February 28 ~ Isaiah 45:18-25
The LORD alone is God! He created the heavens and made a world where people can live, instead of creating an empty desert. The LORD alone is God; there are no others.
The LORD did not speak in a dark secret place or command Jacob's descendants to search for him in vain. The LORD speaks the truth, and this is what he says to every survivor from every nation: "Gather around me! Learn how senseless it is to worship wooden idols or pray to helpless gods.
"Why don't you get together and meet me in court? Didn't I tell you long ago what would happen? I am the only God! There are no others. I bring about justice, and have the power to save.
"I invite the whole world to turn to me and be saved. I alone am God! No others are real. I have made a solemn promise, one that won't be broken: Everyone will bow down and worship me.
They will admit that I alone can bring about justice. Everyone who is angry with me will be terribly ashamed and will turn to me. I, the LORD, will give victory and great honor to the people of Israel."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, the mother of my childhood friend passed away. At her memorial service, there was a display of her artwork and poetry. I had known this woman for over 50 years, and I had no clue that she did drew and dabbled in pastels and sketches, much less writing. In fact, there were many things told about her that day that surprised several of those who had gathered to celebrate her life. She really kept things private, and to some degree, she “hid her light under a barrel.”
God doesn’t hide anything! He makes it very clear what He has created… He SHINES! And because God is so open about what He has done – and can and will do for us – we know exactly where we will stand – and WHO God is! There is no disputing His power or majesty… so why do we? The evidence substantiating God’s authority and autonomy is very clear, so why do we question His judgment? There is nothing phony or false about God – so why do we become angry with Him when He shows us His way, truth and light? There is nothing empty about God, so why do we turn away from Him?
Let’s live fully and openly in our faith. Let’s embrace a God who has nothing to hide… who created the universe and everything in it and proudly presents His creations – and blesses them! Let’s acknowledge the power and authority of our God – lay down any allegiance to anyone or anything else, and fully LIVE in the abundance that is a life in Jesus Christ, the only Son of God Almighty! Because of God, victory is ours. This is something to celebrate with pride and joy. Are you in?
2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 27, 2010
February 27 ~ Isaiah 45:14-17
My people, I, the LORD, promise that the riches of Egypt and the treasures of Ethiopia will belong to you. You will force into slavery those tall people of Seba. They will bow down and say, "The only true God is with you; there are no other gods." People of Israel, your God is a mystery, though he alone can save. Anyone who makes idols will be confused and terribly disgraced. But Israel, I, the LORD, will always keep you safe and free from shame.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I was buying apples in the grocery store. As I started to put an apple into my bag, it slipped and hit the floor and rolled a bit. I picked it up, and as I stood upright, I looked into the face of a lady I know casually, and she said, “Better put that one back and get another.” And believe me… I wanted to do that! But instead, I put it in my bag and told her, “No… then someone else would unsuspectingly get my bruised apple.” She said, “So? They would never know.” My reply – “Yes, but I would.” And I thought to myself… “and so would God.”
Now, before you go polishing my halo, know that there are times I leave my cart in a parking space rather than walk it back to the corral in the rain. There are plenty of instances every day when I displease God. But thankfully, this was not one of them. I knew that I would rather cut away the bruised area of that apple at home than stick it back in the bin for someone else to unknowingly purchase. But I also know that better than 90% of the public would do just that!
Serving God is not always popular. Being a Christian is not always the “in” thing. If you haven’t experienced some form of ridicule or been excluded in some way because standing up for your faith meant you couldn’t do something others were doing, you are a rare bird. Think of parties you didn’t attend because you knew there would be drinking and drug use – and subsequent times you weren’t even invited. Think of the “friends” you had to “give up” because they were not behaving in a manner that pleased God. Think of the times you spoke out against mistreatment of others, racism, or just plain “stinkin’ thinkin’,” and then you were given the “cold shoulder” because of it.
In this passage, we see clearly that God will take care of this. It stings at the time, perhaps. But in the end, God will bless you for your stand… for your faithfulness. In His timing, God will reward you and “handle” those who behave in a way that disgraces Him or is downright sinful. The apple was a very small thing… and I know that the woman who saw me thought I was nuts for taking it home. But maybe next time SHE drops a piece of fruit, she will think twice about returning it to the bin for someone else to purchase. Either way… God will know what she decides. I would rather do the right thing and please God than risk disappointing Him over even a bruised apple, wouldn’t you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
My people, I, the LORD, promise that the riches of Egypt and the treasures of Ethiopia will belong to you. You will force into slavery those tall people of Seba. They will bow down and say, "The only true God is with you; there are no other gods." People of Israel, your God is a mystery, though he alone can save. Anyone who makes idols will be confused and terribly disgraced. But Israel, I, the LORD, will always keep you safe and free from shame.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I was buying apples in the grocery store. As I started to put an apple into my bag, it slipped and hit the floor and rolled a bit. I picked it up, and as I stood upright, I looked into the face of a lady I know casually, and she said, “Better put that one back and get another.” And believe me… I wanted to do that! But instead, I put it in my bag and told her, “No… then someone else would unsuspectingly get my bruised apple.” She said, “So? They would never know.” My reply – “Yes, but I would.” And I thought to myself… “and so would God.”
Now, before you go polishing my halo, know that there are times I leave my cart in a parking space rather than walk it back to the corral in the rain. There are plenty of instances every day when I displease God. But thankfully, this was not one of them. I knew that I would rather cut away the bruised area of that apple at home than stick it back in the bin for someone else to unknowingly purchase. But I also know that better than 90% of the public would do just that!
Serving God is not always popular. Being a Christian is not always the “in” thing. If you haven’t experienced some form of ridicule or been excluded in some way because standing up for your faith meant you couldn’t do something others were doing, you are a rare bird. Think of parties you didn’t attend because you knew there would be drinking and drug use – and subsequent times you weren’t even invited. Think of the “friends” you had to “give up” because they were not behaving in a manner that pleased God. Think of the times you spoke out against mistreatment of others, racism, or just plain “stinkin’ thinkin’,” and then you were given the “cold shoulder” because of it.
In this passage, we see clearly that God will take care of this. It stings at the time, perhaps. But in the end, God will bless you for your stand… for your faithfulness. In His timing, God will reward you and “handle” those who behave in a way that disgraces Him or is downright sinful. The apple was a very small thing… and I know that the woman who saw me thought I was nuts for taking it home. But maybe next time SHE drops a piece of fruit, she will think twice about returning it to the bin for someone else to purchase. Either way… God will know what she decides. I would rather do the right thing and please God than risk disappointing Him over even a bruised apple, wouldn’t you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 26, 2010
February 26 ~ Isaiah 45:9-13
The LORD said: Israel, you have no right to argue with your Creator. You are merely a clay pot shaped by a potter. The clay doesn't ask, "Why did you make me this way? Where are the handles?"
Children don't have the right to demand of their parents, "What have you done to make us what we are?" I am the LORD, the Creator, the holy God of Israel. Do you dare question me about my own nation or about what I have done?
I created the world and covered it with people; I stretched out the sky and filled it with stars.
I have done the right thing by placing Cyrus in power, and I will make the roads easy for him to follow. I am the LORD All-Powerful! Cyrus will rebuild my city and set my people free without being paid a thing. I, the LORD, have spoken.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Every single one of us will question God at some point. “Why did you give me this body shape?” “Why did you allow me to be born to parents who were abusive or addictive?” “Why did you allow me to have a huge birthmark on the side of my face?” “Why was I born?”
The answer is found in Isaiah 45. God knows more than we do. His ways may be mysterious, and even seem unfair at times. But we were created by the God of the Universe, the Holy Creator who can design the world and cover it with people – stretch out the sky and fill it with stars – and we want to ask Him why we have a certain hair color or freckles on our nose?
We seem to have forgotten WHO we serve. Sometimes it seems like we have decided we are entitled to tell God how to run things, as if we could do so much better. We need to remind ourselves WHO is in charge… and why. We need to realize that the all-powerful God of the Universe didn’t just create us… He ADORES us and wants to give us untold blessings. Are we paying attention? Are we embracing our wonderful, unique selves as God made us? Are we recognizing God’s power and bowing before Him? Shouldn’t we be?
©2009 Debbie Robus
The LORD said: Israel, you have no right to argue with your Creator. You are merely a clay pot shaped by a potter. The clay doesn't ask, "Why did you make me this way? Where are the handles?"
Children don't have the right to demand of their parents, "What have you done to make us what we are?" I am the LORD, the Creator, the holy God of Israel. Do you dare question me about my own nation or about what I have done?
I created the world and covered it with people; I stretched out the sky and filled it with stars.
I have done the right thing by placing Cyrus in power, and I will make the roads easy for him to follow. I am the LORD All-Powerful! Cyrus will rebuild my city and set my people free without being paid a thing. I, the LORD, have spoken.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Every single one of us will question God at some point. “Why did you give me this body shape?” “Why did you allow me to be born to parents who were abusive or addictive?” “Why did you allow me to have a huge birthmark on the side of my face?” “Why was I born?”
The answer is found in Isaiah 45. God knows more than we do. His ways may be mysterious, and even seem unfair at times. But we were created by the God of the Universe, the Holy Creator who can design the world and cover it with people – stretch out the sky and fill it with stars – and we want to ask Him why we have a certain hair color or freckles on our nose?
We seem to have forgotten WHO we serve. Sometimes it seems like we have decided we are entitled to tell God how to run things, as if we could do so much better. We need to remind ourselves WHO is in charge… and why. We need to realize that the all-powerful God of the Universe didn’t just create us… He ADORES us and wants to give us untold blessings. Are we paying attention? Are we embracing our wonderful, unique selves as God made us? Are we recognizing God’s power and bowing before Him? Shouldn’t we be?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 25, 2010
February 25 ~ Isaiah 45:1-8
The LORD said to Cyrus, his chosen one: I have taken hold of your right hand to help you capture nations and remove kings from power. City gates will open for you; not one will stay closed. As I lead you, I will level mountains and break the iron bars on bronze gates of cities. I will give you treasures hidden in dark and secret places. Then you will know that I, the LORD God of Israel, have called you by name. Cyrus, you don't even know me! But I have called you by name and highly honored you because of Israel, my chosen servant.
Only I am the LORD! There are no other gods. I have made you strong, though you don't know me. Now everyone from east to west will learn that I am the LORD. No other gods are real. I create light and darkness, happiness and sorrow. I, the LORD, do all of this. Tell the heavens to send down justice like showers of rain. Prepare the earth for my saving power to sprout and produce justice that I, the LORD, create.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Imagine driving through a major city, and block after block, as you approach the light, it turns green. It’s as if someone is watching and turning the lights just for you… and you feel pretty darn important! The truth is, you probably just hit the light sequence at the right time… and in essence, you got lucky!
With God, luck is never involved. You are important to Him… and He wants to open doors and give you “green lights” and more. God has the power to do wonderful, amazing things in our lives… and He wants to do them! There is one catch… we must recognize Him as our one and ONLY God. We just acknowledge Him and His power… and behave like the chosen servant we are.
Serving a God who can move mountains and create light and darkness seems like a no-brainer, yet we find all sorts of reasons to do otherwise, both consciously and subconsciously. Let’s start making a concerted effort to serve God well. Let’s start acting like we deserve to be His chosen servants, even if we don’t! Let’s prepare the earth for the Lord’s saving power… the all-powerful God who cares enough to know each of us by our name. Feel His strength flowing through you… feel Him holding your hand. With God, ALL things are possible!
©2009 Debbie Robus
The LORD said to Cyrus, his chosen one: I have taken hold of your right hand to help you capture nations and remove kings from power. City gates will open for you; not one will stay closed. As I lead you, I will level mountains and break the iron bars on bronze gates of cities. I will give you treasures hidden in dark and secret places. Then you will know that I, the LORD God of Israel, have called you by name. Cyrus, you don't even know me! But I have called you by name and highly honored you because of Israel, my chosen servant.
Only I am the LORD! There are no other gods. I have made you strong, though you don't know me. Now everyone from east to west will learn that I am the LORD. No other gods are real. I create light and darkness, happiness and sorrow. I, the LORD, do all of this. Tell the heavens to send down justice like showers of rain. Prepare the earth for my saving power to sprout and produce justice that I, the LORD, create.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Imagine driving through a major city, and block after block, as you approach the light, it turns green. It’s as if someone is watching and turning the lights just for you… and you feel pretty darn important! The truth is, you probably just hit the light sequence at the right time… and in essence, you got lucky!
With God, luck is never involved. You are important to Him… and He wants to open doors and give you “green lights” and more. God has the power to do wonderful, amazing things in our lives… and He wants to do them! There is one catch… we must recognize Him as our one and ONLY God. We just acknowledge Him and His power… and behave like the chosen servant we are.
Serving a God who can move mountains and create light and darkness seems like a no-brainer, yet we find all sorts of reasons to do otherwise, both consciously and subconsciously. Let’s start making a concerted effort to serve God well. Let’s start acting like we deserve to be His chosen servants, even if we don’t! Let’s prepare the earth for the Lord’s saving power… the all-powerful God who cares enough to know each of us by our name. Feel His strength flowing through you… feel Him holding your hand. With God, ALL things are possible!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 24, 2010
February 24 ~ Psalms 35:1-3
Fight my enemies, LORD! Attack my attackers! Shield me and help me. Aim your spear at everyone who hunts me down, but promise to save me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As I read this passage, I couldn’t help but envision action figures, ready to strike... Batman, Spiderman… even Indiana Jones! Okay, so maybe I’ve watched one too many adventure movies! But imagine God as the Ultimate Superhero! He takes on all attackers… He shields us from every sling and arrow. He hunts down the devil and his agents and destroys them before they can harm a hair on our heads!
Now, think about your action figure “superheroes” for a minute. What had to happen before they could strike? They had to be summoned! Someone had to let them know that their help was needed. Batman got the “Bat Signal.” Spiderman has a “sixth sense” when danger is near. Indiana Jones ends up in situations that call for faith and courage, and bravado…to save himself and those around him.
I know this is a bit of a stretch, but stick with me… we have to call on God (through prayer) to fight our enemies. Sure, He already knows we need help, but remember… He wants to hear from us. He wants us to voice our needs. He wants us to recognize Him as our Redeemer and call upon Him to avenge us.
Let’s be honest… the Bible is the best “action adventure” ever created. God really is the Ultimate Superhero. And He stands ready to fight for us at every turn… all we have to do is give Him the signal and believe in His power. Superheroes of the comics and movies may be figments of our imagination, but God is REAL and reigns forever. Are YOU trusting Him to save you today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Fight my enemies, LORD! Attack my attackers! Shield me and help me. Aim your spear at everyone who hunts me down, but promise to save me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As I read this passage, I couldn’t help but envision action figures, ready to strike... Batman, Spiderman… even Indiana Jones! Okay, so maybe I’ve watched one too many adventure movies! But imagine God as the Ultimate Superhero! He takes on all attackers… He shields us from every sling and arrow. He hunts down the devil and his agents and destroys them before they can harm a hair on our heads!
Now, think about your action figure “superheroes” for a minute. What had to happen before they could strike? They had to be summoned! Someone had to let them know that their help was needed. Batman got the “Bat Signal.” Spiderman has a “sixth sense” when danger is near. Indiana Jones ends up in situations that call for faith and courage, and bravado…to save himself and those around him.
I know this is a bit of a stretch, but stick with me… we have to call on God (through prayer) to fight our enemies. Sure, He already knows we need help, but remember… He wants to hear from us. He wants us to voice our needs. He wants us to recognize Him as our Redeemer and call upon Him to avenge us.
Let’s be honest… the Bible is the best “action adventure” ever created. God really is the Ultimate Superhero. And He stands ready to fight for us at every turn… all we have to do is give Him the signal and believe in His power. Superheroes of the comics and movies may be figments of our imagination, but God is REAL and reigns forever. Are YOU trusting Him to save you today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 23, 2010
February 23 ~ Luke 22:39-40
Jesus went out to the Mount of Olives, as he often did, and his disciples went with him. When they got there, he told them, "Pray that you won't be tested."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been in a situation where you have been warned to protect yourself in some way – “Be sure you wear your seatbelt,” or “Don’t do that without a helmet,” or even, “If you go in there, take a flashlight!”
In this passage, Jesus knows what is about to happen. He knows that He is going to be tortured, mocked, and crucified, and He knows that the Roman soldiers may try to trick and torture His disciples, too. So He tells them to “Pray that you won’t be tested.” In other words, He wants them to “put on the full armor of God.” He wants them to protect themselves fully by covering the hours/days ahead in prayer… asking God to watch over them and keep them from harm.
How often do you “pray that you won’t be tested?” When you get up in the morning, do you ask God to guide your day? When you go to bed at night, do you ask God to protect you as you sleep and give you a good night’s rest? Do you ask Him to help you with the answers on your test the next day? Do you ask Him to protect you as you drive to and from work or school? Are you praying so that you won’t be tempted, tested, or tormented? Are you fully protected each day against Satan and his attempts to harm you? Shouldn’t you be?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Jesus went out to the Mount of Olives, as he often did, and his disciples went with him. When they got there, he told them, "Pray that you won't be tested."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been in a situation where you have been warned to protect yourself in some way – “Be sure you wear your seatbelt,” or “Don’t do that without a helmet,” or even, “If you go in there, take a flashlight!”
In this passage, Jesus knows what is about to happen. He knows that He is going to be tortured, mocked, and crucified, and He knows that the Roman soldiers may try to trick and torture His disciples, too. So He tells them to “Pray that you won’t be tested.” In other words, He wants them to “put on the full armor of God.” He wants them to protect themselves fully by covering the hours/days ahead in prayer… asking God to watch over them and keep them from harm.
How often do you “pray that you won’t be tested?” When you get up in the morning, do you ask God to guide your day? When you go to bed at night, do you ask God to protect you as you sleep and give you a good night’s rest? Do you ask Him to help you with the answers on your test the next day? Do you ask Him to protect you as you drive to and from work or school? Are you praying so that you won’t be tempted, tested, or tormented? Are you fully protected each day against Satan and his attempts to harm you? Shouldn’t you be?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 22, 2010
February 22 ~ Habakkuk 3:2
I know your reputation, LORD, and I am amazed at what you have done. Please turn from your anger and be merciful; do for us what you did for our ancestors.
We don’t have to look very far in mainstream media to see examples of people who hurt or disappointed someone else… and received forgiveness. Often, they didn’t deserve this. Often, the initial reaction was anger and disgust. But then, mercy followed, and forgiveness at least appeared to be offered. We will never know for sure what transpired behind closed doors. We can never be certain that these people were truly forgiven for their misdeeds… or that time spent in jail or rehab or separation from family and friends really repaired the damage and helped them long term. But thankfully, we are not responsible in these situations, and quite frankly, they are none of our business either way!
What is our business is how we behave – and more importantly, how God deals with us. God knows that we are sinners and fall short of deserving His glory every day. When we ask Him for mercy, we must be willing to accept His decisions … including any consequences for our actions. We must humbly make every effort to correct our sin and be worthy of mercy. While we must do all we can to make amends with anyone we wrong, we must be especially certain that we set things right with God… that we beg Him for mercy and forgiveness – and then do everything we can to show that we have changed and deserve it.
We can’t rest on the assurance that “God forgave So-and-So for this in the past, so He will forgive me” or, as in the words of more than one little child… “I said I was sorry!” We have to stay in constant communication and relationship with God. And when we do fail, we have to be ready to ask for forgiveness and do everything necessary to receive it. I am amazed at what God has done for us… and for others. I am humbled that we serve a God who is so incredibly loving and forgiving. I praise Him for giving us a love and grace we do not deserve – and knowing how desperately we need His mercies.
©2009 Debbie RobusScripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I know your reputation, LORD, and I am amazed at what you have done. Please turn from your anger and be merciful; do for us what you did for our ancestors.
We don’t have to look very far in mainstream media to see examples of people who hurt or disappointed someone else… and received forgiveness. Often, they didn’t deserve this. Often, the initial reaction was anger and disgust. But then, mercy followed, and forgiveness at least appeared to be offered. We will never know for sure what transpired behind closed doors. We can never be certain that these people were truly forgiven for their misdeeds… or that time spent in jail or rehab or separation from family and friends really repaired the damage and helped them long term. But thankfully, we are not responsible in these situations, and quite frankly, they are none of our business either way!
What is our business is how we behave – and more importantly, how God deals with us. God knows that we are sinners and fall short of deserving His glory every day. When we ask Him for mercy, we must be willing to accept His decisions … including any consequences for our actions. We must humbly make every effort to correct our sin and be worthy of mercy. While we must do all we can to make amends with anyone we wrong, we must be especially certain that we set things right with God… that we beg Him for mercy and forgiveness – and then do everything we can to show that we have changed and deserve it.
We can’t rest on the assurance that “God forgave So-and-So for this in the past, so He will forgive me” or, as in the words of more than one little child… “I said I was sorry!” We have to stay in constant communication and relationship with God. And when we do fail, we have to be ready to ask for forgiveness and do everything necessary to receive it. I am amazed at what God has done for us… and for others. I am humbled that we serve a God who is so incredibly loving and forgiving. I praise Him for giving us a love and grace we do not deserve – and knowing how desperately we need His mercies.
©2009 Debbie RobusScripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Daily Devotional for February 21, 2010
February 21 ~ Romans 8:26
In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been talking with someone and trying to think of another person’s name… or the right word to use… and the person you are talking with fills in the gap for you? Sometimes, words just won’t come. And sometimes, we find ourselves at a loss of what to say or how to pray… the words simply will not come to us. Skipping prayer at this time is NOT the solution. In fact, this is when we really need prayer the most!
Understand just how powerful the Holy Spirit is within you. When things are at a point where you find yourself at a loss… when you are so overwhelmed that you cannot express what you are feeling… the Holy Spirit can pray for you. How does this work? Try this… when you find yourself in a situation where you are at a loss for words to pray, sit quietly. Meditate on God and visualize Him handling your situation. Listen for that “Inner Voice” – do you hear it? God is speaking to you and communicating with you through the Holy Spirit. Open your Bible and read scripture… try the Psalms, for starters… and see answers, peace and reassurance come to life right before your eyes. THAT is the Holy Spirit at work, guiding you, interpreting what you cannot express and manifesting it in prayer… then giving you answers and consolation.
When I find myself overwhelmed or at a loss, I like to find a quiet spot where I can sit, close my eyes, and whisper, “Come, Holy Spirit.” And He does… He calms me, soothes me, listens to what I cannot verbalize and works within me. I don’t get up until I sense a change… that God has heard me… that I am more peaceful and my mood has lifted. Then I know that God is working… that through the Holy Spirit, help is on the way. I’m rarely at a loss for words, but when I am, I know God will hear me anyway. I am so grateful to know God has given us His Holy Spirit to be our constant Companion. Are YOU counting on the Holy Spirit to speak for you when words fail?
©2009 Debbie Robus
In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been talking with someone and trying to think of another person’s name… or the right word to use… and the person you are talking with fills in the gap for you? Sometimes, words just won’t come. And sometimes, we find ourselves at a loss of what to say or how to pray… the words simply will not come to us. Skipping prayer at this time is NOT the solution. In fact, this is when we really need prayer the most!
Understand just how powerful the Holy Spirit is within you. When things are at a point where you find yourself at a loss… when you are so overwhelmed that you cannot express what you are feeling… the Holy Spirit can pray for you. How does this work? Try this… when you find yourself in a situation where you are at a loss for words to pray, sit quietly. Meditate on God and visualize Him handling your situation. Listen for that “Inner Voice” – do you hear it? God is speaking to you and communicating with you through the Holy Spirit. Open your Bible and read scripture… try the Psalms, for starters… and see answers, peace and reassurance come to life right before your eyes. THAT is the Holy Spirit at work, guiding you, interpreting what you cannot express and manifesting it in prayer… then giving you answers and consolation.
When I find myself overwhelmed or at a loss, I like to find a quiet spot where I can sit, close my eyes, and whisper, “Come, Holy Spirit.” And He does… He calms me, soothes me, listens to what I cannot verbalize and works within me. I don’t get up until I sense a change… that God has heard me… that I am more peaceful and my mood has lifted. Then I know that God is working… that through the Holy Spirit, help is on the way. I’m rarely at a loss for words, but when I am, I know God will hear me anyway. I am so grateful to know God has given us His Holy Spirit to be our constant Companion. Are YOU counting on the Holy Spirit to speak for you when words fail?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 20, 2010
February 20 ~ Jeremiah 42:2-3
"Please pray to the LORD your God for us. Judah used to have many people, but as you can see, only a few of us are left. Ask the LORD to tell us where he wants us to go and what he wants us to do."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you heard about the couple who used GPS to navigate on their trip and ended up going the wrong way and ultimately getting stuck in a snow bank? Thankfully, their family members used the same GPS software to locate them and provide rescue. But how often do we trust the wrong navigation in our lives and end up in much the same position, so to speak? How often do we listen to the wrong influences… or take bad advice… and we end up doing down the wrong road?
When we don’t include God in our plans… and when our plans don’t include genuine prayer… we often end up in the ditches of life. We need to ask God to tell us where He wants us to go and what HE wants us to do. And then we need to listen to His answers and trust them. Sometimes they are not what we wanted to hear… and that’s when we especially need to pay attention!
Ask God where you should go and what you should do. Trust His wisdom, and follow His lead. Don’t end up in the ditch or in a snow bank, waiting to be rescued. Keep communicating with God, and stay on course.
©2009 Debbie Robus
"Please pray to the LORD your God for us. Judah used to have many people, but as you can see, only a few of us are left. Ask the LORD to tell us where he wants us to go and what he wants us to do."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you heard about the couple who used GPS to navigate on their trip and ended up going the wrong way and ultimately getting stuck in a snow bank? Thankfully, their family members used the same GPS software to locate them and provide rescue. But how often do we trust the wrong navigation in our lives and end up in much the same position, so to speak? How often do we listen to the wrong influences… or take bad advice… and we end up doing down the wrong road?
When we don’t include God in our plans… and when our plans don’t include genuine prayer… we often end up in the ditches of life. We need to ask God to tell us where He wants us to go and what HE wants us to do. And then we need to listen to His answers and trust them. Sometimes they are not what we wanted to hear… and that’s when we especially need to pay attention!
Ask God where you should go and what you should do. Trust His wisdom, and follow His lead. Don’t end up in the ditch or in a snow bank, waiting to be rescued. Keep communicating with God, and stay on course.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 19, 2010
February 19 ~ Matthew 26:36-39
Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane. When they got there, he told them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
Jesus took along Peter and the two brothers, James and John. He was very sad and troubled, and he said to them, "I am so sad that I feel as if I am dying. Stay here and keep awake with me." Jesus walked on a little way. Then he knelt with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, don't make me suffer by having me drink from this cup. But do what you want, and not what I want."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you ever feel discouraged? Do you ever feel a little bit ashamed to admit this? Given all that God has done in your life – how blessed we are to live in America – all of the freedom and blessings we possess – doesn’t it seem like we are whining when we ask God to lift our burdens? And yet, we have an example of the only perfect person – Jesus Christ – asking God to prevent horrific events in His life. Even Jesus asked God for help.
There are two points to glean from this passage today. Even though we know that God will manage things for us, we all get discouraged from time to time and begin to lose a little faith. This is human nature – and in large part it is because we are allowing Satan to creep into some corner of our life. But there is a quick way out… ask God to help. Pour out your feelings to Him and admit that you are discouraged and your faith has weakened a bit, and allow Him to work in and through you to improve things.
The other point is that, while Jesus asked God to remove this “cup” – the torture and crucifixion that was coming – He prayed, “if it is possible” – or in some translations, He says (paraphrasing) “Your will, not Mine.” And we all know that God’s will (painful though it was for Him) was for Jesus to suffer… so that all of US could be saved and live for Eternity with Him. So, we must ask God for everything “if it is possible.” We must ask for God’s help, according to HIS will, not ours. And we must trust that God never answers poorly… He always gives us exactly what we need and what is best for His purposes and the bigger plan.
There is NOTHING we can’t share with God. There is NOTHING we can’t tell Him – NOTHING we can’t ask. Pour out your heart to Him today and receive His answers. Remember to say, “if it is possible,” and to trust His response.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane. When they got there, he told them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
Jesus took along Peter and the two brothers, James and John. He was very sad and troubled, and he said to them, "I am so sad that I feel as if I am dying. Stay here and keep awake with me." Jesus walked on a little way. Then he knelt with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, don't make me suffer by having me drink from this cup. But do what you want, and not what I want."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you ever feel discouraged? Do you ever feel a little bit ashamed to admit this? Given all that God has done in your life – how blessed we are to live in America – all of the freedom and blessings we possess – doesn’t it seem like we are whining when we ask God to lift our burdens? And yet, we have an example of the only perfect person – Jesus Christ – asking God to prevent horrific events in His life. Even Jesus asked God for help.
There are two points to glean from this passage today. Even though we know that God will manage things for us, we all get discouraged from time to time and begin to lose a little faith. This is human nature – and in large part it is because we are allowing Satan to creep into some corner of our life. But there is a quick way out… ask God to help. Pour out your feelings to Him and admit that you are discouraged and your faith has weakened a bit, and allow Him to work in and through you to improve things.
The other point is that, while Jesus asked God to remove this “cup” – the torture and crucifixion that was coming – He prayed, “if it is possible” – or in some translations, He says (paraphrasing) “Your will, not Mine.” And we all know that God’s will (painful though it was for Him) was for Jesus to suffer… so that all of US could be saved and live for Eternity with Him. So, we must ask God for everything “if it is possible.” We must ask for God’s help, according to HIS will, not ours. And we must trust that God never answers poorly… He always gives us exactly what we need and what is best for His purposes and the bigger plan.
There is NOTHING we can’t share with God. There is NOTHING we can’t tell Him – NOTHING we can’t ask. Pour out your heart to Him today and receive His answers. Remember to say, “if it is possible,” and to trust His response.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 18, 2010
February 18 ~ Matthew 26:26-27
During the meal Jesus took some bread in his hands. He blessed the bread and broke it. Then he gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and eat it. This is my body."
Jesus picked up a cup of wine and gave thanks to God. He then gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and drink it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Just prior to one of our big winter snows of late January/early February, I was shopping for groceries, along with dozens of other people. I met a fellow church member on the bread aisle, and he said, “I’ve got a jar of peanut butter and a loaf of bread… as long as you have that, you can survive just about anything.” For most of us, we figure if we have bread, we can survive a lot of things, including a snow storm!
Jesus characterized Himself often as “the Bread of Life.” He referred to His body as the bread, and His blood as the wine. As long as we have “the body and the blood,” we can survive anything that comes our way. I spent a lot of years participating in Holy Communion and hearing the words, “this is my body,” and “this is my blood.” I would eat the cracker or piece of bread and drink the juice that was offered. And in many ways, this was just a ritual of the church that we performed once a month… and also at Christmas and Easter.
Now I see that the simple act of eating a piece of bread and drinking a cup of juice – in the context of these things representing Jesus’ body and blood, given for me and my sins – is incredibly huge. I finally made the mental (and Spiritual?) connection between Jesus’ sacrifices on the cross – for me – and how they were represented in Holy Communion. It’s not about the Communion service itself… it is about the understanding that Jesus offered us HIS life in exchange for our sinful one. And because of this, He truly IS our Bread of Life. HIS blood was offered as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins – and this is represented by our communion juice or wine.
Now, when I participate in Holy Communion, I think of all of the daily challenges we face and how Jesus helps us meet them. I think of the sacrifices He made for me, and I am humbled at how unworthy I am – and even more so by the knowledge that Jesus doesn’t expect me to “deserve” or earn His sacrifices on my behalf. I am reminded that I can survive anything because I have my “Bread” and the Cup.
Today, thank Jesus for the “bread and the cup” – and for what they represent. Don’t wait for your church to offer the sacraments of Holy Communion again… celebrate what they represent each and every day. Consider that the bread and cup are given to remind us of how much Jesus loves us – and what He did for us on the cross. Express to God your desire to be sustained every day by the Bread of Life – and covered in the blood of Jesus. Thank Him for such a generous, unconditional gift. Celebrate the knowledge that you can survive anything… because you have the Bread that truly matters. Live in a way that honors Christ as you face head-on the challenges of life each day. A loaf of whole wheat and a jar of peanut butter may work in a snowstorm, but for the storms of life, give me the “bread” of Jesus!
©2009 Debbie Robus
During the meal Jesus took some bread in his hands. He blessed the bread and broke it. Then he gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and eat it. This is my body."
Jesus picked up a cup of wine and gave thanks to God. He then gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and drink it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Just prior to one of our big winter snows of late January/early February, I was shopping for groceries, along with dozens of other people. I met a fellow church member on the bread aisle, and he said, “I’ve got a jar of peanut butter and a loaf of bread… as long as you have that, you can survive just about anything.” For most of us, we figure if we have bread, we can survive a lot of things, including a snow storm!
Jesus characterized Himself often as “the Bread of Life.” He referred to His body as the bread, and His blood as the wine. As long as we have “the body and the blood,” we can survive anything that comes our way. I spent a lot of years participating in Holy Communion and hearing the words, “this is my body,” and “this is my blood.” I would eat the cracker or piece of bread and drink the juice that was offered. And in many ways, this was just a ritual of the church that we performed once a month… and also at Christmas and Easter.
Now I see that the simple act of eating a piece of bread and drinking a cup of juice – in the context of these things representing Jesus’ body and blood, given for me and my sins – is incredibly huge. I finally made the mental (and Spiritual?) connection between Jesus’ sacrifices on the cross – for me – and how they were represented in Holy Communion. It’s not about the Communion service itself… it is about the understanding that Jesus offered us HIS life in exchange for our sinful one. And because of this, He truly IS our Bread of Life. HIS blood was offered as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins – and this is represented by our communion juice or wine.
Now, when I participate in Holy Communion, I think of all of the daily challenges we face and how Jesus helps us meet them. I think of the sacrifices He made for me, and I am humbled at how unworthy I am – and even more so by the knowledge that Jesus doesn’t expect me to “deserve” or earn His sacrifices on my behalf. I am reminded that I can survive anything because I have my “Bread” and the Cup.
Today, thank Jesus for the “bread and the cup” – and for what they represent. Don’t wait for your church to offer the sacraments of Holy Communion again… celebrate what they represent each and every day. Consider that the bread and cup are given to remind us of how much Jesus loves us – and what He did for us on the cross. Express to God your desire to be sustained every day by the Bread of Life – and covered in the blood of Jesus. Thank Him for such a generous, unconditional gift. Celebrate the knowledge that you can survive anything… because you have the Bread that truly matters. Live in a way that honors Christ as you face head-on the challenges of life each day. A loaf of whole wheat and a jar of peanut butter may work in a snowstorm, but for the storms of life, give me the “bread” of Jesus!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 17, 2010
February 17 ~ Matthew 19:13
Some people brought their children to Jesus, so that he could place his hands on them and pray for them. His disciples told the people to stop bothering him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anyone who knows me very well knows I love children. I am a mother to none and an “aunt” to dozens. If you don’t see the importance of loving and nurturing children, read this passage again.
Just lately, our great-nephew, Timmy, has learned to pull up on things, especially his crib rail. Each time he does this, he grins, growls and squeals – so proud of himself for this accomplishment. Frankly, I didn’t see it the same way at first… now the crib is not longer the safe haven I used when I needed to confine him. Soon enough he will learn to crawl over the rail and hit (hopefully not literally) the floor! My husband and I looked at each other recently and agreed… “Things just got a whole lot more complicated and challenging with this baby now that he is mobile!”
After watching Timmy for a while and seeing his delight, excitement and enthusiasm for learning these new things – and practicing them – I have a different attitude. He is growing and expressing his independence… and he takes great delight in each accomplishment. He has no clue that they pose more challenges for the adults who chase him – or that they involve risks and possible bumps and bruises along the way. He is absorbing each new thing like a sponge. The flip side of this is that he also absorbs our “vibes.” If you think a small child doesn’t sense your feelings, tension, frustration, and anger, you are dead wrong. And over time, these emotions can change a child’s spirit – if not squelch it completely. I have seen five-year-olds enter kindergarten with a spirit that has already been crushed by negative influences in their lives, and this is a sad, sad thing.
Spiritually, we all start out as children. We are eager, enthusiastic, and excited, and soaking up God’s word and His promises like a sponge. Sadly, it doesn’t take very long for Satan to move in and use those around us to try to squelch this. He may even be using you and me to do this to others. If we have a negative attitude… if we are less than enthusiastic about our faith or always discouraged about how God doesn’t seem to be working in our lives, Christian “children” will notice… and it will matter.
Our challenge is not to tamp down the excitement and enthusiasm of new Christians – or children. Our responsibility is to open our arms, just as Jesus did and pray for them… love, encourage and nurture them… and build them up in their new discoveries. We were all children once – physically and Spiritually. Think about how you were nurtured and who encouraged you. Thank God for loving “aunts” and “uncles” in your life and mentors who helped you to grow in your faith… and ask Him to show you how to do this for others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Some people brought their children to Jesus, so that he could place his hands on them and pray for them. His disciples told the people to stop bothering him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anyone who knows me very well knows I love children. I am a mother to none and an “aunt” to dozens. If you don’t see the importance of loving and nurturing children, read this passage again.
Just lately, our great-nephew, Timmy, has learned to pull up on things, especially his crib rail. Each time he does this, he grins, growls and squeals – so proud of himself for this accomplishment. Frankly, I didn’t see it the same way at first… now the crib is not longer the safe haven I used when I needed to confine him. Soon enough he will learn to crawl over the rail and hit (hopefully not literally) the floor! My husband and I looked at each other recently and agreed… “Things just got a whole lot more complicated and challenging with this baby now that he is mobile!”
After watching Timmy for a while and seeing his delight, excitement and enthusiasm for learning these new things – and practicing them – I have a different attitude. He is growing and expressing his independence… and he takes great delight in each accomplishment. He has no clue that they pose more challenges for the adults who chase him – or that they involve risks and possible bumps and bruises along the way. He is absorbing each new thing like a sponge. The flip side of this is that he also absorbs our “vibes.” If you think a small child doesn’t sense your feelings, tension, frustration, and anger, you are dead wrong. And over time, these emotions can change a child’s spirit – if not squelch it completely. I have seen five-year-olds enter kindergarten with a spirit that has already been crushed by negative influences in their lives, and this is a sad, sad thing.
Spiritually, we all start out as children. We are eager, enthusiastic, and excited, and soaking up God’s word and His promises like a sponge. Sadly, it doesn’t take very long for Satan to move in and use those around us to try to squelch this. He may even be using you and me to do this to others. If we have a negative attitude… if we are less than enthusiastic about our faith or always discouraged about how God doesn’t seem to be working in our lives, Christian “children” will notice… and it will matter.
Our challenge is not to tamp down the excitement and enthusiasm of new Christians – or children. Our responsibility is to open our arms, just as Jesus did and pray for them… love, encourage and nurture them… and build them up in their new discoveries. We were all children once – physically and Spiritually. Think about how you were nurtured and who encouraged you. Thank God for loving “aunts” and “uncles” in your life and mentors who helped you to grow in your faith… and ask Him to show you how to do this for others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 16, 2010
February 16 ~ Matthew 15:36
…he took the seven loaves of bread and the fish and gave thanks. He then broke them and handed them to his disciples, who passed them around to the crowds.Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last summer, my grandmother called one early afternoon and said she was cooking supper for my mom and her husband, and she wondered if my husband and I wanted to join them. I asked what she was preparing, because my grandmother is 97, and she is not used to cooking for a large group like she once did. She said so far she was preparing green beans, corn, sweet potatoes, and a lemon pie… and that my mom was bringing ribs. I offered to bring some chicken that I was already cooking for our dinner.
By the time we got to her house for dinner, not only were my mom and her husband there, my sister and her husband, my niece, and our great-nephew were there, too. If you lost count, that is seven adults and one baby! I asked my grandmother, was she sure she had enough to feed that many people? Her response was, “Well, if not… at least we’ll all be together.” The menu had grown to include mashed potatoes, cornbread, hot made-from-scratch yeast rolls, black-eyed peas, cole slaw, and sliced tomatoes! I think we could have easily fed twice as many people. I don’t know if we will all be together like that for a meal in my grandmother’s home ever again. God blessed not only the food (and multiplied it), but He blessed the company, also.
So often, we sell God short. We look at what we DON’T have, rather than what we have… or we look at our situation and feel our resources are too limited to accomplish much. Unlike my grandmother, who takes a “dab of this” and a “dab of that” and puts it together to create a feast or something remarkable, we often throw up our hands and say, “I can’t work in these conditions,” or “I don’t have enough to get by!” or “I’m only one person – I can’t accomplish much.” Again, we sell God short – along with His ability to work in and through us to accomplish great things. We all know how this story in Matthew 15 ends. Jesus fed thousands with seven loaves of bread. He prayed and asked God for help, and God multiplied, fed and blessed.
When was the last time you prayed and asked God to help in a situation where you felt inadequate? When did you last ask Him to give you what you lack? Isn’t it about time we started depending on the One who can do all things? Isn’t it time we acknowledged His abilities and power… and trusted Him to deliver? Won’t you start today by asking God to fill in the gaps where you have needs? See for yourself what amazing things can be accomplished in His name and by His power. See how far your “little dab” will go with God’s help!
©2009 Debbie Robus
…he took the seven loaves of bread and the fish and gave thanks. He then broke them and handed them to his disciples, who passed them around to the crowds.Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last summer, my grandmother called one early afternoon and said she was cooking supper for my mom and her husband, and she wondered if my husband and I wanted to join them. I asked what she was preparing, because my grandmother is 97, and she is not used to cooking for a large group like she once did. She said so far she was preparing green beans, corn, sweet potatoes, and a lemon pie… and that my mom was bringing ribs. I offered to bring some chicken that I was already cooking for our dinner.
By the time we got to her house for dinner, not only were my mom and her husband there, my sister and her husband, my niece, and our great-nephew were there, too. If you lost count, that is seven adults and one baby! I asked my grandmother, was she sure she had enough to feed that many people? Her response was, “Well, if not… at least we’ll all be together.” The menu had grown to include mashed potatoes, cornbread, hot made-from-scratch yeast rolls, black-eyed peas, cole slaw, and sliced tomatoes! I think we could have easily fed twice as many people. I don’t know if we will all be together like that for a meal in my grandmother’s home ever again. God blessed not only the food (and multiplied it), but He blessed the company, also.
So often, we sell God short. We look at what we DON’T have, rather than what we have… or we look at our situation and feel our resources are too limited to accomplish much. Unlike my grandmother, who takes a “dab of this” and a “dab of that” and puts it together to create a feast or something remarkable, we often throw up our hands and say, “I can’t work in these conditions,” or “I don’t have enough to get by!” or “I’m only one person – I can’t accomplish much.” Again, we sell God short – along with His ability to work in and through us to accomplish great things. We all know how this story in Matthew 15 ends. Jesus fed thousands with seven loaves of bread. He prayed and asked God for help, and God multiplied, fed and blessed.
When was the last time you prayed and asked God to help in a situation where you felt inadequate? When did you last ask Him to give you what you lack? Isn’t it about time we started depending on the One who can do all things? Isn’t it time we acknowledged His abilities and power… and trusted Him to deliver? Won’t you start today by asking God to fill in the gaps where you have needs? See for yourself what amazing things can be accomplished in His name and by His power. See how far your “little dab” will go with God’s help!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 15, 2010
February 15 ~ Matthew 14:23
Then he went up on a mountain where he could be alone and pray. Later that evening, he was still there.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
How is it that we can sit through three-hour movies, a whole afternoon of football or basketball games, hours of playing video games, or chatting/texting with friends on the phone or computer, but we cannot find five minutes to pray? How often do we sit down to do something and forget all about the time… looking up hours later to realize we haven’t noticed how much time has elapsed? Yet we seldom sit quietly and just talk to God. Why is this?
I will be the first to admit that I am guilty as charged. I have the best intentions of spending a “quiet time” each day with God, but about the most I muster is my 3-mile walk a few times a week. And that’s not all bad. But doesn’t God deserve some “alone time” with us? Doesn’t He deserve some time when we “go to the mountain alone” and sit with Him for a while?
I am challenging each of us to do better in this area – myself included. I am suggesting we give up a television program, a game of solitaire, a few minutes of chat or whatever eats up our time… and spend some “quiet alone time” with our Heavenly Father. I think we will all find that this becomes the best part of our day… the most productive, rewarding, and blessed time. I believe this time spent with God could make every aspect of the rest of our day better. Are you willing to find out?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Then he went up on a mountain where he could be alone and pray. Later that evening, he was still there.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
How is it that we can sit through three-hour movies, a whole afternoon of football or basketball games, hours of playing video games, or chatting/texting with friends on the phone or computer, but we cannot find five minutes to pray? How often do we sit down to do something and forget all about the time… looking up hours later to realize we haven’t noticed how much time has elapsed? Yet we seldom sit quietly and just talk to God. Why is this?
I will be the first to admit that I am guilty as charged. I have the best intentions of spending a “quiet time” each day with God, but about the most I muster is my 3-mile walk a few times a week. And that’s not all bad. But doesn’t God deserve some “alone time” with us? Doesn’t He deserve some time when we “go to the mountain alone” and sit with Him for a while?
I am challenging each of us to do better in this area – myself included. I am suggesting we give up a television program, a game of solitaire, a few minutes of chat or whatever eats up our time… and spend some “quiet alone time” with our Heavenly Father. I think we will all find that this becomes the best part of our day… the most productive, rewarding, and blessed time. I believe this time spent with God could make every aspect of the rest of our day better. Are you willing to find out?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 13, 2010
February 13 ~ John 17:24-26
Father, I want everyone you have given me to be with me, wherever I am. Then they will see the glory that you have given me, because you loved me before the world was created. Good Father, the people of this world don't know you. But I know you, and my followers know that you sent me. I told them what you are like, and I will tell them even more. Then the love that you have for me will become part of them, and I will be one with them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We like to fit in, don’t we?! When we go to a sporting event, we like to wear our team’s colors, or a shirt that has our team name and logo on it. We like to wear clothing with designer labels. Some of us like to belong to clubs and groups and be a part of things. We like to be recognized as belonging – to something or someone. We want to be close to our friends and loved ones and to be surrounded by people we enjoy.
Do you find it amazing that Jesus wants the same thing? And yet, it’s true! Jesus wants His followers close. He wants Christians to be readily recognizable as a group. This doesn’t mean He wants us to wear T-shirts that say, “I belong to Jesus” (although that’s fine if you do!) – but He wants us to live in a way that others know we belong to Him. How do we do this? We live for Jesus by sharing Him with others… through kindness and love, compassion and mercy. We show that we are Christians by being joy-filled and positive. We tell others of the blessings that God has done in our lives, and we avoid negative talk, prejudice, discrimination, and dissention.
Sometimes it’s hard to tell the Christians from the unbelievers, because we Christians don’t always behave in a way that pleases God. But we can ask Him to help us do better. We can strive to be more like Christ – our perfect role model – each and every day. It may be nice to fit in with your family and friends, but it’s even better to fit in with Jesus. How are you doing these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Father, I want everyone you have given me to be with me, wherever I am. Then they will see the glory that you have given me, because you loved me before the world was created. Good Father, the people of this world don't know you. But I know you, and my followers know that you sent me. I told them what you are like, and I will tell them even more. Then the love that you have for me will become part of them, and I will be one with them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We like to fit in, don’t we?! When we go to a sporting event, we like to wear our team’s colors, or a shirt that has our team name and logo on it. We like to wear clothing with designer labels. Some of us like to belong to clubs and groups and be a part of things. We like to be recognized as belonging – to something or someone. We want to be close to our friends and loved ones and to be surrounded by people we enjoy.
Do you find it amazing that Jesus wants the same thing? And yet, it’s true! Jesus wants His followers close. He wants Christians to be readily recognizable as a group. This doesn’t mean He wants us to wear T-shirts that say, “I belong to Jesus” (although that’s fine if you do!) – but He wants us to live in a way that others know we belong to Him. How do we do this? We live for Jesus by sharing Him with others… through kindness and love, compassion and mercy. We show that we are Christians by being joy-filled and positive. We tell others of the blessings that God has done in our lives, and we avoid negative talk, prejudice, discrimination, and dissention.
Sometimes it’s hard to tell the Christians from the unbelievers, because we Christians don’t always behave in a way that pleases God. But we can ask Him to help us do better. We can strive to be more like Christ – our perfect role model – each and every day. It may be nice to fit in with your family and friends, but it’s even better to fit in with Jesus. How are you doing these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 12, 2010
February 12 ~ John 17:11-12
Holy Father, I am no longer in the world. I am coming to you, but my followers are still in the world. So keep them safe by the power of the name that you have given me. Then they will be one with each other, just as you and I are one. While I was with them, I kept them safe by the power you have given me. I guarded them, and not one of them was lost, except the one who had to be lost. This happened so that what the Scriptures say would come true.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When two people marry, they make a covenant to love, honor, and cherish each other… in sickness, health, for richer, poorer. They agree to stick together no matter what and to work through all of the joys and challenges of life together. In some neighborhoods, there is a “covenant” – an agreement that the neighbors will all follow a set of rules. For instance, in my neighborhood, the “covenant” says that we cannot erect a separate outbuilding – like a storage shed – on our property.
Throughout your life, you will probably have several “covenants,” but none will be as significant as your covenant with God through Jesus Christ. If you have invited Jesus into your heart to be the Lord of your life, you are assured of this covenant. Because of Jesus, we Christians can be confident that we are saved by His power. He stands in the gap for us with God… our debts have all been paid. We can freely ask God for anything, knowing that He will answer… according to His will.
Does this mean we will never have an accident and suffer physical injury? No… this is a different kind of “safety.” Does this mean we can ask God for anything we want and expect to get it? Only if God feels our request is truly in our best interest and helps to accomplish His plans. What it DOES mean is that God is always with us… that no matter what we are going through, He is there to guide and protect us. It means that, because of Jesus, we are promised a place in Heaven for all of eternity.
Truly this is the only covenant that matters. If you have not made a covenant with God through Jesus Christ, I encourage you to do just that today. Ask Jesus to stand in the gap for you with our Heavenly Father. Invite Him to bring His Holy Spirit to live in your heart, and rest in the knowledge and safety of a covenant with Him… and all of the blessings and protection that come with it.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Holy Father, I am no longer in the world. I am coming to you, but my followers are still in the world. So keep them safe by the power of the name that you have given me. Then they will be one with each other, just as you and I are one. While I was with them, I kept them safe by the power you have given me. I guarded them, and not one of them was lost, except the one who had to be lost. This happened so that what the Scriptures say would come true.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When two people marry, they make a covenant to love, honor, and cherish each other… in sickness, health, for richer, poorer. They agree to stick together no matter what and to work through all of the joys and challenges of life together. In some neighborhoods, there is a “covenant” – an agreement that the neighbors will all follow a set of rules. For instance, in my neighborhood, the “covenant” says that we cannot erect a separate outbuilding – like a storage shed – on our property.
Throughout your life, you will probably have several “covenants,” but none will be as significant as your covenant with God through Jesus Christ. If you have invited Jesus into your heart to be the Lord of your life, you are assured of this covenant. Because of Jesus, we Christians can be confident that we are saved by His power. He stands in the gap for us with God… our debts have all been paid. We can freely ask God for anything, knowing that He will answer… according to His will.
Does this mean we will never have an accident and suffer physical injury? No… this is a different kind of “safety.” Does this mean we can ask God for anything we want and expect to get it? Only if God feels our request is truly in our best interest and helps to accomplish His plans. What it DOES mean is that God is always with us… that no matter what we are going through, He is there to guide and protect us. It means that, because of Jesus, we are promised a place in Heaven for all of eternity.
Truly this is the only covenant that matters. If you have not made a covenant with God through Jesus Christ, I encourage you to do just that today. Ask Jesus to stand in the gap for you with our Heavenly Father. Invite Him to bring His Holy Spirit to live in your heart, and rest in the knowledge and safety of a covenant with Him… and all of the blessings and protection that come with it.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 11, 2010
February 11 ~ Ephesians 5:15-20
Act like people with good sense and not like fools. These are evil times, so make every minute count. Don’t be stupid. Instead, find out what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t destroy yourself by getting drunk, but let the Spirit fill your life. When you meet together, sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, as you praise the Lord with all your heart. Always use the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to thank God the Father for everything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I know you may think this is crazy, but I really like to wear clothing that has been ironed. And honestly, I don’t mind ironing itself… I just have trouble finding time to set up the ironing board, starch all of the clothing, and spend a few hours pressing everything. And maybe this is a poor use of my time… especially giving things like flannel pajamas a light starch and a steamy touch-up! On the other hand, I am not a big fan of house cleaning, although I love a clean house! I always feel like I could spend that time writing a devo or doing something else more “worthwhile.” But in reality, God wants us to live in clean houses and wear neat and clean clothing… and He blesses those who clean!
When this passage talks about making every minute count, people tend to think about “important” things, like careers and relationships and how we conduct ourselves in public. But actually, we Christians need to pay attention to the seemingly “mundane” areas of our life, too. Are we so busy cleaning house that we neglect our family and friends? Are we so wrapped up in spending time and energy on our appearance that we don’t have time for prayer and Bible study? I’m not saying we should never spend time on ourselves or keep things clean and organized. But we could all probably use a revamping of our priorities, to some degree.
The other thing that stuck out to me in this passage is thanking God in the name of Jesus. Now why would that be so important? Have you stopped and really considered what Jesus did for us - I mean really considered it? I can tell you that when I do this, it is almost more than I can bear. I am completely overwhelmed and humbled by the mercy, grace, and LOVE of Jesus. I can hardly comprehend that anyone could love me enough to do the things He did for me. So yes, I thank God in the name of His precious Son, for the blessings He bestows on me each day… and so should you. No one else will EVER love you like that. No one else will EVER go to bat for you on anything remotely near that level.
Jesus deserves our recognition… and our thanks. So I am going to make a concerted effort to call on His name when I thank God in prayer. Won’t you do the same? It won’t begin to repay Him for what He did, but it’s a start. And while you pray, you can clean your room or iron a shirt!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Act like people with good sense and not like fools. These are evil times, so make every minute count. Don’t be stupid. Instead, find out what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t destroy yourself by getting drunk, but let the Spirit fill your life. When you meet together, sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, as you praise the Lord with all your heart. Always use the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to thank God the Father for everything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I know you may think this is crazy, but I really like to wear clothing that has been ironed. And honestly, I don’t mind ironing itself… I just have trouble finding time to set up the ironing board, starch all of the clothing, and spend a few hours pressing everything. And maybe this is a poor use of my time… especially giving things like flannel pajamas a light starch and a steamy touch-up! On the other hand, I am not a big fan of house cleaning, although I love a clean house! I always feel like I could spend that time writing a devo or doing something else more “worthwhile.” But in reality, God wants us to live in clean houses and wear neat and clean clothing… and He blesses those who clean!
When this passage talks about making every minute count, people tend to think about “important” things, like careers and relationships and how we conduct ourselves in public. But actually, we Christians need to pay attention to the seemingly “mundane” areas of our life, too. Are we so busy cleaning house that we neglect our family and friends? Are we so wrapped up in spending time and energy on our appearance that we don’t have time for prayer and Bible study? I’m not saying we should never spend time on ourselves or keep things clean and organized. But we could all probably use a revamping of our priorities, to some degree.
The other thing that stuck out to me in this passage is thanking God in the name of Jesus. Now why would that be so important? Have you stopped and really considered what Jesus did for us - I mean really considered it? I can tell you that when I do this, it is almost more than I can bear. I am completely overwhelmed and humbled by the mercy, grace, and LOVE of Jesus. I can hardly comprehend that anyone could love me enough to do the things He did for me. So yes, I thank God in the name of His precious Son, for the blessings He bestows on me each day… and so should you. No one else will EVER love you like that. No one else will EVER go to bat for you on anything remotely near that level.
Jesus deserves our recognition… and our thanks. So I am going to make a concerted effort to call on His name when I thank God in prayer. Won’t you do the same? It won’t begin to repay Him for what He did, but it’s a start. And while you pray, you can clean your room or iron a shirt!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 10, 2010
February 10 ~ John 16:23-26
When that time comes, you won't have to ask me about anything. I tell you for certain that the Father will give you whatever you ask for in my name. You have not asked for anything in this way before, but now you must ask in my name. Then it will be given to you, so that you will be completely happy. I have used examples to explain to you what I have been talking about. But the time will come when I will speak to you plainly about the Father and will no longer use examples like these. You will ask the Father in my name, and I won't have to ask him for you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I keep our 9-month-old great-nephew, Timmy, several days a week while his mother works and attends college. We never had children of our own, and it’s been several years since I spent much time with a baby. So I have a LOT of questions. There’s an old saying that “Babies don’t come with instructions,” and that’s true! But thankfully, I have a bevy of wonderful experienced mothers I can call… and the Internet for other answers. So I don’t have to wonder if I’m caring for Timmy in the right way.
Sometimes, the answers to our questions are not so readily available. I have heard more than one person who had just lost a loved one say, “I picked up the phone to ask Dad such-and-such, and then I remembered he’s gone,” or “I was going to make Mom’s famous recipe for “whatever” – and I realized that I didn’t have it… and now I can’t ask her how to make it!” And SOME answers, like “Why does God allow children to suffer?” or “Why doesn’t God prevent natural disasters?” will just not be answered this side of heaven!
But the good news is that some day we WILL have all of the answers. I honestly believe that we are not supposed to understand everything about how God operates, because 1) we would not be able to handle it all; and 2) we would lose our need to trust Him and walk in faith that He will sustain us. We can always go to God and ask anything, in the name of Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for us. We can even question why children suffer, wars take place, and natural disasters wipe out entire villages and communities. We can question anything and everything.
Does that mean God will always answer us quickly and in a way we expect? Absolutely not! But He will answer, in the best manner for us at the time. And some day, every single answer to every question we have will be available in heaven. I have a feeling when I get there, the questions/answers I have will no longer matter. But just in case… I’ve got a short list! Meanwhile, I’m leaning on God to meet my daily needs and answer my prayers as He sees fit. He has never failed me yet… and I know He never will.
©2009 Debbie Robus
When that time comes, you won't have to ask me about anything. I tell you for certain that the Father will give you whatever you ask for in my name. You have not asked for anything in this way before, but now you must ask in my name. Then it will be given to you, so that you will be completely happy. I have used examples to explain to you what I have been talking about. But the time will come when I will speak to you plainly about the Father and will no longer use examples like these. You will ask the Father in my name, and I won't have to ask him for you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I keep our 9-month-old great-nephew, Timmy, several days a week while his mother works and attends college. We never had children of our own, and it’s been several years since I spent much time with a baby. So I have a LOT of questions. There’s an old saying that “Babies don’t come with instructions,” and that’s true! But thankfully, I have a bevy of wonderful experienced mothers I can call… and the Internet for other answers. So I don’t have to wonder if I’m caring for Timmy in the right way.
Sometimes, the answers to our questions are not so readily available. I have heard more than one person who had just lost a loved one say, “I picked up the phone to ask Dad such-and-such, and then I remembered he’s gone,” or “I was going to make Mom’s famous recipe for “whatever” – and I realized that I didn’t have it… and now I can’t ask her how to make it!” And SOME answers, like “Why does God allow children to suffer?” or “Why doesn’t God prevent natural disasters?” will just not be answered this side of heaven!
But the good news is that some day we WILL have all of the answers. I honestly believe that we are not supposed to understand everything about how God operates, because 1) we would not be able to handle it all; and 2) we would lose our need to trust Him and walk in faith that He will sustain us. We can always go to God and ask anything, in the name of Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for us. We can even question why children suffer, wars take place, and natural disasters wipe out entire villages and communities. We can question anything and everything.
Does that mean God will always answer us quickly and in a way we expect? Absolutely not! But He will answer, in the best manner for us at the time. And some day, every single answer to every question we have will be available in heaven. I have a feeling when I get there, the questions/answers I have will no longer matter. But just in case… I’ve got a short list! Meanwhile, I’m leaning on God to meet my daily needs and answer my prayers as He sees fit. He has never failed me yet… and I know He never will.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 9, 2010
February 9 ~ John 14:11-13
Have faith in me when I say that the Father is one with me and that I am one with the Father. Or else have faith in me simply because of the things I do. I tell you for certain that if you have faith in me, you will do the same things that I am doing. You will do even greater things, now that I am going back to the Father. Ask me, and I will do whatever you ask. This way the Son will bring honor to the Father. I will do whatever you ask me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I don’t know about you, but there are days when I don’t feel like I’m very effective as a Christian. And honestly, I sometimes wonder why we do the things we do. It is easy for Christians to become discouraged – not because of anything God does or does not do… but because we expect God to operate on our terms and time table.
This is not always done consciously… but if we are honest, don’t we all wonder from time to time WHY God allows certain things to happen or WHEN God will answer our prayers? Don’t we grow impatient? Don’t we lack faith and trust? Sometimes, I catch myself saying, “Father, I KNOW you are handling this for me, I BELIEVE you are in charge, and certainly nothing I do is adequate. But could you PLEASE hurry up? Could you PLEASE give me some indication that this will work out and all be okay?” And you know what? God HAS answered. He sent Jesus, His only Son, to die on the cross for our sins. He resurrected Christ from the grave and returned Him to heaven. And because of JESUS, we can ask anything in His name, and God will handle it for us.
Does this mean that He answers exactly as we ask? No! Does this mean we always get everything we want? Certainly not! God knows what we truly need. His answers – and His timing – are always perfect. Believing and trusting this is often hard – I know firsthand! But we MUST believe it. We MUST trust that God hears our prayers and answers. We must “keep on keepin’ on!” and serving faithfully – and confidently.
Sunday when our church worshipped in Holy Communion, I confessed to God that I have not been as trusting and faithful as I should… but I vowed to do better. I “ate of the body and drank of the cup” and committed to faithfully serving with Christ. You don’t have to partake of Holy Communion to do this – you can stop what you are doing right now and recommit to a life of faithfulness. Don’t you want to live in confidence that God is meeting your needs and answering your prayers? Won’t you ask Him, in the name of Jesus Christ, to do just that?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Have faith in me when I say that the Father is one with me and that I am one with the Father. Or else have faith in me simply because of the things I do. I tell you for certain that if you have faith in me, you will do the same things that I am doing. You will do even greater things, now that I am going back to the Father. Ask me, and I will do whatever you ask. This way the Son will bring honor to the Father. I will do whatever you ask me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I don’t know about you, but there are days when I don’t feel like I’m very effective as a Christian. And honestly, I sometimes wonder why we do the things we do. It is easy for Christians to become discouraged – not because of anything God does or does not do… but because we expect God to operate on our terms and time table.
This is not always done consciously… but if we are honest, don’t we all wonder from time to time WHY God allows certain things to happen or WHEN God will answer our prayers? Don’t we grow impatient? Don’t we lack faith and trust? Sometimes, I catch myself saying, “Father, I KNOW you are handling this for me, I BELIEVE you are in charge, and certainly nothing I do is adequate. But could you PLEASE hurry up? Could you PLEASE give me some indication that this will work out and all be okay?” And you know what? God HAS answered. He sent Jesus, His only Son, to die on the cross for our sins. He resurrected Christ from the grave and returned Him to heaven. And because of JESUS, we can ask anything in His name, and God will handle it for us.
Does this mean that He answers exactly as we ask? No! Does this mean we always get everything we want? Certainly not! God knows what we truly need. His answers – and His timing – are always perfect. Believing and trusting this is often hard – I know firsthand! But we MUST believe it. We MUST trust that God hears our prayers and answers. We must “keep on keepin’ on!” and serving faithfully – and confidently.
Sunday when our church worshipped in Holy Communion, I confessed to God that I have not been as trusting and faithful as I should… but I vowed to do better. I “ate of the body and drank of the cup” and committed to faithfully serving with Christ. You don’t have to partake of Holy Communion to do this – you can stop what you are doing right now and recommit to a life of faithfulness. Don’t you want to live in confidence that God is meeting your needs and answering your prayers? Won’t you ask Him, in the name of Jesus Christ, to do just that?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 7, 2010
February 8 ~ Jeremiah 32:17-25
LORD God, you stretched out your mighty arm and made the sky and the earth. You can do anything. You show kindness for a thousand generations, but you also punish people for the sins of their parents. You are the LORD All-Powerful. With great wisdom you make plans, and with your great power you do all the mighty things you planned. Nothing we do is hidden from your eyes, and you reward or punish us as we deserve. You are famous because you worked miracles in Egypt, and you are still working them in Israel and in the rest of the world as well. You terrified the Egyptians with your miracles, and you reached out your mighty arm and rescued your people Israel from Egypt. Then you gave Israel this land rich with milk and honey, just as you had promised our ancestors.
But when our ancestors took over the land, they did not obey you. And now you have punished Israel with disaster. Jerusalem is under attack, and we suffer from hunger and disease. The Babylonians have already built dirt ramps up to the city walls, and you can see that Jerusalem will be captured just as you said.
So why did you tell me to get some witnesses and buy a field with my silver, when Jerusalem is about to be captured by the Babylonians?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever known someone who seemed to “get by with murder?” They never appeared to get caught – or to be punished when they did. And then, one day, something happened that was not “fixable.” Maybe they broke the law and their parents said, “We can’t get you out of this one.” Their mistakes and mis-steps caught up with them, and they had to “do the time,” so to speak for whatever they had done. Or maybe drinking and driving caught up with them and they had a terrible accident. Or maybe their dishonesty and deceit finally ended their relationship with a dear friend or loved one – and/or damaged their reputation.
As Christians, it may seem like God lets us get by with things for a while, and then one day, the world comes crashing down around us. And sometimes, when things seem their darkest, God gives us an inner sense of hope… an inexplicable feeling that we can ride out this storm and things will once again be good for us. This is how a person who goes to prison can have hope for a future “on the outside” once his/her sentence is completed. This is how someone who has lost a loved one or suffered a broken relationship can believe that joy can return. This is how you can lose your job and everything you own and be confident you will find new employment and rebuild your life.
God knows that His children make mistakes. And sometimes He has to allow us to wallow in them for awhile. Or sometimes, He allows hardship and struggle to come to faithful Christians to strengthen their trust and confidence in His ability to work in and through them. But when God shows you how to “buy a field with silver” – to have hope and courage even in the middle of a crisis – He is preparing you for blessings and renewal. He is saying, “Hang on… help is on the way. Walk through this valley, and prepare for blessings on the other side.”
Our job is to pay attention when God tells us to “get ready.” We must trust Him in hard times AND good times. We must accept our challenges and work through them with confidence and faith that He will be waiting on the other end to bless us. This is very much a leap of blind faith, but that’s what God demands. Hang in there… stay close to God and trust Him to redirect you when you get off track… and to bless you for your obedience.
©2009 Debbie Robus
LORD God, you stretched out your mighty arm and made the sky and the earth. You can do anything. You show kindness for a thousand generations, but you also punish people for the sins of their parents. You are the LORD All-Powerful. With great wisdom you make plans, and with your great power you do all the mighty things you planned. Nothing we do is hidden from your eyes, and you reward or punish us as we deserve. You are famous because you worked miracles in Egypt, and you are still working them in Israel and in the rest of the world as well. You terrified the Egyptians with your miracles, and you reached out your mighty arm and rescued your people Israel from Egypt. Then you gave Israel this land rich with milk and honey, just as you had promised our ancestors.
But when our ancestors took over the land, they did not obey you. And now you have punished Israel with disaster. Jerusalem is under attack, and we suffer from hunger and disease. The Babylonians have already built dirt ramps up to the city walls, and you can see that Jerusalem will be captured just as you said.
So why did you tell me to get some witnesses and buy a field with my silver, when Jerusalem is about to be captured by the Babylonians?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever known someone who seemed to “get by with murder?” They never appeared to get caught – or to be punished when they did. And then, one day, something happened that was not “fixable.” Maybe they broke the law and their parents said, “We can’t get you out of this one.” Their mistakes and mis-steps caught up with them, and they had to “do the time,” so to speak for whatever they had done. Or maybe drinking and driving caught up with them and they had a terrible accident. Or maybe their dishonesty and deceit finally ended their relationship with a dear friend or loved one – and/or damaged their reputation.
As Christians, it may seem like God lets us get by with things for a while, and then one day, the world comes crashing down around us. And sometimes, when things seem their darkest, God gives us an inner sense of hope… an inexplicable feeling that we can ride out this storm and things will once again be good for us. This is how a person who goes to prison can have hope for a future “on the outside” once his/her sentence is completed. This is how someone who has lost a loved one or suffered a broken relationship can believe that joy can return. This is how you can lose your job and everything you own and be confident you will find new employment and rebuild your life.
God knows that His children make mistakes. And sometimes He has to allow us to wallow in them for awhile. Or sometimes, He allows hardship and struggle to come to faithful Christians to strengthen their trust and confidence in His ability to work in and through them. But when God shows you how to “buy a field with silver” – to have hope and courage even in the middle of a crisis – He is preparing you for blessings and renewal. He is saying, “Hang on… help is on the way. Walk through this valley, and prepare for blessings on the other side.”
Our job is to pay attention when God tells us to “get ready.” We must trust Him in hard times AND good times. We must accept our challenges and work through them with confidence and faith that He will be waiting on the other end to bless us. This is very much a leap of blind faith, but that’s what God demands. Hang in there… stay close to God and trust Him to redirect you when you get off track… and to bless you for your obedience.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 6, 2010
February 7 ~ Jeremiah 14:7-9
Our terrible sins may demand that we be punished. But if you rescue us, LORD, everyone will see how great you are. You're our only hope; you alone can save us now. You help us one day, but you're gone the next. Did this disaster take you by surprise? Are you a warrior with your hands tied? You have chosen us, and your temple is here. Don't abandon us!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One day about 25 years ago, I got up for work early one morning. I wanted to get to school and accomplish a zillion things before my kindergarten students started arriving at 8:00. I hurriedly dressed, ate breakfast, gathered my tote bag, lunch and my purse, and headed to the garage, where I promptly backed the car out…without raising the garage door. My heart sank as I heard the loud “THUNK!” and looked in the rearview mirror to see the door bowed out… metal bent, wood splintered.
I walked back in the house and found my husband and (being overly dramatic) I said, “Just go ahead and file for divorce now” – figuring he was going to be very upset with me. Wouldn’t most husbands? I explained what I had done, and he quietly went out to the garage, surveyed the damage, and figured out how to raise the door so I could get to work. The car was not really hurt, and the door was not damaged as badly as we first thought – my husband was able to repair it later – thankfully, with not much effort.
I didn’t deserve to be treated so kindly. He really should have yelled at me and chewed on me to slow down and pay closer attention to what I was doing. But he understood how stressed I was – all of the challenges I was facing at work – and he did what had to be done to keep me going, and then he quietly kept going about his routine.
There are so many days when we back the “car” that is our life smack into the garage door, and God picks us up, dusts us off, and keeps us going. We don’t deserve this. We deserve to be punished for being so careless and preoccupied – for letting our relationship with Him lapse to a point where troubles begin to creep into our lives. But God rescues us. He sets us upright again and loves us. He never abandons us!
Today, when you ask God to protect you – and to help you through the day – remember to thank Him for mercies we don’t deserve. Thank Him for loving us so well… and for coming to our rescue. And remember to look behind you before you exit the garage!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Our terrible sins may demand that we be punished. But if you rescue us, LORD, everyone will see how great you are. You're our only hope; you alone can save us now. You help us one day, but you're gone the next. Did this disaster take you by surprise? Are you a warrior with your hands tied? You have chosen us, and your temple is here. Don't abandon us!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One day about 25 years ago, I got up for work early one morning. I wanted to get to school and accomplish a zillion things before my kindergarten students started arriving at 8:00. I hurriedly dressed, ate breakfast, gathered my tote bag, lunch and my purse, and headed to the garage, where I promptly backed the car out…without raising the garage door. My heart sank as I heard the loud “THUNK!” and looked in the rearview mirror to see the door bowed out… metal bent, wood splintered.
I walked back in the house and found my husband and (being overly dramatic) I said, “Just go ahead and file for divorce now” – figuring he was going to be very upset with me. Wouldn’t most husbands? I explained what I had done, and he quietly went out to the garage, surveyed the damage, and figured out how to raise the door so I could get to work. The car was not really hurt, and the door was not damaged as badly as we first thought – my husband was able to repair it later – thankfully, with not much effort.
I didn’t deserve to be treated so kindly. He really should have yelled at me and chewed on me to slow down and pay closer attention to what I was doing. But he understood how stressed I was – all of the challenges I was facing at work – and he did what had to be done to keep me going, and then he quietly kept going about his routine.
There are so many days when we back the “car” that is our life smack into the garage door, and God picks us up, dusts us off, and keeps us going. We don’t deserve this. We deserve to be punished for being so careless and preoccupied – for letting our relationship with Him lapse to a point where troubles begin to creep into our lives. But God rescues us. He sets us upright again and loves us. He never abandons us!
Today, when you ask God to protect you – and to help you through the day – remember to thank Him for mercies we don’t deserve. Thank Him for loving us so well… and for coming to our rescue. And remember to look behind you before you exit the garage!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 6, 2010
February 6 ~ Genesis 17:18-20
Then he asked God, "Why not let Ishmael inherit what you have promised me?" But God answered: No! You and Sarah will have a son. His name will be Isaac, and I will make an everlasting promise to him and his descendants. I have heard what you asked me to do for Ishmael, and so I will also bless him with many descendants. He will be the father of twelve princes, and I will make his family a great nation.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have seen the movie Pay It Forward. The premise is that when someone does
something nice for you, instead of repaying the person who did the good deed, you “pay it forward” and do something nice for another person. Often, this has remarkable results for everyone involved.
Intercessory prayer – praying for someone else – is a lot like “paying it forward.” And when we pray for others from our heart… out of a deep sense of love and concern for that person and not just “lip service,” the blessings multiply. That’s what happened with Abraham. Rather than ask God to do extraordinary things and give him a child with his wife Sarah, Abraham said (paraphrasing here), “Just bless my son Ishmael, and we’ll call it good.” But God saw Abraham’s humility and heart and decided to bless him and his wife, Sarah – AND his son Ishmael.
I’m not saying that every time you pray for someone else, you will get an inheritance or some big prize. But I can tell you from experience that the times I have reached out to someone else, in prayer or in some other gesture, I felt like I got the bigger blessing. God hears our prayers – and he hears the prayers we offer for others. Who have you prayed for lately? Are you “paying it forward?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
Then he asked God, "Why not let Ishmael inherit what you have promised me?" But God answered: No! You and Sarah will have a son. His name will be Isaac, and I will make an everlasting promise to him and his descendants. I have heard what you asked me to do for Ishmael, and so I will also bless him with many descendants. He will be the father of twelve princes, and I will make his family a great nation.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have seen the movie Pay It Forward. The premise is that when someone does
something nice for you, instead of repaying the person who did the good deed, you “pay it forward” and do something nice for another person. Often, this has remarkable results for everyone involved.
Intercessory prayer – praying for someone else – is a lot like “paying it forward.” And when we pray for others from our heart… out of a deep sense of love and concern for that person and not just “lip service,” the blessings multiply. That’s what happened with Abraham. Rather than ask God to do extraordinary things and give him a child with his wife Sarah, Abraham said (paraphrasing here), “Just bless my son Ishmael, and we’ll call it good.” But God saw Abraham’s humility and heart and decided to bless him and his wife, Sarah – AND his son Ishmael.
I’m not saying that every time you pray for someone else, you will get an inheritance or some big prize. But I can tell you from experience that the times I have reached out to someone else, in prayer or in some other gesture, I felt like I got the bigger blessing. God hears our prayers – and he hears the prayers we offer for others. Who have you prayed for lately? Are you “paying it forward?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 5, 2010
February 5 ~ Psalms 141
I pray to you, LORD! Please listen when I pray and hurry to help me. Think of my prayer sweet-smelling incense, and think of my lifted hands as an evening sacrifice. Help me to guard my words whenever I say something. Don't let me want to do evil or waste my time doing wrong with wicked people. Don't let me even taste the good things they offer. Let your faithful people correct and punish me. My prayers condemn the deeds of those who do wrong, so don't let me be friends with any of them. Everyone will admit that I was right when their rulers are thrown down a rocky cliff, and their bones lie scattered like broken rocks on top of a grave. You are my LORD and God, and I look to you for safety. Don't let me be harmed. Protect me from the traps of those violent people, and make them fall into their own traps while you help me escape.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We are all about protection. We slather on sunscreen before venturing outside. We buckle up our seatbelt before we leave the driveway or parking lot. We wear sunglasses to block harmful UV rays. We use an oven mitt or a pot holder to lift a hot dish from the stove or oven. We fingerprint our small children and place them in the requisite child safety seats when traveling by car or truck. And these days, we carry a hand sanitizer in our pocket or purse – and some even wear a face mask when out in public – to prevent exposure to harmful viruses.
Given all of this, it seems rather strange that we often fail to pray for the most important protection of our day – God’s! We don’t seem to realize that starting the day by asking God to guide our steps and protect us from saying the wrong thing, spending time with the wrong people, and even being tempted to sin are more important than any SPF factor, seatbelt, or hand sanitizer. We need the Spiritual “mask” and armor of God to really save us each day!
Psalms 141 is a great prayer to pray. If you did nothing but read these words each morning… speaking them from your heart to God… this would be a good starting place. Another trick might be to stop for a second every time that you buckle your seatbelt or wash your hands each day and just say, “Lord, I look to you for my safety today.” Get in the habit of seeking God’s protection. Don’t leave home without it!
©2009 Debbie Robus
I pray to you, LORD! Please listen when I pray and hurry to help me. Think of my prayer sweet-smelling incense, and think of my lifted hands as an evening sacrifice. Help me to guard my words whenever I say something. Don't let me want to do evil or waste my time doing wrong with wicked people. Don't let me even taste the good things they offer. Let your faithful people correct and punish me. My prayers condemn the deeds of those who do wrong, so don't let me be friends with any of them. Everyone will admit that I was right when their rulers are thrown down a rocky cliff, and their bones lie scattered like broken rocks on top of a grave. You are my LORD and God, and I look to you for safety. Don't let me be harmed. Protect me from the traps of those violent people, and make them fall into their own traps while you help me escape.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We are all about protection. We slather on sunscreen before venturing outside. We buckle up our seatbelt before we leave the driveway or parking lot. We wear sunglasses to block harmful UV rays. We use an oven mitt or a pot holder to lift a hot dish from the stove or oven. We fingerprint our small children and place them in the requisite child safety seats when traveling by car or truck. And these days, we carry a hand sanitizer in our pocket or purse – and some even wear a face mask when out in public – to prevent exposure to harmful viruses.
Given all of this, it seems rather strange that we often fail to pray for the most important protection of our day – God’s! We don’t seem to realize that starting the day by asking God to guide our steps and protect us from saying the wrong thing, spending time with the wrong people, and even being tempted to sin are more important than any SPF factor, seatbelt, or hand sanitizer. We need the Spiritual “mask” and armor of God to really save us each day!
Psalms 141 is a great prayer to pray. If you did nothing but read these words each morning… speaking them from your heart to God… this would be a good starting place. Another trick might be to stop for a second every time that you buckle your seatbelt or wash your hands each day and just say, “Lord, I look to you for my safety today.” Get in the habit of seeking God’s protection. Don’t leave home without it!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 4, 2010
February 4 ~ Acts 10:9-15
The next day about noon these men were coming near Joppa. Peter went up on the roof of the house to pray and became very hungry. While the food was being prepared, he fell sound asleep and had a vision. He saw heaven open, and something came down like a huge sheet held up by its four corners. In it were all kinds of animals, snakes, and birds. A voice said to him, "Peter, get up! Kill these and eat them." But Peter said, "Lord, I can't do that! I've never eaten anything that is unclean and not fit to eat." The voice spoke to him again, "When God says that something can be used for food, don't say it isn't fit to eat."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever asked God for something, and He answered… but not quite like you thought He would – or like you intended? Maybe you asked God for a new car… a specific make and model… and He gave you transportation, but it was more of a clunker than that cool little sports car you envisioned! Or maybe you asked God to resolve a conflict between you and another person, and you really meant “make them go away,” but God worked things out differently.
Maybe you asked God to revitalize your church, and He orchestrated the start of a contemporary worship service and introduced amplified and percussion instruments and audio visual aides to the worship services. There’s nothing in the Bible about these things being part of Jesus’ ministry… but isn’t God using this form of worship to reach a lot of people these days? Just because there is nothing in the Bible about a “Cowboy Church” doesn’t mean it can’t meet the needs of many people who like that style… if God says He will use it!
See, we want to pigeonhole God. We want to take scripture out of context and say, “Oh, we’re never to eat this…” or “We are never to dance,” or “We are not to play musical instruments in worship services – especially electric instruments or drums!” We want to think that God can only use those who dress a certain way and conduct themselves in a certain manner – and those who share our political views and our values. Notice I said “our” ways, views, and values, because we often pray very selfishly. We have to be extremely careful that we have not imposed our own interests on God. He can use a vast array of situations and circumstances for His glory that seem unconventional to us! Our job is to discern the difference… to be so in tune with God that we hear Him speaking to us and guiding our decisions.
If God tells us that He is sanctioning a certain situation, person, way of doing things, or “unclean food,” then we must be ready to say, “Alrighty, then!” and embrace this. We must also stop trying to tell God how and when to do things… and what we feel is acceptable! We don’t get to be in charge here… and we wouldn’t really want to, anyway. God is the Lord of the Universe - our job is to listen, adapt, and follow His lead. So how well are you communicating with Him these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
The next day about noon these men were coming near Joppa. Peter went up on the roof of the house to pray and became very hungry. While the food was being prepared, he fell sound asleep and had a vision. He saw heaven open, and something came down like a huge sheet held up by its four corners. In it were all kinds of animals, snakes, and birds. A voice said to him, "Peter, get up! Kill these and eat them." But Peter said, "Lord, I can't do that! I've never eaten anything that is unclean and not fit to eat." The voice spoke to him again, "When God says that something can be used for food, don't say it isn't fit to eat."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever asked God for something, and He answered… but not quite like you thought He would – or like you intended? Maybe you asked God for a new car… a specific make and model… and He gave you transportation, but it was more of a clunker than that cool little sports car you envisioned! Or maybe you asked God to resolve a conflict between you and another person, and you really meant “make them go away,” but God worked things out differently.
Maybe you asked God to revitalize your church, and He orchestrated the start of a contemporary worship service and introduced amplified and percussion instruments and audio visual aides to the worship services. There’s nothing in the Bible about these things being part of Jesus’ ministry… but isn’t God using this form of worship to reach a lot of people these days? Just because there is nothing in the Bible about a “Cowboy Church” doesn’t mean it can’t meet the needs of many people who like that style… if God says He will use it!
See, we want to pigeonhole God. We want to take scripture out of context and say, “Oh, we’re never to eat this…” or “We are never to dance,” or “We are not to play musical instruments in worship services – especially electric instruments or drums!” We want to think that God can only use those who dress a certain way and conduct themselves in a certain manner – and those who share our political views and our values. Notice I said “our” ways, views, and values, because we often pray very selfishly. We have to be extremely careful that we have not imposed our own interests on God. He can use a vast array of situations and circumstances for His glory that seem unconventional to us! Our job is to discern the difference… to be so in tune with God that we hear Him speaking to us and guiding our decisions.
If God tells us that He is sanctioning a certain situation, person, way of doing things, or “unclean food,” then we must be ready to say, “Alrighty, then!” and embrace this. We must also stop trying to tell God how and when to do things… and what we feel is acceptable! We don’t get to be in charge here… and we wouldn’t really want to, anyway. God is the Lord of the Universe - our job is to listen, adapt, and follow His lead. So how well are you communicating with Him these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 3, 2010
February 3 ~ Matthew 6:11
Give us our food for today.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my brother was a little boy, we would sit down to breakfast, and he would ask, “What’s for dinner?” It’s not that he was worried about what was for dinner… or that we didn’t have enough to eat. We never missed a meal! It was just a thing with Tim… he enjoyed food and was naturally curious as a child. He didn’t worry about the next meal… he just wondered what it would be!
Many of us spend a lot of time worrying about our “next meal.” I’m not literally talking food… I’m talking about all of the “worries of our day.” We wonder what will happen next – we “anticipate” many things. The truth of the matter is that God will provide for our needs each and every day… and that should be our primary focus. “But wait!” you may be saying. “Haven’t we just spent the better part of a month looking at scripture passages that deal with planning?” Yes, and plans are important. I am not saying we should not have them!
The point I want to make with this verse from Matthew 6 is that often we have situations that seem overwhelming – too big for us to handle. Maybe you are in the middle of a really tough semester of school work, and you wonder how on earth you will survive it. Ask God to “Give me food for today.” Maybe you are sick or injured, and the doctor has told you that recovery is going to take weeks or months. Ask God to get you through – one day at a time. Maybe you have lost a loved one, or you have just suffered a broken relationship, and you feel like the grief will never end. Ask God for strength for today… then ask Him again tomorrow, and the next day, and the next.
In essence, this passage gives new meaning to the phrase, “Take one day at a time.” The Bible tells us we are not promised more than this day, so why don’t we focus on where we are at the moment?! Ask God to give you all you need for today. Trust Him to “feed” you – body, mind, and soul – and believe that He will continue to care for you in all the days to follow.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Give us our food for today.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my brother was a little boy, we would sit down to breakfast, and he would ask, “What’s for dinner?” It’s not that he was worried about what was for dinner… or that we didn’t have enough to eat. We never missed a meal! It was just a thing with Tim… he enjoyed food and was naturally curious as a child. He didn’t worry about the next meal… he just wondered what it would be!
Many of us spend a lot of time worrying about our “next meal.” I’m not literally talking food… I’m talking about all of the “worries of our day.” We wonder what will happen next – we “anticipate” many things. The truth of the matter is that God will provide for our needs each and every day… and that should be our primary focus. “But wait!” you may be saying. “Haven’t we just spent the better part of a month looking at scripture passages that deal with planning?” Yes, and plans are important. I am not saying we should not have them!
The point I want to make with this verse from Matthew 6 is that often we have situations that seem overwhelming – too big for us to handle. Maybe you are in the middle of a really tough semester of school work, and you wonder how on earth you will survive it. Ask God to “Give me food for today.” Maybe you are sick or injured, and the doctor has told you that recovery is going to take weeks or months. Ask God to get you through – one day at a time. Maybe you have lost a loved one, or you have just suffered a broken relationship, and you feel like the grief will never end. Ask God for strength for today… then ask Him again tomorrow, and the next day, and the next.
In essence, this passage gives new meaning to the phrase, “Take one day at a time.” The Bible tells us we are not promised more than this day, so why don’t we focus on where we are at the moment?! Ask God to give you all you need for today. Trust Him to “feed” you – body, mind, and soul – and believe that He will continue to care for you in all the days to follow.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 2, 2010
February 2 ~ Zechariah 10:1
I, the LORD, am the one who sends storm clouds and showers of rain to make fields produce. So when the crops need rain, you should pray to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
None of us has all of the answers. From time to time, we need some help or advice. One time, I was struggling with an issue that I did not know how to handle. Thankfully, I realized that, as a mere human, this situation was beyond my abilities. I asked God specifically to direct me to a person I could talk to who: 1) would have experience with this situation and wisdom about how to handle it; 2) would keep this confidential and not discuss it with others, and 3) was a Christian who relied on God and would advise me in this context. I thought and thought about WHO could help me. “Where was this person, God?”
Not long afterward, and quite out of the blue, a wonderful Christian friend of mine left a message on my answering machine. She needed to talk to me… but more importantly, I needed to talk to HER! I know beyond any shadow of a doubt that God sent her. By the time we actually spoke, the question she had for me had already been answered. But her counsel for me was timely and right on target!
Now here’s the thing. I am not always so humble and smart about such things. Sometimes I try to fix problems myself, or I consult the Internet or an “expert” who wrote a book or an article that I read in some magazine. What I really need to be doing is asking God to lead me to the right answers about everything. So when you have a tough decision to make, talk to God first… not everyone else. If you need strength and courage, don’t turn to a bottle or a pill… or even your best friend. They can’t give you what God can! When you need “rain” for your “crops,” go to the One who sends the storm clouds and showers. Pray – talk to God first… ask Him to show you how to proceed in all situations, and know for certain you are headed in the right direction.
©2009 Debbie Robus
I, the LORD, am the one who sends storm clouds and showers of rain to make fields produce. So when the crops need rain, you should pray to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
None of us has all of the answers. From time to time, we need some help or advice. One time, I was struggling with an issue that I did not know how to handle. Thankfully, I realized that, as a mere human, this situation was beyond my abilities. I asked God specifically to direct me to a person I could talk to who: 1) would have experience with this situation and wisdom about how to handle it; 2) would keep this confidential and not discuss it with others, and 3) was a Christian who relied on God and would advise me in this context. I thought and thought about WHO could help me. “Where was this person, God?”
Not long afterward, and quite out of the blue, a wonderful Christian friend of mine left a message on my answering machine. She needed to talk to me… but more importantly, I needed to talk to HER! I know beyond any shadow of a doubt that God sent her. By the time we actually spoke, the question she had for me had already been answered. But her counsel for me was timely and right on target!
Now here’s the thing. I am not always so humble and smart about such things. Sometimes I try to fix problems myself, or I consult the Internet or an “expert” who wrote a book or an article that I read in some magazine. What I really need to be doing is asking God to lead me to the right answers about everything. So when you have a tough decision to make, talk to God first… not everyone else. If you need strength and courage, don’t turn to a bottle or a pill… or even your best friend. They can’t give you what God can! When you need “rain” for your “crops,” go to the One who sends the storm clouds and showers. Pray – talk to God first… ask Him to show you how to proceed in all situations, and know for certain you are headed in the right direction.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 1, 2010
February 1 ~ Daniel 6:10
Daniel heard about the law, but when he returned home, he went upstairs and prayed in front of the window that faced Jerusalem. In the same way that he had always done, he knelt down in prayer three times a day, giving thanks to God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you go back and read the 6th chapter of the book of Daniel, you will see that a law had been put in place by the Darius, King of the Medes, that said that anyone who prayed to a god or human besides him (King Darius) would be thrown into a lion pit. Daniel knew this, but he continued to pray three times a day – to God! He trusted God to protect him – and to bless his faithfulness.
How often do we bow to the pressures of this world instead of trusting God to help us? How often do we find it easier to “go with the flow” than to do what we know is right in God’s eyes? It could be something seemingly insignificant like choosing to “commune with nature” rather than worshiping with an organized church body on a regular basis… or it could be something as serious as deciding to live life on our own terms, “party hearty,” and “find God” later. Either way, God will not be pleased… and life will be far less than it could be if we were in a right relationship with Him.
Daniel was indeed thrown into the lion’s den for his disobedience to King Darius. But God protected Him, and the lions did not bother him. Interestingly enough, King Darius was not all that bad and had bowed to pressure from his subjects in enacting this law. He prayed to God for Daniel’s safety, and God sent an angel to keep the lions at bay. When King Darius saw evidence of God’s protection for Daniel, he put those who had insisted on this imprisonment in the lion’s den, and Scripture says the lions ripped them to pieces.
Does this mean we will never be ridiculed, rejected by others, or even persecuted for standing up for what God tells us? Not at all… being a faithful Christian is often really hard and sometimes downright difficult. The devil works night and day to make us miserable! But we know Who wins in the end… and Who blesses us and cares for us along the way. If God takes us to something difficult, He will see us through it! So remember Daniel today. When you are tempted, challenged, laughed at, or even persecuted for sticking up for your faith in God, be encouraged. Angels are all around you to give you peace, comfort and protection. God will not fail us. When you pray, remember to thank Him for his amazing grace, mercy and peace in all situations – even a den of lions!
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daniel heard about the law, but when he returned home, he went upstairs and prayed in front of the window that faced Jerusalem. In the same way that he had always done, he knelt down in prayer three times a day, giving thanks to God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you go back and read the 6th chapter of the book of Daniel, you will see that a law had been put in place by the Darius, King of the Medes, that said that anyone who prayed to a god or human besides him (King Darius) would be thrown into a lion pit. Daniel knew this, but he continued to pray three times a day – to God! He trusted God to protect him – and to bless his faithfulness.
How often do we bow to the pressures of this world instead of trusting God to help us? How often do we find it easier to “go with the flow” than to do what we know is right in God’s eyes? It could be something seemingly insignificant like choosing to “commune with nature” rather than worshiping with an organized church body on a regular basis… or it could be something as serious as deciding to live life on our own terms, “party hearty,” and “find God” later. Either way, God will not be pleased… and life will be far less than it could be if we were in a right relationship with Him.
Daniel was indeed thrown into the lion’s den for his disobedience to King Darius. But God protected Him, and the lions did not bother him. Interestingly enough, King Darius was not all that bad and had bowed to pressure from his subjects in enacting this law. He prayed to God for Daniel’s safety, and God sent an angel to keep the lions at bay. When King Darius saw evidence of God’s protection for Daniel, he put those who had insisted on this imprisonment in the lion’s den, and Scripture says the lions ripped them to pieces.
Does this mean we will never be ridiculed, rejected by others, or even persecuted for standing up for what God tells us? Not at all… being a faithful Christian is often really hard and sometimes downright difficult. The devil works night and day to make us miserable! But we know Who wins in the end… and Who blesses us and cares for us along the way. If God takes us to something difficult, He will see us through it! So remember Daniel today. When you are tempted, challenged, laughed at, or even persecuted for sticking up for your faith in God, be encouraged. Angels are all around you to give you peace, comfort and protection. God will not fail us. When you pray, remember to thank Him for his amazing grace, mercy and peace in all situations – even a den of lions!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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