Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 16, 2022

Lavish Grace

“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us.” Ephesians 1:7-8a

Grace is an amazing concept. It’s defined simply as getting what we don’t deserve. And it’s especially astounding in the context of God’s grace toward us. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). We don’t deserve it; we can’t earn it. It’s a free gift for the taking. The Apostle Paul talks a lot in all his epistles about grace—he knows it well, after all. The man was overseeing the murder of Christ-followers, only to have his life turned upside down by the very One he was persecuting, becoming a great evangelist—steadfast through beatings, imprisonment, hunger, and ultimate martyrdom.

His letter to the Ephesians is deep and rich. In fact, we can dive into each verse for hours, relishing in the doctrinal Truths and wading through centuries-old theological debates. But let’s camp out on one sentence from the very first chapter: “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us “ (Ephesians 1:7-8a). Friend, in these 25 words (at least in the NASB it’s 25 words), there is enough encouragement and fodder for joy to lift us out of the darkest slump.

So, let’s unpack a few of these reassuring points from Paul. First, “In Him we have redemption through His blood.” Now, “in Him” is a book-long study in itself, so we’re going to jump to the overall message of this phrase: In Jesus Christ, we are redeemed—He paid the price to ransom us out of the bondage of sin and rescue us from its penalty. His sacrifice was a Great Exchange of His righteousness for our unrighteousness. And when we accept this gift, through faith, and surrender to Him, our sin debt is paid in full. We are redeemed, transformed, a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Next, we have “the forgiveness of our trespasses.” When we confess and repent, God forgives us. It’s really that simple (1 John 1:9). Upon salvation (acceptance of His free gift), all our sins are paid for—all of them. Yesterday’s, today’s, and tomorrow’s. And once forgiven, God does not bring them up again (Isaiah 43:25, Psalm 103:12)—Satan will and you will, but God won’t. And because we are forgiven, we can (and must) forgive others. How can we not after being forgiven of so much ourselves?

Finally, there’s that last marvelous phrase: “…according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us.” God’s grace is not only amazing, it’s extravagant. He lavishes it on us—pours it out without end. We cannot “out-sin” God’s grace (Romans 5:20)! We do not deserve grace…again, that’s inherent to the definition. But He extends it to us—lavishly! Let that sink in. Let this Truth pour over your thirsty soul, refreshing your spirit.

So, when our enemy, the evil one, is hissing all kinds of lies about us in our ears (because he will), and we feel discouraged, let’s throw these 25 words of God in his face. Bask in your identity in Christ—your redemption, your forgiveness, and His lavish grace.

“Lord, Your grace is amazing—a sweet sound to my soul. Let me not get caught up in the world, my sin, or the lies of the enemy and forget the Truth of who I am in Christ.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 15, 2022

At His Table

“How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Psalm 119:103 (ESV)

Cookouts are the best part of summer.  Love gathering with friends around the pool and savoring all the delish food cooked on the grill. Who wouldn’t want to gather at the table to sample all those homemade sides and churned ice cream? Greatest compliment ever is when someone says, “Text me that recipe.”  Bet no one wants to hear, “What store did you get that at?”  Keeping it real here friends – arriving with my store-bought goods when everyone else fills the table with grandma’s famous recipe isn’t my fave thing to do.

When it comes to God’s table – what am I bringing? Do I bring an open mind? Am I stopping in for a brief visit? Am I seeking deep truths or am I settling for a routine? Do I leave others desiring more of Jesus?

It’s easy to slide up to the table, soak in what others are sharing and then move on to the next thing on our list. Not exactly a recipe that serves us well. Failing to go deep, to seek and search out God’s truths positions us to settle for less.

What robs us of the most important relationship in our life? What keeps us from engaging with others as we study and live out critical truths?

Don’t know about you, but often we feel inadequate and uneducated. Past sins or lack of knowledge convince us we don’t deserve a seat. Intimidated, we slink back. Worst yet is we’re so busy – no time in  our schedule, so we glance and grab the easiest scripture marking it off our list.

Regardless, there’s a place for everyone at God’s table. For the one who is weary and tired, you can find rest. For the one who struggles constantly, you can find love and mercy. For the one who has just embarked on their faith journey, He’s been waiting for you to draw close. For the one who is running further and further away, you can find exactly what you need. For the one who’s hungry for more, God will quench their hunger and thirst. For the one whose appetite has settled for less, He will truly satisfy. For the one who has been absent for a long time, His arms are open wide. For the one who feels unworthy, He clothes in righteousness. For the one who thinks they know it all, He illuminates mystery. For the one who’s never met Jesus, there’s always room for one more.

When it comes to God’s table all are welcome. So let’s make sure we come desiring to go deeper. Let’s prepare our heart, mind and soul to receive and be transformed feasting on the truths of His word. Let’s make sure we engage with others sharing truths we would have otherwise missed. Greatest compliment ever is when someone says, “I want the Jesus you know.”

“Father, thank you for inviting us to Your table – to engage with You and grow in our faith as we do life together.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 11, 2022

Seek Truth

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:23

It was early morning, and all was quiet. Reading through the passages of scripture in my one-year reading plan and meditating on God’s Word, I jotted down passages that seemed to jump off the page.

Leviticus seemed reminiscent of our current times, “if you spurn my statutes, and if your soul abhors my rules, so that you will not do all my commandments, but break my covenant, then I will do this to you: I will visit you with panic, with wasting disease and fever that consume the eyes and make the heartache.” (Lev. 26:15-16).

Psalm 33:10-11 proclaims God’s sovereign control: “The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.”

Ecclesiastes 9:3 reminds us that ultimately death comes to everyone, our earthly bodies are all subject to the same fate: “This is an evil in all that is done under the sun, that the same event happens to all.”

Titus 1:1-2 tells us that as servants of Jesus Christ we have the knowledge of the truth and the hope of eternal life. “ Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the sake of the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth, which accords with godliness, in hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began.

Our world is filled with panic and wasting disease right now, isn’t it? How comforting to be reminded of God’s absolute and sovereign control over nations, peoples and disease. His plans stand firm. Yes, we are all subject to death and decay in this broken world, but because of Jesus that is not our ultimate future. We have the knowledge of the truth and the hope of eternal life which God, who never lies, promises to those who put their faith in His Son.

This is truth. In a world filled with faux news, political spinning, half-truths, and fearmongering we have a God who never lies. We have a book that tells a story of his past faithfulness and provides wisdom for today and promises for tomorrow. Reading His Word, it occurred to me that this might be the only truth I read or hear today. So I linger a bit longer taking in the nourishment I need to fight the battle we are all in right now. Charles Stanley says it this way, “Seek understanding from Him about what’s happening in our life. This is why time with the Lord in His Word and prayer is a top priority. That’s where we discover His purposes and come away emotionally settled.”

“Lord, helps us to seek the truth found in your Word so that we can live emotionally settled lives, pointing others to you, in a world that has come undone.”

For His Glory

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 10, 2022

Write It Down

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For His Glory

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

 

 

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Posted in Encouragement, Gratitude, Prayer, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 9, 2022

A Reminder From A Reluctant Prophet

“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

Like smoke from a smoldering campfire, hate seems to be rising to permeate the air. The media message repeats, “division, division, division,” generating an underlying drumbeat to inflame anger where there once was peace. We’re being relentlessly pitted against each other—black versus white, woman versus man, left versus right. The list is seemingly endless today.

Although I stay far from the news, I’m not completely ignorant of what’s going on—especially in my own state. See, while our attention has been focused on the fires (figurative and literal), my governor has been plotting and scheming for fundamental shifts in the landscape of morality and liberty. And, although I usually give a nod of acknowledgment to what’s going on “out there,” and then quickly turn back to God’s Sovereignty and His Truth, I’m finding it harder and harder to do so.

I’m feeling upset and angry—dare I say it: hateful.

But, as I sat down this morning to read the Bible, Jonah’s saga read me. As usual, God’s Word is active, sharp, and heart-judging (Hebrews 4:12). See, the Ninevites were brutal—torturing and murdering Jonah’s people in unimaginable ways. And Jonah wanted God to take them out—not redeem them.

Much like Jonah’s aggravation at God’s desire to deliver Israel’s merciless enemy, I had to reflect on how obstinate I’m being about my own antagonist. This wild adventure of a reluctant prophet piercingly reminds me of a few key Truths:

  1. I was once an enemy of God.
  2. God was patient with me (for 30 years), extending mercy, grace, and forgiveness for my salvation.
  3. He’s still patient with me and still extends mercy, grace, and forgiveness every day—because I sin and fail Him. Every. Single. Day.

And these Truths beg one big question: How dare I think that God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness stop at me and “my people” (whatever that means)?

God’s lesson to Jonah reminds me (again) that instead of anger toward my perceived enemies, I need to pray for them. (And that means praying for them to turn to the Lord—not for the Lord to turn on them!) I need to stand firm on God’s Word, speaking Truth in love, despite how counter-cultural (or counter-state-law) it may be.

I was once lost, now I’m found. “They” (pick your “they” here) are no different. Thanks for the reminder, Jonah.

“Lord, remind me daily to replace anger with prayer, division with peace, fear with love.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 4, 2022

When Comparisons Steal Life’s Gifts

“Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.” (Galatians 6:4 NLT)

Where did this all begin? Comparisons. We compare our looks, and when that fails, our intelligence, our position, our influence, our wealth or lack thereof, our age, our skin color and even our marital status. Is there anything we won’t compare in an attempt to measure up, matter more and feel content with our constant efforts to achieve? We know it’s wrong, but just as we overcome one area of insecurity another pops up to remind us of our sinful condition exemplified in one of the earliest sins committed; Cain’s comparison that eventually led to Abel’s murder. Perhaps this is why God despises comparison so.

Miriam arrives on the scene in 1 Chronicles 6:1, “The children of Amram were Aaron, Moses, and Miriam.” That’s some family lineage. Exodus 15 describes her as a prophetess and worship leader. Miriam led the celebratory procession following the Red Sea waters that separated Israel from its captivity. She was a leader within the Israelite community, gifted and well respected. And you did note that she was a woman! Even with her advanced position, she compared what God had allowed Moses to do with her own situation. God summoned. Seven days of leprosy, and of even greater consequence, temporarily ushered outside of God’s presence. The next mention of Miriam is five chapters later at her passing.

God has given us amazing gifts, custom-designed for each of us, to be used for His glory. He longs to see His gifts used in the manner intended. Not for us to masquerade as someone we’re not, not for us to bury as though they don’t exist, or to distort and become what isn’t intended. When I am focused on what another has been given, I tend to not take care of the gifts I have been given. My place and potential are overlooked and underdeveloped. I fail to enjoy the gifts given to me and fail to acknowledge and appreciate the provisions of God, His supremacy and care. God is in complete control of my life, and He knows precisely what I need, who I need and where I need to be in order to most effectively glorify Him and serve His people.

“Father, may I enter Your throne room, accessible only through the blood of Jesus. May I repent for my fleshly fearful focus and allow You to transform my gaze to Your generous gifts crafted just for me, knowing that You and they are fully enough. May this please and glorify You, my Creator.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Hope, Spiritual Growth

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | August 2, 2022

Praiseworthy Facts

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless and with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” Jude 24-25

This beautiful doxology (declaration of praise) from Jude’s letter is packed with awesome Truth—qualities of our amazing God, realities about our salvation, and certainties regarding creation. And, as is true about all of God’s Word, these two little verses could be studied for weeks on end, each phrase unveiling deeper understanding and bringing us closer to the Lord.

But let’s do a flyover, of sorts, to glean some insight and be encouraged. Every concept in these verses can send on us a spirit-filling scavenger hunt, of sorts, so hopefully you’ll be navigating around your Bible while you read. [Side note: Whenever you read a Christian blog, hear a podcast, or watch a sermon, I hope you are holding up those messaging against the plumbline of God’s Word. As the rest of Jude’s letter warns, there are a LOT of heretics and false teachers out there, so we must be diligent about testing what we hear—and not just go with what tickles our ears (2 Timothy 4:3).]

First, and foremost, He is able. God is omnipotent—all-powerful. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, we are reminded about the Lord’s power and ability. Nothing is too difficult for the Lord (Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:27; Ephesians 3:20), and, with Him, all things are possible (Job 42:2; Matthew 19:26; Luke 1:37).

God is able to do anything, but what is Jude talking about specifically here? Point 1: God’s ability to keep us from stumbling. As we walk through this world—in it but not of it—it’s easy to trip over the cultural trends, false teachers, and lies of the enemy. But through prayer, the study of God’s Word, and the Holy Spirit’s guidance, God can keep us walking steadily.

Point 2: God’s ability to make us stand in the presence of God, blameless and with great joy. This is truly astounding. Friend, we are all sinners—no one is righteous. But when we accept the gift of salvation, the Great Exchange, we trade our unrighteousness for the righteousness of Jesus. He paid the penalty for our sin, taking on the shame and wrath we deserved, so when God looks at us, we’re forgiven, faultless, blameless. And there is immense joy in this Truth. (The joy of our salvation is another blog altogether, but I highly recommend a Bible search on this!)

Jude then goes on to praise God by calling out several of His attributes: glory, majesty, dominion, and authority. Again, what a deep dive we could do! But suffice it to say, God is great—He is the greatest. He created everything, owns everything, and has control and authority over everything. And everyone. And we must submit to Him and His Word—that’s why He gave us His Word, so we’d know Him and His will for our lives. And understand who’s in control.

Finally, we see the mic drop: the eternality of God. “In the beginning, God…” (Genesis 1:1). He is the Alpha and Omega—first and last (Revelation 1:8). God has always been, is now, and forever will be. And, friend, you can bask in his glory forever. Just turn to Jesus and accept His amazing grace.

“Lord, You are great and awesome—nothing and no one else is worthy of our praise. I am thankful to rest in this Truth, knowing You are in control…and You win.”

 

For His Glory

 

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Gratitude, Hope, Spiritual Living

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | July 29, 2022

Caught Up In A Web of Deceit

“Then the Lord said to him (Jacob), Go back to the land of your fathers and to your family, and I will be with you.” Genesis 31:3 (HCSB)

Twenty years seems like a really long time to be away from home. Jacob’s deception had sent him on the run from his brother, Esau. (Genesis 27). His father-in-law, Laban’s deception had kept him bound to work for him. (Genesis 29). False never serves us well. Perhaps Jacob’s eyes were finally opened to the deceptive web his life had borne.

Despite his unjust treatment by Laban, Jacob worked hard for 20 years. Despite changing his wages, Jacob worked hard for 20 years. But now his desire was to leave, go home and take care of his family. After several attempts to move on, God paves the way saying, “Go back to the land of your fathers and to your family, and I will be with you.”

Don’t know about you but sometimes in the heat of the battle, we wonder if God sees. When injustices reign high and we know we’re giving our all discouragement settles in. False surrounds us and we’re doing all we can do to hold on to truth despite the circumstances. We look all around us and attempt to run, but God allows us to stay in the midst of it all until He says, “Go.”

Welcomed words, I’m sure for Jacob. To hear God’s release and know that He had seen it all. To realize freedom was just steps away and the chains had been loosed. To not wonder if God would continue to bless him once he left; the sweetness of God’s reassuring presence for the journey home echoing in his ears.

A stolen blessing had sent Jacob fleeing for his life and tore apart his family. A blessing given would follow Jacob back home and restore his relationship with Esau. Beyond his imagination – more than he could have ever conceived. What deception sought to destroy, God rebuilt and used for His ultimate glory.

Sweet friend, don’t think for a moment that God doesn’t see or isn’t fully aware of all that’s touching our lives. His memory is never short. He knows our heart – the ache, pain and misery birthed in the pit of deception. Hold on tight, do the right thing even if it’s hard and you will find He is the great rewarder of those who place their trust and faith in Him alone.

“Father we’ve ridden both sides of this journey deceived and deceiver. Missing out because false leads us in the wrong direction. Help us to stay close to You so truth will cover everything we do.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

 

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Posted in Faith, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Living, Wisdom

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | July 26, 2022

Known

“Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I get up; You understand my thought from far away. You scrutinize my path and my lying down,  And are acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, Lord, You know it all. You have encircled me behind and in front, And placed Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high; I cannot comprehend it.”  Psalm 139:1-6

Do you ever feel unknown? Not in the “I wish I was famous” sort of way. Or even the “I need 1000 likes” in the pursuit of social media notoriety (or infamy, as in today’s culture). I mean those days (weeks, months, years) that, despite your friendships, co-workers, church community—even the family members living in your house—you just feel alone. It’s like no one cares about you, no one wonders how you are doing. You go about your busy (perhaps frenetic) day, interacting with people, but there’s an odd sense of disconnectedness…a feeling that no one knows you.

We could talk for pages about the psychology behind this phenomenon. Or unpeel emotional baggage to uncover points of historical trauma that could lead to these intense feelings of loneliness despite not really being alone. But let’s not.

Instead, let’s jump right to a reality, shall we? The deep truth is that this detachment, loneliness, and “unknownness” is a ploy of the enemy. The devil, tempter, ruler of this world, the accuser—Satan—loves it when we experience this! Just like the prowling lion to which he is often compared, he wants us isolated so he can attack. You’ve seen those nature shows, where that lone antelope falls behind the pack, the perfect prey to be devoured by the crouching lion. That’s exactly what this is like.

But it’s a lie.

You see, friend, you (and I) are never alone—and we are not unknown. Our Sovereign, omniscient, omnipresent God knows you. He created you in your mother’s womb, knitting every precious part together (Psalm 139:15-16). He is always with you and will never leave you or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5). He knows you when you sit and when you stand. He knows your thoughts and your words—even before they’re spoken. His hand is upon you, and it’s impossible to grasp how high His thoughts are above ours. When it seems you’re surrounded by darkness, to Him everything’s in the light. We cannot run from His presence—even when we want to have a “nobody loves me” pity party. He is always there (Psalms 139:1-12).

Isn’t that comforting? When we feel like no one sees a hurt, recognizes a wrong against us, or acknowledges an accomplishment, we can rest in the fact that Someone does. Not only does He know, He cares—and He loves us with a deeper and greater love than we could ever comprehend. So, if you’re feeling unknown today, just read God’s Word to discover the Truth and dispel the lies of your great adversary. And if you don’t know where to begin, just open to Psalm 139. And know that you are known.

“Lord, I am grateful that You know me. I never need to feel alone or unloved, because Your love wraps around me.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope

Posted by: trbccoffeebreak | July 25, 2022

Resting In His Everlasting Peace

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13 (ESV)

Two alarm beeps and I’m jumping out of bed – the proverbial late start. Sleeping in just a little never felt better until it lands you scrambling to get to work on time. Attempting to recoup those lost moments snoozing just simply doesn’t happen even though we give it our best shot.

Sound like your morning? Absolutely defines mine this past week. While I was rushing to shower, my sweet husband was in the kitchen fixing my breakfast. Did I happen to mention that patience goes out the door when rushing overwhelms? Attempting to find out how I wanted my breakfast cooked, my husband’s voice was drowned out by the shower. Hearing a continuous dialogue I couldn’t understand resulted in sharp, words shooting from my lips, “What do you want?” Wow, not exactly a peaceful start to an already crazy morning.

Perhaps you’ve been there too when rushing and impatience result in unwanted drama. No one wants to start their day in chaos. We’d much rather drift into our morning with a sweet calm and our fave java brew. But let’s keep it real here – we all know transitioning from blissful sleep into our day isn’t always smooth.

Reality is peacelessness isn’t regulated to mornings. We buy into a lot of drama throughout our day. Ever found yourself caught in the web of some gossip drama in your tribe? Maybe it was more like the crazy dynamics between you and a co-worker or family member that sent you over the edge. Could it simply be those rambling thoughts coursing through your mind taking you down paths you never dreamed yet feared? Peace flees in the presence of never-ending what ifs.

We all have landed in moments when peace evades us as we fight off anxiousness, worry and lack of control. Lasting peace can’t be regulated by our world swirling around us. Zeroing in on our life instead of God guarantees our lack of His peace (Isaiah 26:3). Peace robbers will always be present on this earth. Why? Because we live in a fallen world. We are all “imperfect” humans who often mess up and life doesn’t always look pretty.

Throughout scripture peace is commonly referenced as a relationship of loyalty and love with God and others; it is not circumstantial. When we obey God’s word, He makes even our enemies to be at peace with us (Proverbs 16:7). When we truly love others then we can be an agent of change who transforms chaotic, supercharged moments into calm resolutions. When our peace is firmly anchored in God, we can navigate life unafraid and confident He is in control. Isaiah predicted that the Messiah would be called “Prince of Peace” because only He could achieve lasting peace (Isaiah 9:6). Our souls can find rest in Him as we release anxiousness, worry and minimize drama.

Sweet friends, we don’t have to accept peacelessness as our default. Thankful for the reassuring presence of our God whose Spirit lives within us and enables us to walk in daily peace with ourselves and one another.

“Father, You are our everlasting peace. In You alone, we can take heart because You have overcome this world; we have no reason to fear.”

 

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

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Posted in Attitude, Encouragement, Faith, Hope

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