Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | April 3, 2023

Why Clear Vision Is Essential

“Open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”  Psalm 119:18 (ESV)

Blurry, distorted and tired.  Those words describe my vision two months ago.  It started simply as an itchy eye.  One that I supposed was due to warming temperatures and early pollen. The more I rubbed my eye, the worse it felt.  Attempting to treat it myself with warm compresses and gentle washing, I found nothing truly was working.  Weeks later, I woke up with not only a very sore, red eye but there was major swelling in my sinuses.  One look in the mirror and I was finally convinced I needed to call my eye doctor.

Antibiotics and eye cream were prescribed, and I was wondering why I delayed.  Not sure how I thought my eye and vision would improve without some intervention.  What seemed insignificant ultimately resulted in a nasty infection not only to my eye but to my sinuses as well.  An ignored issue never usually resolves itself – it simply spreads.

Clear vision is essential especially when it comes to spiritual growth.  Wonder how many times we have overlooked  what God was clearly attempting to show us?  Or worse, how many times have we distorted God’s truth because we didn’t want to see what He was revealing?  Just keeping it real here but we probably could all relate to moments when we were blinded to our sins.  Failing to remove the scales of excuse and denial so we could see what God sees. One intentional, honest look into the mirror and we’d realize how much we need to behold God’s truth.

Have to admit it’s much easier for us to quick read our devotions rather than let God’s word sink deep into our soul.  Busyness, distractions and avoidance keep us from lingering long at His feet.  And sweet friends when we choose to dismiss or minimize His words it will never serve us well.

Totally love the psalmist’s words asking God for open eyes to behold the wonders in His word.  To examine closely with perfect vision and clarity what God’s truth teaches.  To lean in and slow the pace so He can lead us as we unpack the meaning, instruction and guidance found throughout the scriptures. Uncovering hidden nuggets just waiting to be discovered. Incredible faith journeys longing for us to glimpse how God worked in the lives of His people. No wonder the psalmist desired open eyes.

Blurry, distorted or clear and focused – the choice is up to us.  The next time we open God’s word, let’s determine to truly seek Him. Let’s ask Him for open eyes to see His truth. Let’s ask God to remove the blinders and enable us to see what He has for us.  Let’s ask Him to unveil the wonders of His words leaping off the page.  Can’t think of a better way to approach God’s word than asking for His help.

“Father, You desire to show us incredible wonders from Your word.  Slow our pace and teach us to gather at Your feet with open eyes – not missing a single truth.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 31, 2023

When The Rains Come

“The rains came down, the streams rose and the winds blew and beat against the house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” Matthew 7:25 (NIV)

The foolish man built his house upon the sand and when the rains came it fell with a crash. I can still remember those hand motions from Sunday School – just loved this song. But then again I was probably 4 years old the first time those words came out of my mouth. Life is pretty good for a 4 year old. Easy to sing words about rain, wind and storms crashing down when the weight of your world revolves around Sesame Street. And the foolish man, well he was beyond my little thinking just seemed like a fun part of the song to crumble to the floor, especially since we had no trouble getting back up for a re-do.

Definitely past my 4 year old self now and totally get God’s message. In life, we will experience drenching rains, rising streams and strong winds aimed at tearing us down. Doesn’t matter if we are wise or foolish – storms don’t discriminate – they will come. Difference maker is really what we are standing on when it arrives – will we crumble or will we remain firmly planted?

Blessed to watch several friends going through the storm and standing strong. One was homeless and yet never gave up hope her God would come through. One is diagnosed with a rare cancer yet trusts her God for the impossible to come true. One is helplessly watching her son struggle yet clinging to the source of her strength. Brave courageous women and my list could go on and on.

Seem unreal, unlikely – no wise women are authentic emotion filled women who have built their life upon the solid rock of our God. Yes, there have been tears along the way and moments of desperation. There are certainly days when strength is gone, hair is lost and questions rank high. There are moments when depression and wrestling settle in. But the wise woman knows her God – she has planted herself firmly in His word and promises long before the storms began.

Unexpected happens every day. We’re moving through life unaware that rain is coming. And then the wind begins to pick up. The downpour comes and beats against everything we ever knew. It’s in these moments when the unexpected offers us the opportunity to lean on our Rock, who is unmoveable, unshakeable and has unmistakeably proven His love for us. If our faith and trust are firmly planted in Him, we will not crumble or fall.

“Father, You have taught us well to preserve, press through and hold on tight to You. We may appear to be losing our grip, but You are cradling us in the palm of Your hands.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 30, 2023

A Culture of Worry

“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life…” Matthew 6:25 (NKJV)

I recently found myself nervous about several situations all at once.  Despite Bible study, prayer, worship, and a little too much talking things over with my husband, I was still worried.  In the end all three of the circumstances worked out for the best.  As they usually do.  Sigh.  Cue the guilt for lack of faith.  Double sigh.  I began to ponder, “Why did I go through this cycle…again?!?”  It came to mind that there are a number of possible reasons:

  1.  We live in a culture of negativity. We have 24/7 access to the news and most of it isn’t so great.  It can easily lead us to fear and worry.  We can’t do something about everything, and we shouldn’t sit around worrying about it all.  Instead, we need to recognize what we can help with and spend more time focusing on our blessings.
  2.  We live our lives too publicly.  Facebook.  Twitter.  Instagram.  Pinterest.  We can’t possibly live up to the expectations we set for ourselves.  So what if someone doesn’t think you look thin enough, if someone doesn’t like your haircut or if someone doesn’t agree with your post?  We worry too much about what others think.
  3.  We actually don’t rely on our faith enough.  While I refuse to feel guilty when I am forgiven, I do believe there are times when I worry because I am not focusing enough on my faith.  I can do all the “right things” such as praying and Bible study, but am I really focusing on the truth of God’s word and His will?

Knowing this information won’t actually stop me from worrying.  Instead, I have to stop focusing on the negative.  I have to stop being concerned about what others think about me.  And I must trust in God.

“Dear Lord, Please forgive me for the times I worry because You have told me there is no need to worry.  Please help me to trust in You more and worry less.”

For His Glory

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

 

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 28, 2023

Rehearsing Miracles

“When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying “What are these stones?” then you shall inform your children saying, “Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.” For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed, just as the Lord your God had done to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed; that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the Lord is mighty, so that you may fear the Lord your God forever.” Joshua 4:21-24

After reading in Exodus about the dramatic and miraculous redemption of the Jewish people out of Egypt, you hit the next four books written by Moses: Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.  Amid the laws and lists, there is the often frustrating saga of the desert travels and how the Israelites so quickly forgot the miracles (and the very presence) of the Lord only to whine, grip and complain. We read how when they first got to the Promised Land’s border and 12 spies were sent to scope it all out, that 10 guys came back shaking in their sandals.  Only Joshua and Caleb remembered that this was land promised to them by the Lord – so it already belonged to them.  That’s when their 40 year wandering began, and that entire generation – except Joshua and Caleb – died in the desert as a consequence of their disobedience.

So, I just love the first four chapters of the book of Joshua when it’s time for the next-gen 12 tribes to take what’s theirs under Joshua’s leadership (even though it’s sad that Moses can’t experience this particular victory).  There’s a lot of depth to explore (cue the events with Rahab the harlot and the spies, for instance), but let’s focus on chapters 3 and 4.  It’s time to cross over the Jordan River, and God ends the Israelites’ Exodus journey the same way He started it: by drying up a body of water so the people can walk though it to the other side.  After everyone had safely crossed, the Lord told Joshua to set up 12 stones as a memorial of everything God had done for His people – from drying up the Red Sea to drying up the Jordan…and all the miracles in between.

Why?  So, when future generations asked, “What are these stones all about, Dad?” then they could be told and retold, “Because God miraculously rescued us!” The stones were there as a remembrance of the Lord’s miracles: delivering them out of slavery in Egypt (as the Egyptians handed over tons of gold and silver), feeding them food from heaven, quenching their thirst with water from a stone, never having their shoes wear out through 40 years of desert walking…and, of course, guiding them with His very presence by day and by night. (Again, so much to unpack there, but let’s get to the point du jour).

What about you?  Do you rehearse God’s miracles in your own life?  Do you talk about, journal or even set up monuments rehearsing all the Lord has done for you?  From our own redemption at the moment of salvation to provision to quenched thirst to God’s very presence in front of us and behind us…we all have a trail of miracles.  Do we tell our friends, our children, our children’s children?  Most importantly, do we remind ourselves of who God is – His grace, His mercy, His relentless faithfulness?  If you haven’t made it a thing in your life, start today.  Tell yourself and others of His Greatness, so “all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the Lord is mighty, so that you may fear the Lord your God forever.” (Joshua 4:24)

“Heavenlty Father, thank You for the miracles all around us – from Your breath in our lungs to each sunrise to protection, health and provision.  May we share the wonders of Your love with others .. and remind ourselves of Your faithfulness.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 24, 2023

When We Entertain The Edge of Falling

“So whoever stands must be careful not to fall.” I Corinthians 10:12 (HCSB)

Ever tried to stand on one foot only to cave quickly? Despite our determination to stand firmly in one place, our weak muscles win out. And that crash to the floor isn’t pretty or fun. Embarrassed, we quickly get back up dismissing our attempt because we just knew we were stronger.

Hard to admit our weaknesses. Hard to dismiss our failings. Even harder to confess our inability to stand firm. Bet we’ve all been there when we entertained a not so good option totally convinced we wouldn’t cave in. Probably experienced proud moments too confident we were above tipping over the edge of someone else’s tempting moments. Dare we even admit those times judging others puffs us up to a perceived higher status that would “definitely not do the same.”

Weak moments where we count on personal strength never serve us well. We need God’s Spirit empowering us to stay on course, so we won’t give in when personal desires attempt to derail us. We need awareness of our inability to stand firm by ourselves. Smart women guard their hearts and cover their minds with the truth of God’s Word. Wise women invest in strengthening resolve and strategically choose to avoid the potential of sin dragging us down. Humble women admit their weaknesses and avoid leaning on self or pretending they’ve got it all under control.

Bottom line sweet friend, we want to stand. And part of that standing requires awareness of how easy it is to fall and how quickly we can lose our footing. Holding on tight to our God is the only way to journey through life. Resting confidently in His strength to see us through. Perfection we will miss on this earth, but blameless we can achieve if we stay close to Him.

Keeping it real here – let’s tackle that one thing consistently seeking to pull us down. Let’s surrender it at the feet of Jesus and determine to not take it back. Let’s pray daily for protection, wisdom and discernment in weak moments. Let’s not boast but rather admit we need God desperately to keep us standing firm.

“Father, give us your eyes to see the potential of slipping before we entertain the edge and fall. Help us to draw strength, stability and firmness from You and not trust self to get us through.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Success, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 22, 2023

Working Your Core

“Therefore, take up the whole armor, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” (Ephesians 6:13, ESV)

I love horseback riding.  It ranks high on the list of my “go to” activities for stress relief. When I’m on the trail riding my mind has to stay focused.  Not on the problems going on in my life, but on the horse and the trail in front of me.  There’s a wonderful sense of freedom and relaxation enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors.

The most important fundamental and key foundational riding skill is having a strong core connection with your horse. Connecting to your core means balance for both you and your horse.

Having a connected core also allows you to have better emotional control (over yourself and your horse).  Without this essential connection, everything else you do on your horse will be off. When your core is properly engaged, you stay in sync with your horse’s center of balance. It creates a sensation of stability and harmony in motion between you and your horse.

It’s important to stay calm and allow your body to move with the rhythm of the horse.  Working your core gives you the ability to feel the way he is walking, making it easier to let him rock you from side to side without resisting.  You might bounce or get thrown off if you’re too tense.

When Paul wrote the verse above to the church in Ephesus, he was stressing the importance of working your spiritual core.

“Having done all” implies:

  • Daily personal prayer (relationship)
  • Regularly reading /studying (meditating/taking thoughts captive) on the Word
  • Staying connected to others in the Body of Christ (accountability)

When I am engaged in these things, I’m not able to focus on the problems of life. These fundamentals help me focus on Jesus instead (another great stress reliever). There’s freedom in Him.

Not having our core firmly connected to God leaves us more vulnerable to our emotions. Life can be bumpy (like a trail) and if our core is not connected to God then we can be thrown.

When life throws us, our emotions can keep us from being in sync with God.

Have you ever uttered these words?

“I don’t feel like reading my Bible.”  “I don’t feel like going to bible study/church.”  “I don’t feel like . . . “

If our balance is off, then we’re not able to put on the whole armor and we have no stamina to stand when the trail of life makes us sway. (Ephesian 6:14-17)

The Bible stabilizes us.  His truth allows us to move in any direction life pulls us and gives us proper balance.

“Father help us to understand the importance of working our spiritual core. It enables us to put on the whole armor so that we can stand against the schemes of the devil.”

 

For His Glory

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

 

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 21, 2023

Sing In His Presence

“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before Him with joyful singing.” Psalm 100:1-2

Do you ever stop to consider the amazing fact that, as believers, we are privileged to enter into the very throne room of God? Because Jesus made a way of reconciliation for us, exchanging our filthy rags for His righteousness, there is no longer an impassible chasm. We can come before the Lord with our thankfulness, our petitions, our fears, and our brokenness. It’s truly mind-blowing when you let it sink in.

But there are times when we might feel far from God. Maybe we’ve turned to some other idol—a person, a substance, an activity—to fill a soul-hole. Maybe we’re frustrated because a prayer is not being answered when and how we want it to be, so we—like a spoiled toddler—cross our arms and turn our backs on our gracious and loving Father. Whatever the reason for this perceived disconnect, the Bible gives us clear direction as to how to enter into God’s presence.

The Psalms are so beautiful, and they capture pretty much every emotional and spiritual experience we can go through. David’s, in particular, express much of what we go through…but he always turns his focus back to God’s sovereignty, power, holiness, grace, and justice. Psalm 100 (which isn’t explicitly written by David), is a lovely reminder of who God is—and, based on that, we’re to be thankful. But it’s the second verse that highlights a super-cool duality of worship.

“Come before Him with joyful singing.” This simple statement can actually be read in two ways, each of which deliver a powerful truth. First, the meaning can be: “When you come into the presence of the Lord, do so with joyful singing.” This totally makes sense, right? When we consider God in His magnificence, it’s a logical response to burst out in joyful song! (Which, by the way, we can now only dimly experience, but one day we’ll see Him in all His glory—and, oh, I can only imagine those songs!)

But, going back to those times when we feel far from God, this verse can also be an instruction for how to enter into His presence. “How do we come before Him? With joyful singing!” In other words, when we’re feeling disconnected, or when we simply don’t “feel” like worshipping, there is a solution: Joyfully sing! Throw on your favorite praise song…and sing. Loudly. Sing songs of who God is—His character, His providence. Sing about His amazing grace that rescued and redeemed you. Remind yourself in song that He will never leave or forsake you—that Christ is all you need. When you feel anxious, fearful, discouraged, or disconnected…sing. The joy will come. The next thing you know, you’ll be in His marvelous presence.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege of coming before You with praise, thanksgiving, and joyful songs!

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Gratitude, Hope, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 17, 2023

When Today Triggers Yesterday

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23 (ESV)

Can honestly say every time I drive past this landmark, I’m reminded of God’s faithfulness to me. Nothing unusual or unique about it – it’s simply a group of picnic tables near a rest area before you get to Charlottesville. A quiet peaceful spot. Perfect for a picnic. Great place to just enjoy the calm and hear the water in the creek trickling by. Soothing to a weary soul.

I was that weary one many years ago. On my way to UVA to meet with specialists, we stopped for a quick break and ate our lunch without a word ever spoken between us. Some moments are like that – dread and exhaustion leave little room for conversation. Got back in our car and headed on our way.

Quietness filled a room occupied with sick women where smiles were scarce as many entertained the shadows of death. UVA would provide little answers and ultimately a major surgery would occur before healing could happen. Definitely difficult and painful days. Ones I will never forget. And nestled right in the midst of them is a clear reckoning of the sweetness of our God. Priceless moments when He drew me closer than I had ever been to Him. Simple reminders of His love, peace and grace overflowing me.

Triggers of the desperation I felt that day resurface when I travel up 29 North evoking those precious memories. Gratitude rises to the surface when I pass by the one spot where peace and quiet settled my chaotic soul.

That my friends was over thirty years ago and the sacredness of life never escapes me. God answered many prayers – some were no’s and some were yes’ – none were out of the scope of His power and might. Countless ways God showed up when I needed Him the most. Memories of His promises spoken to my heart – deep lessons learned in the midst of suffering propelling me forward – flourishing rather than simply surviving.

Maybe you’ve been there too – when landmark’s recall God’s faithfulness. His love story to you unfolding one page at a time. Snapshots of where He’s taken you in this journey and reminders of His protective hand guiding and leading you along the way. Cherish the landmark. Share the story. Encourage someone else whose shadows loom larger than life. Steward what God has entrusted to you, and you’ll be amazed at how He births fresh joy and renewed hope in others who desperately need His touch.

“Father, not a single tear is ever wasted in Your sight. You are ever present in the midst of our storms, and Your faithfulness serves as a constant reminder – Your love is extravagant and beyond comprehension. Praising You for giving us the story of us to share with our world.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 16, 2023

In The Moment

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”   (Isaiah 26:3, ESV)

God in His infinite wisdom designed me with this innate ability for details.  I’m a planner.  I love for things to be organized.  I want to eliminate surprises as much as possible.  One of my spiritual gifts is hospitality. To make a person feel comfortable requires taking the time to think through the situation and plan appropriately.

Over the years that desire for organization has crossed a line at times and ended up being more about control.  By trying to avoid the anxiety of something unexpected happening, I did my best to plan everything. But instead of calming my anxiety it only made it worse.

Until I went through a season in which I learned a valuable lesson about living in the moment.  Taking one day at a time. One moment at a time. Surrendering my need to control the uncontrollable.  Learning how to keep my mind focused on Jesus all the time.

While I said I trusted Jesus my actions did not reflect my faith.  I was making excuses for letting my anxiety control me.  I was ignoring biblical wisdom and leaning on my understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6).  Adamant that I had to do it this way.

Over the years, I’ve missed out on numerous opportunities because I was in my head too much – listening to fear.  Either replaying something unpleasant that had happened or jumping ahead stressing over the “what ifs” of a situation. Leaving me paralyzed with fear.

While there’s nothing wrong with being organized; we can’t stop whatever God has allowed to happen to us – or will allow to happen to us in the future. We are NOT in control.

Making a conscious effort to stop that anxiety ridden train of thought and focus on the truth of Jesus didn’t eliminate all my problems.  It did, however, bring about a peaceful state of mind that allowed me to start living in the moment.  It brought about a freedom to experience a feeling of security like I had never known. Allowing me to embrace things way out of my comfort zone. Leading to things I thought impossible – like mountains moving beneath my feet– one moment at a time. (Isaiah 40:4)

Out of our comfort zone is usually where God calls us to make the most impact for the Kingdom.

There is no promise in the Bible that we won’t experience illness.  Or that people we love won’t die.  There’s no promise that bad things will never happen to us while we’re on this earth.  The promise is that He will never leave us nor forsake us.  No matter what the moment holds – if Jesus is with us – we can endure it!

“Father, help us to release our need for control. To trust you more so we can live in the moment and not the fear of uncertainty.”

 

For His Glory

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

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | March 14, 2023

No Complaints

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

We are in the midst of Lent—40 days of preparation for the Easter celebration. Growing up Catholic, we were always told to give up something we like during that time. And I did—but for me, it was just a box to check off, and I didn’t really use it to deepen my relationship with God. (Plus, I would do very flesh-fulfilling “sacrifices”—like giving up beer but then carrying around a bottle of vodka to parties…and proclaiming proudly, “Yeah, I can’t drink beer because I gave it up for Lent.” Cue the self-righteous swag.)

Anyway, once I truly surrendered my life to the Lord, the meaning of Lent definitely shifted for me. I’ve become much more intentional over the years about focused prayer, preparation, and praise about the Resurrection of Jesus and the impact of that historical eternity-changing event. Especially its eternity-changing impact on me.

This year—which is also my “year of Joy”—I decided to fast an intangible thing: complaining and grumbling. In Philippians (one of my favorite epistles…well, they all become my favorite as I’m reading them), Paul commands believers to “do everything without complaining or arguing” (Philippians 2:14). The Greek word he first uses (translated “complaining” or “grumbling”) means murmuring discontent, which could be the complaining we do in our own minds regarding a situation or that quiet (or not so quiet) group-gripe among friends or co-workers—generally about another person. The word for “arguing” here means to hesitate, doubt, or outright rebel against what is true or what ought to be done. Each is a slightly different take on our general word “complain.”

Now, I’m not a big complainer, but I can get frustrated by other people—especially when they don’t do what I think they should…you know, the right thing. (I won’t expand on my “moral perfectionist” tendencies right now, but you probably get it. And I know I can be equally frustrating to others in this regard. But I digress.) Anyway, I don’t say anything to them, but when the interaction is done, I might have a few things to say in my own head…or I run to my husband with those grumbling thoughts. Or, when a coworker or friend has a complaint against a person we both interact with, I would tend to join them—to “empathize”, which ended up sounding a bit group-gripey.

So, what does my “fast from complaining” look like? First, I try to stay away from all news, which has the power to set me off on all kinds of not-so-quiet tirades. But the more potent application for me is to weave Paul’s command into my everyday moments. When a situation arises that could cause internal grumbling, I look for—and profess—the positive and the blessing in it. Or, if I’m talking with someone who is going off on another person’s words or actions, I do not join in, but try to redirect the “griper” to something affirmative about that person or the scenario about which they’re griping. I try to turn discouragement into encouragement.

This has been pretty amazing. As I mentioned, I didn’t think I was much of a complainer, but being intentional about not even grumbling to myself has made a bigger difference than I anticipated. The result? A new level of joy throughout the day! (There are so many levels of truth in this, how what we think impacts our feelings and actions—but that’s another blog.) And I hope that by not engaging in group gripe that I’m bringing a little joy into other people’s day as well—shining light into the darkness. The coolest thing is that my husband (a self-admitted complainer) is also doing the Philippians 2:14-15 fast. As you can imagine, our home atmosphere has shifted. Again, we didn’t complain or argue with each other (at least, not very often), it was more a conspiratorial co-grumbling about other people and situations. Being free of this, we are deeply embracing another part of Paul’s letter to the Philippians—chapter 4, verses 4-9. Check it out, as these verses make another great prep-for-Easter approach!

What about you? Why not halt the grumbling and arguing—and choose joy? It was for the joy set before Jesus that He endured the cross for us (Hebrews 12:2)…so, let’s fix our eyes on Him with joy for what He accomplished on our behalf that Easter morning.

“Lord, Your death and resurrection made a way for us to be reconciled to God—to go from darkness to light, blindness to sight, death to life. May that Truth permeate our days, overtaking any complaints with the joy of our salvation.”

 

For His Glory

 

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Living

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