December 31 ~ 2 Chronicles 6:30
You know what is in everyone's heart. So from your home in heaven answer their prayers, according to what they do and what is in their hearts.
Colossians 3:1 and 16
You have been raised to life with Christ. Now set your heart on what is in heaven, where Christ rules at God's right side.
Let the message about Christ completely fill your lives, while you use all your wisdom to teach and instruct each other. With thankful hearts, sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Everywhere we look this week, people are talking about the things that happened in 2009 and looking ahead to 2010. We are making resolutions, remembering births and deaths throughout the year, listing the best/worst of everything from movies to weather events. And some of this activity is fun and harmless – and maybe even healthy. Reflecting is not a bad idea… nor is planning for the future.
But as we think about “the year that was” today and look ahead to a new, fresh start, let’s remember to consider our heart. We should all stop to evaluate how we did “Spiritually” in the last year and see where we need to improve. We should spend some time reflecting on our relationship with God – the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and noting what we “resolve” to do better as we move forward. Thank God for getting you this far. Ask Him to give you wisdom, courage, strength, and focus to accomplish much more for Him in the coming year. Know that He will look at your heart and see what is there… where your motives are pure and your faith is strong and genuine – and He will answer you according to His perfect will!
Happy New Year – may God bless you! Make this the year that the message of Christ completely fills your life and captures your heart. Make heaven your goal and Christ your guide, and 2010 will be an amazing year!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 30 ~ 1 John 2:28
[ Children of God ] Children, stay one in your hearts with Christ. Then when he returns, we will have confidence and won't have to hide in shame.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I won’t name any names, but I know of more than one instance where siblings were being rambunctious, and something “bad” happened – a prized dish or piece of furniture was broken, or someone was injured. The responsible sibling felt so guilty and ashamed – and fearful of retribution – that he/she packed a bag and ran away – or hid! Somehow in the child’s mind, if he/she could just get away, the parent would have mercy. Perhaps they would feel so bad that the child was that upset - and the infraction would be forgotten, along with any punishment.
Most likely, the parent(s) admonished the child and reminded him/her that this is what happens when we are disobedient and act inappropriately. Punishment may/may not have followed. When we move away from the rules established by our parents, the outcome of our actions is, at best, often uncertain!
Unlike the transgressions of our childhood, moving away from a oneness with Christ has far more serious consequences. I don’t know about you, but I am not willing to risk Jesus’ return and the words… “What happened? What do you have to say for yourself?” I don’t want to have to even consider running away and hiding in shame (as if that would work anyway)! I want to stay close to Jesus… to hold Him near to my heart and to listen to Him at every turn. I want to live in confidence, not fear. Don’t you? Living with Jesus is not child’s play… we can’t toy with His love and grace and expect Him to coddle us like little children. It’s time to grow up… and to enjoy the grown-up benefits of a life in Christ. We will always be His “children” – but that doesn’t mean we can act like a child in our faith. Stay one in your heart with Christ and live confidently as His “child” until you meet Him face-to-face.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 29 ~ 1 John 2:27
But Christ has blessed you with the Holy Spirit. Now the Spirit stays in you, and you don't need any teachers. The Spirit is truthful and teaches you everything. So stay one in your heart with Christ, just as the Spirit has taught you to do.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
The last time I was at the salon getting my hair done, the hairdressers were discussing permanent eyeliner and lip liner. Most women who have had this procedure find it to be a real blessing and time saver. They are always “presentable” and don’t have to spend as much time getting dressed each morning. These permanent “tattoos” never go away!
If you think about it, the Holy Spirit has been sort of “tattoed” on our hearts. He is there forever and never leaves us. We are always prepared and “presentable.” This is the “tattoo” for me! What about you? Have you invited the Holy Spirit to write permanently on your heart? Is He teaching you everything you need to know? If you have not invited the Holy Spirit to live within your heart yet, today is a great day to do so! Ask Him to show you the truth and to teach you every day… to keep you close at hand and one with Christ. Make this one “tattoo” you are certain to get and can’t live without!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 28 ~ 1 John 2:4
But if we claim to know him and don't obey him, we are lying and the truth isn't in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever heard the saying, “Do as I say, not as I do”? I assure you, it’s not in the Bible! Jesus didn’t tell us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength – and to love others as we love ourselves – with the expectation that we would do something else!
When I taught kindergarten, I had three classroom rules… 1) be kind to others; 2) work and play quietly, and 3) respect the property of others. That pretty well covered everything. Have an argument with your table mate? You probably weren’t being kind to others. Raise your voice? That wasn’t working quietly. Take something that wasn’t yours – or misuse something in the classroom – that was disrespectful to the property. The children knew that there were distinct consequences for breaking these rules… and they also knew that there was no such thing as a gray area. We all knew that when a rule was broken, certain things would happen… first offense - a warning; two offenses - “time out;” three offenses - missed recess; four offenses I placed a call to their parents! It sounds almost too simple, but in several years I only got to the third consequence a few times – and maybe two or three phone calls were made.
There are consequences for Christians, too, and we can’t possibly be so dumb as to think God doesn’t know when we disobey Him. We can’t have it both ways, but somehow, unlike my five-year-olds, we seem a little more eager to test God and see what happens than they were! What does this say about us and our faith? Either we are Christians to the core and have the truth of Jesus Christ in our hearts, or we are lying and don’t really know Him. Which is it with you?
I pray that you will see that the only way to truly be a disciple of Christ is to follow Him with your whole heart. Any claim to be a Christian while acting otherwise is mere lip service. Not only is this disobedience heartbreaking and disrespectful to God, but it might mean you have not sincerely committed your life to Christ… and that could have Eternal consequences. Give yourself wholly to God. Serve Him not only with your voice… but with your whole heart and all of your actions. Live with truth in your heart and make your claims to know Him the whole truth. And while you are at it, be kind to others, work and play quietly, and respect the property of others.
2009 Debbie Robus
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December 27 ~ 1 John 1:8
If we say that we have not sinned, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth isn't in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever felt a sore throat coming on, but you said to yourself, “I’m not sick. I’m not sick.” You tried to pretend that you were not getting a cold or the flu, but ultimately, you had to admit that yes – you were SICK! You were fooling yourself… and avoiding the truth! Maybe you had something important or fun you wanted to do and you didn’t want to be sick and miss it… or maybe you just didn’t want to be sick, period! Whatever the reason, you couldn’t admit the truth to yourself or anyone else.
Sin is much more serious than a sore throat or a few days of cold or flu. The “disease” often manifests itself more subtly than these “bugs.” We don’t realize how sins – especially those we deny – are affecting our lives… or the lives of others. And we surely don’t see how these sins affect our heart. If we live with untruth in our heart and fail to acknowledge that we have sinned, very little will go right for us in life. We will be living a lie… and Satan loves that! He will make you think that everything is great… that life is wonderful… that you have no worries. But He will be drawing you farther and farther from the truth – and from God.
Don’t let this happen. Admit that you have sins… confess them to God and ask Him to forgive you. Invite God to fill your heart with His truth and to wash you clean in the blood of Jesus. Live a life that is open and honest… with nothing to hide – to yourself or anyone else. There are medications that can help you with a cold or flu. God – The Great Physician – can cure you of your sins. What are you waiting for… don’t you want to be well?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 26 ~ 1 Peter 3:4
Be beautiful in your heart by being gentle and quiet. This kind of beauty will last, and God considers it very special.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Late in the afternoon on December 23rd, cousins called my mother to tell her that her beloved Aunt Zula Turney… the last remaing sibling of Mom’s father… was at the local ER, and she was in bad shape. Aunt Zula had been ill for some time now with congestive heart failure, breathing difficulties, and degenerative disks in her back. The doctors said her spine was like tissue paper. She was in terrible pain. Mom rushed to the ER to see Aunt Zula. Even though she wore an oxygen mask and was struggling to breathe, she tried to talk. She asked about my grandmother. Mom joked that at least her ambulance driver was handsome, and Aunt Zula laughed.
The doctors said nothing could be done… at age 91, Aunt Zula’s body was shutting down. A call was made to Hospice, and a hospital bed was placed in Aunt Zula’s home in Quitman, where she returned. The doctors said she could live hours or days. I think she barely made it home before she left this earth and went to heaven.If this scripture passage describes anyone, it describes my Aunt Zula. She was the mother of four children, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. As a fourth grade teacher in Quitman for decades, she was “mother” to hundreds more. Many of Aunt Zula’s grandchildren attended Harding University, so she became “grandmother” to countless students there who filled her home on weekends – some even after her own grandchildren had graduated and moved out into the working world.
Christmas Eve, Mom said, “I don’t recall a time when Aunt Zula ever gave me advice or admonished me… she just lived by example.” One of Aunt Zula’s children contracted polio as a child, and she diligently worked with him on physical therapies so that he would not be crippled for life. She and her husband reared four children with only a pickup truck for transportation for many years. She worked hard to care for her family and earn her college degree, juggling the challenges of both in the forties and fifties without many of the modern conveniences we enjoy today. I almost never heard her complain.
Last year my mom wrote Truly Zula… Daughter of the Ozarks, and while I’m sure Aunt Zula was proud, she also seemed a little embarrassed that anyone would consider her life extraordinary and book-worthy. But I am quite certain that God considered her very special. The gentle beauty and spirit – the quiet peace of this little white-haired dynamo – did not go unnoticed.
My mom says Aunt Zula was her hero. I’m sure others will say the same thing. For me, Aunt Zula was a living example of 1 Peter 3:4, and an inspiration. I can’t say I have always lived quietly and gently as she did, but I can surely try to emulate her more in the coming years. And while we will all miss her, I find it truly fitting that God blessed her with such an incredible Christmas gift… a place at the feet of Jesus for His birthday. I know how important she was to us – and I’m sure she got a special seat at the Lord’s table for Christmas dinner.
We all need to learn to live more quiet and gentle lives – to have beautiful hearts. I know my Aunt Zula did… can I… can you? With God’s help, we can! Let’s start today… let’s develop hearts that will give our lives beauty that will last, even into eternity. Let’s live in way that honors God – a way He considers special. I pray you have an “Aunt Zula” in your life to emulate… and that you will do your best to develop a heart of quiet beauty and peace, as she did.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 25 ~ James 4:8
Come near to God, and he will come near to you. Clean up your lives, you sinners. Purify your hearts, you people who can't make up your mind.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I love how God works! When I drew up the outline for these devotionals months ago, God knew that this passage would be perfect for Jesus’ birthday! Think for a moment about the birth of Christ. Think about how people “drew near” to Him from across the land… shepherds, wise men, angels… even livestock! They knew that there was Someone special in that manger. They understood that this was a holy time, and they were in the presence of the Lord! And I believe they received a touch from Jesus, even then… I know their hearts were touched when they saw Him!
There is a saying… “If you don’t feel close to God, guess who moved?!” God never leaves us… but sometimes we don’t feel His presence very strongly in our lives. And it is always because we have drifted away and closed our heart. We have pocket doors in certain areas of our house. These are doors that slide into the wall when open, instead of swinging in and out like most doors. If you pull pocket doors together, you can get privacy and reduced noise without closing them completely. But if the opening is narrow, you may not be able to physically get in and out through it. We are like that with God. We may not completely shut the door to our heart, but if we pull it shut too much, God can’t get in, and we can’t hear Him or feel His presence!
Today, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, open the doors of your heart as wide as you can! Draw near to God, and feel Him draw near to you. Clean out the impurities of your heart. Toss them out the door and make room for God to fill you. This will be the best Christmas gift you could receive. Make up your mind today to celebrate Christmas every day of the year by letting God work in and through you. The best is yet to be for those who serve Him. May you feel the presence of Jesus in your heart today… and always. Merry Christmas!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 24 ~ James 3:14
But if your heart is full of bitter jealousy and selfishness, don't brag or lie to cover up the truth. That kind of wisdom doesn't come from above. It is earthly and selfish and comes from the devil himself. Whenever people are jealous or selfish, they cause trouble and do all sorts of cruel things. But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere. When peacemakers plant seeds of peace, they will harvest justice.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever watched how a child behaves after he/she gets a new baby sister or brother? Especially if this child was a “one and only” for awhile and got used to garnering all of the attention, the “shock” of having to share can cause trouble. And in true child-like fashion, the older sibling causes all manner of trouble out of jealousy. Whether their lack of attention is real or imagined, the fact that they are no longer “front-and-center” at all times does not set well. So they cause trouble… and sometimes do cruel things to the baby.
In my case, the “older siblings” are our two cats… and the baby is our great-nephew, Timothy. And while neither cat has paid much direct attention to the baby, they have let us know that “Hey, I was first!” They become overly needy when Timothy is around… and they show out to get our attention. The gentle, sensible, kind, friendly cats we normally have are replaced with clingy whiners who get into mischief!
Are we like this? When we feel something or someone encroaching on our territory, do we become needy – or downright cruel? Do we over-compensate with grand gestures to try to convince others we are NOT selfish or jealous? Do we put on phony smiles and “play nice” to make others think we are wonderful and get in their good graces, when secretly, we wish all of the attention was on us?
The Bible tells us we are to be the real deal at all times. Does this mean it’s okay to be selfish and jealous? Absolutely not! Jealousy and selfishness are tools of the devil! When you feel these attitudes creeping into your heart, stomp all over them! Pray and read God’s word, communicate with a Christian friend – do whatever it takes to get rid of these feelings and return to a place of peace and the true wisdom of God. In other words, we must learn “get over ourselves,” and focus on being filled with God’s wisdom… and all of the blessings that result.
Today is a great day for this thought, because at Christmas time, we are often jealous of what others have. We are sometimes frustrated that we didn’t get what we wanted – our tree isn’t big enough, and we don’t have enough lights and inflatables in the yard! The devil loves to destroy the joy and true meaning of this season by filling our hearts with jealousy and selfishness – and painting fake attitudes on us outwardly. He loves to stir up trouble and take the focus off of Jesus! Don’t let him have this pleasure! Make this Christmas a time when you start to shake the dust of the devil from your boots – and sweep him out of your heart for good. Be real and wise in the Lord… be blessed and full of HIS peace… and celebrate Jesus with a sincere heart this Christmas!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 23 ~ Hebrews 10:22
So let's come near God with pure hearts and a confidence that comes from having faith. Let's keep our hearts pure, our consciences free from evil, and our bodies washed with clean water.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
As joyful and jovial as the holiday season is, for many, it’s time of great sadness. There may not be enough money to buy gifts for others and a holiday meal. The days around Christmas may be associated with a sad event. Suicide rates go up. People lose their homes to fires. Others “party too hearty” and die from alcohol-related accidents and drug overdoses. Those who are alone feel even more lonely and isolated as people gather and celebrate – and they are not included.
But for people of faith, no matter our circumstances, every day should be a day to celebrate our God and the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. Gifts, holiday food, get-togethers, and more do not define our hearts or our faith – or at least, they shouldn’t! We should have confidence in God in all situations – and all seasons.
When you wear clean clothes, don’t you try hard to keep them looking nice? Aren’t you careful where you sit and how you eat, so nothing gets on the clothing and makes a mark? Just like water washes us clean… just like a winter snow covers the land and seems to make everything fresh and new… the blood of Jesus Christ has washed us clean of sin, evil, and all impurities. It is up to us to keep ourselves that way! Just like our clothing, we must be careful where we go, how we sit, what we “spill” on ourselves.
Let’s live like every day is Christmas… and by that, I mean, let’s celebrate our God and the birth of Jesus. Let’s focus on staying pure in heart, loving toward others, and upbeat and positive. Let’s live in such a way that exudes confidence in our faith that God will see us through every circumstance. Jesus paid the ultimate price to wash us clean our hearts and minds of evil and sin… it’s up to us to keep them that way!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 22 ~ Hebrews 8:10
"But now I tell the people of Israel this is my new agreement: `The time will come when I, the Lord, will write my laws on their minds and hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Recently a friend of mine posted on Facebook that her two-year-old daughter had announced that she had songs in her mouth and needed to sing ‘em! It sounds to me like the Lord has written on her mind and heart! When God touches us in this way, we can’t help but want to sing… if only to ourselves. When God writes on our mind and heart - and we recognize Him - everything about our lives changes.
As we grow, we often make things so much more complicated than they should be. We lose the playful abandon of a two-year-old and the ability to communicate so purely the feelings in our heart. This is a great day for us Christians… every day is a great day for us! God has written His laws on our minds and hearts. He is our GOD, and we are His people. Don’t we have songs in our mouth we need to sing?
©2009 Debbie Robus
December 2009 Devotionals - Week 3
December 21 ~ Hebrews 4:12
What God has said isn't only alive and active! It is sharper than any double-edged sword. His word can cut through our spirits and souls and through our joints and marrow, until it discovers the desires and thoughts of our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you have ever cut up a chicken, you know that a good, sharp knife is required to cut through the bones and joints. If you have ever cut into a watermelon, you know that a good sharp knife makes this task much easier and quicker, and gets you to the deepest “meat” of the melon. This passage compares God’s word to a sharp knife that can cut through our body to get to the deepest parts of our soul and reach our innermost thoughts and desires.
Many of us have spent a lot of time trying to keep those thoughts and desires hidden – even buried – so that others don’t see who we truly are. And some of us have done such a good job of hiding our feelings that we don’t even know ourselves what we really think and feel about some things. But God’s word can cut straight through. It can penetrate the deepest, darkest regions of our mind and heart. And the best part is that where we are impure in thought and feeling, God’s word can change us! God’s word can work in us to bring about a renewed mind and heart… I’ve seen it for myself and in others!
Get into God’s word… study what He has to say to us about everything that matters. Let it really soak in… let it cut through the joints and marrow, spirit and soul and get straight to your heart and mind. The answers are there… the solutions to all of your problems lie within the Word… the healing, peace, comfort and joy of a life in God can be found there, too. If you keep reading in Hebrews 4, you will see that nothing in our heart and mind is hidden from God – He knows the truth. And verse 15-16 says that “Jesus understands every weakness of ours, because he was tempted in every way that we are. But he did not sin! So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness, and we will find help.” Come before God and let him use the “knife” of His word to reveal to you areas that could use some help – then let Him do the work to change you from the inside out and “remodel” your heart and mind.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 20 ~ Titus 2:14
He gave himself to rescue us from everything that is evil and to make our hearts pure. He wanted us to be his own people and to be eager to do right.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you have watched very many infomercials on television, you know that there is a pill or a “fix” for virtually every problem. Have a tummy bulge? There’s a machine, belt or DVD that will help you melt it away. Losing your hair? There are creams and cures for that. Acne? Not a problem… just try the regimens offered on late-night TV! Lost your job? Buy real estate with “no money down,” or work from home selling cheap “gifts and home décor” to others.
The trouble with these products is that the driving force behind them is not pure. I guess the best thing I heard about one of these was the news reporter on a local television station who does “We Try It Before You Buy It.” He tried those miracle globes that are supposed to water your plants for you. Trouble is… you still have to remember to water the globes! So much for not having to remember to water your plants! And that’s how it is with so many shortcuts and gimmicks in life… they don’t offer a complete package.
But JESUS offers the complete package. He gave His life to save ours… HE is “the cure for what ails us.” He died so that we could live… and live well. He took all of the evil on Himself, so that we could live pure lives. So why aren’t we? What’s stopping us? I believe it is a matter of committing our hearts to Him – FULLY! That means we can’t hold on to prejudice, judgment, gossip, selfishness, indiscretion, discrimination, unkindness – or anything else that is in any way impure.
It isn’t easy, and becoming completely pure in heart is a process… it doesn’t happen overnight. But with God’s help, our hearts can grow more pure every day – and honor Jesus and His sacrifice in the bargain. Are you ready to truly be Christ’s own – are you eager to do right? Are you at least willing to try? Ask God to help you release anything impure in your heart… begin to make the move toward Him, and He will draw you nearer every day.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 19 ~ Titus 1:15
Everything is pure for someone whose heart is pure. But nothing is pure for an unbeliever with a dirty mind. That person's mind and conscience are destroyed.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Remember how your mom always told you to be sure you had on clean underwear? Let’s be real… who’s to know? Oh, sure… there is that remote possibility you will be run over by a bus. But most days, nobody else will ever know how clean your drawers are! But just because people don’t see that you have on clean or tattered underwear doesn’t make a difference. YOU know what you are wearing underneath your clothes.
In the same way, it matters what is in your heart and mind. Many people talk a good game. They go to church on Sunday, sing loudest during the hymns and worship songs, and even do good deeds for others in their church and community. They write fat checks for missions and visit the sick and elderly, and appear to be Godly and pure. Then they sit at home and harbor hatred for other races and ethnicities. They feel disgust and disdain for others – even family members and friends – and in their heart and mind, they are critical and hateful. They hold grudges and pass judgments on others – for things as mundane as appearance and as large as legitimate injustices.
And in all of this, every “good deed” is negated. Every praise, every mission, every outward action of a Godly person is totally destroyed if his/her head and heart harbor impure feelings. You can’t have it both ways. You can’t appear to love God and serve Him and harbor unkind sentiments – even if you keep them to yourself. You can’t worship and minister – and hate. This is the “dirty mind” of which scripture speaks – a mind that is corrupt and impure. If you are going to really serve God – if you are truly a disciple of Jesus Christ – you heart has to have on “clean underwear” - your heart and mind must be clean and pure, too. How pure are your thoughts and feelings? What are you wearing today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 18 ~ 2 Timothy 2:22
Run from temptations that capture young people. Always do the right thing. Be faithful, loving, and easy to get along with. Worship with people whose hearts are pure.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever been in a situation where you knew in your heart you shouldn’t be there, but rather than look like a wimp or a “goody-two-shoes,” you just sat back and watched things unfold. You didn’t participate, but you didn’t leave or say anything, either. Maybe you went to a party with friends who were drinking or taking drugs or doing something else they shouldn’t. Maybe you were in a store where friends were shoplifting, and you looked away. Maybe you were with a group of people who were spreading vicious gossip, and you said nothing.
Maybe you were at a Bible study where someone started to speak unkindly about a group of people or another person… criticizing them and judging them - and claiming it was in the name of the Lord… and you didn’t challenge their comments. Maybe you worship in a church where subtle hints that only certain socio-economic and/or ethnicities are welcome. Maybe you think these things are okay!
The Bible is very clear. God uses Paul’s letters to tell us that we are always to do the right thing. Notice, he didn’t say the POPULAR thing… he said, “do the right thing.” Run from temptations. Stand up for your convictions and what you know is right in God’s eyes. Be faithful, loving and easy to get along with. In other words, don’t come down on your friends for their choices, but lovingly let them know you are not willing to participate. If you are involved in a church or a group within your church where hearts are hard and attitudes are not Godly, ask God to show you how to proceed. In all things, ask God to show you when to speak up, and when to walk away and find new friends and acquaintances. But don’t compromise your values – or your faith. Keep your heart pure and filled with the Holy Spirit at all times – then follow His lead. God will bless your efforts, and you will know you did the right thing in His eyes.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 17 ~ Philippians 1:3-11
Every time I think of you, I thank my God. And whenever I mention you in my prayers, it makes me happy. This is because you have taken part with me in spreading the good news from the first day you heard about it. God is the one who began this good work in you, and I am certain that he won't stop before it is complete on the day that Christ Jesus returns.
You have a special place in my heart. So it is only natural for me to feel the way I do. All of you have helped in the work that God has given me, as I defend the good news and tell about it here in jail. God himself knows how much I want to see you. He knows that I care for you in the same way that Christ Jesus does.
I pray that your love will keep on growing and that you will fully know and understand how to make the right choices. Then you will still be pure and innocent when Christ returns. And until that day, Jesus Christ will keep you busy doing good deeds that bring glory and praise to God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Recently I have begun to reconnect on Facebook with teacher co-workers and students from my days as an elementary school kindergarten teacher. I taught for nine years and “retired” from that career at age 29. As I reflect on that time in my life, I often am somewhat embarrassed at how poorly I handled many situations. I let myself get caught up in petty disagreements. I failed to realize that a tyrannical administrator was dealing with demons I couldn’t imagine. I could have been more sympathetic toward parents at times. Now that I feel I have the wisdom and maturity to really make a difference in children’s lives, I no longer have the physical stamina required! Even then, I collapsed on Friday nights before 9:00, exhausted from the week of keeping up with 25-28 five-year-olds all day!
The one thing I did right was love my children… every one of them. I didn’t realize then that this love was the most valuable gift I could give them… more valuable than teaching them phonics, shapes and colors, or how to tie their shoes. For approximately 1300 hours over 9 months, these children knew that I loved and cared for them and would nurture them each day. And now, as I read the posts on Facebook, I see that many of “my children” are doing very well. I worship each Sunday with some of them and delight in seeing them serve God and bring up their children to know and love Him. I see students coaching community Little League teams… while others are youth pastors in churches and medical missionaries abroad, nurses, parents, teachers and more.
I see that God used me, even when I was “young and dumb (unaware),” to minister to others. And as I have grown in my faith, I hope I make better choices each day and minister in His name with “innocence and purity.” My point is, if God can use us even when we don’t realize it… if He can work in and through us even when we make bonehead decisions – and occasional selfish choices – think how He can use us when we focus on Him! Think how we could further His kingdom if we were consciously trying to serve Him well! I have been so blessed to watch many of my students in their ministry efforts. I can’t begin to imagine the outcome if I had been more diligent! Maybe in another 20 years I will be blown away at the evidence!
Every time I think of my students, I smile and thank God I had the chance to play even a small part in their development. Today, I thank God for the opportunity to share His word with YOU! Who has a special place in your heart – and makes you thankful to God? Who is God leading you to love and serve through Him? What choices are you making? Are you consciously asking God to help you make a difference each day? Is your love for Him – and the outpouring toward others – continually growing? Are you busy doing good deeds to bring Him glory?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 16 ~ Ephesians 3:14-21
I kneel in prayer to the Father. All beings in heaven and on earth receive their life from him. God is wonderful and glorious. I pray that his Spirit will make you become strong followers and that Christ will live in your hearts because of your faith. Stand firm and be deeply rooted in his love. I pray that you and all of God's people will understand what is called wide or long or high or deep. I want you to know all about Christ's love, although it is too wonderful to be measured. Then your lives will be filled with all that God is. I pray that Christ Jesus and the church will forever bring praise to God. His power at work in us can do far more than we dare ask or imagine. Amen.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
There is a great little song we teach to children in Sunday School classes or VBS called “Deep and Wide.” Kids love this song, because they can make the motions as they sing – one hand spaced a few inches above the other, palms in, to denote “deep”… and then spread wide apart to depict “wide.” And there is a line that says, “There’s a fountain flowing…” and you wiggle your fingers and simulate a fountain flowing down the front of your body. I’ve sung this song with my cousin Olivia since she was about two, and she loves it! I can’t wait to teach it to baby Timothy!
As entertaining as this song is for children, there is a HUGE meaning in it for all ages. Deep and wide – that describes how big God’s love is for us. The “fountain flowing” indicates that there is no beginning or end… God’s love and blessings continually come to us and fill us. So many of us miss this. Oh, sure, we know that God loves us. We know He blesses our lives. But we truly do not understand the depth and width of our God! We do not understand how truly impossible He is to measure! We have no clue how much God can do in and through us, because we don’t recognize His true power and vastness!
How do we improve in this area? Do what Paul suggests… become strong followers of Christ… stand firm and be deeply rooted in His love… praise God and bring praise to Him. And I would add… open your heart and mind to the possibilities. Invite God in and give Him room to work! Give Him your heart and watch how He fills it with more than you can ever measure, explain, or imagine! Seize the power of God and let Him fill you “deep and wide.”
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 15 ~ Ephesians 1:18
My prayer is that light will flood your hearts and that you will understand the hope that was given to you when God chose you. Then you will discover the glorious blessings that will be yours together with all of God's people
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Some of you know that my husband and I are helping with the care of our great-nephew, Timothy, while his mother works and goes to college. He is “a light that floods our hearts” whenever we see him. As we watch him grow and learn new things, we are overjoyed. It seems like we laugh and smile more these days!
Did you know that God laughs and smiles with joy at us – His children! Do you understand that He chose each and every one of us to belong to Him? And just like we want to lavish love and care on our baby Timothy, God wants to bless us – you and me - beyond anything we could ever imagine. But in order to do this, we have to let Him into our hearts. His light has to flood our hearts. We have to truly understand how powerful and mighty God is – and allow Him to work in and through us.
Lately, I have spent time in prayer about several issues in my life and the lives of others. I have truly surrendered more than one of these issues to God… and then I have marveled at how He handled them for me. And you know what? In every case, His answer and resolution was far better than anything I could ever have even imagined… and certainly more than what I could have accomplished on my own. The more I see how God works when I allow Him to fill my heart, the more I see how ridiculous it is for me to try to handle things myself – much less without Him. I’m telling you the truth… the more you allow the light of Christ to flood your heart - the more you understand how much God wants to give you - the more blessed you will be.
What do you have to lose? Give God a chance to work in your life – you will be amazed at what happens!
©2009 Debbie Robus
December 2009 Devotionals - Week 2
December 14 ~ 1 Chronicles 29:16-17
Friends in Corinth, we are telling the truth when we say that there is room in our hearts for you. We are not holding back on our love for you, but you are holding back on your love for us. I speak to you as I would speak to my own children. Please make room in your hearts for us.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
It is easy to love someone who loves us back, isn’t it?! When someone is kind toward you, does nice things for you, and generally seems to enjoy your company, it makes you want to reciprocate. But what do you do when someone is unloving toward you – or at best, indifferent? Has it ever seemed like the more you did for someone… the more you loved them, prayed for them, cared about what was happening in their life… the more they distanced themselves from you?
The real test for Christians is to love those who are “unlovely” – and those who do not reciprocate. When someone slams a door in your face or hangs up the telephone on you, it’s hard to continue to behave in a loving manner toward them. When someone embarrasses you in public, or is rude to you (especially in front of others), it’s hard to find it in your heart to show a loving attitude toward this person – and sometimes, to even pray for them. Remember the scripture that says to pray for your enemies? That’s really a tough one!
Since we don’t know what is truly in another person’s heart - and we don’t have to know to be a loving Christian toward them - our responsibility is to keep on loving and showing kindness and a generous heart toward these people, regardless of whether they reciprocate. Over time, I have seen more than one person come to realize how much unconditional love and grace meant to them and begin to change. Whether this happens or not, we must show the same love and grace to others that God shows to us. We must make room in our hearts for others - and let God handle what is in theirs.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 13 ~ 2 Corinthians 3:3
You are like a letter written by Christ and delivered by us. But you are not written with pen and ink or on tablets made of stone. You are written in our hearts by the Spirit of the living God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Letter writing is becoming a “lost art.” With the advances in technology and a time when we can send someone halfway around the world a message with one click of a button, the old-fashioned way of writing letters seems almost ridiculous to some! When my husband and I were dating and he was away at college, we wrote each other every week. He left home on Sunday and drove 90 miles to college, returning on Friday afternoon. Yet we both eagerly anticipated a note from the other – even about the most mundane things. This gesture said, “I’m thinking of you. You are in my heart.”
Can you imagine if you got an actual letter from Jesus Christ? Wouldn’t that be amazing and exciting? Can I tell you something? Paul is reminding us in this passage that we DO get “letters” from Jesus in the form of His love for us. When you chat on IM or another messaging service, you probably don’t capture the conversation and print it. But the exchange has meaning for you all the same. Just because we don’t get a hand-written, delivered-in-the-mail letter from Jesus doesn’t mean He doesn’t write on our heart each day. His Holy Spirit is there, “penciling away”… “I love you. I’m with you. Feel my presence… you mean the world to me.
”I love hand-written notes and letters… and I love to send them. I think people still appreciate the time, effort, and caring that it takes to do this. But I don’t have to have a hand-written note to know that certain people care about me… especially Jesus. I feel Him writing on my heart each day… do you? Doesn’t it make you feel special to know that the Holy Spirit not only dwells in you, but that He writes on your heart each and every day? Are you receiving the messages – are they making a difference in your life?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 12 ~ 2 Corinthians 2:4-7
At the time I wrote, I was suffering terribly. My eyes were full of tears, and my heart was broken. But I didn't want to make you feel bad. I only wanted to let you know how much I cared for you.
I don't want to be hard on you. But if one of you has made someone feel bad, I am not really the one who has been made to feel bad. Some of you are the ones. Most of you have already pointed out the wrong that person did, and that is punishment enough for what was done.
When people sin, you should forgive and comfort them, so they won't give up in despair. You should make them sure of your love for them.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever been like the Apostle Paul? Have you ever been “on the fringe” watching two people you know hurt one another? Maybe your friend and her boyfriend went through an ugly breakup. Maybe you know someone who is involved with someone who is an alcoholic, drug addict, abuser – or a combination… and this person won’t leave the relationship. Maybe you know of a situation where family members are not speaking, and it’s gone on so long nobody can remember what caused the riff in the first place! Maybe you know someone who is severely depressed, and this person is dragging down everyone around him/her.
Maybe you know someone who hurt another person so deeply it seems there is no way this wound will ever heal. For all of the positives of living in small towns, such communities seem to be great breeding grounds for “scandals” we think will never be forgotten – or forgiven. But Paul is telling us that we must forgive. “But you have no idea what this person did!” you may be saying. That’s true… but if we have a hard heart that won’t forgive others, how will they ever see Jesus in us? Do you want to risk that person turning away from God and missing out on His blessings – and possibly Eternity?
Whether the person deserves forgiveness is not important. We don’t deserve forgiveness, yet God grants it to us every day! Who are we to do any less toward our brothers and sisters – His children? This does not make you a doormat… in fact, it may just free you from the bondage of carrying a grudge toward someone else! This doesn’t mean you don’t feel hurt, insulted, disappointed, or heartbroken. But you can start to heal by extending your hand – or a prayer – in forgiveness and letting the other parties know that you still love and care for them. Paul goes on in verse 11 to say we should do this to keep from letting Satan get the better of us… and who among us wouldn’t want that?!
I want you to understand that this message is as much for me as anyone reading it. I have some people and situations in my own life I need to forgive and release. We all do. I’m determined to do this… I’m determined to meet these people on the street with a loving heart that reflects Jesus Christ. It may not be easy, but I know God will give me the strength and courage – and a loving heart – to do it. He’ll do the same for you – are you willing to give it a shot?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 11 ~ 1 Corinthians 4:5
So don't judge anyone until the Lord returns. He will show what is hidden in the dark and what is in everyone's heart. Then God will be the one who praises each of us.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever been talking to someone and said, “He/she is such a nice person,” and immediately the person gestured or laughed or did something that indicated that your sentiment was not shared? Or maybe someone has said unkind about another person, who happens to be a good friend of yours! In both cases, someone is passing judgment… and we all do it! And truly, we do NOT know what is in another person’s heart… or all of the dynamics of how and why they act as they do!
Sometimes, we pass the worst judgment of all… we decide for ourselves whether a person is a Christian or not – or whether his/her behavior is “Christian.” Clearly this is not our job! Only God knows for sure what is in a person’s heart. We may think we have a pretty good idea, but honestly, we need to keep our opinions to ourselves. After all… for every person we judge, someone may very well be judging us! So leave this to God… focus on being who you should be in your own Christian faith, and let God do the judging!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 10 ~ Romans 10:8-11
All who are acceptable because of their faith simply say, "The message is as near as your mouth or your heart." And this is the same message we preach about faith. So you will be saved, if you honestly say, "Jesus is Lord," and if you believe with all your heart that God raised him from death. God will accept you and save you, if you truly believe this and tell it to others.
The Scriptures say that no one who has faith will be disappointed, no matter if that person is a Jew or a Gentile. There is only one Lord, and he is generous to everyone who asks for his help. All who call out to the Lord will be saved.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
A few years ago, I knew someone who went to a Democratic primary election polling place to cast his votes. There were several Democratic candidates he wanted to elect. Trouble is, he wanted to elect the Republican candidate for one particular office… and that person’s name was NOT on his ballot. In order to vote for this person, he would have to vote in the Republican primary, which meant he could not vote for his other candidates. He had to choose one side or the other.
Thankfully, God doesn’t operate like our political system. You don’t have to be a Democrat or a Republican – or any other party faithful – to belong to the Kingdom of Heaven! ALL are welcome! The only requirement is that you love God with all your heart, believe that Jesus died for our sins and was raised from the dead, and tell others this Good News! Aren’t you glad that salvation is that simple? How wonderful to think there is only ONE choice… JESUS… and that He is ready to save anyone who asks. Have you chosen Jesus?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 9 ~ Romans 1:9
God has seen how I never stop praying for you, while I serve him with all my heart and tell the good news about his Son.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
A friend on Facebook asked for prayer for a family she knew who had experienced a tragedy. A woman posted a “praise” report on another church prayer list, saying, “Thank you for all of your prayers – I know that is what has made the difference.” Has it ever occurred to you that others are praying for you? When things are going well in your life… when you are healed from an illness or injury… when you find a job, or you find $5 in your coat pocket… you may think, “That was an answered prayer!” But does it ever cross your mind that it might be the answer to a prayer offered by others on your behalf?
I’m not saying God has to hear the prayers of “x” number of people before He will work in our lives. But as Christians, we are called to pray for others… and those prayers matter to God! Part of our service to Him is lifting the names and circumstances of others in prayer. Have you ever prayed for someone who was in need and later learned that the prayer had been answered? How did that make you feel? Were you blessed? Were you encouraged? Was your faith in God strengthened?
I’m so happy to think that others might be praying for me – and I am honored to pray for others. I know that God honors those prayers and blesses the people who offer them. I am encouraged to pray for others, knowing that God will work in their lives, and that He will hear MY prayer for them and answer it! The next time God answers your prayer, thank Him – for the answer – and for all who asked Him for it! And remember to pray for others – your prayers do make a difference!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 8 ~ Acts 28:27
All of you have stubborn hearts. Your ears are stopped up, and your eyes are covered. You cannot see or hear or understand. If you could, you would turn to me, and I would heal you.' "
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Some of you are too young to have seen the early episodes of Saturday Night Live, but you may have seen reruns of the show in which the late Gilda Radner played the character, Emily Litella – a little old lady who wore thick glasses and didn’t hear well. She was “invited” on the “Weekend Update” segment to offer commentary from time to time. In one skit, she asked, “What’s all this fuss about violins on television?” Another time, she asked, “What’s all this fuss I hear about the Supreme Court decision on a ‘deaf’ penalty? It's terrible! Deaf people have enough problems as it is!” When the “news anchor” corrected her and explained it was violence on television, not violins – and the death penalty and not a penalty toward hearing impaired, she would scrunch up her face and say, “Oh… that’s very different…” and then she would deliver her trademark line with a sheepish grin… “Never mind!”
“Emily Litella” had age on her side as an excuse. We Christians have none. Oh, sure… there may be a dozen reasons why our ears are stopped and our eyes are covered… and we may feel some are legitimately beyond our control – or certainly not our fault! But we know how to change this… we know WHO can heal us and restore us to clear vision, hearing and thinking! What stops us? Often, the culprit is a stubborn heart. I think sometimes even subconsciously, we enjoy having these crutches – we like playing the victim and wallowing in self-pity. Or maybe we are actually enjoying our sin.
I’m reminded of the commercial for an aid to stop smoking in which the lady, a former smoker (and success story for this product) says something to the effect of, “I loved every minute of smoking.” Even though she knew it was bad for her health, she still enjoyed it. And even though we know some things are bad for our Spiritual health, sometimes we enjoy those, also. Our hearts are stubborn!
We don’t have to walk around in a fog with unclear vision and hearing when it comes to our heart and our faith. God can heal us and fill our hearts with the truth. We just have to be willing to let Him. How stubborn is your heart these days? Are you ready to let God restore you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
December 2009 Devotionals
December 7 ~ Acts 15:8-9
He knows what is in everyone's heart. And he showed that he had chosen the Gentiles, when he gave them the Holy Spirit, just as he had given his Spirit to us. God treated them in the same way that he treated us. They put their faith in him, and he made their hearts pure.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We are smack in the middle of the Christmas season. Everyone is whizzing around in the stores and trying to multi-task, stretch the budget, and please everyone on their lists with just the right Christmas gift. All around us, there are underlying stories we don’t see or know, and often they loom much larger for people during the holidays. There are people who are facing a major crisis – the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, a job loss, simply trying to get too much done and feeling stressed, and more.
We truly do not know what is in another’s heart – or on his/her mind. The teacher who seems grumpy and unpleasant may be facing huge problems at home. The store clerk who seems distracted and unaccommodating may have heartaches and burdens we can’t begin to know. The friend who doesn’t return phone calls or e-mails may be dealing with something that is totally overwhelming. Even GOOD news, like the arrival of a new baby or starting a new job or relationship can be stressful and distracting.
The point is, GOD knows everyone’s heart. Our job is not to try to figure out others… or to judge them based on behavior. Because God knows our heart and extends His grace and mercy to us, we must do the same to others. God gave us the Holy Spirit to live within our hearts and walk with us each minute of the day…and He does this for every single person who has committed their life to Christ. The peace, comfort and courage we wish for ourselves, we must wish for others. The kindness we wish the Holy Spirit would bring our way, we must extend outwardly to those around us.
So cut others some slack this season – and beyond. Realize that we don’t know others’ hearts – or their circumstances. Ask God to fill those you encounter with His Holy Spirit and to extend His peace their way. Act – and react – with a pure heart, and trust God to work in you and others. And thank Him for loving you so perfectly.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 6 ~ Acts 14:17
But he showed that he was there by the good things he did. God sends rain from heaven and makes your crops grow. He gives food to you and makes your hearts glad.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you back up and read the verses before and after this one, you find that Paul and Barnabas were preaching in Lystra, and they approached the temple of Zeus. The priest and the crowds wanted to offer a sacrifice – to Paul and Barnabas! These men were horrified and told the priests and people, “We are humans just like you.” They went on to add that GOD made the sky, earth, see and all that is in them. They noted that God allows us free will. BUT… they added that even when we turn our backs on God and go a different direction, He never leaves us…He feeds us and fills our hearts.
Do you know that we are often like the people in Lystra? If we could only win the lottery – if we could only get this person to like us – if we were only thinner, richer, smarter, or more talented… everything would be hunky dorey in our life! These things are our idols… and we offer all sorts of sacrifices to them in order to make things happen. The crazy thing is… all the time we are spinning on our heads to get these things, God is meeting our needs. He may not meet them like we want Him to… but He does meet them. Our lives may not seem perfect to us… but God is making sure everything is working together perfectly to accomplish HIS will for us. And if we would only recognize this, our goals and desires would line up more often with His.
When I was a little girl, I had this beautiful spinning top. It was made of metal and plastic, with a rod and knob at one end, and a little metal spike on the other. You stood the top on it’s spike and pumped up and down on the rod and knob handle, and the plastic center portion began to whiz, whir and spin. And a portion of the center section unfolded like flower petals to reveal a beautiful ballerina inside who was dancing and spinning. The toy spun for several seconds, and the ballerina danced and spun, too. Then gravity took over, the top started to spin more slowly, and soon it fell over onto the floor. The ballerina was closed inside again… no longer dancing. For many of us, our lives are like this top. We pump ourselves up and work hard to keep the “top” spinning… and for a short time, our world opens up and everything seems beautiful and humming along well – the “ballerina is dancing!” But since we are human, we can’t keep this up on our own, and soon things have stopped spinning along… the ballerina is gone, and our world has fallen off its axis.
Only GOD can keep things spinning as they should. Only GOD can meet our needs every single day – and He does! Often we fail to recognize His power… and His work in and through us. Listen to the words of Paul and Barnabas… “we are humans” - but God is always there, making things happen for us… meeting our needs. Are you recognizing His presence these days? Is He making YOUR heart glad? Who is spinning your top?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 5 ~ Acts 2:25-26
I always see the Lord near me, and I will not be afraid with him at my right side. Because of this, my heart will be glad, my words will be joyful, and I will live in hope.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Sometimes, hope is all we have… and it is enough! I recently saw a high school friend of mine at the store, and I asked about her brother, who is dying of cancer. She knows that I know what it feels like to watch your brother battle a terminal illness. We talked about how hard it is to watch a loved one suffer, and she mentioned a mutual friend of ours who lost her battle with breast cancer three years ago. She said, “That’s been so hard for me… and we weren’t even close. I just don’t understand why this happened to her.” I told her that our friend told me over and over in her last years, “I will be okay.” And I trust in that a LOT! Because I know my friend is in heaven and truly okay, my heart is glad and my words about her can be joyful. I live in hope of seeing her again someday.
These days, there are a lot of things in our world that get us down. You may be struggling in school or having relationship troubles. The economy, the war, and a general sense of negativity in our country about so much is enough to make anyone grumpy! But if we keep our eyes focused on the Lord… if we see Him near us at all times, we have nothing to fear. Our heart can be glad – our words can be joyful. We can live in hope.
Someone said to me recently, “So often we want to just jump in and make things happen, when what we really need to do is wait on God to work everything out like He wants!” This is so true. We often jump the gun and worry and wring our hands and go through all sorts of gyrations, when what we really need to do is see the Lord near us and stay positive and hopeful.
I don’t know what you are going through today, but I do know God is with you. Have you looked up to see Him at your side? Can you at least try to be joyful and have a glad heart – can you at least give hope in the Lord a chance? I’m praying you allow Him to work in your life in all situations - I truly believe you will be blessed if you do. And maybe you can “set the example” for others to look for Him at their side, as well.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 4 ~ John 16:33
I have told you this, so that you might have peace in your hearts because of me. While you are in the world, you will have to suffer. But cheer up! I have defeated the world.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I don’t know why we can’t seem to “get this,” but God never promised us an easy life once we become Christians. If you can find a scripture in the Bible that says we’ll have a cozy, cushy life, please send it to me! What we ARE told is that we will have peace in our hearts. So while our children fight the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, we can trust God to meet their needs – and ours – and rest in that. While our aging parents and grandparents struggle with broken bones, dementia, and general decline, we can be thankful for their lives and influences and trust God to give us patience and courage for their latter years.
While we worry about our children and the “evil influences” of this world, we can trust God to keep them safe – and to give us the wisdom to provide them with the right lessons and role models for living for Him and overcoming these temptations. While we face serious – even life-threatening – illnesses and injuries, we can be joyful, knowing that God is healing our bodies and working in and through us.
I know people who never let anything get them down. I know others who are ready to “throw in the towel” at the first sign of trouble or challenge. The difference comes down to a choice… we can CHOOSE to rest in God and let Him fill us with peace, or we can CHOOSE to continue to flail around like we did before we became Christians. The latter is not an option for me… what about you? In the words of John 16:33, “Cheer up!” God has defeated the world and its “hold” on us… “take a chill pill” and relax in Him. Let His peace fill you and see you through every challenge this world offers.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 3 ~ Luke 16:15
But Jesus told them: You are always making yourselves look good, but God sees what is in your heart. The things that most people think are important are worthless as far as God is concerned.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I once worked for a manufacturer who said, “I don’t care what it costs to make the product – as long as it looks good!” If you think about it, this is a profound statement. I am afraid it is the “mantra” for many of us.
* “I don’t care who gets hurt, as long as I am “happy.”
* “I don’t care how much debt I have as long as I drive a nice car, wear designer clothes and live in a big house”.
* “I don’t care who I have to step over to get ahead.”
* “I’m not trying to please anyone but myself.”
* “I am going to ‘play’ now – I’ll settle down later. Besides, I go to church often!”
* “I don’t care what it costs me or others… as long as I look good and enjoy life!”
The trouble with this “stinkin’ thinkin’” is that God sees our heart. He knows how we really feel about Him and our faith on the inside. We must remember that looks fade… material possessions can be snuffed out in a minute… friends are fickle… jobs can be lost… fun is temporary. But living for Jesus is FOREVER! Serving in His name has not only lifelong benefits – they are also ETERNAL! Honoring God and striving to know Him better and live for Him every minute of the day – in even the smallest things – is what counts!
Look around you. There are people who “talk the talk” – but how many “walk the walk?” I’m not asking you to judge anyone but yourself... where do YOU fit into this picture? What’s in your heart… and is it showing on the outside? You may very well look great and be the life of the party… but at what cost? It’s time for a makeover, for many of us. It’s time to take stock of our heart and see where we fall short… and to ask God to show us how to begin making changes that will matter. Are you ready?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 2 ~ Mark 12:33
It is also true that we must love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and that we must love others as much as we love ourselves. These commandments are more important than all the sacrifices and offerings that we could possibly make.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
A friend sent me an e-mail and said, “I have been so poor in heart and mind lately yet I go through the actions to practice joy in my life and gratefulness and realize blessings. But how do I find pureness inside? I love the Lord and he loves me, and I know that, but these trials and tribulations sometimes take away the pureness…or does it? Please help!” This person was working hard to follow God’s commandments, but the “sacrifices and offerings” seemed to be getting in the way. I prayed about a response, and here is part of my reply... I pray that it will have meaning for you today.
First, I do not think that our trials and tribulations negate the purity of our heart. Moses questioned God, yet he was faithful and obedient - and God blessed him. Even JESUS asked God in the Garden of Gethsemane... if there was ANY other way to accomplish His purposes, please take the agony of the cross away. So I don't think that the purity of our heart is tied directly to our struggles or even lapses in faith.
I don't know your circumstances - and I don't need to know - but I can tell you that in my own life, I have experienced some difficult situations. It was hard to be patient ... and with at least some people, it was hard to be kind and civil. When I was proof-reading a recent devo about pure hearts, I know the Lord spoke to me and said, "You know, XYZ is my child, too." That is where the purity comes in! If you can be upset and disgusted with a situation or a person, yet still pray for them and realize that they are just as precious and important to God as we are, your heart is pure. Trust me, sometimes this is HARD to do!
In my own situations, I have had to totally surrender to God... knowing that He sees a much bigger picture than I do. I have no clue how these issues resolve, but I do know that I have done what I am supposed to do - I have asked God for help, and I have asked Him to help ME have a pure and right attitude about all parties involved. While it seems highly unlikely that some people will ever make a turn-around, that is not my responsibility - and I honestly don't know why I have so little faith that God could work a miracle in them... maybe this is a temporary lapse of faith on my part!
You may remember my mention of the man who allegedly shot and killed so many people at Ft. Hood a few weeks ago. Many said, “He should have died, too.” In other situations, I’ve heard people say, I hope So-and-So gets what’s coming to him/her! I understand that feeling... but I also understand how that grieves God. And believe me, there are people who irritate me, and I struggle with being kind and "pure" toward them. Those irritants are God's children, too... and we must pray for them and love them in Christ all the same.
When my dad and brother were both seriously ill, we all wore our feelings on our sleeves. There were days when my heart was broken - I was despondent, hopeless, and even fearful for the future... mine AND my loved ones'. But I still don't think that meant my heart wasn't pure. I stayed VERY close to God during that time, and He gave me joy and peace. Sometimes it was fake... like when people would stop me in Wal-Mart and ask, "Hey, how are you?" and I would reply, "I'm fine," while on the inside I was screaming, "My dad and brother are dying - how do you really THINK I am doing?" Still, I don't think that meant my heart wasn't pure. We aren't always supposed to share EVERY emotion with others! Maybe that is God’s grace working through us.
I am making a concerted effort to be more than just "civil" toward "irritants" in my life. I am working on greeting them with a sincere love in Christ for them as another child of God - equal with me in His eyes. I am working on letting God handle situations for me... because honestly, there are many I am not equipped to handle - and frankly, all God expects is for us to give our burdens to Him. That in itself is a test of our faith - and our heart!
In the midst of this holiday season, I am praying that God will give you peace. I know that the holidays can be trying times for some as we are thrust into situations that may involve people with whom we are not necessarily pals. I believe God is working with us to "grow" our faith through our trials and tribulations... as He always does. Love God with all our heart, mind, and strength - and love others as much as you love yourself. A pure heart will help you endure all of the struggles and challenges of everyday life…AND the holidays!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 1 ~ Matthew 12:35
Good people bring good things out of their hearts, but evil people bring evil things out of their hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
One of the great blessings of living in a small town – and growing up here – is the interaction I now have with adults who influenced me as a child. And one of those was my second grade Sunday School teacher, Ms. Gloria. I no longer attend the same church as she, but I see her occasionally in the grocery store or at a social function, and she is always delightful. Ms. Gloria is one of the kindest, most loving women I know… and I know it stems from her love of God and service to Him.
Recently, this dear lady had a new floor installed in her basement. Consistent with her generous, loving personality, Ms. Gloria headed downstairs to offer the man installing the floor a soft drink and a sandwich for lunch. She didn’t realize the floor was slick with glue, and she fell and broke her arm. Surgery fixed the arm, and she is doing well. We talked on the phone recently, and she said, “I’m fine… I’m just waiting for this to heal because I want to be up doing things!”
Sadly, I know people who have done very well for themselves… but all at the expense of others. People who don’t know the whole story will say, “He/she is such a wonderful person and has accomplished so much!” What they don’t realize is that this person’s “accomplishments” have caused a great deal of misery for many others along the way. This person’s heart is evil, and the result may appear to be positive – but in truth, his/her every accomplishment is tarnished. You cannot attend church every Sunday and appear to be Godly and then stab people in the back the other six days of the week to advance your agenda!
Give me a “Ms. Gloria” any day of the week! And if we are honest and listen to what the scripture is saying, I believe this is God’s sentiment, too. Evil people who operate from a self-serving heart are missing the boat. People who love God and serve Him unselfishly, like Ms. Gloria, will be blessed again and again – even when they break an arm “in the line of duty!”
Check your heart… and check your motives. Make sure that what you say and do comes from a heart in tune with God and geared to serve Him. If you find that your heart is selfish or self-serving in any way, ask God to show you how to change this. Bear “good fruit” from a pure heart. You’ll be amazed at the results!
©2009 Debbie Robus
He knows what is in everyone's heart. And he showed that he had chosen the Gentiles, when he gave them the Holy Spirit, just as he had given his Spirit to us. God treated them in the same way that he treated us. They put their faith in him, and he made their hearts pure.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We are smack in the middle of the Christmas season. Everyone is whizzing around in the stores and trying to multi-task, stretch the budget, and please everyone on their lists with just the right Christmas gift. All around us, there are underlying stories we don’t see or know, and often they loom much larger for people during the holidays. There are people who are facing a major crisis – the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, a job loss, simply trying to get too much done and feeling stressed, and more.
We truly do not know what is in another’s heart – or on his/her mind. The teacher who seems grumpy and unpleasant may be facing huge problems at home. The store clerk who seems distracted and unaccommodating may have heartaches and burdens we can’t begin to know. The friend who doesn’t return phone calls or e-mails may be dealing with something that is totally overwhelming. Even GOOD news, like the arrival of a new baby or starting a new job or relationship can be stressful and distracting.
The point is, GOD knows everyone’s heart. Our job is not to try to figure out others… or to judge them based on behavior. Because God knows our heart and extends His grace and mercy to us, we must do the same to others. God gave us the Holy Spirit to live within our hearts and walk with us each minute of the day…and He does this for every single person who has committed their life to Christ. The peace, comfort and courage we wish for ourselves, we must wish for others. The kindness we wish the Holy Spirit would bring our way, we must extend outwardly to those around us.
So cut others some slack this season – and beyond. Realize that we don’t know others’ hearts – or their circumstances. Ask God to fill those you encounter with His Holy Spirit and to extend His peace their way. Act – and react – with a pure heart, and trust God to work in you and others. And thank Him for loving you so perfectly.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 6 ~ Acts 14:17
But he showed that he was there by the good things he did. God sends rain from heaven and makes your crops grow. He gives food to you and makes your hearts glad.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you back up and read the verses before and after this one, you find that Paul and Barnabas were preaching in Lystra, and they approached the temple of Zeus. The priest and the crowds wanted to offer a sacrifice – to Paul and Barnabas! These men were horrified and told the priests and people, “We are humans just like you.” They went on to add that GOD made the sky, earth, see and all that is in them. They noted that God allows us free will. BUT… they added that even when we turn our backs on God and go a different direction, He never leaves us…He feeds us and fills our hearts.
Do you know that we are often like the people in Lystra? If we could only win the lottery – if we could only get this person to like us – if we were only thinner, richer, smarter, or more talented… everything would be hunky dorey in our life! These things are our idols… and we offer all sorts of sacrifices to them in order to make things happen. The crazy thing is… all the time we are spinning on our heads to get these things, God is meeting our needs. He may not meet them like we want Him to… but He does meet them. Our lives may not seem perfect to us… but God is making sure everything is working together perfectly to accomplish HIS will for us. And if we would only recognize this, our goals and desires would line up more often with His.
When I was a little girl, I had this beautiful spinning top. It was made of metal and plastic, with a rod and knob at one end, and a little metal spike on the other. You stood the top on it’s spike and pumped up and down on the rod and knob handle, and the plastic center portion began to whiz, whir and spin. And a portion of the center section unfolded like flower petals to reveal a beautiful ballerina inside who was dancing and spinning. The toy spun for several seconds, and the ballerina danced and spun, too. Then gravity took over, the top started to spin more slowly, and soon it fell over onto the floor. The ballerina was closed inside again… no longer dancing. For many of us, our lives are like this top. We pump ourselves up and work hard to keep the “top” spinning… and for a short time, our world opens up and everything seems beautiful and humming along well – the “ballerina is dancing!” But since we are human, we can’t keep this up on our own, and soon things have stopped spinning along… the ballerina is gone, and our world has fallen off its axis.
Only GOD can keep things spinning as they should. Only GOD can meet our needs every single day – and He does! Often we fail to recognize His power… and His work in and through us. Listen to the words of Paul and Barnabas… “we are humans” - but God is always there, making things happen for us… meeting our needs. Are you recognizing His presence these days? Is He making YOUR heart glad? Who is spinning your top?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 5 ~ Acts 2:25-26
I always see the Lord near me, and I will not be afraid with him at my right side. Because of this, my heart will be glad, my words will be joyful, and I will live in hope.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Sometimes, hope is all we have… and it is enough! I recently saw a high school friend of mine at the store, and I asked about her brother, who is dying of cancer. She knows that I know what it feels like to watch your brother battle a terminal illness. We talked about how hard it is to watch a loved one suffer, and she mentioned a mutual friend of ours who lost her battle with breast cancer three years ago. She said, “That’s been so hard for me… and we weren’t even close. I just don’t understand why this happened to her.” I told her that our friend told me over and over in her last years, “I will be okay.” And I trust in that a LOT! Because I know my friend is in heaven and truly okay, my heart is glad and my words about her can be joyful. I live in hope of seeing her again someday.
These days, there are a lot of things in our world that get us down. You may be struggling in school or having relationship troubles. The economy, the war, and a general sense of negativity in our country about so much is enough to make anyone grumpy! But if we keep our eyes focused on the Lord… if we see Him near us at all times, we have nothing to fear. Our heart can be glad – our words can be joyful. We can live in hope.
Someone said to me recently, “So often we want to just jump in and make things happen, when what we really need to do is wait on God to work everything out like He wants!” This is so true. We often jump the gun and worry and wring our hands and go through all sorts of gyrations, when what we really need to do is see the Lord near us and stay positive and hopeful.
I don’t know what you are going through today, but I do know God is with you. Have you looked up to see Him at your side? Can you at least try to be joyful and have a glad heart – can you at least give hope in the Lord a chance? I’m praying you allow Him to work in your life in all situations - I truly believe you will be blessed if you do. And maybe you can “set the example” for others to look for Him at their side, as well.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 4 ~ John 16:33
I have told you this, so that you might have peace in your hearts because of me. While you are in the world, you will have to suffer. But cheer up! I have defeated the world.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I don’t know why we can’t seem to “get this,” but God never promised us an easy life once we become Christians. If you can find a scripture in the Bible that says we’ll have a cozy, cushy life, please send it to me! What we ARE told is that we will have peace in our hearts. So while our children fight the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, we can trust God to meet their needs – and ours – and rest in that. While our aging parents and grandparents struggle with broken bones, dementia, and general decline, we can be thankful for their lives and influences and trust God to give us patience and courage for their latter years.
While we worry about our children and the “evil influences” of this world, we can trust God to keep them safe – and to give us the wisdom to provide them with the right lessons and role models for living for Him and overcoming these temptations. While we face serious – even life-threatening – illnesses and injuries, we can be joyful, knowing that God is healing our bodies and working in and through us.
I know people who never let anything get them down. I know others who are ready to “throw in the towel” at the first sign of trouble or challenge. The difference comes down to a choice… we can CHOOSE to rest in God and let Him fill us with peace, or we can CHOOSE to continue to flail around like we did before we became Christians. The latter is not an option for me… what about you? In the words of John 16:33, “Cheer up!” God has defeated the world and its “hold” on us… “take a chill pill” and relax in Him. Let His peace fill you and see you through every challenge this world offers.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 3 ~ Luke 16:15
But Jesus told them: You are always making yourselves look good, but God sees what is in your heart. The things that most people think are important are worthless as far as God is concerned.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I once worked for a manufacturer who said, “I don’t care what it costs to make the product – as long as it looks good!” If you think about it, this is a profound statement. I am afraid it is the “mantra” for many of us.
* “I don’t care who gets hurt, as long as I am “happy.”
* “I don’t care how much debt I have as long as I drive a nice car, wear designer clothes and live in a big house”.
* “I don’t care who I have to step over to get ahead.”
* “I’m not trying to please anyone but myself.”
* “I am going to ‘play’ now – I’ll settle down later. Besides, I go to church often!”
* “I don’t care what it costs me or others… as long as I look good and enjoy life!”
The trouble with this “stinkin’ thinkin’” is that God sees our heart. He knows how we really feel about Him and our faith on the inside. We must remember that looks fade… material possessions can be snuffed out in a minute… friends are fickle… jobs can be lost… fun is temporary. But living for Jesus is FOREVER! Serving in His name has not only lifelong benefits – they are also ETERNAL! Honoring God and striving to know Him better and live for Him every minute of the day – in even the smallest things – is what counts!
Look around you. There are people who “talk the talk” – but how many “walk the walk?” I’m not asking you to judge anyone but yourself... where do YOU fit into this picture? What’s in your heart… and is it showing on the outside? You may very well look great and be the life of the party… but at what cost? It’s time for a makeover, for many of us. It’s time to take stock of our heart and see where we fall short… and to ask God to show us how to begin making changes that will matter. Are you ready?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 2 ~ Mark 12:33
It is also true that we must love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and that we must love others as much as we love ourselves. These commandments are more important than all the sacrifices and offerings that we could possibly make.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
A friend sent me an e-mail and said, “I have been so poor in heart and mind lately yet I go through the actions to practice joy in my life and gratefulness and realize blessings. But how do I find pureness inside? I love the Lord and he loves me, and I know that, but these trials and tribulations sometimes take away the pureness…or does it? Please help!” This person was working hard to follow God’s commandments, but the “sacrifices and offerings” seemed to be getting in the way. I prayed about a response, and here is part of my reply... I pray that it will have meaning for you today.
First, I do not think that our trials and tribulations negate the purity of our heart. Moses questioned God, yet he was faithful and obedient - and God blessed him. Even JESUS asked God in the Garden of Gethsemane... if there was ANY other way to accomplish His purposes, please take the agony of the cross away. So I don't think that the purity of our heart is tied directly to our struggles or even lapses in faith.
I don't know your circumstances - and I don't need to know - but I can tell you that in my own life, I have experienced some difficult situations. It was hard to be patient ... and with at least some people, it was hard to be kind and civil. When I was proof-reading a recent devo about pure hearts, I know the Lord spoke to me and said, "You know, XYZ is my child, too." That is where the purity comes in! If you can be upset and disgusted with a situation or a person, yet still pray for them and realize that they are just as precious and important to God as we are, your heart is pure. Trust me, sometimes this is HARD to do!
In my own situations, I have had to totally surrender to God... knowing that He sees a much bigger picture than I do. I have no clue how these issues resolve, but I do know that I have done what I am supposed to do - I have asked God for help, and I have asked Him to help ME have a pure and right attitude about all parties involved. While it seems highly unlikely that some people will ever make a turn-around, that is not my responsibility - and I honestly don't know why I have so little faith that God could work a miracle in them... maybe this is a temporary lapse of faith on my part!
You may remember my mention of the man who allegedly shot and killed so many people at Ft. Hood a few weeks ago. Many said, “He should have died, too.” In other situations, I’ve heard people say, I hope So-and-So gets what’s coming to him/her! I understand that feeling... but I also understand how that grieves God. And believe me, there are people who irritate me, and I struggle with being kind and "pure" toward them. Those irritants are God's children, too... and we must pray for them and love them in Christ all the same.
When my dad and brother were both seriously ill, we all wore our feelings on our sleeves. There were days when my heart was broken - I was despondent, hopeless, and even fearful for the future... mine AND my loved ones'. But I still don't think that meant my heart wasn't pure. I stayed VERY close to God during that time, and He gave me joy and peace. Sometimes it was fake... like when people would stop me in Wal-Mart and ask, "Hey, how are you?" and I would reply, "I'm fine," while on the inside I was screaming, "My dad and brother are dying - how do you really THINK I am doing?" Still, I don't think that meant my heart wasn't pure. We aren't always supposed to share EVERY emotion with others! Maybe that is God’s grace working through us.
I am making a concerted effort to be more than just "civil" toward "irritants" in my life. I am working on greeting them with a sincere love in Christ for them as another child of God - equal with me in His eyes. I am working on letting God handle situations for me... because honestly, there are many I am not equipped to handle - and frankly, all God expects is for us to give our burdens to Him. That in itself is a test of our faith - and our heart!
In the midst of this holiday season, I am praying that God will give you peace. I know that the holidays can be trying times for some as we are thrust into situations that may involve people with whom we are not necessarily pals. I believe God is working with us to "grow" our faith through our trials and tribulations... as He always does. Love God with all our heart, mind, and strength - and love others as much as you love yourself. A pure heart will help you endure all of the struggles and challenges of everyday life…AND the holidays!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 1 ~ Matthew 12:35
Good people bring good things out of their hearts, but evil people bring evil things out of their hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
One of the great blessings of living in a small town – and growing up here – is the interaction I now have with adults who influenced me as a child. And one of those was my second grade Sunday School teacher, Ms. Gloria. I no longer attend the same church as she, but I see her occasionally in the grocery store or at a social function, and she is always delightful. Ms. Gloria is one of the kindest, most loving women I know… and I know it stems from her love of God and service to Him.
Recently, this dear lady had a new floor installed in her basement. Consistent with her generous, loving personality, Ms. Gloria headed downstairs to offer the man installing the floor a soft drink and a sandwich for lunch. She didn’t realize the floor was slick with glue, and she fell and broke her arm. Surgery fixed the arm, and she is doing well. We talked on the phone recently, and she said, “I’m fine… I’m just waiting for this to heal because I want to be up doing things!”
Sadly, I know people who have done very well for themselves… but all at the expense of others. People who don’t know the whole story will say, “He/she is such a wonderful person and has accomplished so much!” What they don’t realize is that this person’s “accomplishments” have caused a great deal of misery for many others along the way. This person’s heart is evil, and the result may appear to be positive – but in truth, his/her every accomplishment is tarnished. You cannot attend church every Sunday and appear to be Godly and then stab people in the back the other six days of the week to advance your agenda!
Give me a “Ms. Gloria” any day of the week! And if we are honest and listen to what the scripture is saying, I believe this is God’s sentiment, too. Evil people who operate from a self-serving heart are missing the boat. People who love God and serve Him unselfishly, like Ms. Gloria, will be blessed again and again – even when they break an arm “in the line of duty!”
Check your heart… and check your motives. Make sure that what you say and do comes from a heart in tune with God and geared to serve Him. If you find that your heart is selfish or self-serving in any way, ask God to show you how to change this. Bear “good fruit” from a pure heart. You’ll be amazed at the results!
©2009 Debbie Robus
November Devotionals - Week 4
November 30 ~ Matthew 6:19-21
Don't store up treasures on earth! Moths and rust can destroy them, and thieves can break in and steal them. Instead, store up your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy them, and thieves cannot break in and steal them. Your heart will always be where your treasure is.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever known people who save their “good stuff” for a special occasion… like their best pajamas, or their “nice clothes.” Meanwhile, they wear the torn, tattered and frayed stuff every day while their good clothes hang in a closet or are folded in a drawer. I have known of people who died with beautiful things still hanging in the closet with tags on them… saved for another day. I’ve known of aunts and grandmothers who kept their “good pajamas” in the drawer “in case I have to go to the hospital.” How sad to save the “good stuff” for such an occasion!
But it’s not just clothes and possessions we store up for another day. We do this spiritually, too. We work hard to make lots of money while neglecting family and friends – and God. We “live it up” and enjoy our weekends and free time and have a blast, but we don’t serve others. We will go to Tunica and gamble all weekend long, but we don’t have an extra $100 to give to missions. We store up our “treasure” on earth and neglect the things of heaven.
What does this have to do with our heart? Everything! See, what your heart truly desires is what you will have. If your heart’s desire is to make lots of money and spend it on yourself, you will work hard to do just that. If your heart is for others and serving them… sharing what you have and serving God… you will make time for those things. If your heart is about appearances rather than substance, you’ll make a good show – but have nothing to show for it!
So what is your heart’s desire? What treasures are you storing? Are they earthly and expendable, or are they heavenly and eternal? The choice is ours… what sort of “good stuff” are you saving?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 29 ~ Matthew 5:8
God blesses those people whose hearts are pure. They will see him!
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
What does it mean to have a “pure heart?” If you read this passage in The Message, it says, “You're blessed when you get your inside world - your mind and heart - put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.” Do you see God in the outside world? Or are you a cynic? That means you look at people or things and see what’s wrong – or what could go wrong – rather than what is right. And we all do this from time to time… some of us more than others!
Our goal should be to see good in others rather than emphasize their negative traits… to see potential in unfortunate situations instead of ranting and raving about how awful or evil something is. This is part of recognizing that we are all God’s creatures and equally precious to Him. This is also recognizing God’s power to change any and all situations.
Yes, people make mistakes and fall short of what God desired for them – and so do you and I! Yes, there is evil in the world, and life often isn’t fair. But GOD is in control… and the closer we grow to Him, the more what we rationalize in our head matches our heart. The more attuned to God we become, the more we start to see people and situations with a pure heart, full of potential for God to work. This is not being simple or naïve… this is being faithful and confident in God to handle things we cannot – both seen and unseen! This is trusting His will for our lives.
So let me ask you again… do you see God in the outside world? Do you even LOOK for Him? The first step toward developing a pure heart may very well be to change your attitude! And to do this will take time spent in prayer and Bible study – listening to and looking for GOD! We all have work to do to develop a pure heart… isn’t this a great time to begin?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved. For copies of The Message call (800) 366-7788.
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November 28 ~ Jeremiah 24:7
I will give them a desire to know me and to be my people. They will want me to be their God, and they will turn back to me with all their heart.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
When I was a junior high Sunday School teacher, there were lots of Sundays when I wondered if anything that was said or done in that class registered with any in attendance. The junior high years are tough ones for a lot of kids, and they have so much racing around in their minds – and learning more about God and/or the Bible isn’t high on the radar of many! Over and over, people told me, “You’re planting seeds.” A couple of people told me, “You may never know in this lifetime what impact your leading this class had, but it did make a difference for these kids.” And I felt that, if ONE kid was touched on ONE Sunday, I had faithfully served God in this capacity.
I didn’t have to wait that long to see evidence that God spoke to kids in those classes. I still see many of those former students from time to time, and I see the how God is working in their lives. Some wandered away… but I’m not worried. I know they love God in their heart, and they will want Him to be their God in a big way someday. I know that for others, God has been an ever-present help to them through high school – and now, college. One graduating senior sent me a note and said, “I wish we could return to the days when XYZ and I were harassing you in Sunday School.” It wasn’t much of an endorsement… but I’ll take it!
You don’t have to teach junior high Sunday School to plant a desire to know God in the hearts of others. You can model faith-filled, Godly behavior in other ways. You can serve God by serving others… and make a difference in their lives – a difference that might mean whether or not they choose to follow God for themselves. YOU can plant seeds of desire for God in the hearts of others. God will do the rest.
Do your part to share God’s love with others - then be patient. Step back and watch God work. You’ll be amazed at the results. And if someone you know has wandered away from God, keep praying for them and offering encouragement. Believe that they will turn back to Him with all their heart and trust God to do the rest.
2009 Debbie Robus
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November 27 ~ Jeremiah 20:12
LORD All-Powerful, you test those who do right, and you know every heart and mind. I have told you my complaints, so let me watch you take revenge on my enemies.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Recently, a jury in Little Rock found a man guilty of the murder of news anchor Anne Pressly. Many were astounded that this man received a sentence of life in prison, rather than the death penalty. Around the same time, a man at Ft. Hood, Texas, shot and killed 13 others… and survived. I have heard more than one person say, “He should have died, too,” or “I hope he gets the death penalty.”
Please understand, I am not defending murderers. I have no patience for people who brutalize and harm others in any way, shape, or form – or murder them. But I also believe that God knows the hearts of these people… and in His time, He will deal with them. He will mete out the revenge on them that they deserve. Whether I know of it or not doesn’t matter.
So often we want to take matters into our own hands. And the danger in this is that we don’t always know what is in another person’s heart. We don’t see “the big picture” that God sees. What if a person’s life is spared from death row, and he/she is offered the plan of salvation and accepts Jesus? I read just recently about a man serving a life sentence in prison who gave his life to Christ and is now witnessing to other inmates. He knows he will die as an inmate himself, but in the meantime, he is growing the Kingdom of Heaven. Might it be that God is using a once-evil situation for His purposes now?
By all accounts, Anne Pressly “did right” and was pure in heart and mind… yet she was brutally raped and murdered. The crime against her deserves God’s revenge. But that’s the point… the revenge is God’s to give! Meanwhile, He may be able to bring about something positive from something so horrible… and that is where we have to trust Him. We serve a God of second (and third, and fourth and more) chances… and what we would wish for God to give us, we have to be willing to accept when He offers to others. Give your complaints to God – then let Him decide what to do with them.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 26 ~ Isaiah 61:3
He sent me to give them flowers in place of their sorrow, olive oil in place of tears, and joyous praise in place of broken hearts. They will be called "Trees of Justice," planted by the LORD to honor his name.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
On a day when we pause to be thankful for so much, we must remember above all else to be thankful for Jesus Christ. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, He came “to heal the brokenhearted, and to announce freedom for prisoners and captives… to comfort those who mourn.” Jesus did come to free us from the captivity of sin. He came to heal our broken hearts and comfort us – to give us new life in Him. In Isaiah 61:10, we read, “I celebrate and shout because of my Lord God.” This truly is a day to celebrate and shout – a day to be thankful for a Savior who died for us and all of the blessings and privileges we enjoy because of what He has done in our lives.
We like to name so many things for which we are thankful during this season… and that is not a bad idea, because we are rich beyond measure. But let’s remember to be thankful – first and foremost – for Jesus Christ, and a loving Heavenly Father who sent His only Son to die for our sins. We are greatly blessed – let us pause and be thankful… not only today, but always.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 25 ~ Isaiah 59:13
We have rebelled and refused to follow you. Our hearts were deceitful, and so we lied; we planned to abuse others and turn our backs on you.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever heard of a “Devil-may-care” attitude? Have you ever wanted something so badly that you said, “I don’t care what I have to do to get it!”? Have you ever known someone who pursued their dreams and desires to the extent that they were ruthlessly willing to step over others to attain them? Did you realize that we all do this to some extent? Just the other day, I was so absorbed in my grocery shopping that I reached into the meat case to select a package of bacon and stepped right in front of someone else who was there. Now I will say, I thought this person had made her selection already. But I was so “in the zone,” that I didn’t realize she actually had backed away to let me make my choices. I quickly apologized and insisted I would wait while she finished choosing her bacon!
I know… that seems like a silly example. I had to ask myself… “For even a moment, did I think my time was more important than someone else’s?” We “inadvertently” pull out in front of people in our cars, step in front of someone in line, grab the last roll at dinner without asking, say hurtful or rude things, and more. We say we didn’t mean it, but if we examine ourselves more closely, we have to admit that we were so into ourselves at that moment that we really weren’t thinking about anyone or anything else.
Soon a “harmless” incident like cutting in line becomes habit, and the devil has an opening. He will use it to harden our hearts and make us more self-serving. Before we know it, we are deliberately taking advantage of others – and proud of it! We might even brag to our friends, “I never wait in line… I make up an excuse to move ahead of the others,” or “How could he be so stupid? I just had to tell him off and let him know what I thought!” We start to feel like we are superior – even to God. We start to bend the rules and mold the Scriptures to suit our whims and justify our behavior… “Well, God didn’t really mean that!”
From time to time, we all need to examine our hearts and see how we are doing. We need to make sure we are not deceiving ourselves – or others. We need to be sure we are not bending God’s word to suit our situations and justify our sinful behavior. In all things, when God examines our heart, what does He see? This should be what motivates us each day… to make sure God is pleased with what He finds. Have you examined your heart lately?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 24 ~ Proverbs 21:2
We may think we are doing the right thing, but the LORD always knows what is in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever heard someone say about another person, “He/she just has such a good heart.” You know how I love Andy Griffith. Have you seen the episode where Barney wants to sing with the choir, but his voice is terribly off-key. But he has such a good heart, and nobody wants to hurt his feelings, so Andy and the choir cook up a scheme for Barney to sing into a “super-sensitive microphone” while a more adept singer actually performs for him from behind the curtain. Poor Barney even tries to help the choir director find the person who is singing off-key, totally unaware HE is the culprit. And when he hears the beautiful voice coming from the better singer, he thinks HIS voice actually sounds better in this special microphone. It’s a tangled web of deception – all created in the name of saving Barney’s feelings and protecting his heart.
So often we do all sorts of dances and gyrations to convince ourselves that what we are doing is the right thing – and that God will understand – when truly, we know better. Barney and Andy’s little dance may have been harmless enough, but in the end, Barney found out the truth. And isn’t that always the way? The old adages that “the truth WILL come out” and “honesty is the best policy” are both solid pieces of advice!Here are a few examples of thinking you are doing the right thing, when God is looking at your heart and your motives:
- You’re at a party where underage teens are drinking, but because you aren’t drinking, you think it is okay to stay at the party.
- You are in a store with someone who is shoplifting. You don’t shoplift, but you don’t call your friend on it, either. Your justification is that you didn’t do anything illegal… and you don’t want to make your friend mad by saying anything.
- You let your underage kids have a party at your house and you allow them to consume alcohol. You rationalize that because you keep all of the kids there and nobody is driving, it’s okay.
- You use your friend’s handicapped parking permit to claim a prime parking space when you go grocery shopping. Your justification is that you’re a senior citizen and you are entitled. Besides, there weren’t any other spaces available near the store.
- You help yourself to pens, paper, paper clips, and more from your place of employment and take them home. The business has plenty, and no more than they pay you, you feel you are entitled to these “bonuses.”
- You cover for your friend who is cheating on his/her significant other because you don’t want to get caught in the middle or hurt anyone’s feelings.
- You chew out the refs at your kid’s Pee Wee basketball game in front of everyone because you feel they made a terrible call, and by golly, they need to be taken down a notch or two!
The point I am making is that sometimes, we feel completely justified… we have rationalized our behavior and/or our choices perfectly in our mind - and we have totally compartmentalized our thoughts and separated them from our conscience – or our heart! Deep within, we may even realize that what we are doing would not be pleasing to God – or may be wrong on some level. This is a great example of where the head and heart do not function the same!
The bottom line is that we should strive to act in a manner that we know in our heart pleases God. When we are in doubt about our actions, we should consult God first and ask Him if our choices line up with His will… and if He approves. Often God will speak to us from our heart and give us the answer. And no matter how hard it may be to accept – and act upon – the outcome will always be better, and God will help us navigate any difficulties along the way.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 23 ~ Psalm 139:23
Look deep into my heart, God, and find out everything I am thinking.
Proverbs 15:11
If the LORD can see everything in the world of the dead, he can see in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
WHOA! I don’t know about you, but there are days I would really rather God not see everything I am thinking! And having said that, we have to ask ourselves, “What is wrong with this picture?” Surely God knows everything we are thinking. Yet when the devil gets hold of us, our thoughts are not always pleasing to God, are they? At least, I know mine aren’t! From the unkind thought I have about the driver who cuts me off in traffic to the envy I sometimes have when I see someone wearing a nice outfit to the frustration I experience when someone says or does something I don’t like – I allow the devil to creep into my heart and my thoughts… and sometimes it ain’t pretty!
The truth of this scripture is that the Psalmist is saying, “Go ahead, God… look at everything about me… see what isn’t pleasing to you…AND FIX IT!!!” Don’t be afraid for God to examine your heart. Certainly, we should all work harder to make sure what He sees there is pleasing. But the beauty of our relationship with God is that He is willing to help us change even the unpleasant things He finds in our heart. If we are willing to turn to God and completely give Him our heart, He will have mercy on us and show us how to correct “stinkin’ thinkin’!”
I’m going with the Psalmist on this one… “Bring it on, Lord! Look deep into every nook and cranny of my heart. Find the things I need to change. Forgive me for them. Then show me how to turn things around and head back toward You.” God already knows what we are thinking. The question is… do our thoughts please Him? If the answer is “not always,” are we ready and willing to change?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 22 ~ Psalm 84:2
Deep in my heart I long for your temple, and with all that I am I sing joyful songs to you.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
The older I get, the more I look forward to heaven. Now, you probably think that sounds pretty morbid… and no, I do not have a death wish! But the more I discover about God’s love for us and how He works in our lives, the more I want to know of Him! Yet, I realize we won’t have all of the answers until we get to Heaven!
At the same time, the anticipation of Heaven makes life on this earth sweeter. Does that make sense? See, just like this scripture, as God fills me with joy and I live a life that I hope pleases – and glorifies – Him, the more I enjoy my earthly life. This doesn’t diminish my anticipation of Heaven someday, but it does give me patience for the journey. God doesn’t want us to just mark time in this life as we wait for Him… He wants us to fully LIVE it!!!
I often tell younger people not to wish their lives away… and this is good advice for all of us. Instead of anticipating the future, God wants us to savor every single day. Deep in our hearts we may long for Heaven. But day-to-day, we should be filled with joyful songs for the blessings God gives us. We should live every minute to the fullest in service and honor to Him. What’s deep within YOUR heart these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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