pretended happy over someone else’s success while we cringed inside. And how many of us have grabbed the Super Mom cape pretending to have it all together – as chaos surrounded us? Perhaps we’ve pretended for so long we no longer can identify who we really are.

Pretending eventually reverts back to real, and unfortunately, we don’t always get to choose how the reveal unfolds.  The unmasking of what has been hidden or denied may happen when we least expect it.    It’s hard being the real “us.” Buried beneath the pretense of real is where life daily happens. The unfiltered “us” with struggles and challenges.  The organic “us” attempting to manage emotions and weaknesses on the surface.

Releasing our tendencies to pretend opens wide the door to confronting “us.” Facing our emotions, admitting our weaknesses and realizing our desperate need for God peels away the layers of pretense.

In the midst of conflict, we can face issues in a healthy way rather than stuff them.  If jealousy and competitiveness is robbing us of our joy, we can evaluate the motives driving these underlying emotions.  And when pride seeks to convince others we have everything under control when it’s not, we can admit our need for help without losing self-respect.  Until we remove the mask, transformation won’t occur.  However, we can trust God to take the “real us”  and show us how to do life authentically and godly.

“Father, here we land vulnerable and fully exposed “us” out in the light. Best place to land so You can lovingly work in our lives.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 18, 2023

Being Real 24/7 For His Sake

“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.” Colossians 3:22-25 (NIV)

It is so easy to live by appearances, doing and saying only what we think others want to see us doing or saying. The problem with that, however, is that God, for sure and for certain knows exactly what is on our mind and heart any time we say or do something.

When the apostle Paul gave advice to the Colossians, he was very specific about the importance of doing what is right, even when no one is watching. He also said that they should do everything with reverence for the Lord, as if working for the Lord and not for human masters.

The Bible teaches us to honor and obey the authority that is placed over us. This includes our employers. Though Paul’s words were said so long ago, they are very valid still today. During recent times, when so much has changed in the world because of a health pandemic, Paul’s advice to the slave workers is very vital so organizations worldwide can remain alive.

The pandemic caused companies to restructure and change the way they do business. Employee homes became their offices, as work still needed to get done while offices were shutdown to keep people from spreading a deadly virus.

When we work as unto the Lord and not unto man, we will do our best and honor our employer, even if no one is around to tell us what time we should start or end our day, because we will be honest about how we keep our schedule and use our resources.  We must honor God at all times; to know that He is watching us serves as a good reminder that we should be good stewards of what has been entrusted to us.

“Thank You, Lord, for teaching us how to be real even if no one is watching.”

 For His Glory

Luska Natali
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 17, 2023

David & Goliath

“David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.”1 Samuel 17:45

We all love the story of David and Goliath, how young David took the giant up on his challenge and killed him in the name of the Lord Almighty, saving the army of King Saul. It makes us want to cheer for David, the underdog. It’s the go-to story when we want to illustrate how faith can grant us victory in a helpless situation. We think if we could only have the kind of faith David had, we could have the same results.

But that’s not what the story is about. It’s not about David. This story is about God, about His power to accomplish His will through people. He knew the situation and chose David to win the battle. David’s heart was willing. He was also much smaller than the giant, inexperienced in war, and without armor. He was the least likely person for the job. That was why God chose him, to demonstrate His power.

How did David happen to be in the right place at the right time? It was by divine appointment, set by God. He didn’t need to check anyone’s calendar or remind everyone to be on time. He simply moved circumstances. He had the Philistine army on one side of the Valley of Elah and the Israelites on the other side, facing them for forty days. The tension was incredible as the giant roared his insults and challenges day after day.

At precisely the right time, God prompted Jesse to send David to the battle site with a donation of food. Then he filled David with His Spirit.

Did you ever have an experience where you felt the Spirit so strongly that you were compelled to take on His assignment? There was a particular instance when I had an urge so intense that I couldn’t obey fast enough despite the risk. I was amazed at the change God produced as a result. I believe that was the kind of holy urge that came over David. God’s hand was on him, giving him such a single-minded goal to take on the giant that he couldn’t stop. It was as if the Lord were behind him, pushing him into position and putting words in his mouth.

We know the story. He stepped up boldly, refusing to wear the king’s armor, and chose five smooth stones from the brook. He only needed one. He aimed at the forehead of the giant, and the stone found its mark. The giant was defeated, and the Israelite army surged forward, conquering the Philistines.

So what is the point of this story? Only that we need to be ready, available, and open to the Spirit, just as David was. Spend time in the presence of God daily, so when He taps you on the shoulder and gives you a divine assignment, you will be ready to take it on.

Father, few of us would ask to be put into an impossible situation, but if You give us an assignment beyond our abilities, we ask Your Spirit to guide us as You guided David at the Valley of Elah.”

For His Glory

Cherie Williams (www.cherieharbridgewilliams.com)
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 16, 2023

Foolish Friends

“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.”  Proverbs 13:20

Proverbs 13:20 was one of the very first lines of scripture I memorized as a new believer—and it sets a great foundational direction for all of us who desire to follow Christ. Typically, we think to ourselves, “Yes, this is exactly what our kids need to know!” It definitely is. But this verse is also one of the many pieces of wise Biblical direction we give our kids that, sadly, they don’t necessarily follow. And, unfortunately, the second part of the Proverb—as promised—comes to pass. We simply keep praying that they’ll learn.

Let’s turn the mirror on ourselves for a minute. Sure, we can assess our friend group and choose to spend time with the “wise” among them—other believers who love Jesus and help disciple us as we sharpen them as well (Proverbs 27:17). But what about all our other “companions”? How wise or foolish are those whose words and actions bombard our eyes, ears, and mind daily through our digital media? Ouch.

As Christ followers, we have to assess all our companions—real people and those in the digital realm. The TV “friends” and “families” we watch, the podcast hosts we listen to, and even our “friends” on our social media platforms…in fact, many of us spend significantly more time with these “people” than we do with 3D human companions, so it’s vital to weigh their value to our life!

It’s easy to think that all this is harmless. “It’s just a funny meme video, all the cussing is just context.” Or “Yes, there are a lot of sex scenes, but the storyline is great.” Or “Sure, the divisiveness and vitriol is rampant, but I have to keep (social media platform name here) to keep up with my friends and family!” Even our musical companions croon (or bark) messages of sex, hatred, and drunkenness in our ears.

Our thoughts, as well as what and who feed our thoughts, inform our emotions, which generate our actions (Mark 7:20-22; Romans 8:5-7). That’s why the Bible is filled with exhortations to keep our mind on things above (Colossians 3:2), think about excellent, pure things (Philippians 4:8), and take our thoughts captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). And in today’s digital world, where we’re constantly plugged in—listening and watching—our “thoughts” are being fed to us relentlessly. These are our daily companions…and if we’re plugged into foolishness, we will, indeed, suffer harm.

So, let’s each turn to the Holy Spirit living in us, yielding to Him as our counselor, helper, and guide when it comes to our daily companions. When we don’t shut Him up or out, He’ll let us know when we’re hanging out with fools. And when we spend less time with them, we’ll be able to walk with the wise more often…and grow wiser. We’ll get closer to the Lord and experience much more joy each day.

“Father God, forgive me for turning my time and attention to the debased things of this world that have become the cultural norms. Help me to walk with the wise and become more like Christ each day.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 15, 2023

Best Comfort Ever

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

What means comfort to you?  Perhaps it’s a warm fuzzy blanket.  Could it be a bowl of chocolate caramel ice cream?  Better yet maybe it’s the sound of waves crashing on the shore.   Regardless of what brings you comfort, we’ve all experienced moments when we found ourselves in desperate need of comfort.

A simple unimpressive side chair was my fave comfort spot during my single parenting journey.  Why?  It definitely wasn’t because the cushions were plush.  Nothing special about that inexpensive piece of furniture, yet it was the place where I felt comfort in abundance.  The side arms were close and when I curled up in the chair, I felt like the arms of God were holding me.  My fave place for talking to God, reading His word, pouring out my heart, sitting in silence and listening. Best comfort giver ever.  The sweet presence of my God during a difficult and lonely journey.

Pause for a moment and reflect on the comfort God has generously given to you.  Zero in on those times when desperation sent you running into His arms.  Rejoice over the moments when God’s comfort, healing and counsel allowed you to maneuver through hard places. Grab a pen and paper and write down what His comfort means to you even on a daily basis when life is simple, uncomplicated and good.

Life is challenging, yet we make it through not as lone rangers but as those who bask in the comfort and mercy of our Heavenly Father.  Stewarding the comfort God pours over us isn’t optional.  Our verse today reminds us that as recipients of His comfort, we are to then comfort others in any affliction.

Now I’ve read this verse a lot of times, but this week some keywords really caught my eye:  all and any. No matter what our situation, God is the giver of all comfort. There are no limitations or preferences.  God comforts us in the most insignificant issue to the places of our deepest desperation.  Wherever and whenever we need comfort, He exceeds our imagination.  And that word any, well it reminds us that we who have received comfort are to extend comfort to anyone in any situation.

Keeping it real here – I know that the best comforters are the ones who have walked in the shoes of the one in need of comfort.  When we have experienced loss, we have a deeper understanding of how to serve the one sinking in grief.  When we have journeyed through depression, the comfort we bring is strategic and purposeful because we know what helped us get through.  Yet sweet sisters, God’s word doesn’t lock us into those boxes.

Read today’s verse and listen to God’s plan – we are to comfort anyone in any situation. Our past experiences may not mirror someone else’s situation but that doesn’t excuse us from reaching out, praying for and comforting others. The very presence of God hovering over me in that old chair many years ago was a healing balm to my soul. Our comfort presence in the life of someone else can do the same.

“Father help us to cherish the memory of your comfort presence and then seek Your help in sharing comfort with others.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 12, 2023

When Threats Surround Us

“And Hezekiah received the letter from the hand of the messengers and read it; and Hezekiah went up to the house of the Lord and spread it before the Lord.” Isaiah 37:14 (NJKV)

Ever found yourself in a place of great intimidation? Have the threats of the enemy filled your soul with overwhelming, paralyzing fear? That’s exactly where King Hezekiah landed. His enemy was coming against him and not just with force but with words. “Do not let your God in whom you trust deceive you,” echoed from the king of Assyria. His game plan was to plant a simple seed of doubt in the heart of the people of Judah. In simpler terms, ‘Hey guys your leader King Hezekiah is leading you astray. You can’t defeat us.”

Familiar tactic wouldn’t you say? We may not have a band of warriors headed our way, but Satan is alive and well seeking to devour us. Our enemy barks the same threat, “Your God can’t be trusted. He’s holding out on you. Look around you see the destruction – your God can’t protect you.”

Wow how many times have we bought into that lie? And unlike Hezekiah, we don’t go running to the feet of Jesus, we often cower in a corner as if Satan’s truth trumps our mighty God! Even worse we allow doubt, dread and hopelessness to settle in dragging us into a deep pit of despair. We run away as if we can escape the uncertainty totally disillusioned by all we once believed. And that sweet friend is how the enemy seizes control -one doubt, one lie at a time.

Love the way Hezekiah resisted the urge to believe the words haunting him. Love the way he goes immediately to the Lord and spreads it all out before the only One who can change his circumstances. Shows a girl a lot about what to do when the enemy shouts loud – run into the arms of Jesus. Take him the very words of intimidation and release them there. Leave the negativity and threats. Pour out our hearts and then watch our God move on our behalf.

Hezekiah’s God showed up in a big way annihilating the Assyrians (and when the people arose early in the morning there were corpses everywhere Isaiah 37:36). He’s got us covered too, so when the enemy deceives us with lies of defeat let’s remind him – we serve a Mighty God!

“Father, You are our powerful warrior. We can rest in Your promises and Your word. Help us to defeat the lies of the enemy and stand firmly on Your truth.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 11, 2023

When Regrets Become Powerless

“I tell you, her sins – and they are many – have been forgiven…” Luke 7:47a (NCV)

A person on a mission is evident by their body language and tenacity. No matter what…their mind is set. Nobody or thing is going to derail their assignment…especially if it’s personal. This courageous woman (Luke 7:36-48) didn’t knock on the door; she “came in” Simon’s house and interrupted supper. She probably took a deep breath as she maneuvered her way through the crowd holding her alabaster jar. She heard the whispers knowing some of the gossip was true. Nevertheless, her eyes were fixed on the Lord as she politely said, “Excuse me, but you can’t help me…I’m here to see Jesus.” Finally reaching Him must have felt like an eternity with the snares and dares. She broke open the seal on her offering pouring out all her many sins on the head of Jesus. Falling at His feet as her tears flowed using her hair as a towel…kissing the feet of her Savior.

This woman is unnamed because we all have an alabaster jar filled with life’s oil of past mistakes and regrets. Only Jesus and you know the expense of the oil in your alabaster jar and how much was truly paid for your forgiveness. Jesus has deemed your sins powerless to berate or disqualify you. When judgement raises its ugly head just remember…your alabaster jar was broken at the feet of Jesus. It was smashed into a million little pieces, so it could never be used against you again. Your expensive perfumed oil of “Please forgive me” flowed down the head of Jesus as a declaration of repentance. He has forgiven you! Your past faults have been paid for in full.

“Thank you Father, You willingly accept our heartfelt remorse. Your love transforms our broken clay jars into beautiful vessels. Lives filled with testimonies of Your love and power to forgive. It’s humbling to think You use our Good News testimonies to impact our little worlds around us.”

For His Glory

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

 

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