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

 

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

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

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Freedom, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

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

 

 

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Posted in Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

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

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Living

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

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Freedom, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 10, 2023

Gather Around

“One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, and he began to teach them.” Matthew 5:1-2 (NLT)

We stepped off the bus and the children eyed us with curiosity. As we moved through the neighborhood inviting all to a puppet show, children realized we had what they wanted: candy, small toys, and attention. They gathered around, setting aside their scavenging to see what we were about, these strangers. They followed us down one street and up the next. They held our hands and tried to communicate with us despite the language barrier. Surrounded by children whose bellies had never been full, we gave all that we had. We drew a crowd for foodstuffs and toys, but filled their hearts with the grace and love of Jesus as we presented the gospel and handed out Bibles. We applied for passports and visas, raised money for the flights, and spent vacation time for these precious ones.

Our key verses constitute the introduction to the Sermon on the Mount. The crowds gathered because Jesus alone had what they wanted. Had the people heard of Jesus’ teaching in the synagogues? Had they seen a friend healed of illness or disease? Had rumor spread of the Man who could free a demon-possessed boy? Whatever the reason the crowds gathered, God in the flesh was about to feed His people with the truth that gives life. I just love the simplicity of the verses. They gathered; He taught.

Do we gather? We gather at our kids’ school for meetings and assemblies. We gather at sporting events—professional and amateur. We gather at celebrations: birthdays, graduation, anniversary, etc. Do we gather together as believers around Jesus?

“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25 (NLT)

Do we desire what Jesus offers enough to set aside our plans? Gathering at churches, small groups, Bible studies, and ministries puts us in a place to hear from God. He alone has what we want. He alone provides all that we need.

Gather around.

“Lord, may we never take advantage of the privilege we have to gather together in prayer, worship, and learning. We desire what only You can provide.”

For His Glory

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

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 9, 2023

Creation’s Praise

“The mountains and the hills will break into shouts of joy before you, And all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”  Isaiah 55:12

How often are you in the quiet—especially outdoors? Do you ever escape the constant din of the city and suburban life (cars, trucks, trains, lawn equipment, construction work)? Many of us don’t even realize that there even is an urban soundtrack until we’re not in the midst of it anymore.

But, whether it’s to the beach, the mountains, or the middle of a cornfield, we need to get away from the noise of man and take time to bask in God’s amazing creation. Now, quieting our life from the onslaught of social media, news, headphone-streamed music, etc., is vital as well—we must be still and know God (Psalm 46:10). But this is something different. This is about hushing the noise to hear the praises of Creation itself to the God who designed it all and spoke it into existence.

Start at sunrise and listen to the birds as they wake up with praise on their lips (well, beaks). Turn your attention to the trees. As the wind blows through the branches, you’ll hear the leaves applaud and cheer on their Creator. And then there’s the ocean (sans the screams of delighted children and various speakers blaring everything from country music to rap). Each wave that mounts up then crashes to the shore is a roar of acclaim to the Lord. Can you hear it?

What about the myriad flowers? Gardenias, jasmine, magnolia, roses—to name just a few. Not only do they burst forth in intricate beauty, but their distinct fragrances give testimony to God’s love and generous grace. From the hummingbird’s miraculous movements to the heavenly host throughout the universe, the Lord is being magnified through every detail of His workmanship.

The question is, do you stop to glorify Him along with Creation? Take some time today to experience the joyful worship that’s all around you…and join the chorus of praise.

Let’s pray this Psalm together in praise of our Creator God:

”Praise the Lord! Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all stars of light! Praise Him, highest heavens, And the waters that are above the heavens! They are to praise the name of the Lord, For He commanded, and they were created. Praise the Lord from the earth, Sea monsters, and all the ocean depths; Fire and hail, snow and clouds; Stormy wind, fulfilling His word; Mountains and all hills; Fruit trees and all cedars; Animals and all cattle; Crawling things and winged fowl…They are to praise the name of the Lord, For His name alone is exalted; His majesty is above earth and heaven. (Psalm 148)”

 

For His Glory,

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Living, Worship

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 8, 2023

Equipped To Win The Battle

“Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, but I do not swerve from your testimonies.” Psalm 119:157

My sister, Faye, is an avid lover of animals.  She has been known to bring her car to a screeching halt so a squirrel or turtle can cross the road safely.  While that may be a bit extreme, we’ve probably all swerved to miss a leaping deer or debris on the road.  Strategically attempting to avoid an accident, we deviate from our course in the name of safety.

While swerving can definitely protect us when faced with unknown obstacles in our path, it’s never the right choice when it comes to God’s truth.  Turning aside to the left or right, moving away from or fleeing what we know is true never serves us well.

Real question is how does swerve evolve, especially when we thought we were grounded?

We’ve probably all claimed our determined stance when it comes to the wisdom of God’s word. Yet, every little compromise, every rationale, every moment of peer pressure has the potential to deviate us from His truth.  And the times when we find ourselves the most vulnerable are when we are under attack.

Satan is the great accuser, and he loves to create doubt and confusion.  Why?  Because he knows the power and truth found in God’s word.  He also knows the word of God is one of our greatest weapons against him; Jesus proved that when Satan tempted Him in the wilderness.  No brainer here – if Satan can get us to swerve away from God’s truth then he knows our effectiveness to share the gospel and grow in our faith fades as well.

I personally have never felt persecution for my faith like many of our brothers and sisters in the Lord on foreign soil.  Brave, bold and courageous followers of Jesus who lay down their lives for the sake of the gospel.  Yet, I do know the influence of emotional and physical attacks which can overwhelm us. Growing up during a time when my pastor was taking a strong stand against moral decline, I often was faced with teasing and ridicule from classmates in school. End result, I would go home feeling sad and defeated because of what I believed.

Fast forward to adulthood, I’ve battled the attacks of our enemy as he uses people and situations to manipulate his plans.  Generating disunity and divisions.  Attempting to discredit the character of our God.  Twisting solid truths into seemingly convincing wiser thoughts which can land us full of confusion and doubt.

Love the Psalmist’s words “I do not swerve from your testimonies.”  Unshakeable, unmovable.  A solid place to land in the face of persecution and adversity.  When accusations seek to slay us and what we believe, we can cling to the truths of God’s word – armed for battle against our enemy.  When our souls are overwhelmed and justice appears to fade into the night, we can trust our God to fight the battle for us.  Leaning on our God, combating our enemy with His words and standing strong positions us to win. And like the Psalmist, we too can proclaim “We are not swerving from your testimonies.”

“Father, fill our hearts with Your words so we are equipped to win the battles of this world without losing our faith and trust in You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Faith, Freedom, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 5, 2023

A Strong Foundation

“The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” Proverbs 14:1 (NIV)

A hammer and nails we will not find in our designer purse but building, constructing, reinforcing and repairing are on the agenda. Erecting a barrier, condemning the space and blocking grace are often favored rather than building a relationship. Perhaps there’s a bridge of forgiveness to be extended, but ending that relationship seems sweeter. Navigating a new design to an old pattern – wow that’s just too much work.
You see, we are great purchasers of new when old is no longer appealing. But what happens when the exchange involves people?

A little Construction 101 reminds us that a house is only as stable, strong and unshakeable as its foundation. Same principle applies in relationships. A weak foundation is easily disturbed and the crumbling underneath is devastating. If we are not careful we will tear down, cast aside and discard a priceless treasure. It takes supernatural strength to repair, re-construct, reinforce and repair lives dangling by a thread. But isn’t that where God found us? Isn’t that where God empowers us?

Relationships built upon the rock of grace reflect a strong foundation – a wise woman. I love the way Proverbs challenges us to build up our relationships, our home and our work environment. It’s the Restorer, Redeemer and Reconciler inviting us to react and live wisely. It’s the Sovereign One compelling us to weigh the cost of foolish emotions that tear down and destroy. How we long to be wise women whose houses and relationships are built daily upon the truths of God’s word.

“Father, I am so thankful that You build up my life with Your wisdom and grace. How I need You to navigate all the relationships in my life.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | May 4, 2023

Knowing Your Adversary

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers,  against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness,  against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12 ( ESV)

I was caught up in the beauty of the crashing waves coming at me, completely lost in the moment.  So caught up that I forgot about the undertow.  Causing me to lose my footing and left me struggling to recover.

An undertow is when waves break along the ocean shore. Once that occurs, gravity pulls backwards and the water (and sand beneath your feet) is sucked right back into the ocean.

An undertow can be dangerous. If the water going back into the ocean is strong it can knock you down with another wave swooping in before you can recover.

I was so focused on what I could see, I forgot about what was going on underneath the surface.

That is what Paul was trying to teach the church in Ephesus that their adversary is not the people in their lives -it’s not what they can see on the surface.  It’s what is happening underneath (in the spiritual realm).

In other words, your enemy isn’t the woman from church who doesn’t speak to you in passing or smile at you the way you think she should. Most likely, that lady has her own troubles on her mind.

Our adversary is Satan and the spiritual forces of evil that do his bidding.

But to the woman who has heard messages of rejection and struggles with insecurity – the enemy knowing that is your area of weakness; will hit you harder there hoping to get a reaction.

Meaning he will feed you messages of insecurity from the past that will trigger feelings that will cause you to react in the present based on a past feeling.  Essentially pulling you backwards into a dangerous emotional undertow.

Your enemy can’t read your thoughts ladies, but he’s been studying you for years; and he knows which feelings to push to reduce you to a fit of tears and rage.

By knowing who your adversary is – you will know how to battle him.

And ladies, we are in a spiritual battle for our souls and the souls of those we love.

The best weapon against our adversary is the word of God – “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul”. (Hebrews 4:12, ESV)

We must know the Word and speak its’ truth back to ourselves when the enemy attacks.  Understanding that feelings and behaviors are a direct result of the thoughts going through our minds.

The more you speak truth to yourself, the stronger you’ll become in managing the emotional undertows of life.

“Father thank you for the weapons of warfare you’ve given us to battle our adversary.  Teach us to use the Word to cut through the lies the enemy feeds us.”

For His Glory

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

 

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Posted in Faith, Freedom, Hope, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

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