March 31 ~ Psalm 138:7-8
When I walk into the thick of trouble, keep me alive in the angry turmoil.
With one hand strike my foes,
With your other hand save me.
Finish what you started in me, God.
Your love is eternal—don't quit on me now.
(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.)
I finally entered the world of Facebook a few weeks ago. Many of you are my “friends” there, and I appreciate that you are willing to allow me into your “circle!” Often on the Facebook “Wall” someone will write something like “Bill Jones… is worried” or “Sue Smith… wonders why life comes at you so fast” or something similar. Now, I understand that I am not seeing the whole conversation in many instances… so I have no clue what the real need is – or even the full intent of the statement. But I know that GOD knows what is troubling you, or what caused you to write such a statement. So I just stop and pray that whatever is happening, He will “walk into the thick of trouble” with you and help you through the turmoil.
I honestly believe that God can use something like Facebook to watch over His children and care for them. I believe that He can strike your enemies with one hand and save you with the other. I also believe that God is not through with any of us yet, and He will never, ever quit on our behalf.
So the next time you find yourself in the thick of trouble or “angry turmoil” – the next time you wonder how things are going to work out or why so much is happening to you or what it all means, remember Psalm 138. God WILL strike your enemies and save you… He will finish what He started. God’s love is eternal… and He NEVER quits. And your “Facebook friend” is praying for you!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 30 ~ Psalm 73:24
I'm still in your presence,
but you've taken my hand.
You wisely and tenderly lead me,
and then you bless me.
(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.)
In a few short weeks, some of you will be graduating. Others will be getting married, getting out of the military, and/or starting a new job. Some of you have new babies… or a baby on the way! In all instances, you have been on a journey toward this end. And you have had a great deal of influence along the way – teachers and your own studies and experiences, family and friends, doctors and childbirth coaches, drill sergeants and other officers… and all of these people and experiences have led you to this moment.
But more importantly, GOD has led you… and He continues on, even after the big event comes and goes. God is leading us and keeping us close, holding our hand, and preparing us for the greatest milestone of all… heaven in His presence!
In the events of our lives, there tends to be a little bit of a “been there, done that – now what?” feeling. Just remember, the biggest, most exciting event is yet to come! Everything we do now is just a “warm-up” act – an appetizer – before the big feast! God leads us by the hand, through thick and thin, and then He blesses us and gives us Heaven!The expanded passage from Psalm 73 reveals more about how God operates – how He cares for us and blesses us. I leave you with these verses today… and remind you that I’ve made Lord GOD my home… have you?
When I was beleaguered and bitter, totally consumed by envy,
I was totally ignorant, a dumb ox in your very presence.
I'm still in your presence, but you've taken my hand.
You wisely and tenderly lead me, and then you bless me.
You're all I want in heaven! You're all I want on earth!
When my skin sags and my bones get brittle, God is rock-firm and faithful.
Look! Those who left you are falling apart!
Deserters, they'll never be heard from again.
But I'm in the very presence of God — oh, how refreshing it is!
I've made Lord God my home.
God, I'm telling the world what you do!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 29 ~ Psalm 37:27-29
Turn your back on evil,
work for the good and don't quit.
God loves this kind of thing,
never turns away from his friends.
Live this way and you've got it made,
but bad eggs will be tossed out.
The good get planted on good land
and put down healthy roots.
(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.)
I don’t know if this has ever happened to you, but once in awhile, I’ll get home from the store with a carton of eggs, and one will be broken. I check the eggs in the store when I select my carton, but sometimes I don’t see a crack underneath – or maybe they get a little rough handling when checked and sacked. Regardless of how this happens, I feel I must toss out the bad egg. It’s not worth the risk of contracting salmonella or e-Coli over one egg.
In life, “bad eggs” are some of Satan’s favorites. The come in the form of people who quit on God (or never serve Him in the first place) … evil in all forms… misdeeds and sins, and those would rather serve themselves than others. And ultimately, the “bad eggs” will have to be tossed out. There will be no bad eggs in Heaven!
We have a huge opportunity to put down healthy roots and plant on good land. God is calling us to turn our backs on evil and be keep on “keepin’ on” for His glory. He has promised that to do this will assure us a place in Heaven – we really will have it made. I want this, don’t you? I can’t think of anything I’d rather be than a “good egg” for God. What about you? Are you a good egg? Or are you a little cracked? Turn your back on evil – work for the good and don’t quit! Be a “good egg” for God, and secure His friendship forever.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 28 ~ Psalms 37:23-24
Stalwart walks in step with God;
his path blazed by God, he's happy.
If he stumbles, he's not down for long;
God has a grip on his hand.
(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.)
Probably few among us can say we have never climbed Sugar Loaf Mountain. Many of us know the path to the top almost by heart. It has been well worn through the ages by the hundreds of people who have hiked along it. My brother and his friend used to ride their horses up as far as they could and then tether them to a tree to while they climbed the rocks to the crest of the mountain. And the rocks – we all know that “Fat Man’s Squeeze” is the right place to climb up between the boulders! The last time I was there, those rocks were rubbed slick from the traffic of shoes and boots worn by countless climbers.
Sugar Loaf is not a place to go by yourself. You are sure to need a hand – and a steady grip – to help you navigate those last few feet to the very top of the rock formations. It’s easy to stumble a little… to lose your footing on those slick rock crevices… and the sure grip or support of a friend will definitely be welcome. And do you remember how great it feels to finally be at the top, looking out across the river valley and feeling the breeze across your face? It’s as if you could almost reach out and touch heaven – or at least hear God whisper your name!
This passage made me think of climbing Sugar Loaf with family and friends. I was reminded that God not only provides us with a well-worn path for life – he BLAZED it with the likes of Moses, Abraham, Peter, Paul, John, and Jesus! His hand is steady and sure - gripping ours… supporting us when we start to slip or stumble. When we invite God to walk along with us, we are able to climb any mountain… and to reach the pinnacle and celebrate with Him at the top. And ultimately, we will get to sit and bask in His glory for all Eternity!
Climbing Sugar Loaf is a really fun activity – and something of a rite of passage for many who live in or visit our area. But climbing Sugar Loaf with others doesn’t truly have any eternal value. Walking with God each day does! When you have a “mountain” to climb, do you ask God to walk with you? Are you counting on His steady hand to grip yours? With God, we can scale the top of many mountains and celebrate the victory He gave us. Without Him, we may be forever stuck in “Fat Man’s Squeeze”… only getting a glimpse of how things could have been. I don’t want to be stuck at the base of the rocks, like my brother’s horse. I want to make it all the way – to receive the full glory of what awaits at the top… to feel the gentle breeze of God's presence beside me... don’t you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 27 ~ Job 17:9
"But principled people hold tight, keep a firm grip on life,
sure that their clean, pure hands will get stronger and stronger!
(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.)
Do the right thing. That’s what this scripture tells us in a nutshell. How do you know just what “the right thing” is? Every day, we make choices. All day long, we decide… what to eat, what to wear, how we will spend our day, who we will talk with, where we will go… and more. We decide whether to follow the speed limit or to “fudge” a little. We decide whether to share a juicy tidbit of gossip or opt to ignore it. We decide whether to watch TV or read our Bible.
Some of our choices may not seem all that important in the scheme of things, but faithfulness to God means we will “do the right thing” in even the seemingly insignificant matters of our day.So here is our challenge… to do the right thing in ALL things… great and small. Those who keep a firm grip on this… and keep their hands clean and their choices pure… grow stronger and stronger. Be strong for Jesus – be principled and hold tight. Strengthen your resolve that in all things, you will do the right thing.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 26 ~ 1 Chronicles 16:11
God-seekers, be jubilant!
Study God and his strength,
seek his presence day and night;
Remember all the wonders he performed,
the miracles and judgments that came out of his mouth.
(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.)
A friend and I were talking recently about how we used to think that being a Christian would take away all of our fun and our joy, when the truth is that living life as a Christian is exactly the opposite! God-seekers truly ARE jubilant!
In The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says that we will know we are maturing in our walk with God when we can see His hand in the “random, baffling and often pointless circumstances of life.” How do we get to this point? In part we reach this maturity by seeking God’s presence day and night – by remembering the wonders and miracles He performed that are recorded in Scripture… and by paying attention to the judgments He spoke on many.
I don’t think there is any among us who doesn’t need to step up our efforts in seeking God’s presence day and night. I can’t think of a better time to start than today - in the middle of Lent - as we focus on Jesus and the Cross, His death and resurrection. Now IS the time for us to seek Him – and to be jubilant! It’s time to get busy – we’ve all got work to do!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 25 ~ Revelation 22:11
The Angel continued, "Don't seal the words of the prophecy of this book; don't put it away on the shelf. Time is just about up. Let evildoers do their worst and the dirty-minded go all out in pollution, but let the righteous maintain a straight course and the holy continue on in holiness."
(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.)
With the advent of devices like the Amazon.com Kindle, some feel that in the next generation, books as we know them will be obsolete. I find it hard to envision shopping in antique stores for the classics someday – not because they are the CLASSICS, but because by the nature of being a book, they are a relic of the past. I absolutely LOVE books, and if you saw my shelves, you would believe me.
Sadly, I have not read every book on my shelves – yet! Some I have read more than once, and my Bibles, I read often.I have several Bibles… different translations, some with commentaries. Some were gifts. Others I purchased. Still others I acquired at estate sales and auctions. I may not read ALL of them… but I do read Scripture every day… and many days, I read passages directly from one of my many Bibles.
This scripture in Revelation is clear – our Bibles are NOT to gather dust on the shelf! We are not to give ourselves any room to wander off course or let our guard down and allow Satan to slip into our lives. And reading our Bible often will help to ensure that this doesn’t happen! Don’t get confused… reading the Bible is not the ONLY thing we need to be doing on a regular basis to maintain a straight course toward holiness. But it’s a start.So when was the last time you dusted off your Bible and opened it?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 24 ~ Revelation 21:6-8
Then he said, "It's happened. I'm A to Z. I'm the Beginning, I'm the Conclusion. From Water-of-Life Well I give freely to the thirsty. Conquerors inherit all this. I'll be God to them, they'll be sons and daughters to me. But for the rest - the feckless and faithless, degenerates and murderers, sex peddlers and sorcerers, idolaters and all liars - for them it's Lake Fire and Brimstone. Second death!"
(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.)
I grew up hearing the “fire and brimstone” sermons – “Do this or that, and you will go to hell!” – so a large part of my faith was based on fear… I loved Jesus and served the Lord because to do otherwise meant burning forever in the Lake of Fire! Thankfully, I came to understand that serving God and being a Christian is based in LOVE, not in fear and punishment. Serving God and loving Jesus means that He gives FREELY to me… that I am a conqueror over sin. Even better, I am God’s daughter…His chosen, beloved child. He LOVES me… and all He wants from me in return is MY love.
How hard is it to love Someone who has given EVERYTHING for you? How hard is it to serve God when you realize that He sacrificed His only Son – allowed Jesus to be tortured and ridiculed and crucified – just so that WE could belong to Him? How can we turn our backs on the One who wants to give us so much… secret names, hidden manna and rewards… a seat at His banquet table… mansions… even a CROWN?! How can we not serve a God who sends His Holy Spirit to be our constant companion and to endure every second of every day with us? No one else will EVER love us like this! It isn’t possible.
I don’t want to end up in the Lake of Fire… but more importantly, I don’t want to miss the continual party of Heaven! I don’t want to follow the devil… but more than that, I don’t want to miss out on having the Holy Spirit with me in this earth. The daily struggles and challenges of this life are hard enough without trying to dabble in sin at the same time, much less “go it alone” without the Holy Spirit. If you are trying to carry the devil’s baggage, I encourage you to lighten your load… give your burdens and cares to Jesus, Who is more than able to handle them, and become a conqueror. Assure yourself of the free gift of the Water of Life and a Heavenly Father who loves you!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 23 ~ Revelation 16:15
"Keep watch! I come unannounced, like a thief. You're blessed if, awake and dressed, you're ready for me. Too bad if you're found running through the streets, naked and ashamed."
(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.)
When my brother was dying, I sat with him for a couple of nights, spending time with him… talking and singing to him… and just watching him sleep. I tried to stay alert in case he needed something… and the first night, I stayed dressed in shorts and a t-shirt. The second night, my sister joined us, and I decided I would put on pajamas and try to get some sleep. But sleep wouldn’t come, and I soon found myself dressing again… just in case. I didn’t want to be in my pajamas if my brother died. Shortly before he passed away, I woke my parents and told them to “get dressed” because I felt the end was near.
We didn’t know when, exactly, my brother would die. But we wanted to be ready. I’ve been called in the middle of the night or very early in the morning to meet a relative or friend at the Emergency Room, and I am always embarrassed by my disheveled appearance, understandable though it may be. And anytime someone knocks on our door and we are less than presentable, aren’t we embarrassed, or even ashamed of how we look or maybe how our home looks?
So we know what it is like to get caught unaware or unprepared – at least on an earthly level. Now imagine if Jesus returns and we are not spiritually dressed. Imagine if we are caught cloaked in the pajamas and the dishevelment of sin instead of the orderliness and covering of faithfulness and living for Jesus. We might as well be naked, for all the shame – and worse – that we will experience. As Christians, we must always be “dressed and ready.” Our “house” must always be in order. We don’t know when Jesus will return… but the hour and day should not matter if we are living for Him already. So what are you wearing these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 22 ~ Revelation 14:12
Meanwhile, the saints stand passionately patient, keeping God's commands, staying faithful to Jesus.
(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.)
You are in the check-out line at Wal-Mart, self-checking your groceries. The register is not cooperating and keeps giving you commands… “Please place your items in the bagging area,” or “Please wait for assistance,” or “Approval needed.” Standing behind you, impatiently shifting from one foot to another, are several other customers. They are in a hurry, as we all have been from time to time. But this particular day, the person directly behind you is acting as if he/she will NEVER get a turn. You feel your blood pressure rise a little – along with your stress level – as you experience the sideways glances of those behind you in line - and that Associate seems to be ignoring your need for help!
I’ve been on both sides of this situation, although I hope I’ve never given anyone unpleasant glances or really shown that much agitation. But I have felt impatient as I waited for the person ahead of me to hurry and finish their business and move out of my way. And I am trying to do better. I have concluded that even in the small things, like exhibiting patience in a check-out line, we honor God.
God wants us to be patient as we wait for Christ’s return. God wants us to be faithful in everything – to exhibit patience as we wait upon HIS timing in our lives. He wants us to show patience and calm to others… a demeanor that says, “I can handle ANYTHING, because the Holy Spirit is always with me. I am operating in the promises of God, keeping His commands, and staying faithful to my Jesus.” And really… if we kept this as a mantra, wouldn’t the everyday stresses of the world seem at least a little bit trivial? Wouldn’t it seem just a little silly to be impatient in a grocery check-out line – or waiting at the stoplight – or even as we wait for a friend or family member to get ready to go somewhere or for an event to get underway? The saints stand passionately patient, keeping God’s commands, and staying faithful to Jesus. What about you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
March 2009 Devos - Week 3
March 21 ~ Revelation 3:20-21
"Look at me. I stand at the door. I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I'll come right in and sit down to supper with you. Conquerors will sit alongside me at the head table, just as I, having conquered, took the place of honor at the side of my Father. That's my gift to the conquerors!”
(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.)
Have you ever stopped by to visit a friend or family member to find that they were just sitting down to a meal? More than once, haven’t they said, “Pull up a chair and eat with me!” Whether you stayed or not, didn’t that make you feel welcome – and included? Didn’t you feel like you were important – like you belonged?
Imagine you are passing by a restaurant, and you peer through the window and you see people you know inside – friends and/or family members. They are eating and fellowshipping and enjoying their meal. And they see you – you are quite sure of that – but they don’t acknowledge you at all. It is as if you are not even standing there. Imagine how that would feel. Imagine if your mother or father looked at you – and right through you – and did not invite you in to enjoy the meal and sit at the table. Imagine how sad, empty and heartbroken you would be.
Now picture God’s table of honor. Your friends and family members who believe in Jesus are there… they are eating and talking and laughing. They are obviously happy beyond expression… honored, delighted… thrilled! You want so badly to be a part of the celebration… to revel in the glory of sitting alongside our Jesus… and you can! It is truly so very easy. All you have to do is commit your heart to Him now… live for Him and serve Him completely – NOW!
When the day comes that He returns to gather His conquerors over sin, you will be right there in the thick of things.
Don’t even “go there” to the window on the outside. Don’t allow even a whisper of a chance that you could be left standing on the other side of the window. Find joy each and every day in knowing that you are living in a way that secures your seat at His table. Some days will be harder than others… but keep focused on the future… the Eternal future… and your place at the Lord’s Table forever and ever. Armed with this knowledge and promise, you are equipped to handle anything! Do everything you can to prepare to pull up a chair and eat with fellow believers at the Lord’s table!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 20 ~ Revelation 3:11-12
"I'm on my way; I'll be there soon. Keep a tight grip on what you have so no one distracts you and steals your crown. I'll make each conqueror a pillar in the sanctuary of my God, a permanent position of honor. Then I'll write names on you, the pillars: the Name of my God, the Name of God's City - the new Jerusalem coming down out of Heaven - and my new Name.”
(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.)
If you were ever a Boy Scout or Girl Scout, you remember how hard you worked to attain badges that signified certain achievements or accomplishments… levels of knowledge and skill in a variety of subjects. I remember pouring over the Girl Scout manual and studying the requirements for particular badges. Some were easy, while others were very hard and time consuming. Some almost seemed out of reach… and those were the ones I seemed to want the worst! It was always a special day when I received a new badge to sew on my sash.
Imagine it… when Christ comes again, He will honor each of US by writing the names of God, the New Jerusalem (God’s city), and His own new name on us. These names will be our badge of honor and signify that we did the work, fought the fight, conquered sin because of Jesus, and lived for Him. I’m telling you, THESE are the “badges” I want to receive! Notice I didn’t say “earn,” because I don’t believe we can earn them… Jesus bought and paid for them on the cross when He died for our sins. BUT… in order to receive them, we must live for Him… we must keep a tight grip on our salvation so that we are eligible to receive these rewards. Did I mention we will get a crown, too? It just keeps getting better and better, doesn’t it?!
The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America are great organizations. They build strong character and help young people develop mentally and physically into wonderful adults. But scouting badges will not get a person into heaven. Only accepting Jesus and serving Him will do… and we will spend our entire earthly LIVES working on these rewards. This is so worth the time and energy. It is so worth our faithfulness – our service on this earth. The prize is a permanent position of honor… a pillar with the Holy names of God and His Son written upon us. What are you working toward today? Is this YOUR goal? Jesus is on His way… will you be ready?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 19 ~ Revelation 3:5
"Conquerors will march in the victory parade, their names indelible in the Book of Life. I'll lead them up and present them by name to my Father and his Angels.”
(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.)
If you have ever watched “The Price is Right,” you know that when the announcer says “C’mon down,” and calls a person by name, they sometimes go a little nuts! They are so excited to hear their name and be chosen to compete, that they yell and scream and run down the aisle like they are on fire. And the contestant who comes closest to the actual price of the item shown is even more excited as he/she is chosen to come up on stage and vie for an even bigger reward. But the BIGGEST reward can come at the end of the show for some lucky contestant who has persevered and played the game well. Boats, houses full of furniture, cars, trips and more can be attained. But truly, this IS just a game… and in many ways, the contestants are more than a little lucky.
As Christians, we are lucky, too… but life on this earth and our eternity is NOT a game. There are striking similarities… if we live for Jesus, some day He will call us by name to “C’mon down” and be presented to Almighty God and His angels. If our name is in the Book of Life, we will not only be called to the altar before God, but we will be given an Eternity at His table in heaven. Our “prizes” will be the mansion and rewards He has prepared for us there… eternity in the presence of our Morning Star, Jesus Christ… healthy, whole bodies reunited with our loved ones who have preceded us. Thinking about how glorious it will be is almost overwhelming. And I like to think that we will run to Jesus yelling and screaming and “going nuts” like the contestants on a game show!
On the television game show, if the price is right, you get to go forward. Our spiritual life is NOT a game, but how well we live – and WHO we serve – determines if we move ahead. The “price” has been paid… and it was right on the money. No guessing is required, no games must be played… all we have to do is invite Jesus to be our Lord and Savior, and then live for Him. Sounds like a bargain to me! I’m working toward the day when I hear, “C’mon down” and get to revel in the glory of God and His angels. Aren’t you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 18 ~ Revelation 2:25-28
"The rest of you Thyatirans, who have nothing to do with this outrage, who scorn this playing around with the Devil that gets paraded as profundity, be assured I'll not make life any harder for you than it already is. Hold on to the truth you have until I get there.
"Here's the reward I have for every conqueror, everyone who keeps at it, refusing to give up: You'll rule the nations, your Shepherd-King rule as firm as an iron staff, their resistance fragile as clay pots. This was the gift my Father gave me; I pass it along to you—and with it, the Morning Star!
(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.)
Have you ever heard someone say, “What if there is no heaven? What if we lived this ‘Christian’ life for nothing, and we missed out on all the fun?” Or maybe you have heard someone say, “He/she is just ‘sewing some wild oats.’” This passage is warning us against “playing around with the Devil.” Profundity refers to something that is deep and far-reaching. I assure you, the Devil is both deep and far-reaching, but not in knowledge and wisdom! When he tricks us into thinking we have time to fool around with sin… or that we might be “wasting the times our lives” living for Christ, he is LYING!!!
This passage spells out the reward for remaining faithful and loyal to Christ… we will conquer the devil’s hold on our lives. He will not rule us or defeat us. We will be given the same strength to defeat HIM that God gave to Christ. AND… we also get Christ himself… the Morning Star… in the form of the Holy Spirit who will be our constant Companion and Comforter.
So……here’s the deal… if we stay focused on Jesus… if we remember that His Holy Spirit is with us always, all of the tricks and temptations and LIES that the devil hands us each day will fall away and be broken like fragile clay pots. We can call on God to arm us with everything we need to defeat Satan every minute of every day. Rest assured that there is no “fun” on earth that is worth risking eternity in heaven. It can’t compare anyway. Know that He is God… know that He has made us… we are HIS people… we are HIS sheep. God is watching over us and preparing great things for us. In the movie It’s a Wonderful Life, Jimmy Stewart asks Donna Reed, “What is it you want, Mary? What do you want? You want the moon? Just say the word and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down. Hey. That's a pretty good idea. I'll give you the moon, Mary.” Jesus is offering us so much more than the moon. Hang in there and live strong in Christ… say the word, and God will give you the Morning Star!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 17 ~ Revelation 2:17
"Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words, the Spirit blowing through the churches. I'll give the sacred manna to every conqueror; I'll also give a clear, smooth stone inscribed with your new name, your secret new name."
(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.)
Have you ever been talking to someone – either in person or on the phone – and you felt like they were not listening? Have you ever asked, “Are you there?” or “Are you listening to me?” Seven times in Revelation, we find the phrase, “He that hath ear, let him hear…” (or in The Message, “Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words…” It’s as if the Apostle John is saying “Are you listening?”
So what, exactly, are we supposed to hear? First, every person who gives their heart to Jesus and allows Him to conquer sin for them will receive “sacred manna” – heavenly food… SPIRITUAL food that is far more filling than anything we can eat on this earth. God has promised that to those who remain faithful.
Has anyone ever called you by a special name… a name nobody else used for you? I’m not talking about a four-letter name – I mean a special name of endearment that has meaning just for you and the person who uses it. For others to use this name in referring to you would almost be invasive and hurtful. It is private – a “code” between you and the person. God has promised to give us a white stone (which signifies purity and innocence and privilege, among other things), and that stone will contain our new name… a name known only to God. This name will be special – meaningful because it is secret – written on the white stone and shared between you and God!
When you stop to think that God has a special, secret name for EACH ONE of His children – every single soul who has committed their heart to Christ – it boggles the mind, doesn’t it? To think that God has this capacity is overwhelming. To think that He is saving special names and Holy food for us is better than anticipating ANY other gifts! And all of this is on top of HEAVEN itself!
So as we go through hard times… as we struggle with issues like money, school, health, joblessness, rearing children, losing loved ones, conflicts and wars and a world seemingly out of control… remember what awaits us. Focus on your future with God and the gifts He is preparing for you – the sacred manna and the secret name – and heaven itself. Live each day in a way that prepares you for this future. Keep your eye on the prize. “He that hath ear, let him hear.” Are YOU listening?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 16 ~ Revelation 2:10
"Fear nothing in the things you're about to suffer - but stay on guard! Fear nothing! The Devil is about to throw you in jail for a time of testing - ten days. It won't last forever.
"Don't quit, even if it costs you your life. Stay there believing. I have a Life-Crown sized and ready for you.
(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.)
On page 107 of Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life, he says that “The deepest level of worship is praising God in spite of pain, thanking God during a trial, trusting Him when tempted, surrendering while suffering, and loving Him when He seems distant.” On page 111, Warren says of the psalmist David… “he believed God would let him say what he felt and still love him.” On page 110, he says, “The situations that will stretch your faith most will be those times when life falls apart and God is nowhere to be found.”
Well into my early adulthood, I believed that challenging God was a sin, if not out and out blasphemy. I wasn’t to question GOD! I wasn’t to ask Him why things were happening… I was just to accept them as “God’s will.” For a long time, I did not question when challenges came, and especially in times when I didn’t feel God’s presence. And that was pretty frustrating and confusing. I’ve always known that God’s ways are perfect – as is His timing. But it took a long time for me to realize that in times of pain and suffering, holding onto my faith was a form of worship.
Even more frustrating have been times when I felt distance from God. I knew in reason He didn’t leave me, but as Warren says, sometimes He seems a little AWOL. In Isaiah 45:15, we read “Clearly, you are a God who works behind the scenes, God of Israel, Savior God.” (MSG) Warren explains that during these times of seeming “absence,” our faith in God is strengthened. We learn to depend on Him and trust Him apart from our feelings… to truly experience God completely. I will tell you, this is a challenge for me. When you are reading the Bible, praying, studying God’s word through books by Christian authors and meditating on Him, and yet you feel a distance from Him – an “unsettled spirit,” – it is hard to remain faithful.
But just like when one works out and lift weights and seem to get nowhere fast, we must hold on and persevere. We must stay positive and confident that results will come. Our joy in the Lord will return and our hearts will be full… and we will have grown in the process. Every step we take on this earth can be a building block for our eternity in heaven. We may experience times of loneliness, and the costs may be high… but the end result will be so worth the struggle. How are your “exercises” going these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 15 ~ Revelation 2:7
"Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words, the Spirit blowing through the churches. I'm about to call each conqueror to dinner. I'm spreading a banquet of Tree-of-Life fruit, a supper plucked from God's orchard."
(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.)
Family dinners are a big part of my heritage. From the time I was a child, my family – all of it – gathered each Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day for gargantuan meals. Every holiday food you can imagine was represented, and adults and children, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents and sometimes close friends gathered to stuff themselves silly. We “grazed” all day and then warmed leftovers for dinner as if we had not just eaten! As our family dynamics have changed in recent years, the family dinners have pretty much gone by the wayside. But we have fond memories of those “glory days” of gluttony and fellowship!
One year I had surgery shortly before Thanksgiving Day, and I was unable to travel the ninety miles to my parents’ house for the holiday dinner. I remember my parents telephoning us shortly before the noon meal, and I could hear the laughter and conversation of guests in the background… the doorbell as more arrived… and I could almost “smell” the turkey and dressing! Knowing we were missing out on the fun and festivities made me sad. It wasn’t about the food as much as the fellowship… the distance between us was profound – like a deep canyon – and it was a hard day. Trust me, we did not go hungry that day, as our neighbors brought us not one, but TWO of their own family’s Thanksgiving dinners. But the food did not quite make up for the missed fellowship.
When I think of this, I think of what it would be like to know that God was having a banquet dinner for His children… and I was not included. Sure, every food imaginable would be served. We are talking GOD and Heaven here! But it’s more than that – the fellowship of being in His presence… the beauty and bounty of HIS table… the glory of sitting in the company of fellow believers at the feet of our Heavenly Father – to miss this would be more than I could bear. I know that this banquet is coming. I am as certain that this is a sure thing as I am that I am breathing! I am certain I am on the guest list – and I plan to be there! Everything I do between now and that day, I hope will glorify God and get me one step closer to the party!
I am serving the devil with notice… BRING IT ON! Give me your best shot, if you must, but know this… I will NOT fold. My ears are awake, and I hear the “wind words” of God calling to me. I got my invitation, and I hope each day I live out my R.S.V.P. I am a conqueror in Christ, and I’m preparing for His banquet table. Are you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
"Look at me. I stand at the door. I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I'll come right in and sit down to supper with you. Conquerors will sit alongside me at the head table, just as I, having conquered, took the place of honor at the side of my Father. That's my gift to the conquerors!”
(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.)
Have you ever stopped by to visit a friend or family member to find that they were just sitting down to a meal? More than once, haven’t they said, “Pull up a chair and eat with me!” Whether you stayed or not, didn’t that make you feel welcome – and included? Didn’t you feel like you were important – like you belonged?
Imagine you are passing by a restaurant, and you peer through the window and you see people you know inside – friends and/or family members. They are eating and fellowshipping and enjoying their meal. And they see you – you are quite sure of that – but they don’t acknowledge you at all. It is as if you are not even standing there. Imagine how that would feel. Imagine if your mother or father looked at you – and right through you – and did not invite you in to enjoy the meal and sit at the table. Imagine how sad, empty and heartbroken you would be.
Now picture God’s table of honor. Your friends and family members who believe in Jesus are there… they are eating and talking and laughing. They are obviously happy beyond expression… honored, delighted… thrilled! You want so badly to be a part of the celebration… to revel in the glory of sitting alongside our Jesus… and you can! It is truly so very easy. All you have to do is commit your heart to Him now… live for Him and serve Him completely – NOW!
When the day comes that He returns to gather His conquerors over sin, you will be right there in the thick of things.
Don’t even “go there” to the window on the outside. Don’t allow even a whisper of a chance that you could be left standing on the other side of the window. Find joy each and every day in knowing that you are living in a way that secures your seat at His table. Some days will be harder than others… but keep focused on the future… the Eternal future… and your place at the Lord’s Table forever and ever. Armed with this knowledge and promise, you are equipped to handle anything! Do everything you can to prepare to pull up a chair and eat with fellow believers at the Lord’s table!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 20 ~ Revelation 3:11-12
"I'm on my way; I'll be there soon. Keep a tight grip on what you have so no one distracts you and steals your crown. I'll make each conqueror a pillar in the sanctuary of my God, a permanent position of honor. Then I'll write names on you, the pillars: the Name of my God, the Name of God's City - the new Jerusalem coming down out of Heaven - and my new Name.”
(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.)
If you were ever a Boy Scout or Girl Scout, you remember how hard you worked to attain badges that signified certain achievements or accomplishments… levels of knowledge and skill in a variety of subjects. I remember pouring over the Girl Scout manual and studying the requirements for particular badges. Some were easy, while others were very hard and time consuming. Some almost seemed out of reach… and those were the ones I seemed to want the worst! It was always a special day when I received a new badge to sew on my sash.
Imagine it… when Christ comes again, He will honor each of US by writing the names of God, the New Jerusalem (God’s city), and His own new name on us. These names will be our badge of honor and signify that we did the work, fought the fight, conquered sin because of Jesus, and lived for Him. I’m telling you, THESE are the “badges” I want to receive! Notice I didn’t say “earn,” because I don’t believe we can earn them… Jesus bought and paid for them on the cross when He died for our sins. BUT… in order to receive them, we must live for Him… we must keep a tight grip on our salvation so that we are eligible to receive these rewards. Did I mention we will get a crown, too? It just keeps getting better and better, doesn’t it?!
The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America are great organizations. They build strong character and help young people develop mentally and physically into wonderful adults. But scouting badges will not get a person into heaven. Only accepting Jesus and serving Him will do… and we will spend our entire earthly LIVES working on these rewards. This is so worth the time and energy. It is so worth our faithfulness – our service on this earth. The prize is a permanent position of honor… a pillar with the Holy names of God and His Son written upon us. What are you working toward today? Is this YOUR goal? Jesus is on His way… will you be ready?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 19 ~ Revelation 3:5
"Conquerors will march in the victory parade, their names indelible in the Book of Life. I'll lead them up and present them by name to my Father and his Angels.”
(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.)
If you have ever watched “The Price is Right,” you know that when the announcer says “C’mon down,” and calls a person by name, they sometimes go a little nuts! They are so excited to hear their name and be chosen to compete, that they yell and scream and run down the aisle like they are on fire. And the contestant who comes closest to the actual price of the item shown is even more excited as he/she is chosen to come up on stage and vie for an even bigger reward. But the BIGGEST reward can come at the end of the show for some lucky contestant who has persevered and played the game well. Boats, houses full of furniture, cars, trips and more can be attained. But truly, this IS just a game… and in many ways, the contestants are more than a little lucky.
As Christians, we are lucky, too… but life on this earth and our eternity is NOT a game. There are striking similarities… if we live for Jesus, some day He will call us by name to “C’mon down” and be presented to Almighty God and His angels. If our name is in the Book of Life, we will not only be called to the altar before God, but we will be given an Eternity at His table in heaven. Our “prizes” will be the mansion and rewards He has prepared for us there… eternity in the presence of our Morning Star, Jesus Christ… healthy, whole bodies reunited with our loved ones who have preceded us. Thinking about how glorious it will be is almost overwhelming. And I like to think that we will run to Jesus yelling and screaming and “going nuts” like the contestants on a game show!
On the television game show, if the price is right, you get to go forward. Our spiritual life is NOT a game, but how well we live – and WHO we serve – determines if we move ahead. The “price” has been paid… and it was right on the money. No guessing is required, no games must be played… all we have to do is invite Jesus to be our Lord and Savior, and then live for Him. Sounds like a bargain to me! I’m working toward the day when I hear, “C’mon down” and get to revel in the glory of God and His angels. Aren’t you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 18 ~ Revelation 2:25-28
"The rest of you Thyatirans, who have nothing to do with this outrage, who scorn this playing around with the Devil that gets paraded as profundity, be assured I'll not make life any harder for you than it already is. Hold on to the truth you have until I get there.
"Here's the reward I have for every conqueror, everyone who keeps at it, refusing to give up: You'll rule the nations, your Shepherd-King rule as firm as an iron staff, their resistance fragile as clay pots. This was the gift my Father gave me; I pass it along to you—and with it, the Morning Star!
(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.)
Have you ever heard someone say, “What if there is no heaven? What if we lived this ‘Christian’ life for nothing, and we missed out on all the fun?” Or maybe you have heard someone say, “He/she is just ‘sewing some wild oats.’” This passage is warning us against “playing around with the Devil.” Profundity refers to something that is deep and far-reaching. I assure you, the Devil is both deep and far-reaching, but not in knowledge and wisdom! When he tricks us into thinking we have time to fool around with sin… or that we might be “wasting the times our lives” living for Christ, he is LYING!!!
This passage spells out the reward for remaining faithful and loyal to Christ… we will conquer the devil’s hold on our lives. He will not rule us or defeat us. We will be given the same strength to defeat HIM that God gave to Christ. AND… we also get Christ himself… the Morning Star… in the form of the Holy Spirit who will be our constant Companion and Comforter.
So……here’s the deal… if we stay focused on Jesus… if we remember that His Holy Spirit is with us always, all of the tricks and temptations and LIES that the devil hands us each day will fall away and be broken like fragile clay pots. We can call on God to arm us with everything we need to defeat Satan every minute of every day. Rest assured that there is no “fun” on earth that is worth risking eternity in heaven. It can’t compare anyway. Know that He is God… know that He has made us… we are HIS people… we are HIS sheep. God is watching over us and preparing great things for us. In the movie It’s a Wonderful Life, Jimmy Stewart asks Donna Reed, “What is it you want, Mary? What do you want? You want the moon? Just say the word and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down. Hey. That's a pretty good idea. I'll give you the moon, Mary.” Jesus is offering us so much more than the moon. Hang in there and live strong in Christ… say the word, and God will give you the Morning Star!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 17 ~ Revelation 2:17
"Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words, the Spirit blowing through the churches. I'll give the sacred manna to every conqueror; I'll also give a clear, smooth stone inscribed with your new name, your secret new name."
(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.)
Have you ever been talking to someone – either in person or on the phone – and you felt like they were not listening? Have you ever asked, “Are you there?” or “Are you listening to me?” Seven times in Revelation, we find the phrase, “He that hath ear, let him hear…” (or in The Message, “Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words…” It’s as if the Apostle John is saying “Are you listening?”
So what, exactly, are we supposed to hear? First, every person who gives their heart to Jesus and allows Him to conquer sin for them will receive “sacred manna” – heavenly food… SPIRITUAL food that is far more filling than anything we can eat on this earth. God has promised that to those who remain faithful.
Has anyone ever called you by a special name… a name nobody else used for you? I’m not talking about a four-letter name – I mean a special name of endearment that has meaning just for you and the person who uses it. For others to use this name in referring to you would almost be invasive and hurtful. It is private – a “code” between you and the person. God has promised to give us a white stone (which signifies purity and innocence and privilege, among other things), and that stone will contain our new name… a name known only to God. This name will be special – meaningful because it is secret – written on the white stone and shared between you and God!
When you stop to think that God has a special, secret name for EACH ONE of His children – every single soul who has committed their heart to Christ – it boggles the mind, doesn’t it? To think that God has this capacity is overwhelming. To think that He is saving special names and Holy food for us is better than anticipating ANY other gifts! And all of this is on top of HEAVEN itself!
So as we go through hard times… as we struggle with issues like money, school, health, joblessness, rearing children, losing loved ones, conflicts and wars and a world seemingly out of control… remember what awaits us. Focus on your future with God and the gifts He is preparing for you – the sacred manna and the secret name – and heaven itself. Live each day in a way that prepares you for this future. Keep your eye on the prize. “He that hath ear, let him hear.” Are YOU listening?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 16 ~ Revelation 2:10
"Fear nothing in the things you're about to suffer - but stay on guard! Fear nothing! The Devil is about to throw you in jail for a time of testing - ten days. It won't last forever.
"Don't quit, even if it costs you your life. Stay there believing. I have a Life-Crown sized and ready for you.
(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.)
On page 107 of Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life, he says that “The deepest level of worship is praising God in spite of pain, thanking God during a trial, trusting Him when tempted, surrendering while suffering, and loving Him when He seems distant.” On page 111, Warren says of the psalmist David… “he believed God would let him say what he felt and still love him.” On page 110, he says, “The situations that will stretch your faith most will be those times when life falls apart and God is nowhere to be found.”
Well into my early adulthood, I believed that challenging God was a sin, if not out and out blasphemy. I wasn’t to question GOD! I wasn’t to ask Him why things were happening… I was just to accept them as “God’s will.” For a long time, I did not question when challenges came, and especially in times when I didn’t feel God’s presence. And that was pretty frustrating and confusing. I’ve always known that God’s ways are perfect – as is His timing. But it took a long time for me to realize that in times of pain and suffering, holding onto my faith was a form of worship.
Even more frustrating have been times when I felt distance from God. I knew in reason He didn’t leave me, but as Warren says, sometimes He seems a little AWOL. In Isaiah 45:15, we read “Clearly, you are a God who works behind the scenes, God of Israel, Savior God.” (MSG) Warren explains that during these times of seeming “absence,” our faith in God is strengthened. We learn to depend on Him and trust Him apart from our feelings… to truly experience God completely. I will tell you, this is a challenge for me. When you are reading the Bible, praying, studying God’s word through books by Christian authors and meditating on Him, and yet you feel a distance from Him – an “unsettled spirit,” – it is hard to remain faithful.
But just like when one works out and lift weights and seem to get nowhere fast, we must hold on and persevere. We must stay positive and confident that results will come. Our joy in the Lord will return and our hearts will be full… and we will have grown in the process. Every step we take on this earth can be a building block for our eternity in heaven. We may experience times of loneliness, and the costs may be high… but the end result will be so worth the struggle. How are your “exercises” going these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 15 ~ Revelation 2:7
"Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words, the Spirit blowing through the churches. I'm about to call each conqueror to dinner. I'm spreading a banquet of Tree-of-Life fruit, a supper plucked from God's orchard."
(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.)
Family dinners are a big part of my heritage. From the time I was a child, my family – all of it – gathered each Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day for gargantuan meals. Every holiday food you can imagine was represented, and adults and children, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents and sometimes close friends gathered to stuff themselves silly. We “grazed” all day and then warmed leftovers for dinner as if we had not just eaten! As our family dynamics have changed in recent years, the family dinners have pretty much gone by the wayside. But we have fond memories of those “glory days” of gluttony and fellowship!
One year I had surgery shortly before Thanksgiving Day, and I was unable to travel the ninety miles to my parents’ house for the holiday dinner. I remember my parents telephoning us shortly before the noon meal, and I could hear the laughter and conversation of guests in the background… the doorbell as more arrived… and I could almost “smell” the turkey and dressing! Knowing we were missing out on the fun and festivities made me sad. It wasn’t about the food as much as the fellowship… the distance between us was profound – like a deep canyon – and it was a hard day. Trust me, we did not go hungry that day, as our neighbors brought us not one, but TWO of their own family’s Thanksgiving dinners. But the food did not quite make up for the missed fellowship.
When I think of this, I think of what it would be like to know that God was having a banquet dinner for His children… and I was not included. Sure, every food imaginable would be served. We are talking GOD and Heaven here! But it’s more than that – the fellowship of being in His presence… the beauty and bounty of HIS table… the glory of sitting in the company of fellow believers at the feet of our Heavenly Father – to miss this would be more than I could bear. I know that this banquet is coming. I am as certain that this is a sure thing as I am that I am breathing! I am certain I am on the guest list – and I plan to be there! Everything I do between now and that day, I hope will glorify God and get me one step closer to the party!
I am serving the devil with notice… BRING IT ON! Give me your best shot, if you must, but know this… I will NOT fold. My ears are awake, and I hear the “wind words” of God calling to me. I got my invitation, and I hope each day I live out my R.S.V.P. I am a conqueror in Christ, and I’m preparing for His banquet table. Are you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
March 2009 Devos - Week 2
March 14 ~ 1 John 2:27
I've written to warn you about those who are trying to deceive you. But they're no match for what is embedded deeply within you - Christ's anointing, no less! You don't need any of their so-called teaching. Christ's anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him, uncontaminated by a single lie. Live deeply in what you were taught.
(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.)
Probably one of the most challenging times in our lives is early adulthood – that time when we leave the relative “safety” of home and high school and venture into college life - or maybe the “real world” of jobs, our own homes and “grown-up” situations. We are confronted with people who have their own way of doing things – and their own way of thinking – and often, it doesn’t parallel our own or the way we have been taught.
Particularly in college, we seem to be bombarded with professors who have their own ideas about things – and they are often quite sure that THEIR opinion is the right one! It can be confusing. I particularly remember a Philosophy class I had that included several weeks of study of the Bible. My instructor had some rather strange – and liberal – interpretations of several passages, and an almost obsessive fondness for the “love stories” of the Bible, and Song of Solomon in particular. Granted… this was a state college, and “preaching” would have been inappropriate in a classroom setting such as this, but at the same time, I see she clearly could have done less romanticizing and more examination of the facts and the law of God’s word.
The devil finds all sorts of situations and opportunities throughout life to throw us off track – to use others to convince us that their way (which is actually HIS way) is correct, and we need to conform. Some of these lies are pretty slick… and very convincing! That is why now, more than ever, we need to stay close to Jesus. We need to bathe in His anointing on our lives and completely internalize His message into every nook and cranny of our mind and soul. In his song, “Come to Jesus,” Chris Rice says… “Sometimes the way is lonely ~ And steep and filled with pain ~ So if your sky is dark and pours the rain, then ~ Cry to Jesus ~ Cry to Jesus ~ Cry to Jesus and live!” What about you… will you come to Jesus and live deeply in Him?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 13 ~ 1 John 2:19
They left us, but they were never really with us. If they had been, they would have stuck it out with us, loyal to the end. In leaving, they showed their true colors, showed they never did belong.
(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.)
A friend and I were talking about how many churches there are in our town. Yet statistics show that only about 35% of the people in our county attend church. So why do we have so many churches? Studies show that this is partly caused by people becoming disgruntled with the church to which they belong and moving on down the road to begin a new one. We all know “church shoppers” – those who go one place for awhile, then move somewhere else. I have to admit, I was reared in the Baptist church, married a Presbyterian and joined the church of his childhood, and then we moved our membership to the Methodist congregation.
I’m not saying that moving from one church to another is wrong. Sometimes God shows us that we need to move. Each time I “changed churches,” I felt that God was moving me. But I also believe that there are times when we need to stay put. I remember when my grandmother’s congregation split over conflicting opinions about ministry methods. While many members she had worshipped and ministered alongside for decades left and started another church, she said, “I’ve been here since 1953… I’m not leaving!” She and many stayed and strengthened their church body – and they are thriving in their service to God today. When I was teaching in a miserable situation under a tyrant of an administrator, I was so tempted to quit… to walk away and “cut my losses.” But I had twenty-five five-year-olds who were counting on me. I had spent months with them, helping them get their educational start. I belonged to them – and they belonged to me – and I could not desert them. So I stuck it out for the remainder of the school year. Looking back, it was the best decision, for many reasons.
There are times in our life when “life” gets hard. There are conflicts at home, at school, at work, and yes – at church. And often, we are tempted to move on – to give up on a situation or a person (or group of people) and find a new setting. We must examine our heart – and spend time talking to God and studying His word – and figure out where He wants us. It may be that He tells us to move, but then again, He may just say, “Stay put… stick it out… you belong here.” Whatever He tells us will be the right decision – and the right spot – and that is all that matters. Ask God today about every area of your life – and find out where you belong. Then dig in and hold on. The ride may be a bit bumpy, but God will see you through every obstacle and bless you in the end.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 12 ~ 2 Peter 3:17-18
But you, friends, are well-warned. Be on guard lest you lose your footing and get swept off your feet by these lawless and loose-talking teachers. Grow in grace and understanding of our Master and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Glory to the Master, now and forever! Yes!
(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.)
Newscaster Craig O’Neill, now on television news channel Today’s THV, used to be a radio disc jockey on B98.5, where he had a running gag of “crank calls.” He would pretend to be someone legitimate as he rattled off a spiel that was just a tad preposterous, but believable enough to dupe more than one person. Many of these were side-splittingly hilarious. And the funniest part was how the person being called bought into the story. Some caught on that it was Craig, but many didn’t, until he revealed himself. And then they felt silly.
This was all in fun, but it does point out how gullible we are. If a man can call you on the telephone and convince you of something, how much easier would it be for someone who had gained your trust to dupe you? We probably all know someone who has become involved in some “ministry” or effort that we seem to see as questionable, but the person involved is thoroughly convinced this is for real. It is EASY for people to be taken in, because so many of us are wanting desperately to be a part of something – to believe in it fully and to be supported and uplifted by the participants and the message.
And this is exactly what following Jesus offers us. But somehow, we are swept off our feet by ministries and belief systems and projects that seem more “romantic” or “moving” – those that play on our emotions and our “heart!” Some of the “fast-talkers” even claim their teachings are ordained by God, as they encourage you to condemn this, protest that, or condone something else – all in the name of Jesus.
How DO you know who is telling you the truth? How DO you know that what you are hearing is not a “crank call?” The answer is two-fold: 1) Open your Bible. Study God’s word and ask Him to reveal its meaning to you. 2) Pray… talk to God. Ask Him to show you what is real and what is right… and to surround you with people who study (and obey) His word and follow it to the letter. We can grow in the grace and understanding of Jesus… to His glory. The key is to seek him in the right places – HIS places – and not those of man. Staying on guard is VITAL to a Christian… and challenging! But it is also worth the effort.
©2009 Debbie Robus
--------------------------------------------------------
March 11 ~ 2 Peter 1:10-11
So, friends, confirm God's invitation to you, his choice of you. Don't put it off; do it now. Do this, and you'll have your life on a firm footing, the streets paved and the way wide open into the eternal kingdom of our Master and Savior, Jesus Christ.
(Scripture 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.)
When a couple who is engaged to be married sends out wedding invitations, an R.S.V.P. card is often included for the reception to follow. The couple wants to know how many people will be attending, so that they know how much food to serve at the reception. Any time you get a wedding invitation that requires an R.S.V.P., you can pretty well assume the reception is going to include more than cake and punch! There may not be streets paved in gold, but there will probably be a couple of hot appetizers – and maybe a sit-down meal! And the wedding couple wants to be sure they have prepared a pleasurable experience for their guests. An invitation signifies that you were chosen to attend… that you are special to the wedding couple, and they want you at this significant event in their lives.
For the record, it is poor manners to ignore an R.S.V.P. card. If someone invites you to an event and includes this request, please return the card, whether or not you plan to attend. I have found that it is best to do this right away, so that I don’t get busy and forget to respond. Early response also pleases a host/hostess and helps them to prepare adequately.
God is preparing the reception to end all receptions – a continual banquet with Him in heaven, and He is inviting each of us to attend! But we have to respond. It makes no sense to put this off… the sooner we accept His invitation, the sooner He can prepare us for our “Eternal party” with Him. Accepting God’s invitation acknowledges His love for us – and our significance to Him. Our acceptance acknowledges the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for us, and our faith in God to guide our lives.
This is the ONE PARTY that I do not want to miss, so I have made sure to accept the invitation. God reminds me often that I am “on the list,” and I am preparing daily, through prayer, study, worship, fellowship, and service. I am confident that He has received my R.S.V.P. and is making plans to receive me and seat me at His banquet table. What about you? Have you replied? Will I see you there?
©2009 Debbie Robus
---------------------------------------------------------------------
March 10 ~ 1 Peter 5:8-11
Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.
(Scripture 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.)
There is an old episode of M.A.S.H. where Hawkeye and Trapper are talking, and each one is determined to have the last word. Trapper thinks he has actually “won,” and Hawkeye “concedes” – then adds another word! Trapper is totally exasperated, but in the end, he knows he is whipped. He cannot out-talk Hawkeye Pierce!
The devil will never stop trying to outlast God… but he will never succeed. He will needle us and deal us challenges and grief until our dying day, but in the end, God wins! We have to stay focused on this. There is nothing the devil can pitch at us that God can’t handle for us. The suffering truly won’t last forever… Satan is not going with us to heaven! Remember this! Cling to it when things get tough or you are having a bad day. It may seem like Satan is having the last word and getting the upper hand, but that is not the case… unless you let him. Hang on… hold on… look UP and keep a firm grip on your faith in God Almighty, and “cast all your cares upon Him” – He can take them – He WILL have the last word! This is great news…stand up and shout! GOD gets the last word; yes, He does!
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------
March 9 ~ 1 Peter 1:3-7
What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all—life healed and whole.
I know how great this makes you feel, even though you have to put up with every kind of aggravation in the meantime. Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it's your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory.
(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.)
My husband and I recently visited the Historic Arkansas Museum in downtown Little Rock. One of the current displays is titled “A Double-edged Weapon: The Sword as Icon and Artifact.” Approximately 100 swords are on display, dating back to 1400 B.C.! We know from the Bible that swords were some of our earliest weapons. But how did those people figure out how to forge metal? My husband and I speculated it was probably somewhat by accident. Someone probably discovered that fire melted a substance, and when it cooled, it was very hard. We saw swords made from many different metals in this exhibit – many with ornate wooden handles. And while I am not impressed with swords in general, I was amazed at the creativity and ingenuity of ancient peoples in their design and fabrication of these weapons.
As impressed as I was with the ancient “civilizations” and their creations from metal and wood, it all pales in comparison to the creations of our Father God. We are His masterpieces… WE are the substance He forges into something amazingly wonderful and strong… or we can be! I often hear people ask, “Why is this happening to me?” If they aren’t asking why God caused something to happen, they are at the very least asking why He allowed it to happen. And here we have the answer… to become what God wants us to become… to develop our strength and faith in Him. To come out victorious with Jesus, we have to be “melted and molded” – or forged. And to get to that point, we have to take a little heat.
So the next time a challenge, disappointment or struggle comes your way, stop and remember…God is going to use this “heat” to make you stronger - if you will let Him. God will work in you to bring about something much better. It may be a healed body in heaven rather than earth, or it may be a different job in a different town – or a different degree from another college. Whatever He allows to happen to you is all part of His plan for molding you into something as strong and solid as gold… and filled with pure, genuine faith in His love and power. Knowing all of this, can’t you handle the heat?
©2009 Debbie Robus
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 8 ~ James 5:10-11
Take the old prophets as your mentors. They put up with anything, went through everything, and never once quit, all the time honoring God. What a gift life is to those who stay the course! You've heard, of course, of Job's staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. That's because God cares, cares right down to the last detail.
(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.)
It seems that the older I get, the more funerals I attend. I know that may be a morbid thought to many of you, especially if you are younger. But I have to say, lately I have attended several funerals for dear, mature Christians, and as much as I didn’t want to go, I was so blessed when I got there.
I have heard stories from pastors, friends and family members of how these faithful believers had served God and their church for decades. One man was a continual member of his church for 68 years, having joined when he was saved at age 15. He served diligently, and eventually he was named a “Deacon Emeritus.” The pastor said that over and over after his death, people talked of things the man had done, and invariably, they concluded with, “And that’s the kind of man Bill was.” If I knew anything myself about Bill, I knew he loved Jesus. He didn’t have to tell me – he LIVED his faith!
I will tell you, as I have sat in the churches and stood at the cemeteries and looked around at the crowd, I have noted those in attendance. Living in this small town most of my life, I know quite a few of them – and when I say I know them, I mean I *KNOW* them… their heart, their attitudes, and their faithfulness. I look around, and I wonder, when those in my grandmother’s generation – and even many in my mother’s generation – are gone, will this legacy continue? Have we learned from our elders? Have we paid attention to the lessons God gave them – lessons they passed on to us? Have we acknowledged all that these folks have endured… all of their “life lessons”… and observed carefully how they relied on God to get them through it all? Have we seen how they approached even death… many of them eagerly and with anticipation of their eternity in heaven?
I believe that one of God’s greatest gifts – and “ministry tools” – is older, “seasoned” Christians. I hope that you have someone in your life to whom you can look to as someone who has already run a good portion of “the good race” and fought much of “the good fight” - and come out on top with Christ. We all need mentors… and I believe they are God-sent. If you don’t have one, start looking around and note those in your line of sight who exemplify a life of faith in God. Watch how they do things – how they conduct themselves – how they handle adversity – and learn! Make these your blessed role models - your mentors - and realize that God is preparing US to carry the torch for the generations to follow. Learn well from those ahead of us – pay attention to God’s details in them – and prepare yourself for the role ahead of YOU as God’s mentor to others!
©2009 Debbie Robus
I've written to warn you about those who are trying to deceive you. But they're no match for what is embedded deeply within you - Christ's anointing, no less! You don't need any of their so-called teaching. Christ's anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him, uncontaminated by a single lie. Live deeply in what you were taught.
(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.)
Probably one of the most challenging times in our lives is early adulthood – that time when we leave the relative “safety” of home and high school and venture into college life - or maybe the “real world” of jobs, our own homes and “grown-up” situations. We are confronted with people who have their own way of doing things – and their own way of thinking – and often, it doesn’t parallel our own or the way we have been taught.
Particularly in college, we seem to be bombarded with professors who have their own ideas about things – and they are often quite sure that THEIR opinion is the right one! It can be confusing. I particularly remember a Philosophy class I had that included several weeks of study of the Bible. My instructor had some rather strange – and liberal – interpretations of several passages, and an almost obsessive fondness for the “love stories” of the Bible, and Song of Solomon in particular. Granted… this was a state college, and “preaching” would have been inappropriate in a classroom setting such as this, but at the same time, I see she clearly could have done less romanticizing and more examination of the facts and the law of God’s word.
The devil finds all sorts of situations and opportunities throughout life to throw us off track – to use others to convince us that their way (which is actually HIS way) is correct, and we need to conform. Some of these lies are pretty slick… and very convincing! That is why now, more than ever, we need to stay close to Jesus. We need to bathe in His anointing on our lives and completely internalize His message into every nook and cranny of our mind and soul. In his song, “Come to Jesus,” Chris Rice says… “Sometimes the way is lonely ~ And steep and filled with pain ~ So if your sky is dark and pours the rain, then ~ Cry to Jesus ~ Cry to Jesus ~ Cry to Jesus and live!” What about you… will you come to Jesus and live deeply in Him?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 13 ~ 1 John 2:19
They left us, but they were never really with us. If they had been, they would have stuck it out with us, loyal to the end. In leaving, they showed their true colors, showed they never did belong.
(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.)
A friend and I were talking about how many churches there are in our town. Yet statistics show that only about 35% of the people in our county attend church. So why do we have so many churches? Studies show that this is partly caused by people becoming disgruntled with the church to which they belong and moving on down the road to begin a new one. We all know “church shoppers” – those who go one place for awhile, then move somewhere else. I have to admit, I was reared in the Baptist church, married a Presbyterian and joined the church of his childhood, and then we moved our membership to the Methodist congregation.
I’m not saying that moving from one church to another is wrong. Sometimes God shows us that we need to move. Each time I “changed churches,” I felt that God was moving me. But I also believe that there are times when we need to stay put. I remember when my grandmother’s congregation split over conflicting opinions about ministry methods. While many members she had worshipped and ministered alongside for decades left and started another church, she said, “I’ve been here since 1953… I’m not leaving!” She and many stayed and strengthened their church body – and they are thriving in their service to God today. When I was teaching in a miserable situation under a tyrant of an administrator, I was so tempted to quit… to walk away and “cut my losses.” But I had twenty-five five-year-olds who were counting on me. I had spent months with them, helping them get their educational start. I belonged to them – and they belonged to me – and I could not desert them. So I stuck it out for the remainder of the school year. Looking back, it was the best decision, for many reasons.
There are times in our life when “life” gets hard. There are conflicts at home, at school, at work, and yes – at church. And often, we are tempted to move on – to give up on a situation or a person (or group of people) and find a new setting. We must examine our heart – and spend time talking to God and studying His word – and figure out where He wants us. It may be that He tells us to move, but then again, He may just say, “Stay put… stick it out… you belong here.” Whatever He tells us will be the right decision – and the right spot – and that is all that matters. Ask God today about every area of your life – and find out where you belong. Then dig in and hold on. The ride may be a bit bumpy, but God will see you through every obstacle and bless you in the end.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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March 12 ~ 2 Peter 3:17-18
But you, friends, are well-warned. Be on guard lest you lose your footing and get swept off your feet by these lawless and loose-talking teachers. Grow in grace and understanding of our Master and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Glory to the Master, now and forever! Yes!
(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.)
Newscaster Craig O’Neill, now on television news channel Today’s THV, used to be a radio disc jockey on B98.5, where he had a running gag of “crank calls.” He would pretend to be someone legitimate as he rattled off a spiel that was just a tad preposterous, but believable enough to dupe more than one person. Many of these were side-splittingly hilarious. And the funniest part was how the person being called bought into the story. Some caught on that it was Craig, but many didn’t, until he revealed himself. And then they felt silly.
This was all in fun, but it does point out how gullible we are. If a man can call you on the telephone and convince you of something, how much easier would it be for someone who had gained your trust to dupe you? We probably all know someone who has become involved in some “ministry” or effort that we seem to see as questionable, but the person involved is thoroughly convinced this is for real. It is EASY for people to be taken in, because so many of us are wanting desperately to be a part of something – to believe in it fully and to be supported and uplifted by the participants and the message.
And this is exactly what following Jesus offers us. But somehow, we are swept off our feet by ministries and belief systems and projects that seem more “romantic” or “moving” – those that play on our emotions and our “heart!” Some of the “fast-talkers” even claim their teachings are ordained by God, as they encourage you to condemn this, protest that, or condone something else – all in the name of Jesus.
How DO you know who is telling you the truth? How DO you know that what you are hearing is not a “crank call?” The answer is two-fold: 1) Open your Bible. Study God’s word and ask Him to reveal its meaning to you. 2) Pray… talk to God. Ask Him to show you what is real and what is right… and to surround you with people who study (and obey) His word and follow it to the letter. We can grow in the grace and understanding of Jesus… to His glory. The key is to seek him in the right places – HIS places – and not those of man. Staying on guard is VITAL to a Christian… and challenging! But it is also worth the effort.
©2009 Debbie Robus
--------------------------------------------------------
March 11 ~ 2 Peter 1:10-11
So, friends, confirm God's invitation to you, his choice of you. Don't put it off; do it now. Do this, and you'll have your life on a firm footing, the streets paved and the way wide open into the eternal kingdom of our Master and Savior, Jesus Christ.
(Scripture 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.)
When a couple who is engaged to be married sends out wedding invitations, an R.S.V.P. card is often included for the reception to follow. The couple wants to know how many people will be attending, so that they know how much food to serve at the reception. Any time you get a wedding invitation that requires an R.S.V.P., you can pretty well assume the reception is going to include more than cake and punch! There may not be streets paved in gold, but there will probably be a couple of hot appetizers – and maybe a sit-down meal! And the wedding couple wants to be sure they have prepared a pleasurable experience for their guests. An invitation signifies that you were chosen to attend… that you are special to the wedding couple, and they want you at this significant event in their lives.
For the record, it is poor manners to ignore an R.S.V.P. card. If someone invites you to an event and includes this request, please return the card, whether or not you plan to attend. I have found that it is best to do this right away, so that I don’t get busy and forget to respond. Early response also pleases a host/hostess and helps them to prepare adequately.
God is preparing the reception to end all receptions – a continual banquet with Him in heaven, and He is inviting each of us to attend! But we have to respond. It makes no sense to put this off… the sooner we accept His invitation, the sooner He can prepare us for our “Eternal party” with Him. Accepting God’s invitation acknowledges His love for us – and our significance to Him. Our acceptance acknowledges the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for us, and our faith in God to guide our lives.
This is the ONE PARTY that I do not want to miss, so I have made sure to accept the invitation. God reminds me often that I am “on the list,” and I am preparing daily, through prayer, study, worship, fellowship, and service. I am confident that He has received my R.S.V.P. and is making plans to receive me and seat me at His banquet table. What about you? Have you replied? Will I see you there?
©2009 Debbie Robus
---------------------------------------------------------------------
March 10 ~ 1 Peter 5:8-11
Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.
(Scripture 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.)
There is an old episode of M.A.S.H. where Hawkeye and Trapper are talking, and each one is determined to have the last word. Trapper thinks he has actually “won,” and Hawkeye “concedes” – then adds another word! Trapper is totally exasperated, but in the end, he knows he is whipped. He cannot out-talk Hawkeye Pierce!
The devil will never stop trying to outlast God… but he will never succeed. He will needle us and deal us challenges and grief until our dying day, but in the end, God wins! We have to stay focused on this. There is nothing the devil can pitch at us that God can’t handle for us. The suffering truly won’t last forever… Satan is not going with us to heaven! Remember this! Cling to it when things get tough or you are having a bad day. It may seem like Satan is having the last word and getting the upper hand, but that is not the case… unless you let him. Hang on… hold on… look UP and keep a firm grip on your faith in God Almighty, and “cast all your cares upon Him” – He can take them – He WILL have the last word! This is great news…stand up and shout! GOD gets the last word; yes, He does!
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------
March 9 ~ 1 Peter 1:3-7
What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all—life healed and whole.
I know how great this makes you feel, even though you have to put up with every kind of aggravation in the meantime. Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it's your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory.
(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.)
My husband and I recently visited the Historic Arkansas Museum in downtown Little Rock. One of the current displays is titled “A Double-edged Weapon: The Sword as Icon and Artifact.” Approximately 100 swords are on display, dating back to 1400 B.C.! We know from the Bible that swords were some of our earliest weapons. But how did those people figure out how to forge metal? My husband and I speculated it was probably somewhat by accident. Someone probably discovered that fire melted a substance, and when it cooled, it was very hard. We saw swords made from many different metals in this exhibit – many with ornate wooden handles. And while I am not impressed with swords in general, I was amazed at the creativity and ingenuity of ancient peoples in their design and fabrication of these weapons.
As impressed as I was with the ancient “civilizations” and their creations from metal and wood, it all pales in comparison to the creations of our Father God. We are His masterpieces… WE are the substance He forges into something amazingly wonderful and strong… or we can be! I often hear people ask, “Why is this happening to me?” If they aren’t asking why God caused something to happen, they are at the very least asking why He allowed it to happen. And here we have the answer… to become what God wants us to become… to develop our strength and faith in Him. To come out victorious with Jesus, we have to be “melted and molded” – or forged. And to get to that point, we have to take a little heat.
So the next time a challenge, disappointment or struggle comes your way, stop and remember…God is going to use this “heat” to make you stronger - if you will let Him. God will work in you to bring about something much better. It may be a healed body in heaven rather than earth, or it may be a different job in a different town – or a different degree from another college. Whatever He allows to happen to you is all part of His plan for molding you into something as strong and solid as gold… and filled with pure, genuine faith in His love and power. Knowing all of this, can’t you handle the heat?
©2009 Debbie Robus
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 8 ~ James 5:10-11
Take the old prophets as your mentors. They put up with anything, went through everything, and never once quit, all the time honoring God. What a gift life is to those who stay the course! You've heard, of course, of Job's staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. That's because God cares, cares right down to the last detail.
(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.)
It seems that the older I get, the more funerals I attend. I know that may be a morbid thought to many of you, especially if you are younger. But I have to say, lately I have attended several funerals for dear, mature Christians, and as much as I didn’t want to go, I was so blessed when I got there.
I have heard stories from pastors, friends and family members of how these faithful believers had served God and their church for decades. One man was a continual member of his church for 68 years, having joined when he was saved at age 15. He served diligently, and eventually he was named a “Deacon Emeritus.” The pastor said that over and over after his death, people talked of things the man had done, and invariably, they concluded with, “And that’s the kind of man Bill was.” If I knew anything myself about Bill, I knew he loved Jesus. He didn’t have to tell me – he LIVED his faith!
I will tell you, as I have sat in the churches and stood at the cemeteries and looked around at the crowd, I have noted those in attendance. Living in this small town most of my life, I know quite a few of them – and when I say I know them, I mean I *KNOW* them… their heart, their attitudes, and their faithfulness. I look around, and I wonder, when those in my grandmother’s generation – and even many in my mother’s generation – are gone, will this legacy continue? Have we learned from our elders? Have we paid attention to the lessons God gave them – lessons they passed on to us? Have we acknowledged all that these folks have endured… all of their “life lessons”… and observed carefully how they relied on God to get them through it all? Have we seen how they approached even death… many of them eagerly and with anticipation of their eternity in heaven?
I believe that one of God’s greatest gifts – and “ministry tools” – is older, “seasoned” Christians. I hope that you have someone in your life to whom you can look to as someone who has already run a good portion of “the good race” and fought much of “the good fight” - and come out on top with Christ. We all need mentors… and I believe they are God-sent. If you don’t have one, start looking around and note those in your line of sight who exemplify a life of faith in God. Watch how they do things – how they conduct themselves – how they handle adversity – and learn! Make these your blessed role models - your mentors - and realize that God is preparing US to carry the torch for the generations to follow. Learn well from those ahead of us – pay attention to God’s details in them – and prepare yourself for the role ahead of YOU as God’s mentor to others!
©2009 Debbie Robus
March 2009 Devos - Week 1
March 7 ~ James 1:25
But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action.
(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.)
Have you ever caught a glimpse of something – or someone – out of the corner of your eye, then discovered it was something – or someone – wonderful? Maybe you were shopping, and you caught a brief view of the perfect article of clothing, or electronic gadget – the very thing you had been seeking. Maybe you were at a restaurant, pouring over a menu, and you happened to get a glimpse of what the person at the next table was being served, and you said, “That’s what I’ll have!” Maybe you happened to see an ad on television for some great new product, and you stopped and watched the ad, then ordered this amazing item. Maybe you saw a friend you’d been missing pass by on the street, and you were able to catch up with them to say “Hello.” This happened to me a few months ago. I was pulling out of a store parking lot onto the highway, and right in front of me passed my friends Stuart and Will, whom I had not seen in several months. I caught up with them on down the road, and we had a nice, quick visit.
When we “catch a glimpse” of something that piques our interest, we often pursue it… the shopping items, a delicious dish, a long-lost friend or acquaintance. But when we catch a glimpse of God – or His handiwork in our lives – do we pursue that with as much effort or energy? Are we as eager to pay attention to His signals, especially the subtler ones? Are we as interested in the rewards and blessings He offers us? Do we particularly recognize the smaller, seemingly insignificant gestures and the amazingly HUGE ramifications they can have in our lives? Shouldn’t we be paying more attention? Shouldn’t we be more alert, less distracted, and actually LOOKING for God even “out of the corner of our eye?”
I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to miss out on a single message from God. I don’t want to lose a blessing or an affirmation. I want all He is offering me. I pray that we would all have “eyes wide open” today for God… and that we would pursue Him and persevere as He leads us in the direction of HIS choosing.
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------------
March 6 ~ James 1:12
Anyone who meets a testing challenge head-on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life.
(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.)
Do you know someone who is meeting a testing challenge head-on and sticking it out by relying on God? Many people have challenges and situations over which they have little to no control. When a natural disaster wipes out your home and you literally lose everything you own, where do you find the strength to keep going? When a tragic accident takes several of your family members all at once, how do you endure the pain? When a trusted friend, teacher, or family member abuses you – physically and/or sexually – how do you recover? When you lose your job and the bank forecloses on your home, and you and your children have to move to a homeless shelter or live in your car, what gives you determination?
Honestly, I don’t know how people endure such situations without an incredibly strong faith in God. I once knew of a young man who topped a hill in his truck to find a small girl had stepped out into the road, directly into his path. There was nothing he could do – the little girl was struck and killed. This young man was not a Christian. Thankfully, he gave his heart to Jesus shortly before his death, but by then he was in his late eighties. I think often of how hard that must have been to carry such a burden for decades without realizing he could share it with Jesus. I’m not saying this man would not have been grieved over the accident either way. And I believe that Jesus DID share the man’s grief… and that even without the man’s knowledge, Jesus comforted him many times and in many ways. The little girls’ parents recognized this as an accident and forgave him from the start. But still… to carry such grief without pouring out your heart to God seems so sad.
And surely those who endure a testing challenge and stick it out with Jesus must have an “edge” over those who do not have a relationship with Him. I know that with Christ, all things are possible. Without Him, I imagine very little can be endured. If you are lukewarm in your relationship with God, I encourage you to start getting to know Christ better – to fully cultivate and develop your love for Him. Challenges WILL come. They may not be as severe and heart-wrenching as those I described earlier, but surely, we will all be challenged. There is an old Bee Gees song that asks, “How deep is your love?” Truly that is the question of the day when it comes to Jesus. “How deep is your love?” The answer could determine whether you can endure your own challenges… and just how fully you will live.
©2009 Debbie Robus
---------------------------------------------------------------------
March 5 ~ James 1:2-4
Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.
(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.)
I saw a television sitcom where two brothers were standing in the kitchen. One brother had a can of refrigerated biscuits. He commented that they were supposed to be “easy-open,” but he could not get them out of the can. The other brother explained that there was a paper wrapper on the can that had to first be removed. Once the paper was peeled away, the can “exploded” and the biscuits came out easily. The dough had been compressed into the can, and once the pressure was released, the biscuits came into the open with force and rose to be baked into something delicious!
We are like the biscuits. The devil wants us to stay “pressed down in the can,” wrapped in a “paper” of fear, intimidation, tests and challenges, and a lack of confidence. When we let go of the tricks of the devil and allow God to peel back the “paper” and “thwack” us on the counter, our faith begins to emerge. We begin to flourish and develop into the wonderful creatures God wants us to be. We are fully able to serve Him and do His work on this earth.We all have pressure in our lives from time to time – the devil loves his “pressure tool!” Our job is to put on the full armor of God and break free of the pressure – to live in faith and hope – and to show others how to do this, as well. Don’t live a “compressed” life. Given the choice between being a glob of dough pressed into a pressurized can, or a faith-filled “biscuit” for God, which will you choose?
©2009 Debbie Robus
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 4 ~ Hebrews 13:13-15
So let's go outside, where Jesus is, where the action is - not trying to be privileged insiders, but taking our share in the abuse of Jesus. This "insider world" is not our home. We have our eyes peeled for the City about to come. Let's take our place outside with Jesus, no longer pouring out the sacrificial blood of animals but pouring out sacrificial praises from our lips to God in Jesus' name.
(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.)
I studied probably a half dozen translations of this passage, and here’s where God led me…
We all want to be comfortable. We want to be fed, clothed, warm, dry, financially secure, well liked and respected, and even loved! Everyone wants to be accepted by others. When I was teaching kindergarten, we did a “screening” of the prospective students each spring to assess their abilities and their weaknesses. The tests were developed by an educator who had observed hundreds of little children, and as she trained us, she talked over and over again of those who were “risk takers.” The “risk takers” were your brighter students, quite often. They were quite confident of their abilities and their answers… but they also were not afraid to chance making a mistake.
Spiritually, I’m afraid we are not often very big “risk takers.” We are so afraid we will get it wrong, or be judged by others, or unaccepted and unloved by mere mortals. So we “stay inside with the curtains drawn and the doors closed.” We don’t move out into the light with Jesus. We don’t want to be “abused” or “persecuted,” as if we could ever experience anything remotely close to what was done to Christ. We are more at ease with sitting inside, praying quiet prayers and keeping our relationship with Jesus to ourselves. We are more comfortable to attend church on a somewhat consistent basis and fill a pew and nod, sing and pray when prompted, then go back to our own little world where nobody bothers us.
I think one of our hardest lessons is learning that this is not about US! This is about Jesus Christ, who did it all FOR us! We need to get out of our comfort zone and into HIS zone… we need to start being bold in our faith, doing the things He asks us to do that are not necessarily comfortable for us. We need to be “risk takers” for Jesus… speaking His name to others, sharing His love in any way we can find and not worrying what others think. The Christian walk is not for sissies or the timid. Jesus does not care one whit about our comfort level! There is work to be done… there is service to be given… there are people to love and reach for our Lord and Savior. So I ask you… how many risks have you taken for Jesus lately? Isn’t it about time you upped your number?
©2009 Debbie Robus
--------------------------------------------------------------
March 3 ~ Hebrews 13:9
Don't be lured away from him by the latest speculations about him. The grace of Christ is the only good ground for life. Products named after Christ don't seem to do much for those who buy them.
(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.)
”Change is good.” We’ve all heard this a zillion times, haven’t we? But when it comes to Jesus and how we worship Him, this is not always the case. And I am a firm believer in meeting people where they are and making Jesus relevant to them in a way they can understand. But how many of us have bought the fish magnet for the car, the crosses for our neck and our walls, and Christian music for our CD players and iPods, but we still “live like the devil?” In today’s culture, there has been an explosion of “Christian” ideas and “tools” and gimmicks, and we’ve bought into many of them hook line and sinker. But where does the sanctifying grace of Jesus Christ figure into all of this? Have we traded our focus on Christ for the “bells and whistles?”
Recently, I sat down at my piano and opened a book of favorite hymns. As I thumbed through the pages, I played many of them and sang the verses – words of how Jesus is the only way… praises to God and thanks for His grace and mercy over us… how Jesus’ blood had given us victory over sin and the fires of hell. The words of these hymns… some of them well over a century old… are just as real and relevant today as they were when the author wrote them. The contemporary Christian music is great – I love many of the “new” songs and even write my own! But they aren’t necessarily better than the old hymns. And quite frankly, I think we may have made a mistake to shelve the old hymns, in some instances, in favor of “new” material.
It’s not that the hymns themselves are so important – but it is more that we are always wanting something fresh and new. What we should really want is Jesus – all the time… all the way… and HE never changes! Lamentations 3:22-23 says “It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” (KJV) I think the old hymns connect us to that realization – and in doing so, they still have a place in our worship, as do your crosses, your fish on your car, and your “newfangled” music. But let’s remind ourselves often that the only thing that matters is Jesus. His grace is the ONLY good ground for life. Let’s be sure to keep Him front and center!
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------
March 2 ~ Hebrews 12:14-17
Work at getting along with each other and with God. Otherwise you'll never get so much as a glimpse of God. Make sure no one gets left out of God's generosity. Keep a sharp eye out for weeds of bitter discontent. A thistle or two gone to seed can ruin a whole garden in no time. Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God's blessing - but by then it was too late, tears or no tears.
(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.)
Are there people you encounter who just “rub you the wrong way?” Throughout our lives, we will be thrust into situations with people who, for whatever reason, are weeds of bitter discontent. And we will be challenged to be kind to them and remind ourselves that they, also, are God’s precious children. While we may find it hard to believe, He loves them just as much as He loves us! I’m not saying we have to make a point to approach such people – or to go out of our way to speak to them, but when we are faced head-on with their presence, we must act out of God’s generosity toward us and be polite and tolerant of them for the moment.
In light of getting along with others, let’s talk about trading God’s gift for a short-term appetite. Who among us has not enjoyed a juicy tidbit of gossip? I have a friend who says that “Great people talk about ideas; average people talk about things, and small people talk about other people.” Rick Warren says in The Purpose Driven Life that we should tell others who “share” gossip with us that “I don’t need to know this.” And truly we do not. Even when we don’t know if we are hearing the truth or not, doesn’t that color our impression of someone else? We can no longer just love them like God loves them, because our human (sinful) nature inclines us to judge them based on what we have heard.
Words are like toothpaste – once they are out of the mouth (or tube), they are virtually impossible to retrieve. Let’s focus on God and what HE wants. Let’s remember that we are ALL His creations – and each one of us was perfectly formed by Him for His purposes. There will always be “weeds and thistles” – and we do not have to include them in our circle of friends and acquaintances. But we don’t have to talk about them, either. And when we cannot avoid speaking to them – or working with them – we must keep our eye on the prize (God’s generosity and lifelong gift) and keep our opinions to ourselves. If we want to get along with God, we have to work to get along with others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------
March 1 ~ Philippians 1:3-6
Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. Each exclamation is a trigger to prayer. I find myself praying for you with a glad heart. I am so pleased that you have continued on in this with us, believing and proclaiming God's Message, from the day you heard it right up to the present. There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.
(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.)
I know people who start one project after another – and never finish any of them. I’m a little like that, but only because my mind races in so many directions and I have so many interests. So I find myself reading three or four books at once – a little here, a little there – and working on a scrapbook while folding laundry while writing devos and more. I guess the difference is that I do eventually finish – because it bugs me like crazy to have uncompleted projects! On a few rare occasions, I’ve had to admit that I was not going to finish something and either passed it on to someone else, shelved it unfinished for posterity, or gotten rid of it!
Man! I’m sure glad God doesn’t operate this way! Nobody has more “projects” than He does, but He never gives up! He started a good work in us, and He will stick with us until we are complete! That is such good news. Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. And I thank Him that we will NEVER be His “unfinished projects.”
©2009 Debbie Robus
But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action.
(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.)
Have you ever caught a glimpse of something – or someone – out of the corner of your eye, then discovered it was something – or someone – wonderful? Maybe you were shopping, and you caught a brief view of the perfect article of clothing, or electronic gadget – the very thing you had been seeking. Maybe you were at a restaurant, pouring over a menu, and you happened to get a glimpse of what the person at the next table was being served, and you said, “That’s what I’ll have!” Maybe you happened to see an ad on television for some great new product, and you stopped and watched the ad, then ordered this amazing item. Maybe you saw a friend you’d been missing pass by on the street, and you were able to catch up with them to say “Hello.” This happened to me a few months ago. I was pulling out of a store parking lot onto the highway, and right in front of me passed my friends Stuart and Will, whom I had not seen in several months. I caught up with them on down the road, and we had a nice, quick visit.
When we “catch a glimpse” of something that piques our interest, we often pursue it… the shopping items, a delicious dish, a long-lost friend or acquaintance. But when we catch a glimpse of God – or His handiwork in our lives – do we pursue that with as much effort or energy? Are we as eager to pay attention to His signals, especially the subtler ones? Are we as interested in the rewards and blessings He offers us? Do we particularly recognize the smaller, seemingly insignificant gestures and the amazingly HUGE ramifications they can have in our lives? Shouldn’t we be paying more attention? Shouldn’t we be more alert, less distracted, and actually LOOKING for God even “out of the corner of our eye?”
I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to miss out on a single message from God. I don’t want to lose a blessing or an affirmation. I want all He is offering me. I pray that we would all have “eyes wide open” today for God… and that we would pursue Him and persevere as He leads us in the direction of HIS choosing.
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------------
March 6 ~ James 1:12
Anyone who meets a testing challenge head-on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life.
(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.)
Do you know someone who is meeting a testing challenge head-on and sticking it out by relying on God? Many people have challenges and situations over which they have little to no control. When a natural disaster wipes out your home and you literally lose everything you own, where do you find the strength to keep going? When a tragic accident takes several of your family members all at once, how do you endure the pain? When a trusted friend, teacher, or family member abuses you – physically and/or sexually – how do you recover? When you lose your job and the bank forecloses on your home, and you and your children have to move to a homeless shelter or live in your car, what gives you determination?
Honestly, I don’t know how people endure such situations without an incredibly strong faith in God. I once knew of a young man who topped a hill in his truck to find a small girl had stepped out into the road, directly into his path. There was nothing he could do – the little girl was struck and killed. This young man was not a Christian. Thankfully, he gave his heart to Jesus shortly before his death, but by then he was in his late eighties. I think often of how hard that must have been to carry such a burden for decades without realizing he could share it with Jesus. I’m not saying this man would not have been grieved over the accident either way. And I believe that Jesus DID share the man’s grief… and that even without the man’s knowledge, Jesus comforted him many times and in many ways. The little girls’ parents recognized this as an accident and forgave him from the start. But still… to carry such grief without pouring out your heart to God seems so sad.
And surely those who endure a testing challenge and stick it out with Jesus must have an “edge” over those who do not have a relationship with Him. I know that with Christ, all things are possible. Without Him, I imagine very little can be endured. If you are lukewarm in your relationship with God, I encourage you to start getting to know Christ better – to fully cultivate and develop your love for Him. Challenges WILL come. They may not be as severe and heart-wrenching as those I described earlier, but surely, we will all be challenged. There is an old Bee Gees song that asks, “How deep is your love?” Truly that is the question of the day when it comes to Jesus. “How deep is your love?” The answer could determine whether you can endure your own challenges… and just how fully you will live.
©2009 Debbie Robus
---------------------------------------------------------------------
March 5 ~ James 1:2-4
Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.
(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.)
I saw a television sitcom where two brothers were standing in the kitchen. One brother had a can of refrigerated biscuits. He commented that they were supposed to be “easy-open,” but he could not get them out of the can. The other brother explained that there was a paper wrapper on the can that had to first be removed. Once the paper was peeled away, the can “exploded” and the biscuits came out easily. The dough had been compressed into the can, and once the pressure was released, the biscuits came into the open with force and rose to be baked into something delicious!
We are like the biscuits. The devil wants us to stay “pressed down in the can,” wrapped in a “paper” of fear, intimidation, tests and challenges, and a lack of confidence. When we let go of the tricks of the devil and allow God to peel back the “paper” and “thwack” us on the counter, our faith begins to emerge. We begin to flourish and develop into the wonderful creatures God wants us to be. We are fully able to serve Him and do His work on this earth.We all have pressure in our lives from time to time – the devil loves his “pressure tool!” Our job is to put on the full armor of God and break free of the pressure – to live in faith and hope – and to show others how to do this, as well. Don’t live a “compressed” life. Given the choice between being a glob of dough pressed into a pressurized can, or a faith-filled “biscuit” for God, which will you choose?
©2009 Debbie Robus
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 4 ~ Hebrews 13:13-15
So let's go outside, where Jesus is, where the action is - not trying to be privileged insiders, but taking our share in the abuse of Jesus. This "insider world" is not our home. We have our eyes peeled for the City about to come. Let's take our place outside with Jesus, no longer pouring out the sacrificial blood of animals but pouring out sacrificial praises from our lips to God in Jesus' name.
(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.)
I studied probably a half dozen translations of this passage, and here’s where God led me…
We all want to be comfortable. We want to be fed, clothed, warm, dry, financially secure, well liked and respected, and even loved! Everyone wants to be accepted by others. When I was teaching kindergarten, we did a “screening” of the prospective students each spring to assess their abilities and their weaknesses. The tests were developed by an educator who had observed hundreds of little children, and as she trained us, she talked over and over again of those who were “risk takers.” The “risk takers” were your brighter students, quite often. They were quite confident of their abilities and their answers… but they also were not afraid to chance making a mistake.
Spiritually, I’m afraid we are not often very big “risk takers.” We are so afraid we will get it wrong, or be judged by others, or unaccepted and unloved by mere mortals. So we “stay inside with the curtains drawn and the doors closed.” We don’t move out into the light with Jesus. We don’t want to be “abused” or “persecuted,” as if we could ever experience anything remotely close to what was done to Christ. We are more at ease with sitting inside, praying quiet prayers and keeping our relationship with Jesus to ourselves. We are more comfortable to attend church on a somewhat consistent basis and fill a pew and nod, sing and pray when prompted, then go back to our own little world where nobody bothers us.
I think one of our hardest lessons is learning that this is not about US! This is about Jesus Christ, who did it all FOR us! We need to get out of our comfort zone and into HIS zone… we need to start being bold in our faith, doing the things He asks us to do that are not necessarily comfortable for us. We need to be “risk takers” for Jesus… speaking His name to others, sharing His love in any way we can find and not worrying what others think. The Christian walk is not for sissies or the timid. Jesus does not care one whit about our comfort level! There is work to be done… there is service to be given… there are people to love and reach for our Lord and Savior. So I ask you… how many risks have you taken for Jesus lately? Isn’t it about time you upped your number?
©2009 Debbie Robus
--------------------------------------------------------------
March 3 ~ Hebrews 13:9
Don't be lured away from him by the latest speculations about him. The grace of Christ is the only good ground for life. Products named after Christ don't seem to do much for those who buy them.
(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.)
”Change is good.” We’ve all heard this a zillion times, haven’t we? But when it comes to Jesus and how we worship Him, this is not always the case. And I am a firm believer in meeting people where they are and making Jesus relevant to them in a way they can understand. But how many of us have bought the fish magnet for the car, the crosses for our neck and our walls, and Christian music for our CD players and iPods, but we still “live like the devil?” In today’s culture, there has been an explosion of “Christian” ideas and “tools” and gimmicks, and we’ve bought into many of them hook line and sinker. But where does the sanctifying grace of Jesus Christ figure into all of this? Have we traded our focus on Christ for the “bells and whistles?”
Recently, I sat down at my piano and opened a book of favorite hymns. As I thumbed through the pages, I played many of them and sang the verses – words of how Jesus is the only way… praises to God and thanks for His grace and mercy over us… how Jesus’ blood had given us victory over sin and the fires of hell. The words of these hymns… some of them well over a century old… are just as real and relevant today as they were when the author wrote them. The contemporary Christian music is great – I love many of the “new” songs and even write my own! But they aren’t necessarily better than the old hymns. And quite frankly, I think we may have made a mistake to shelve the old hymns, in some instances, in favor of “new” material.
It’s not that the hymns themselves are so important – but it is more that we are always wanting something fresh and new. What we should really want is Jesus – all the time… all the way… and HE never changes! Lamentations 3:22-23 says “It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” (KJV) I think the old hymns connect us to that realization – and in doing so, they still have a place in our worship, as do your crosses, your fish on your car, and your “newfangled” music. But let’s remind ourselves often that the only thing that matters is Jesus. His grace is the ONLY good ground for life. Let’s be sure to keep Him front and center!
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------
March 2 ~ Hebrews 12:14-17
Work at getting along with each other and with God. Otherwise you'll never get so much as a glimpse of God. Make sure no one gets left out of God's generosity. Keep a sharp eye out for weeds of bitter discontent. A thistle or two gone to seed can ruin a whole garden in no time. Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God's blessing - but by then it was too late, tears or no tears.
(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.)
Are there people you encounter who just “rub you the wrong way?” Throughout our lives, we will be thrust into situations with people who, for whatever reason, are weeds of bitter discontent. And we will be challenged to be kind to them and remind ourselves that they, also, are God’s precious children. While we may find it hard to believe, He loves them just as much as He loves us! I’m not saying we have to make a point to approach such people – or to go out of our way to speak to them, but when we are faced head-on with their presence, we must act out of God’s generosity toward us and be polite and tolerant of them for the moment.
In light of getting along with others, let’s talk about trading God’s gift for a short-term appetite. Who among us has not enjoyed a juicy tidbit of gossip? I have a friend who says that “Great people talk about ideas; average people talk about things, and small people talk about other people.” Rick Warren says in The Purpose Driven Life that we should tell others who “share” gossip with us that “I don’t need to know this.” And truly we do not. Even when we don’t know if we are hearing the truth or not, doesn’t that color our impression of someone else? We can no longer just love them like God loves them, because our human (sinful) nature inclines us to judge them based on what we have heard.
Words are like toothpaste – once they are out of the mouth (or tube), they are virtually impossible to retrieve. Let’s focus on God and what HE wants. Let’s remember that we are ALL His creations – and each one of us was perfectly formed by Him for His purposes. There will always be “weeds and thistles” – and we do not have to include them in our circle of friends and acquaintances. But we don’t have to talk about them, either. And when we cannot avoid speaking to them – or working with them – we must keep our eye on the prize (God’s generosity and lifelong gift) and keep our opinions to ourselves. If we want to get along with God, we have to work to get along with others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------
March 1 ~ Philippians 1:3-6
Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. Each exclamation is a trigger to prayer. I find myself praying for you with a glad heart. I am so pleased that you have continued on in this with us, believing and proclaiming God's Message, from the day you heard it right up to the present. There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.
(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.)
I know people who start one project after another – and never finish any of them. I’m a little like that, but only because my mind races in so many directions and I have so many interests. So I find myself reading three or four books at once – a little here, a little there – and working on a scrapbook while folding laundry while writing devos and more. I guess the difference is that I do eventually finish – because it bugs me like crazy to have uncompleted projects! On a few rare occasions, I’ve had to admit that I was not going to finish something and either passed it on to someone else, shelved it unfinished for posterity, or gotten rid of it!
Man! I’m sure glad God doesn’t operate this way! Nobody has more “projects” than He does, but He never gives up! He started a good work in us, and He will stick with us until we are complete! That is such good news. Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. And I thank Him that we will NEVER be His “unfinished projects.”
©2009 Debbie Robus
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