Trisston's Tidbits

Develop a Mentality of Restoration

2012-02-26T19:30:26Z

God wants you to live a fulfilling and satisfied life. That’s right! He has promised to restore all the things that the enemy has stolen.

“I will restore the years that the locust has eaten and I will bring you out with plenty and you shall be satisfied” Joel 2:25-26

However, just because God gives this great promise, does not mean that it will automatically come to pass in your life. You have to do your part. You have to develop a mentality of restoration. Expect things to change in your favor. Have a positive attitude, strong motivation, and healthy determination. Do everything you can to recover what the enemy has stolen.

I once heard a wise person say “Obstacles are simply opportunities for advancement”. Speaking as someone who has had my share of obstacles and challenges, I certainly believe this to be true.

It is really in how you chose to look at life or any situation, for that matter. You can either have a pessimist attitude, which means having a negative way of thinking. Or you can have an optimist attitude, which means having a positive way of thinking. The choice is up to you! And, if you allow Him to, God will greatly bless you and take you to places you never dreamed possible.

“The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” Psalm 28:7

Many Blessings!

Show Love for Someone Special

2012-02-26T19:29:05Z

It’s that time of year again; you know - red hearts, pink roses, balloons, cards candy, and animals that sing songs of love. Stores shelves are stocked with flowers, hearts, candy and more. Retailers began the day after New Year's to get ready for Valentine’s Day. Do you know that more roses are sold on that day than any other day in the year? All over the world, it is the day that people show their love for someone special.

God tells us in His Word how much He loves us. He promises never to leave or forsake us, to answer us when we call day or night. He never slumbers nor sleeps. We need to tell Him how much we love Him every day as well.

Flowers will die. Candy gets eaten. Balloons will pop. Stuffed animals may stop singing. Cards may get lost or thrown away, but the love that is shared with one another, and God’s love for us, will never pass away.

Isaiah 54:10 tells us, “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, says the LORD, who has compassion on you.”

This year, before and after Valentine’s Day, find little ways to show some acts of kindness to those you love. “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” Hebrews 10:24

Happy Valentine’s Day and Many Blessings!

Live in Victory

2012-02-26T19:28:06Z

Happy New Year! God has commanded victory to be yours this year! And when God commands something, it is going to happen! When God commanded light to come, light came at 186,000 miles per second – and light is still coming!

God has commanded that we live in victory. That means no matter what you are going through, no matter how dark it looks, you can be encouraged that the darkness has to give way to the light. Defeat has to give way to Victory!

In order to open that door to victory, we must continually do what the psalmist did and constantly praise His name. “But you will give us victory over our enemies…and we will praise your name forever” Psalm 44:7-8.

Instead of talking about your problems, talk about your God! Instead of speaking words of defeat and failure, speak word of faith and victory! Instead of telling God how big your mountain is, tell the mountain how big your God is! Start praising and thanking God, and expect things to change in your favor.

This year, God will take you places you have never even dreamed of and you will start experiencing the victories the He has commanded to be yours! Have a fabulous 2012!!

Many Blessings!

Jesus Is The Reason For The Season

2012-02-26T19:27:00Z

For many people, Christmas is a time of sorrow. They don't have the extra money to buy presents for their children, family, and friends. Many are saddened at Christmastime when they think of their loved ones who will not be able to come home for various reasons.

Yet, Christmas can be a season of great joy. It is a time of God showing His great love for us. It can be a time of healing and renewed strength. You see, Christmas should not be just about giving and receiving presents. Christmas is about celebrating the birth of the Christ child. God sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to be born. His birth brought great joy to the world.

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11

Jesus was born so one day the price could be paid for the things we have done that are wrong. The Bible says that all have sinned. We are all born with a sin nature. We do things that do not please God. Through the sins of Adam and Eve, we have all inherited that sin nature. We need to have that removed. The only way is through Jesus. Jesus came so He could die on the cross for ALL of our sins. If we believe that Jesus died for our sins, we can ask Him to come into our hearts and forgive us. Then, we are clean and made whole. We can know that heaven is a place where we can go to when this life is over.

"But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong." I John 1:9

Look at Christmas in a new way this year. This is the year to invite Jesus into your heart. You will then have a "Merry Christmas." The joy and peace you will receive will last all year as you look to God for all your needs to be met.

Jesus Is The Reason For The Season! Rejoice!

Many Blessings!!

Be Thankful

2012-02-26T19:24:23Z

Our forefathers’ desire to have a special day of thanksgiving is indeed a wonderful thing. While they were poor in many respects, they were rich in thankfulness. We are blessed to be descendants of such strong, grateful people. We are the privileged children of a glorious heritage.

I have heard it said “It is not what a person gets that makes him/her truly great --- it is what he/she is thankful for that is the true sign of greatness.” This shows the nobler side of a person’s soul.

The words “thank you” are justly due for favors and blessings bestowed. The person who does not feel the need to say thank you for the blessings he/she receives in life is really unworthy to receive more. Even a dog will wag his tail at the person who gives him a treat.

Indeed, our degree of happiness depends much upon the depth of our gratitude. Have you ever noticed that a grateful mind is a joyful mind?

Ephesians 5:20 reminds us, ”Give thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

So, this Thanksgiving…if life is sweet, then give thanks; if life is bitter, then give thanks – that you still have life, which gives you another chance to make it better.

No matter where you are in life, remember to give thanks on this Thanksgiving Day and every day for the many blessings in your life…“And be thankful” Colossians 3:15.

Many Blessings!

Honorable Sweat

2012-02-26T19:22:25Z

I recently heard a story about a young man who went into a business in L.A. and applied for a job. However, he really only wanted the position and not the actual job. The owner said, “I’m sorry buddy, but I don’t have enough work to keep another fellow busy.” To which the applicant replied, “I’m sure you have. You don’t know what little work it takes to keep me busy.”

It is attitudes like this that cause “down and out” positions. The contrary is true as well. History is full of example after example of men and women who, which a positive and energetic attitude, have started out working the lowliest of jobs and worked their way up the ladder. Each of their success was no accident. No, indeed! It was the product of sound thinking and honorable sweat.

Genesis 3:19 reminds us, “In the sweat of your face shall you eat bread, until you return to the ground; for out of it you came: for you were dust and to dust you will return.”

The world is filled with wonderful opportunities. The next time an opportunity comes your way try thinking about it this way….There is a “handle” on every opportunity and that “handle” is to work. There is no way to grab the opportunity unless you take hold of the handle. So, grab hold to it and see what amazing things God has in store for you!

Many Blessings!

Let Us Never Forget

2012-02-26T19:16:43Z

Anniversaries mark significant events in our lives. Anniversaries can be joyous occasions when we celebrate birthdays, weddings, job hiring, etc., but not all anniversaries bring us joy. Anniversaries can also be somber times when they mark events in our lives that have been particularly painful such as a death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a national tragedy.

It has been ten years since the unforgettable attacks on September 11, 2001. We all remember where we were when we learned of the events as they unfolded. Four planes were hijacked by terrorists and used as weapons against the American people. As a result, approximately 3,000 people lost their lives, countless numbers of people lost their loved ones, and a nation lost its sense of security. We will never know the number of people that have been affected directly or indirectly by these attacks. This anniversary has a permanent place in our collective memory

Psalm 27 speaks to an occasion such as this. The psalm opens with these words, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

Although the psalmist knew nothing about the September 11 attacks, the psalmist had his own share of trials and tribulations. Even as the psalmist is under attack, he puts his faith in the Lord. Rather than blaming God for the terrible things he experiences, he looks to God for safety and security. After countless pleas for God to "be gracious and answer," the psalmist ends the psalm by saying he will, "wait for the Lord."

September the 11^th is a date that none of us will ever forget. It was a day that reshaped America and all of our lives forever. Since that tragic day in 2001, many of our Nation’s men and women have fought to insure that a September 11^th never happens to us again. To all of these brave men and women I would like to express a heartfelt thank you for serving our country and fighting to secure the American way of life. And to their families I say thank you for the sacrifices you have made. I am sure the stress of a separation from a love one is difficult and the worry about their safety is always present….but, know that God is watching over them.

On this, the ten year anniversary of September 11^th, let us never forget.

Many Blessings!

“You are Approved!”

2011-08-15T01:20:05Z

You are approved by God! Isn’t that awesome!? You were created in His image and you are the apple of His eye. You did not choose God, but chose you and He is pleased with you …His most precious creation.

“Before you were ever formed in your mother’s womb, I saw you and approved you.” Jeremiah 1:5

Notice the verse does not say that God approved you as long as you do not have any faults or as long as you do not make any mistakes. God approves you unconditionally. No matter how many times you fall, you have got to get right back up again and hold you head up high. Do not allow the enemy to deceive you into thinking that you are not good enough. Instead, stand strong in your thoughts about yourself knowing that not only have you been chosen, but you are approved by our Almighty God!

Many Blessings!

“Freedom is a Choice”

2011-08-15T01:19:09Z

In America, every year July 4th brings with it festivities, fun, food, family and friends, and fireworks—all as a celebration of national freedom. But even with all the celebrating and fun, many Americans are still caught in the web of bondage on a mental, emotional, relational, financial, vocational or spiritual level. Most often, we ourselves create the chains that bind us by making poor or sinful choices.

“Choose you this day whom ye will serve…as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15

The longer I live, the more convinced I am that life is a series of choices, each choice has a consequence, and we must live with the consequences of our choices. In order to have true freedom in your life, then, you must make wise choices.

Will you choose good over evil (Psalm 34:14; Romans 12:21)? Obedience over rebellion (Proverbs 10:8; Hebrews 13:17)? Truth over deceit (Colossians 3:9; Proverbs 12:22)? Kindness over dishonor (Ephesians 4:32; Proverbs 14:2)? Every day you make hundreds of choices and these form the basis for your lifestyle.

Seek God’s wisdom in all of your decisions, not the wisdom of the world, the flesh or the devil (James 3:17). Take the sometimes difficult step of saying, “I’ll do it God’s way!” even though it may mean avoiding the easy road. In the long run, the freedom that comes with making godly choices is definitely something to celebrate!

Many Blessings!

“Have a Wonderful Day!”

2011-08-15T01:18:13Z

I recently received this story in an email from a friend and laughed so hard I had to share it with you…

“There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and saw that she had only three hairs on her head. “Great,” she said, “I think I’ll braid my hair today.” So she did, and had a wonderful day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. “Hmm,” she said, “I guess I’ll part my hair down the middle.” So she did, and had a wonderful day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only one hair left on her head. “Wow,” she said, “today I get to wear my hair in a pony tail.” So she did, and had a wonderful, wonderful day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that there wasn’t a single hair on her head. “Thank God!” she exclaimed. “I was running out of things to do with my hair!””

ATTITUDE is everything! Psalms 34:1 reminds us, “I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Let’s be grateful for the things God has given us and have a wonderful day!

Many Blessings!

“Happy Wedding Anniversary”

2011-08-15T01:16:24Z

Reruns can be dull, boring, uneventful re-hashing of the same ole stuff you’ve seen a hundred times before…but I’ve got a re-run to recommend to you that, when God’s the producer, will make your day! Well, it makes MY DAY – every May 24 – when my husband, Brian, and I celebrate our wedding anniversary. One of our traditions is to watch and listen to the DVD of our wedding photos and music. I must admit…surprisingly, I did not cry on our wedding day; however, each year when Brian and watch our wedding DVD, I tear up.

You see, when God brings two people together for a lifetime, it is truly a blessing! Some may even call it a miracle. It will get off-the-chart ratings of the bride and the groom, and the crowd of friends and well-wishers who watch!

The Lord who put it together knows how to keep it together…He’s the real “Someone” who makes it happen and this month, we’d like you to celebrate His goodness with us–as we pray for you and God’s love, joy, and peace in YOUR life and marriage too. Someone “up there” cares about us all–single, married, wish-to-be, or widowed. We–and lots of you–are proof that the Adam-and-Eve “leave-and-cleave” stuff still works! And so–find yourself a seat with us on the sofa, share your popcorn–and we will rerun it again–with love, laughter, a few tears–and a LOT of gratitude to the Producer who makes it all happen!

So, go find someone to hug and share your joy with! After all, 1 Corinthians 13:13 reminds us, “And now faith, hope, and love abide, but the greatest of these is love.”

Happy Anniversary, my sweetheart! I love you!!

Many blessings to you all!

To view photos and read more about Brian and I, please visit www.brianandtrisston.com . Enjoy!

“The Gift of Joy”

2011-08-15T01:13:45Z

As Easter approaches, I find myself thinking about the death and resurrection of Jesus. The purpose of his life was to offer himself as a sacrifice for the sins of mankind. The Bible says that Jesus became sin for us so that we could be forgiven and found righteous in God’s sight (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus was so certain of his purpose that he predicted when and how he would die (Matthew 26:2).

As believers and followers of Jesus, what is our purpose?

Some would answer that it is to love God while others might say that it is to serve him. Still others say that man’s chief purpose is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. While considering these ideas, Hebrews 12:2 came to mind: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Jesus looked beyond the suffering, shame, and death he knew was to come and focused on the joy that would be. Jesus anticipated the joy that would happen when each person would repent and be saved. He also looked forward to the joy that would result from each good work done by believers in obedience and motivated by love.

What a wonderful God we have who honors sinners like us by giving us the ability to give him pleasure! He rejoices and experiences joy as we respond to him in repentance, love, and good works that bring him glory!

Happy Easter!

Many Blessings!

“Plan to Succeed”

2011-08-15T01:12:03Z

Whether you are facing a day of running errands or scheduling a big trip, it is always a good idea to make a plan. The same is true when thinking about your future and God’s purpose for your life.

“Comment to the Lord whatever you do and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3

Wake up each day knowing where you are headed, which direction you are taking, and what you are going to accomplish…..and then, stick to it! And when life’s distractions arise (and you know they will), ask yourself, “Is what I am doing moving me towards my purpose in life, or am I wasting time being busy and not really making any progress?”

Proverbs 4:25 reminds us, “Keep your eyes fixed straight ahead. Don’t look to the left and don’t look to the right.”

Don’t be distracted and spend your time and energy on things that are not helping you fulfill your purpose. Remember, God’s plans are blessed and as you walk in His plan for your life you will experience His abundance.

Many Blessings!

“You Are Loved!”

2011-08-15T01:09:47Z

“The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love." Jeremiah 31:3

Valentine's Day is a day for lovers. Did you know that Jesus is the lover of your soul? He is. You, as part of the church, are His bride…His chosen one.

Our Lord loves us with an infinite love, an everlasting love, and an indescribable love.

Are you without a valentine? Take heart…His heart. He has set His affection on you. Jesus has purchased you, not with silver or gold as a bridegroom would have in Jesus' day, but our Lord has purchased you with the silver of His tears and with the gold of His blood.

You are loved!

Every time you get a Valentine, see an advertisement for Valentine's Day, or hear someone say "Happy Valentine's Day," remember that Jesus is the Lover of your Soul.

As my Mother would say, “Jesus loves you and so do I!”

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Many Blessings!

A Vision of Victory

2011-01-10T15:06:00Z

“Behold I am doing a new thing. Can you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19)

Do you have a vision of victory for your life for the New Year? Are you living each day filled with faith and expectancy? The Bible verse above says that God is going to do a new thing some day. He does not say maybe next week, next month, or next year. God said, “I am doing something new in your life right now! Can you not perceive it?” God wants to do something new in your life this year, this month, this week, TODAY!

Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, “My plans for you are good and not evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Regardless of what may have happened in your past, God’s plans for you are good. His plans will always be for your good. God can take your tragedy and turn it into triumph!

This year, let go of the past and seek God’s plan and develop that vision of victory for your life.

Happy New Year!

Many Blessings!