June 30 ~ Luke 15:31-32
His father replied, "My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we should be glad and celebrate! Your brother was dead, but he is now alive. He was lost and has now been found."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This is the ending verses of one of Jesus’ parables, known to us as the story of “The Prodigal Son.” If you start reading in Luke 15 at Verse 11, you will see that a man had two sons, and he divided his wealth between them. One worked hard and honored his father, while the other ran off and partied and spent everything he had inherited on food, wine, and women. When he was penniless and working as a slave for others, he realized that his father’s pigs ate better than he did, so he decided to return to his father on his hands and knees and ask for a job – feeding the livestock or serving in some other way.
The father was so glad to have his son back that he welcomed him and planned a party to celebrate his return. This made the hard-working son mad and jealous… as it would a lot of us. But here’s the deal… think about how hard it was for that “prodigal son” to come home. He must have been scared to death of his father and what he might say and do. And aren’t we the same way? Aren’t we afraid, sometimes, to go to someone with whom we have disagreed or wronged in some way and say to them, “I’m sorry. I was wrong. I’m asking you to forgive me.”
More than this, aren’t we often afraid to go to our Heavenly Father and admit that we have sinned against Him? Aren’t we embarrassed by our behavior and lack of respect and honor for God? Does this fear and embarrassment keep us from humbling ourselves before God and asking for His forgiveness? It shouldn’t. Take a good hard look at this passage… and at the father’s answer to the angry, jealous brother. In essence, he said, “You should be glad your brother is back. I have enough love and wealth for both of you. You’ll never lack for anything just because I took your brother back. You still have my love… but your brother needs it, too.”
I’m willing to bet that most of the people you are afraid to approach and apologize to…or mend a relationship with…would be glad to hear from you – if you came with a humble, sincere attitude. And I know that God would be glad to have you back. It’s time to stop being so afraid. It’s time to trust God to protect us and guide our steps… and to take a leap of faith and repair a relationship, mend a fence, apologize to someone we have wronged… and admit our sins and shortcomings to our Heavenly Father. We have operated in fear long enough… and given Satan far too much pleasure and satisfaction in the bargain. Be glad for those who have taken this step – those who were once lost and are now found. And if you need to be next in line… now is the time to start.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 29, 2010
June 29 ~ 1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone were robbing you, and they said, “Give me all your money,” would you keep a little in your back pocket? Probably not! You would give this complete stranger everything you could think of – and quickly – hoping the robber wasn’t going to harm you! So why is it that we withhold some of our worries and cares from God, when we know that He is going to take care of us? Why do we doubt God so readily, which is exactly what we do when we withhold our concerns and burdens from Him?
I could go into my ideas on why we do this… but they really don’t matter. What matters is that we need to STOP! We need to give all our cares to God… from the small, seemingly silly ones all the way to the gigantic ones that seem insurmountable.
The lyrics to “Cast All Your Cares,” a song by Christian artist Gary Oliver, say, “When troubles come… all you have to do is call Him. When sickness comes… call Him… for He cares for you, and He knows what you’re going through. Why don’t you cast all your cares upon the Lord.” If you want to listen to the song, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxABJT59Vhk and hear this song in its entirety. Then make an effort to cast all your cares upon the Lord. God even wants those you feel would be small and ridiculous to anyone else. Those you feel there is no way they can be resolved… God wants them, too! Let’s give our cares to God and expect Him to handle them, according to His will. I believe we will be amazed, astounded, and totally blown away by His grace and mercy – and how well He truly does care for us in every way! What have you got to lose? Cast all your cares upon the Lord today, and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone were robbing you, and they said, “Give me all your money,” would you keep a little in your back pocket? Probably not! You would give this complete stranger everything you could think of – and quickly – hoping the robber wasn’t going to harm you! So why is it that we withhold some of our worries and cares from God, when we know that He is going to take care of us? Why do we doubt God so readily, which is exactly what we do when we withhold our concerns and burdens from Him?
I could go into my ideas on why we do this… but they really don’t matter. What matters is that we need to STOP! We need to give all our cares to God… from the small, seemingly silly ones all the way to the gigantic ones that seem insurmountable.
The lyrics to “Cast All Your Cares,” a song by Christian artist Gary Oliver, say, “When troubles come… all you have to do is call Him. When sickness comes… call Him… for He cares for you, and He knows what you’re going through. Why don’t you cast all your cares upon the Lord.” If you want to listen to the song, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxABJT59Vhk and hear this song in its entirety. Then make an effort to cast all your cares upon the Lord. God even wants those you feel would be small and ridiculous to anyone else. Those you feel there is no way they can be resolved… God wants them, too! Let’s give our cares to God and expect Him to handle them, according to His will. I believe we will be amazed, astounded, and totally blown away by His grace and mercy – and how well He truly does care for us in every way! What have you got to lose? Cast all your cares upon the Lord today, and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 28, 2010
June 28 ~ Revelation 2:10
Don't worry about what you will suffer. The devil will throw some of you into jail, and you will be tested and made to suffer for ten days. But if you are faithful until you die, I will reward you with a glorious life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“What’s the worst that can happen?” This has been a “mantra” of mine for decades, since I read a book by Dale Carnegie called “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living.” I’ve talked about this before, but it bears repeating today. Carnegie wrote this book about the foolishness of worry. I’m paraphrasing here, but he gives a list of steps to go through in a worrisome situation, and one of them is to ask…“What is the worst that can happen?” The next question becomes, “What are the odds that this really will happen?” Then… “If it does happen, what will I do?” By facing the potential problem head-on and developing a mental strategy for dealing with it, the worry is diminished and becomes more manageable. I have to tell you, I have used this a LOT over the years, and as I have grown in my faith, I find that this works even better in terms of God’s promises.
So you ask yourself, “If I can’t pay my bills and have to sell my house or move into something more affordable, what is the worst that can happen?” “If my loved one dies, how will I manage?” “If I don’t get a job, how will I survive?” “What if I forgot to lock the door/turn off the curling iron/unplug the coffee maker or shut off the water sprinkler?” “If I tell my friend that her boyfriend is a loser, how will she react?””If I block a friend on Facebook or my e-mail account who is sending me offensive posts and messages, what will happen?” “If I move to another Sunday School class – or church – what will people think?”
By prayerfully applying the steps that Carnegie outlines, many situations are at least manageable, if not completely alleviated as insignificant and not worth your time and energy. After all, God is “on the clock,” helping us with situations of all sizes… and even your worst worries and fears, if realized, can be endured when viewed in the same window with a glorious life in heaven for all eternity. Keep your eye on “the prize.” Focus on God… serving Him, pleasing Him, living in and for Him. Let God handle your worries… and remember - the “worst” that could happen can never compare to the “best” that lies ahead with Him.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't worry about what you will suffer. The devil will throw some of you into jail, and you will be tested and made to suffer for ten days. But if you are faithful until you die, I will reward you with a glorious life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“What’s the worst that can happen?” This has been a “mantra” of mine for decades, since I read a book by Dale Carnegie called “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living.” I’ve talked about this before, but it bears repeating today. Carnegie wrote this book about the foolishness of worry. I’m paraphrasing here, but he gives a list of steps to go through in a worrisome situation, and one of them is to ask…“What is the worst that can happen?” The next question becomes, “What are the odds that this really will happen?” Then… “If it does happen, what will I do?” By facing the potential problem head-on and developing a mental strategy for dealing with it, the worry is diminished and becomes more manageable. I have to tell you, I have used this a LOT over the years, and as I have grown in my faith, I find that this works even better in terms of God’s promises.
So you ask yourself, “If I can’t pay my bills and have to sell my house or move into something more affordable, what is the worst that can happen?” “If my loved one dies, how will I manage?” “If I don’t get a job, how will I survive?” “What if I forgot to lock the door/turn off the curling iron/unplug the coffee maker or shut off the water sprinkler?” “If I tell my friend that her boyfriend is a loser, how will she react?””If I block a friend on Facebook or my e-mail account who is sending me offensive posts and messages, what will happen?” “If I move to another Sunday School class – or church – what will people think?”
By prayerfully applying the steps that Carnegie outlines, many situations are at least manageable, if not completely alleviated as insignificant and not worth your time and energy. After all, God is “on the clock,” helping us with situations of all sizes… and even your worst worries and fears, if realized, can be endured when viewed in the same window with a glorious life in heaven for all eternity. Keep your eye on “the prize.” Focus on God… serving Him, pleasing Him, living in and for Him. Let God handle your worries… and remember - the “worst” that could happen can never compare to the “best” that lies ahead with Him.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 27, 2010
June 27 ~ Hebrews 13:6
That should make you feel like saying, "The Lord helps me! Why should I be afraid of what people can do to me?"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have heard of “tough love.” This is a behavior modification model that utilizes hard decisions and choices in order to force the other person to change his/her behavior. Examples would be parents who tell a son or daughter who is using drugs or drinking that he/she has to move out of their home until this behavior ceases. Or, a coach may be really stern with his/her players… forcing them to work hard, and using strong language and berating them with criticism on the court or field… but showing them much love and affection otherwise. Sometimes human beings get carried away with this approach, and their “tough love” becomes something far different.
We could argue that God operates in “tough love” sometimes – allowing us to go through things that are not all that pleasant for us – or maybe they challenge us greatly. In the end, they build our faith and strengthen us… and the bottom line is that God never left us… He was there to help us every step of the way. And this is important… because sometimes we go through situations where we have to risk our relationship with other people. We have to say to our friend or loved one, “I am concerned about how you are living. You are making poor choices, and it’s affecting everyone around you. Your behaviors are inappropriate. You need to grow up.” The other person may not appreciate your “concern” or your comments. This person may alienate you, try to discredit you to others, and/or lash out at you and try to hurt you. But if you feel God leading you to confront someone with “tough love,” you must do so.
We see in Hebrews 13:6 that “tough love” practiced under God’s guidance will carry God’s protection. In other words, if God tells you to be bold in your faith about anything toward anyone or any situation, He’s got your back! I don’t know about you, but that makes me feel 1000% better! I know that backlash, retribution, and alienation may still come… at least temporarily… but that’s where the faith comes into play. If we step out for God in faith, He will help us… no weapon formed against us will prosper… and ultimately, we will have nothing to fear.
©2010 Debbie Robus
That should make you feel like saying, "The Lord helps me! Why should I be afraid of what people can do to me?"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have heard of “tough love.” This is a behavior modification model that utilizes hard decisions and choices in order to force the other person to change his/her behavior. Examples would be parents who tell a son or daughter who is using drugs or drinking that he/she has to move out of their home until this behavior ceases. Or, a coach may be really stern with his/her players… forcing them to work hard, and using strong language and berating them with criticism on the court or field… but showing them much love and affection otherwise. Sometimes human beings get carried away with this approach, and their “tough love” becomes something far different.
We could argue that God operates in “tough love” sometimes – allowing us to go through things that are not all that pleasant for us – or maybe they challenge us greatly. In the end, they build our faith and strengthen us… and the bottom line is that God never left us… He was there to help us every step of the way. And this is important… because sometimes we go through situations where we have to risk our relationship with other people. We have to say to our friend or loved one, “I am concerned about how you are living. You are making poor choices, and it’s affecting everyone around you. Your behaviors are inappropriate. You need to grow up.” The other person may not appreciate your “concern” or your comments. This person may alienate you, try to discredit you to others, and/or lash out at you and try to hurt you. But if you feel God leading you to confront someone with “tough love,” you must do so.
We see in Hebrews 13:6 that “tough love” practiced under God’s guidance will carry God’s protection. In other words, if God tells you to be bold in your faith about anything toward anyone or any situation, He’s got your back! I don’t know about you, but that makes me feel 1000% better! I know that backlash, retribution, and alienation may still come… at least temporarily… but that’s where the faith comes into play. If we step out for God in faith, He will help us… no weapon formed against us will prosper… and ultimately, we will have nothing to fear.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 26, 2010
June 26 ~ Hebrews 11:27
Because of his faith, Moses left Egypt. Moses had seen the invisible God and wasn't afraid of the king's anger.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you are like me, when you get unpleasant news, your mind goes into overdrive. I am a “fixer” by nature, and I immediately begin thinking about how to resolve this… a “what-can-I-do?” approach to the problem – even if it’s someone else’s! A few years after my brother died, I helped a nurse friend of his with a problem. She said to me, “Tim always said, ‘Debbie can fix anything.’ And I believe it!” I’m here to tell you, I cannot fix everything! And much as I would like to be able to “fix” several situations and/or the people in them, there are many things that are far beyond my abilities… or any other human’s, for that matter.
What I am learning is how to rely on God to fix the things I cannot. “But don’t you know that already?” you might be asking. Maybe I’m a slow learner! More likely, I’m like a lot of people. The “heart” knows that God is in control, but the “head” has not quite accepted this yet. And then there’s that old codger, the devil, who stands in the corner and says, “You need to DO something!” He’s right – well, partly. We do need to get on our knees and give these things to God and ask Him to handle them according to His will. We also need to acknowledge that we are NOT in control… but we serve a God who is more than able.
So often, we take the safe, easy route. We don’t want to “ruffle feathers” or risk being alienated or talked about or hurt in any way. We need to take a page from Moses’ book and trust the “Invisible God” who is working 24/7 on our behalf. If we have prayerfully considered our actions and choices and are certain that God is leading the way, we have nothing to fear. Are you trusting the Invisible God today? Is He guiding your choices and handling your concerns? Who fixes things for you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Because of his faith, Moses left Egypt. Moses had seen the invisible God and wasn't afraid of the king's anger.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you are like me, when you get unpleasant news, your mind goes into overdrive. I am a “fixer” by nature, and I immediately begin thinking about how to resolve this… a “what-can-I-do?” approach to the problem – even if it’s someone else’s! A few years after my brother died, I helped a nurse friend of his with a problem. She said to me, “Tim always said, ‘Debbie can fix anything.’ And I believe it!” I’m here to tell you, I cannot fix everything! And much as I would like to be able to “fix” several situations and/or the people in them, there are many things that are far beyond my abilities… or any other human’s, for that matter.
What I am learning is how to rely on God to fix the things I cannot. “But don’t you know that already?” you might be asking. Maybe I’m a slow learner! More likely, I’m like a lot of people. The “heart” knows that God is in control, but the “head” has not quite accepted this yet. And then there’s that old codger, the devil, who stands in the corner and says, “You need to DO something!” He’s right – well, partly. We do need to get on our knees and give these things to God and ask Him to handle them according to His will. We also need to acknowledge that we are NOT in control… but we serve a God who is more than able.
So often, we take the safe, easy route. We don’t want to “ruffle feathers” or risk being alienated or talked about or hurt in any way. We need to take a page from Moses’ book and trust the “Invisible God” who is working 24/7 on our behalf. If we have prayerfully considered our actions and choices and are certain that God is leading the way, we have nothing to fear. Are you trusting the Invisible God today? Is He guiding your choices and handling your concerns? Who fixes things for you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 25, 2010
June 25 ~ Romans 8:15
God's Spirit doesn't make us slaves who are afraid of him. Instead, we become his children and call him our Father.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think about television fathers of the fifties and sixties (or for some of you, from today’s reruns on TV Land). Consider Andy Griffith, or Fred McMurray’s character on “My Three Sons,” or even Ward Cleaver on “Leave it to Beaver.” These men were “large and in charge” and commanded respect. But when their sons misbehaved or made a mistake, they had nothing to fear. Sure, there were consequences, and sometimes the dads were disappointed or upset. But these fathers lovingly showed their sons their mistakes and how to correct them… and how to avoid repeating them in the future. The sons respected their fathers. Oh, sure, Beaver acted like he was afraid of his dad at times, but he wasn’t really… and he never felt like his slave.
In my mind, God is the same kind of Father as Andy Griffith – only super-sized and far more powerful. God takes things in stride… enjoys my successes, cries when I’m sad, and is disappointed and upset with me when I disobey Him or make wrong choices. But He is not a “slave-owner,” and He is not waiting to beat me into submission… or keep score of every time I’ve failed Him. At the day’s end, I am still His child, and He loves me. He wants me to have the very best He can provide – and to be all that I can be. Like most fathers, He wants me to live up to my full potential as His child – and to get all I can out of life on this earth… and my life in Him. If we are honest, we all want to please our parents. We want to feel that they are proud of us, and that we lived up to their expectations. And God is no exception to this.
If you view God as anything besides loving, just, fair, and taking your best interests to heart, you’ve misunderstood Him. If you think of God as a fierce judge who is waiting with a list of your infractions and a whip and chain to beat you into submission and correction, you are dead wrong. God loves us. He may correct us from time to time or allow us to suffer consequences of our actions, but He does not want us to serve Him out of fear. If you have any feelings toward God other than love and a healthy respect and reverence, I encourage you to spend some time reading His word and getting to really know him. Go to www.biblegateway.com and do a keyword search for “God’s love,” or “love of God” or other phrases about our Father and His love. See for yourself how deeply He cares. Discover Him in a new way, and serve Him joyfully as His child… and not a slave. God wants us to serve Him willingly and out of a deep joy and love. He’s worthy of that, and more. Find out why… and get busy being His child.
©2010 Debbie Robus
God's Spirit doesn't make us slaves who are afraid of him. Instead, we become his children and call him our Father.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think about television fathers of the fifties and sixties (or for some of you, from today’s reruns on TV Land). Consider Andy Griffith, or Fred McMurray’s character on “My Three Sons,” or even Ward Cleaver on “Leave it to Beaver.” These men were “large and in charge” and commanded respect. But when their sons misbehaved or made a mistake, they had nothing to fear. Sure, there were consequences, and sometimes the dads were disappointed or upset. But these fathers lovingly showed their sons their mistakes and how to correct them… and how to avoid repeating them in the future. The sons respected their fathers. Oh, sure, Beaver acted like he was afraid of his dad at times, but he wasn’t really… and he never felt like his slave.
In my mind, God is the same kind of Father as Andy Griffith – only super-sized and far more powerful. God takes things in stride… enjoys my successes, cries when I’m sad, and is disappointed and upset with me when I disobey Him or make wrong choices. But He is not a “slave-owner,” and He is not waiting to beat me into submission… or keep score of every time I’ve failed Him. At the day’s end, I am still His child, and He loves me. He wants me to have the very best He can provide – and to be all that I can be. Like most fathers, He wants me to live up to my full potential as His child – and to get all I can out of life on this earth… and my life in Him. If we are honest, we all want to please our parents. We want to feel that they are proud of us, and that we lived up to their expectations. And God is no exception to this.
If you view God as anything besides loving, just, fair, and taking your best interests to heart, you’ve misunderstood Him. If you think of God as a fierce judge who is waiting with a list of your infractions and a whip and chain to beat you into submission and correction, you are dead wrong. God loves us. He may correct us from time to time or allow us to suffer consequences of our actions, but He does not want us to serve Him out of fear. If you have any feelings toward God other than love and a healthy respect and reverence, I encourage you to spend some time reading His word and getting to really know him. Go to www.biblegateway.com and do a keyword search for “God’s love,” or “love of God” or other phrases about our Father and His love. See for yourself how deeply He cares. Discover Him in a new way, and serve Him joyfully as His child… and not a slave. God wants us to serve Him willingly and out of a deep joy and love. He’s worthy of that, and more. Find out why… and get busy being His child.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 24, 2010
June 24 ~ Luke 12:32
My little group of disciples, don't be afraid! Your Father wants to give you the kingdom.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a friend of ours ran for public office. My husband and I stood on street corners and waved at passersby, holding signs that encouraged them to vote for our friend. We were not afraid… we did not hide behind the signs. We boldly showed the world that we supported this man – and we encouraged others to join us. Let’s say someone offered you a huge sum of money just to spend one hour trying to convince a group of people to support something. For instance, let’s say you were offered a half a million dollars to get people to test drive a beautiful sports car… one you wouldn’t mind owning yourself. You’d do it, wouldn’t you?
Isn’t it interesting that we have so little trouble putting our name, face, and energy behind so many people and things, but when it comes to claiming – and sharing the love of Jesus, we can’t – or won’t – do this. Even though we know that to share Jesus with others is part and parcel of our promise of spending eternity in heaven with Him, we often consider the “cost” too high. People won’t like us… we’ll be mocked or ostracized or criticized. We’ll lose business, or we won’t get the date with the person we like, or our family will disown us. The excuses are a dime a dozen.
The bottom line is, we are operating out of fear, and we are allowing Satan to control us… because HE is the agent of fear, not God. We are so afraid of what others might think or say about us that we become paralyzed in our faith. We are afraid to visit a friend or loved one in jail or prison… we’re afraid to walk away from a party where improper behaviors are occurring… we’re scared to death to tell someone we are praying for them and believing for a good outcome in their situation. We have been offered, literally, the keys to God’s kingdom, and we turn our backs and cower in the corner and say, “But I’m afraid.”
It’s high time we get up and get going! It’s time to step up to the plate, claim our place as heirs to the throne of the Most High God, and expect Him to guide us as we share His Good News with others. If we can stand on a street corner and campaign for a friend – or in some cases, someone we barely know - surely we can “campaign” for Jesus for a little corner of heaven. Where do you stand today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
My little group of disciples, don't be afraid! Your Father wants to give you the kingdom.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a friend of ours ran for public office. My husband and I stood on street corners and waved at passersby, holding signs that encouraged them to vote for our friend. We were not afraid… we did not hide behind the signs. We boldly showed the world that we supported this man – and we encouraged others to join us. Let’s say someone offered you a huge sum of money just to spend one hour trying to convince a group of people to support something. For instance, let’s say you were offered a half a million dollars to get people to test drive a beautiful sports car… one you wouldn’t mind owning yourself. You’d do it, wouldn’t you?
Isn’t it interesting that we have so little trouble putting our name, face, and energy behind so many people and things, but when it comes to claiming – and sharing the love of Jesus, we can’t – or won’t – do this. Even though we know that to share Jesus with others is part and parcel of our promise of spending eternity in heaven with Him, we often consider the “cost” too high. People won’t like us… we’ll be mocked or ostracized or criticized. We’ll lose business, or we won’t get the date with the person we like, or our family will disown us. The excuses are a dime a dozen.
The bottom line is, we are operating out of fear, and we are allowing Satan to control us… because HE is the agent of fear, not God. We are so afraid of what others might think or say about us that we become paralyzed in our faith. We are afraid to visit a friend or loved one in jail or prison… we’re afraid to walk away from a party where improper behaviors are occurring… we’re scared to death to tell someone we are praying for them and believing for a good outcome in their situation. We have been offered, literally, the keys to God’s kingdom, and we turn our backs and cower in the corner and say, “But I’m afraid.”
It’s high time we get up and get going! It’s time to step up to the plate, claim our place as heirs to the throne of the Most High God, and expect Him to guide us as we share His Good News with others. If we can stand on a street corner and campaign for a friend – or in some cases, someone we barely know - surely we can “campaign” for Jesus for a little corner of heaven. Where do you stand today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 23, 2010
June 23 ~ Luke 12:4
Whatever you say in the dark will be heard when it is day. Whatever you whisper in a closed room will be shouted from the housetops. My friends, don't be afraid of people. They can kill you, but after that, there is nothing else they can do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have a dear friend who was my childhood neighbor. She lives in another community, and often when she e-mails me, she says, “Tell all.” When it comes to sharing our faith, Jesus has told us that we must “tell all.” We want to be sure that we share His message in a loving, inclusive, non-judgmental way. But we also don’t want to sugarcoat the truth - or water down the message out of fear of retribution or rejection.
When you hear someone speaking unkindly about a particular person or group of people, you must find a way to let this person know this is not the way a Christian would behave. Does this mean you embarrass this person and “call them” in front of others? No. But it may mean you walk away from the conversation and speak to that person privately at a later time. Suppose someone you know is in a lot of trouble and turmoil – anything and everything from failed relationships to problems in the workplace or loss of employment, financial woes, health issues, and more. You see the way they react – you hear their frustration and lack of faith that things can improve. They don’t seem to see a way out of their current troubles – but you know Someone who can help.
Do you cram the love of Jesus down this person’s throat? Do you act all high and mighty and say, “I know what you need!” or “If you would just go to church, things would be better!” No! First of all, these are not true statements. We don’t truly know another person’s needs - and going to church in and by itself doesn’t fix anything. But we do know Someone who can help. We do know that surrounding yourself with loving, caring, faith-filled Christians who can love you, pray for you, and support you in dozens of ways can ease burdens and lead to solutions.
What we need to be doing is praying for others, and boldly sharing our love. We need to be willing to step up and say, “I’m praying for you,” or “I’m here to help.” We need to be the hands and feet of Jesus instead of sitting on our own and cowering in the corner. The worst that can happen to us is death… physically, emotionally, socially. But remember - to die to the world is to live in Christ! What are we afraid will happen if we are bold in our faith? Do we fear death of an earthly nature more than the rewards of a heavenly eternity? Whatever God speaks into your heart… whatever message He brings to you in scripture… don’t waste it. Share it with others. Be the hands and feet of Jesus and exhibit His love to others each day. Dare to live in Christ without regard to how it might affect you personally. Don’t be afraid of people… trust God to shield you and guide your steps as you share His message and minister in His name. When it comes to Jesus, be sure you “tell all.”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Whatever you say in the dark will be heard when it is day. Whatever you whisper in a closed room will be shouted from the housetops. My friends, don't be afraid of people. They can kill you, but after that, there is nothing else they can do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have a dear friend who was my childhood neighbor. She lives in another community, and often when she e-mails me, she says, “Tell all.” When it comes to sharing our faith, Jesus has told us that we must “tell all.” We want to be sure that we share His message in a loving, inclusive, non-judgmental way. But we also don’t want to sugarcoat the truth - or water down the message out of fear of retribution or rejection.
When you hear someone speaking unkindly about a particular person or group of people, you must find a way to let this person know this is not the way a Christian would behave. Does this mean you embarrass this person and “call them” in front of others? No. But it may mean you walk away from the conversation and speak to that person privately at a later time. Suppose someone you know is in a lot of trouble and turmoil – anything and everything from failed relationships to problems in the workplace or loss of employment, financial woes, health issues, and more. You see the way they react – you hear their frustration and lack of faith that things can improve. They don’t seem to see a way out of their current troubles – but you know Someone who can help.
Do you cram the love of Jesus down this person’s throat? Do you act all high and mighty and say, “I know what you need!” or “If you would just go to church, things would be better!” No! First of all, these are not true statements. We don’t truly know another person’s needs - and going to church in and by itself doesn’t fix anything. But we do know Someone who can help. We do know that surrounding yourself with loving, caring, faith-filled Christians who can love you, pray for you, and support you in dozens of ways can ease burdens and lead to solutions.
What we need to be doing is praying for others, and boldly sharing our love. We need to be willing to step up and say, “I’m praying for you,” or “I’m here to help.” We need to be the hands and feet of Jesus instead of sitting on our own and cowering in the corner. The worst that can happen to us is death… physically, emotionally, socially. But remember - to die to the world is to live in Christ! What are we afraid will happen if we are bold in our faith? Do we fear death of an earthly nature more than the rewards of a heavenly eternity? Whatever God speaks into your heart… whatever message He brings to you in scripture… don’t waste it. Share it with others. Be the hands and feet of Jesus and exhibit His love to others each day. Dare to live in Christ without regard to how it might affect you personally. Don’t be afraid of people… trust God to shield you and guide your steps as you share His message and minister in His name. When it comes to Jesus, be sure you “tell all.”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 22, 2010
June 22 ~ Matthew 10:31
Even the hairs on your head are counted. So don't be afraid! You are worth much more than many sparrows.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Lately, the talk of our neighborhood has been wild “critters” that are tearing up our yards and eating our flowers. We’ve got deer, rabbits, raccoons, foxes, opossums, armadillos, squirrels, chipmunks, and more! At a recent neighborhood luncheon, methods of protecting vegetation and dealing with “pests” were discussed. And while I am not happy about animals tearing up the expensive new sod we just laid this summer, I thought about these animals and how much I enjoy watching them play and run through our yard.
One morning last week, I looked up and three small birds – maybe wrens or sparrows? – were buzzing around the hanging flower baskets and perched on our back porch ceiling fan. My first thought was… they are looking for a nesting spot! So I went out and clapped my hands and sent them packing! Later, I thought about how important all of these backyard “critters” are to God. He knows every single one of them by name! We don’t know their names, but God does. He numbers the hairs on their body… the feathers on a sparrow’s wing… the flutters of a hummingbird’s wings as it gathers nectar from my petunias.
Stop and think about this… the same God who sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross also knows how many feathers are on a sparrow – and how many hairs are on your head. The same God who moves mountains and created oceans and the universe knows each of us not only by name – He also knows every miniscule thought we ever have! He has the power to change oceans to dry deserts – and to handle our silliest of problems. And He is willing to do whatever we need in order to keep us safe and in line with His will.
So why is it we find trusting Him to be so hard? Why are we so fearful, knowing Who has our back? Why do we value ourselves in God’s eyes as less than even a sparrow? Isn’t it time we changed our attitude and realized our true value? Isn’t it time to let go – and let God have control? Is today the day we start living in, through, and for Him? Shouldn’t it be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Even the hairs on your head are counted. So don't be afraid! You are worth much more than many sparrows.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Lately, the talk of our neighborhood has been wild “critters” that are tearing up our yards and eating our flowers. We’ve got deer, rabbits, raccoons, foxes, opossums, armadillos, squirrels, chipmunks, and more! At a recent neighborhood luncheon, methods of protecting vegetation and dealing with “pests” were discussed. And while I am not happy about animals tearing up the expensive new sod we just laid this summer, I thought about these animals and how much I enjoy watching them play and run through our yard.
One morning last week, I looked up and three small birds – maybe wrens or sparrows? – were buzzing around the hanging flower baskets and perched on our back porch ceiling fan. My first thought was… they are looking for a nesting spot! So I went out and clapped my hands and sent them packing! Later, I thought about how important all of these backyard “critters” are to God. He knows every single one of them by name! We don’t know their names, but God does. He numbers the hairs on their body… the feathers on a sparrow’s wing… the flutters of a hummingbird’s wings as it gathers nectar from my petunias.
Stop and think about this… the same God who sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross also knows how many feathers are on a sparrow – and how many hairs are on your head. The same God who moves mountains and created oceans and the universe knows each of us not only by name – He also knows every miniscule thought we ever have! He has the power to change oceans to dry deserts – and to handle our silliest of problems. And He is willing to do whatever we need in order to keep us safe and in line with His will.
So why is it we find trusting Him to be so hard? Why are we so fearful, knowing Who has our back? Why do we value ourselves in God’s eyes as less than even a sparrow? Isn’t it time we changed our attitude and realized our true value? Isn’t it time to let go – and let God have control? Is today the day we start living in, through, and for Him? Shouldn’t it be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 21, 2010
June 21 ~ Zechariah 8:13
People of Judah and Israel, you have been a curse to the nations, but I will save you and make you a blessing to them. So don't be afraid or lose courage.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For several years, a friend of mine tried to talk me into attending a Walk to Emmaus. I kept putting it off. See, I thought I needed to “fix” a few things before I went on such a “Spiritual” retreat. What I learned is that God was not expecting me to fix anything – He just expected me to come to Him and let Him do the rest! My Walk to Emmaus was an incredible, amazing, life-changing event. But God did not “fix” everything for me there. You see, I believe that God leaves a few things undone, so that we will still need Him and stay humble.
At the same time, I also believe that God is not sitting back waiting for us to fix ourselves – He’s waiting on us to come to Him for the fixing! And, I don’t believe there is anything we have ever done or said or thought that is so horrible that God will not love us or help us. He’s said as much in this scripture. He has said that even people who “have been a curse to the nations” can become a blessing to them. That’s you and me, too! Woo-hoo! This is great news!
Don’t be afraid or lose courage. Don’t stay away from God because you feel you aren’t good enough – or you aren’t ready. Run as fast as you can to Him! Let God do the “fixing” and change your curses into blessings. He can – He will… are you willing to let Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
People of Judah and Israel, you have been a curse to the nations, but I will save you and make you a blessing to them. So don't be afraid or lose courage.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For several years, a friend of mine tried to talk me into attending a Walk to Emmaus. I kept putting it off. See, I thought I needed to “fix” a few things before I went on such a “Spiritual” retreat. What I learned is that God was not expecting me to fix anything – He just expected me to come to Him and let Him do the rest! My Walk to Emmaus was an incredible, amazing, life-changing event. But God did not “fix” everything for me there. You see, I believe that God leaves a few things undone, so that we will still need Him and stay humble.
At the same time, I also believe that God is not sitting back waiting for us to fix ourselves – He’s waiting on us to come to Him for the fixing! And, I don’t believe there is anything we have ever done or said or thought that is so horrible that God will not love us or help us. He’s said as much in this scripture. He has said that even people who “have been a curse to the nations” can become a blessing to them. That’s you and me, too! Woo-hoo! This is great news!
Don’t be afraid or lose courage. Don’t stay away from God because you feel you aren’t good enough – or you aren’t ready. Run as fast as you can to Him! Let God do the “fixing” and change your curses into blessings. He can – He will… are you willing to let Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 20, 2010
June 20 ~ Haggai 2:5
...just as I promised your ancestors when I brought them out of Egypt. Don't worry. My Spirit is right here with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember a time in your life when you felt like you were out of options? Maybe you were failing a class, and you knew there was nothing you could do to bring your grade up in time. Maybe you were losing a loved one – even a pet – and you were told, “I’m sorry – we’ve done all we can do.” Maybe your relationship with a friend, spouse, or significant other was failing, and you realized there was no way to restore it. Or maybe you lost your job and had no prospects for another one – and no money to pay bills or even buy food. If you cannot come up with a single time when your options were exhausted – or severely limited, you are a rare gem! If you are like most people, there has been at least one time in your life where you felt quite desperate.
I thank God that my “desperate” times have been few and far between. I’ve never missed a meal or been unable to pay bills. I never failed a class. But I remember distinctly the finality of death and a terminal diagnosis for loved ones. I know the overwhelming wash of desperation when the doctors are working frantically to revive a friend or family member and cannot. I understand completely the powerless feeling of watching someone you care about slide from your grip – and the “what-do-I-do-now?” feeling that follows.
But I also know the calming peace of getting a call to come immediately to the hospital…and feeling God’s presence – hearing Him say, “It will be okay… I’m right here with you.” I know the comfort and confidence of wondering what we will do if our house doesn’t sell and feeling God say, “I’m on it… don’t worry.” I am trusting God continually to handle things for me that are too big for me to handle – and believing that He will. I know that the same God who brought a nation out of bondage in Egypt will rescue me and those I love. I pray that you will know this, too.
Know that God is with you – every minute of every day. Call on Him to help you. Just say, “Lord, this is bigger than I am… but nothing is too big for You. Handle this for me, according to Your will. I’m trusting in Your power and expecting that You will orchestrate everything perfectly. I am thanking you now for showing up in my life each and every day.” Once you have given your problems, fears, and desperate situations to God… pay attention. Don’t go off half-cocked and assume all will be well. Listen for His voice – look for His guidance. Do your part to make things better… as He directs you. With God, all things really are possible… even when things seem “desperate.”
©2010 Debbie Robus
...just as I promised your ancestors when I brought them out of Egypt. Don't worry. My Spirit is right here with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember a time in your life when you felt like you were out of options? Maybe you were failing a class, and you knew there was nothing you could do to bring your grade up in time. Maybe you were losing a loved one – even a pet – and you were told, “I’m sorry – we’ve done all we can do.” Maybe your relationship with a friend, spouse, or significant other was failing, and you realized there was no way to restore it. Or maybe you lost your job and had no prospects for another one – and no money to pay bills or even buy food. If you cannot come up with a single time when your options were exhausted – or severely limited, you are a rare gem! If you are like most people, there has been at least one time in your life where you felt quite desperate.
I thank God that my “desperate” times have been few and far between. I’ve never missed a meal or been unable to pay bills. I never failed a class. But I remember distinctly the finality of death and a terminal diagnosis for loved ones. I know the overwhelming wash of desperation when the doctors are working frantically to revive a friend or family member and cannot. I understand completely the powerless feeling of watching someone you care about slide from your grip – and the “what-do-I-do-now?” feeling that follows.
But I also know the calming peace of getting a call to come immediately to the hospital…and feeling God’s presence – hearing Him say, “It will be okay… I’m right here with you.” I know the comfort and confidence of wondering what we will do if our house doesn’t sell and feeling God say, “I’m on it… don’t worry.” I am trusting God continually to handle things for me that are too big for me to handle – and believing that He will. I know that the same God who brought a nation out of bondage in Egypt will rescue me and those I love. I pray that you will know this, too.
Know that God is with you – every minute of every day. Call on Him to help you. Just say, “Lord, this is bigger than I am… but nothing is too big for You. Handle this for me, according to Your will. I’m trusting in Your power and expecting that You will orchestrate everything perfectly. I am thanking you now for showing up in my life each and every day.” Once you have given your problems, fears, and desperate situations to God… pay attention. Don’t go off half-cocked and assume all will be well. Listen for His voice – look for His guidance. Do your part to make things better… as He directs you. With God, all things really are possible… even when things seem “desperate.”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 19, 2010
June 19 ~ Joel 2:20-21
...The LORD works wonders and does great things. So tell the soil to celebrate and wild animals to stop being afraid. Grasslands are green again; fruit trees and fig trees are loaded with fruit. Grapevines are covered with grapes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When 9-11, Hurricane Katrina, and the earthquake in Haiti occurred, we all wondered how in the world recovery would ever be possible. Where does one even begin to clean up a mess such as these? But in each case, we have seen – and are seeing still – the order created from chaos. We’ve seen the rubble removed, and new growth emerge. I am reminded of my grandparents’ house fire in 1982, where the fire raged hot enough to reduce even a cast-iron claw-footed bath tub to ashes. When spring and summer came, beautiful petunias bloomed where the house foundation had been bulldozed away… a testament to rebirth and a new day.
In this passage, God is telling us that destruction and devastation will come, but so will a new day… a reason for the soil to celebrate. Vegetation returns to burning mountainsides and forests. Droughts are replaced by thirst-quenching rains – and flooding waters recede. Even the present-day oil spill crisis will resolve in time and beaches will be clean again. And our own lives have an ebb and flow – even if it seems like yours is filled with one challenge or disaster after another. For me, it seemed liked the 1990s were filled with nothing but the loss of loved ones. Every time we turned around, we were planning the funeral of a family member and/or dear friend. You may be suffering with a debilitating illness or injury – or caring for someone who is seriously (or terminally) ill. You may have lost your job or your home. You may have lost loved ones. Or you may have just started a new job, moved into a new home, or had a new baby. All of these are stressors… and our lives are filled with “ups and downs” and challenges at every turn. But the good news is that God is right there with us. He never moves… and whatever is taken from you – whatever you suffer – God will make right at some point. “WHEN?” you may be asking. You may feel that you’ve had enough already. Trust God’s timing. I can’t tell you when or how He will work in your life, but He surely will.
I can’t stress enough – even to myself – that we simply must stop operating in fear and recognize God’s presence in our lives. We have to turn to Him for strength and protection, and leave hand-wringing and debilitating worry behind. The LORD works wonders and does great things. It’s high time we recognize Him and give Him command and control.
©2010 Debbie Robus
...The LORD works wonders and does great things. So tell the soil to celebrate and wild animals to stop being afraid. Grasslands are green again; fruit trees and fig trees are loaded with fruit. Grapevines are covered with grapes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When 9-11, Hurricane Katrina, and the earthquake in Haiti occurred, we all wondered how in the world recovery would ever be possible. Where does one even begin to clean up a mess such as these? But in each case, we have seen – and are seeing still – the order created from chaos. We’ve seen the rubble removed, and new growth emerge. I am reminded of my grandparents’ house fire in 1982, where the fire raged hot enough to reduce even a cast-iron claw-footed bath tub to ashes. When spring and summer came, beautiful petunias bloomed where the house foundation had been bulldozed away… a testament to rebirth and a new day.
In this passage, God is telling us that destruction and devastation will come, but so will a new day… a reason for the soil to celebrate. Vegetation returns to burning mountainsides and forests. Droughts are replaced by thirst-quenching rains – and flooding waters recede. Even the present-day oil spill crisis will resolve in time and beaches will be clean again. And our own lives have an ebb and flow – even if it seems like yours is filled with one challenge or disaster after another. For me, it seemed liked the 1990s were filled with nothing but the loss of loved ones. Every time we turned around, we were planning the funeral of a family member and/or dear friend. You may be suffering with a debilitating illness or injury – or caring for someone who is seriously (or terminally) ill. You may have lost your job or your home. You may have lost loved ones. Or you may have just started a new job, moved into a new home, or had a new baby. All of these are stressors… and our lives are filled with “ups and downs” and challenges at every turn. But the good news is that God is right there with us. He never moves… and whatever is taken from you – whatever you suffer – God will make right at some point. “WHEN?” you may be asking. You may feel that you’ve had enough already. Trust God’s timing. I can’t tell you when or how He will work in your life, but He surely will.
I can’t stress enough – even to myself – that we simply must stop operating in fear and recognize God’s presence in our lives. We have to turn to Him for strength and protection, and leave hand-wringing and debilitating worry behind. The LORD works wonders and does great things. It’s high time we recognize Him and give Him command and control.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 18, 2010
June 18 ~ Daniel 10:19
The angel touched me a second time and said, "Don't be frightened! God thinks highly of you, and he intends this for your good, so be brave and strong."
At this, I regained my strength and replied, "Please speak! You have already made me feel much better."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a news story recently about Mary Bargiel, a young mother in Conway, Arkansas, who was broadsided at an intersection by a police officer on his way to answer an emergency call. The light was green as Bargiel moved into the intersection. The officer approached from the side, lights flashing and sirens blaring, but Mary did not see or hear him. The intersection has since been reworked. Both Mary Bargiel and the police officer were injured badly, especially Mary, whose injuries included a broken hand and ribs, a collapsed lung, serious brain, spinal and eye injuries, and more. The officer, who suffered a broken neck, has recovered and returned to work. Mary Bargiel has recovered enough to return home to her family, but she still has a lot of struggles - including a rod in her leg, shoe lifts to even out her body, double vision, ongoing back pain, and she may never fully regain brain function and be able to move and live as she once did.
I don’t know the prior circumstances of this Mary Bargiel’s life, but she stated in the news story that the accident probably saved her life in many ways. After the accident, she became a Christian, and her husband attested to the validity of her claims that she is a changed woman… quite literally a new person in Christ. What seemed like the most horrific event at the time has become a tremendous turning point for this woman and her family. What Satan meant for evil, God used for good.
I hope it doesn’t take a car crash at a major intersection – even figuratively – to get our attention. I hope God doesn’t have to use frightening events to show us His power – and His love – and to capture our hearts. I pray that we can stop and look around and see how blessed we are… and how much God loves us. I pray that we would trust Him to get us through the calamities and scary times in our lives… the times when we wonder and worry… and that looking back, we would say, “Yep, there He was, right beside us all along.”
How brave and strong are we? I’m ashamed to say that I have moments when I am neither. But I am determined to do better. I am convinced that God thinks highly of me and wants only the best for my life. And that is the case for each one of us. Do you see this in your own life? Are you brave and strong and recognizing God’s desire for good in your life? Start believing this today. Look around and see how God has blessed you and rescued you already. Regain your strength and feel much better. God is our refuge and our strength… feel His love and blessings…and BELIEVE in Him!
©2010 Debbie Robus
The angel touched me a second time and said, "Don't be frightened! God thinks highly of you, and he intends this for your good, so be brave and strong."
At this, I regained my strength and replied, "Please speak! You have already made me feel much better."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a news story recently about Mary Bargiel, a young mother in Conway, Arkansas, who was broadsided at an intersection by a police officer on his way to answer an emergency call. The light was green as Bargiel moved into the intersection. The officer approached from the side, lights flashing and sirens blaring, but Mary did not see or hear him. The intersection has since been reworked. Both Mary Bargiel and the police officer were injured badly, especially Mary, whose injuries included a broken hand and ribs, a collapsed lung, serious brain, spinal and eye injuries, and more. The officer, who suffered a broken neck, has recovered and returned to work. Mary Bargiel has recovered enough to return home to her family, but she still has a lot of struggles - including a rod in her leg, shoe lifts to even out her body, double vision, ongoing back pain, and she may never fully regain brain function and be able to move and live as she once did.
I don’t know the prior circumstances of this Mary Bargiel’s life, but she stated in the news story that the accident probably saved her life in many ways. After the accident, she became a Christian, and her husband attested to the validity of her claims that she is a changed woman… quite literally a new person in Christ. What seemed like the most horrific event at the time has become a tremendous turning point for this woman and her family. What Satan meant for evil, God used for good.
I hope it doesn’t take a car crash at a major intersection – even figuratively – to get our attention. I hope God doesn’t have to use frightening events to show us His power – and His love – and to capture our hearts. I pray that we can stop and look around and see how blessed we are… and how much God loves us. I pray that we would trust Him to get us through the calamities and scary times in our lives… the times when we wonder and worry… and that looking back, we would say, “Yep, there He was, right beside us all along.”
How brave and strong are we? I’m ashamed to say that I have moments when I am neither. But I am determined to do better. I am convinced that God thinks highly of me and wants only the best for my life. And that is the case for each one of us. Do you see this in your own life? Are you brave and strong and recognizing God’s desire for good in your life? Start believing this today. Look around and see how God has blessed you and rescued you already. Regain your strength and feel much better. God is our refuge and our strength… feel His love and blessings…and BELIEVE in Him!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 17, 2010
June 17 ~ Isaiah 54:14
You will be built on fairness with no fears of injustice; every one of your worries will be taken far from you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A young cousin of mine recently received a nasty telephone message on the family’s answering machine. It turned out to be a jealous little girl who posed as my cousin’s friend and said some really ugly things to her. But it had all of the makings of a potential bullying situation. In talking with my cousin’s mother, we both shared how a bully had hurt us as young girls and teenagers, and the mother said, “It all came back to me in a flood.”
Clearly, from what I know of this woman, she has risen above any torment and torture that her childhood bully tried to inflict. If the bully meant to tear her apart for life, she failed miserably. And the girl who bullied me didn’t ruin my life, either. I wish I could say the same for some young teens whose stories have been in the news lately. For them, the only rescue they felt viable was suicide.
Especially when we are young, we are so vulnerable. Satan has an easy task of making life hard for us… and bullies are really difficult to ignore. We pray for God to take the burden away, but sometimes, in certain circumstances, we can’t escape our worries and injustice. Maybe those children didn’t have an attentive mother like my cousin’s, who jumped right on this situation and got to the bottom of it. Maybe these young people felt they should be able to handle this on their own and didn’t tell anyone – especially an adult. Or maybe they didn’t live in a home where everyone practiced faith in God to deliver them from all forms of weaponry, even the attacks of a bully.
My point is that Satan starts early. He has been trying to tear each of us away from God since the day we were born, and he will stop at nothing to achieve this. But we serve a God who is far more powerful… far more faithful… loving and kind, yet strong and mighty. And if we will stay focused on Him… hang on and hang in there – He will help us overcome all obstacles. He will send attentive mothers and fathers and empathetic teachers and counselors. He will give us wisdom and courage to fight the enemies of Satan, and every one of our worries will be taken far from us!
I’ll be the first to tell you that I come from a long line of worry warts. I learned from some of the best… and I got pretty good at it. And I’ll admit, I still worry about things that I cannot control from time to time. But I am learning to “let go and let God” – and I see evidence every day of how much better He handles these worries than I ever could. I see proof that He has had a protective hand on me for all of my years… and I know He is not letting go. Who has you in his hands – Satan, the biggest bully of all time - or the Great Protector, God Almighty? Who is doing your worrying these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You will be built on fairness with no fears of injustice; every one of your worries will be taken far from you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A young cousin of mine recently received a nasty telephone message on the family’s answering machine. It turned out to be a jealous little girl who posed as my cousin’s friend and said some really ugly things to her. But it had all of the makings of a potential bullying situation. In talking with my cousin’s mother, we both shared how a bully had hurt us as young girls and teenagers, and the mother said, “It all came back to me in a flood.”
Clearly, from what I know of this woman, she has risen above any torment and torture that her childhood bully tried to inflict. If the bully meant to tear her apart for life, she failed miserably. And the girl who bullied me didn’t ruin my life, either. I wish I could say the same for some young teens whose stories have been in the news lately. For them, the only rescue they felt viable was suicide.
Especially when we are young, we are so vulnerable. Satan has an easy task of making life hard for us… and bullies are really difficult to ignore. We pray for God to take the burden away, but sometimes, in certain circumstances, we can’t escape our worries and injustice. Maybe those children didn’t have an attentive mother like my cousin’s, who jumped right on this situation and got to the bottom of it. Maybe these young people felt they should be able to handle this on their own and didn’t tell anyone – especially an adult. Or maybe they didn’t live in a home where everyone practiced faith in God to deliver them from all forms of weaponry, even the attacks of a bully.
My point is that Satan starts early. He has been trying to tear each of us away from God since the day we were born, and he will stop at nothing to achieve this. But we serve a God who is far more powerful… far more faithful… loving and kind, yet strong and mighty. And if we will stay focused on Him… hang on and hang in there – He will help us overcome all obstacles. He will send attentive mothers and fathers and empathetic teachers and counselors. He will give us wisdom and courage to fight the enemies of Satan, and every one of our worries will be taken far from us!
I’ll be the first to tell you that I come from a long line of worry warts. I learned from some of the best… and I got pretty good at it. And I’ll admit, I still worry about things that I cannot control from time to time. But I am learning to “let go and let God” – and I see evidence every day of how much better He handles these worries than I ever could. I see proof that He has had a protective hand on me for all of my years… and I know He is not letting go. Who has you in his hands – Satan, the biggest bully of all time - or the Great Protector, God Almighty? Who is doing your worrying these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 16, 2010
June 16 ~ Isaiah 54:4
Don't be afraid or ashamed and don't be discouraged. You won't be disappointed. Forget how sinful you were when you were young; stop feeling ashamed for being left a widow.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Evangelist Joyce Meyer tells about an unhappy childhood, followed by a miserable first marriage. She was abused, mistreated, and left feeling totally useless. She had a temper and a generally bad attitude, and she was abrasive and not much fun to be around. She says she was simply not a very nice person. Then she became a Christian, and God introduced her to Dave Meyer, a man who had been praying for God to give him someone with problems. Man, did God ever deliver!
Joyce Meyer felt worthless. She did not see a way out of her situation, and she certainly never imagined God could bless her – much less use her in ministry. And I’ve gathered from reading several of her books and listening to her speak that at one time, she was pretty well consumed by fears of all kinds. I’m sure she was ashamed, discouraged, and disappointed. I’ve heard her say that when God first started nudging her toward beginning a ministry, she thought she must be hearing things! And early on, she led Bible studies in her home, wearing short shorts and smoking cigarettes. She still did not see herself as someone God would want leading a ministry… her transformation did not happen overnight!
We underestimate God. We fail to recognize that He has the power to make “beauty from ashes.” We do not need to be fearful, discouraged, ashamed, or disappointed… we just need to hold on and have faith. We need to pay attention, seek God’s will, and then trust Him to lead us through the “ruins” and “rubble” we may have to wade through to get to the good stuff! In other words, troubles will come… challenges will stand in our way at times… and we may feel like we are never going to get ahead or feel God’s protection – much less His blessings and favor. It’s sort of the “When is it my turn?” syndrome. If you read all of Psalm 54, verse 8 quotes God as saying, “… I will have mercy and love you forever! I, your protector and Lord, make this promise.”
What God did for Joyce Meyer, He will do for each of us. Oh… He may not call us to develop world-wide ministries… but He has a plan for us… and it’s a good one! Hang on – hang in there – don’t be afraid or ashamed, and don’t be discouraged. You won’t be disappointed. Verse 5 says, “The Lord All-Powerful, the Holy God of Israel, rules all the earth. He is your Creator… and he will rescue you.” This is great news! We serve an awesome God…keep trusting Him and believing His promises!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't be afraid or ashamed and don't be discouraged. You won't be disappointed. Forget how sinful you were when you were young; stop feeling ashamed for being left a widow.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Evangelist Joyce Meyer tells about an unhappy childhood, followed by a miserable first marriage. She was abused, mistreated, and left feeling totally useless. She had a temper and a generally bad attitude, and she was abrasive and not much fun to be around. She says she was simply not a very nice person. Then she became a Christian, and God introduced her to Dave Meyer, a man who had been praying for God to give him someone with problems. Man, did God ever deliver!
Joyce Meyer felt worthless. She did not see a way out of her situation, and she certainly never imagined God could bless her – much less use her in ministry. And I’ve gathered from reading several of her books and listening to her speak that at one time, she was pretty well consumed by fears of all kinds. I’m sure she was ashamed, discouraged, and disappointed. I’ve heard her say that when God first started nudging her toward beginning a ministry, she thought she must be hearing things! And early on, she led Bible studies in her home, wearing short shorts and smoking cigarettes. She still did not see herself as someone God would want leading a ministry… her transformation did not happen overnight!
We underestimate God. We fail to recognize that He has the power to make “beauty from ashes.” We do not need to be fearful, discouraged, ashamed, or disappointed… we just need to hold on and have faith. We need to pay attention, seek God’s will, and then trust Him to lead us through the “ruins” and “rubble” we may have to wade through to get to the good stuff! In other words, troubles will come… challenges will stand in our way at times… and we may feel like we are never going to get ahead or feel God’s protection – much less His blessings and favor. It’s sort of the “When is it my turn?” syndrome. If you read all of Psalm 54, verse 8 quotes God as saying, “… I will have mercy and love you forever! I, your protector and Lord, make this promise.”
What God did for Joyce Meyer, He will do for each of us. Oh… He may not call us to develop world-wide ministries… but He has a plan for us… and it’s a good one! Hang on – hang in there – don’t be afraid or ashamed, and don’t be discouraged. You won’t be disappointed. Verse 5 says, “The Lord All-Powerful, the Holy God of Israel, rules all the earth. He is your Creator… and he will rescue you.” This is great news! We serve an awesome God…keep trusting Him and believing His promises!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 15, 2010
June 15 ~ Isaiah 51:7
If you want to do right and to obey my teaching with all your heart, then pay close attention. Don't be discouraged when others insult you and say hurtful things.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I was channel surfing, and I stopped to listen to a message from a televangelist who was talking about “seed, time, and harvest,” a common teaching of “prosperity ministers.” I listened long enough to hear him call for 1000 people to rush to their telephones and pledge a “seed gift” of $1000 for his organization… and they were going to receive “immeasurable favor” from God in the form of great financial wealth in 2010. I had to laugh, because I don’t believe for one second that God requires specific dollar donations like this in order to answer prayers and bless His children.
We have to be careful, because Satan can use this sort of message to get us off course and focused on the wrong things. And he cleverly does this by interspersing some pearls of wisdom and solid teaching. Many cannot sift through the junk and discern the truths of God from Satan’s lies and his distractions of things like promises of immeasurable wealth. And honestly, this sort of teaching and preaching is insulting to me, because I believe God does want us to plant seeds, give Him time to work, and then expect a “harvest.” But I am not necessarily talking about money, much less “immeasurable wealth.”
In and amongst all of the pleas for a $1000 seed, this speaker did say something that I felt was important enough to repeat… Every single day, you and I are planting seeds. Our “seeds” may be words of kindness and encouragement spoken to someone. Or we may help a buddy move into a new apartment or cook a meal for a grieving neighbor. We may give our old clothes to the thrift store… or we might give money to the church or donate to a fundraiser to send kids to church camp. OR… we may sow seeds of gossip, dissention, disrespect, untruth, and hate. The choice is ours. Just like planting flower or vegetable seeds, time is needed for these seeds to take root and grow. But eventually, there is a harvest. Sometimes it comes quickly, and sometimes, it can take a long time. But we must not be discouraged. And here’s the kicker… we must expect a harvest.
I think where I have often failed is in my expectation. I have sown the seeds and forgotten them. I didn’t consciously believe God for a harvest when I wrote a note of encouragement or taught a junior high Sunday School class. I didn’t consciously recognize that I was sowing seeds in the kindergartners and first graders I taught – or the checker I smiled at in Wal-Mart. I also didn’t give much thought to the repercussions of sowing seeds of unkind words, gossip, or rudeness. If we stopped and thought about the seeds we sow – and the “harvest” – we might sow better seeds! We might also reap a better “harvest” and more fully experience God’s blessings and favor. When we expect God to show up in our lives, He surely will.
So my questions for all of us today are…
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you want to do right and to obey my teaching with all your heart, then pay close attention. Don't be discouraged when others insult you and say hurtful things.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I was channel surfing, and I stopped to listen to a message from a televangelist who was talking about “seed, time, and harvest,” a common teaching of “prosperity ministers.” I listened long enough to hear him call for 1000 people to rush to their telephones and pledge a “seed gift” of $1000 for his organization… and they were going to receive “immeasurable favor” from God in the form of great financial wealth in 2010. I had to laugh, because I don’t believe for one second that God requires specific dollar donations like this in order to answer prayers and bless His children.
We have to be careful, because Satan can use this sort of message to get us off course and focused on the wrong things. And he cleverly does this by interspersing some pearls of wisdom and solid teaching. Many cannot sift through the junk and discern the truths of God from Satan’s lies and his distractions of things like promises of immeasurable wealth. And honestly, this sort of teaching and preaching is insulting to me, because I believe God does want us to plant seeds, give Him time to work, and then expect a “harvest.” But I am not necessarily talking about money, much less “immeasurable wealth.”
In and amongst all of the pleas for a $1000 seed, this speaker did say something that I felt was important enough to repeat… Every single day, you and I are planting seeds. Our “seeds” may be words of kindness and encouragement spoken to someone. Or we may help a buddy move into a new apartment or cook a meal for a grieving neighbor. We may give our old clothes to the thrift store… or we might give money to the church or donate to a fundraiser to send kids to church camp. OR… we may sow seeds of gossip, dissention, disrespect, untruth, and hate. The choice is ours. Just like planting flower or vegetable seeds, time is needed for these seeds to take root and grow. But eventually, there is a harvest. Sometimes it comes quickly, and sometimes, it can take a long time. But we must not be discouraged. And here’s the kicker… we must expect a harvest.
I think where I have often failed is in my expectation. I have sown the seeds and forgotten them. I didn’t consciously believe God for a harvest when I wrote a note of encouragement or taught a junior high Sunday School class. I didn’t consciously recognize that I was sowing seeds in the kindergartners and first graders I taught – or the checker I smiled at in Wal-Mart. I also didn’t give much thought to the repercussions of sowing seeds of unkind words, gossip, or rudeness. If we stopped and thought about the seeds we sow – and the “harvest” – we might sow better seeds! We might also reap a better “harvest” and more fully experience God’s blessings and favor. When we expect God to show up in our lives, He surely will.
So my questions for all of us today are…
- What kind of seed are we sowing?
- Are we expecting a “harvest” and believing God for it?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 14, 2010
June 14 ~ Isaiah 35:4
Don't tremble with fear! Didn't I tell you long ago? Didn't you hear me? I alone am God -- no one else is a mighty rock.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever considered how many landmarks include a rock? Early settlers docked near La Petite Rocher (later called La Petite Roche) – a “Little Rock” outcropping that became a noted landmark on maps and the point where ferries crossed the Arkansas River, as well as our state capital. When we talk about Sugar Loaf, we are usually referring to the “mountain” behind ASU-Heber Springs that is topped by a rock outcropping. However, there is a Sugar Loaf in Greers Ferry Lake near Fairfield Bay, and my parents and grandparents knew another rock outcropping as “Little Sugar Loaf” before the lake was formed. Today, when the lake level is low, the very top of “Little Sugar Loaf” is visible, just beyond a row of houses on Lakeshore Drive.
There are countless rock formations around the world that are readily recognizable by name. And the point is, when we think of a rock formation, we think of something solid and steady – something immovable and everlasting. When we think of God as our rock, we think of Him in the same way. He is solid, steady, immovable, everlasting. We don’t give a second thought to climbing to the top of Sugar Loaf… we expect the rock formation to hold us. We can depend on the rock that is our God to hold us without fail, as well.
Early settlers used rock formations and caves as shelter from the elements. God is our shelter. He is strong and protective and will keep us from harm. When someone says “Mt. Rushmore,” or “Little Rock,” or even “Sugar Loaf,” we know what they mean. There may be more than one formation with the same name, but in general, we think of the landmark that is within our scope of experience. The good news is that there is no mistaking who we mean when we talk of God as our rock, because there is no other. He is the one and only Rock on which we can place all of our fears, our worries, our insecurities – and our sins – and He will take them all and give us protection and comfort. He is infallible, immovable, strong and able. When God is truly our rock, we have nothing to fear. The key is to recognize Him and acknowledge His strength and power over our lives. Which “rocks” do you recognize? Do you trust in The One who matters most?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't tremble with fear! Didn't I tell you long ago? Didn't you hear me? I alone am God -- no one else is a mighty rock.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever considered how many landmarks include a rock? Early settlers docked near La Petite Rocher (later called La Petite Roche) – a “Little Rock” outcropping that became a noted landmark on maps and the point where ferries crossed the Arkansas River, as well as our state capital. When we talk about Sugar Loaf, we are usually referring to the “mountain” behind ASU-Heber Springs that is topped by a rock outcropping. However, there is a Sugar Loaf in Greers Ferry Lake near Fairfield Bay, and my parents and grandparents knew another rock outcropping as “Little Sugar Loaf” before the lake was formed. Today, when the lake level is low, the very top of “Little Sugar Loaf” is visible, just beyond a row of houses on Lakeshore Drive.
There are countless rock formations around the world that are readily recognizable by name. And the point is, when we think of a rock formation, we think of something solid and steady – something immovable and everlasting. When we think of God as our rock, we think of Him in the same way. He is solid, steady, immovable, everlasting. We don’t give a second thought to climbing to the top of Sugar Loaf… we expect the rock formation to hold us. We can depend on the rock that is our God to hold us without fail, as well.
Early settlers used rock formations and caves as shelter from the elements. God is our shelter. He is strong and protective and will keep us from harm. When someone says “Mt. Rushmore,” or “Little Rock,” or even “Sugar Loaf,” we know what they mean. There may be more than one formation with the same name, but in general, we think of the landmark that is within our scope of experience. The good news is that there is no mistaking who we mean when we talk of God as our rock, because there is no other. He is the one and only Rock on which we can place all of our fears, our worries, our insecurities – and our sins – and He will take them all and give us protection and comfort. He is infallible, immovable, strong and able. When God is truly our rock, we have nothing to fear. The key is to recognize Him and acknowledge His strength and power over our lives. Which “rocks” do you recognize? Do you trust in The One who matters most?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 13, 2010
June 13 ~ Isaiah 43:5
Don't be afraid! I am with you. From both east and west I will bring you together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In case you have been under a rock for the last few days, this has not been the happiest week for Arkansans at large. A massive flash flood swept away campers in southwest Arkansas, killing dozens and leaving others injured and incredibly frightened. Many lost not only family members and friends, but also pets, belongings, and more. Some literally lost the clothing off their backs from the force of the water. The devastation and destruction is truly incredible.
In northeastern Arkansas, Lillian Wilson, an 80-year-old woman known locally as “Miss Lill,” was beaten to death in the sanctuary of her church with a 2-foot brass cross from the Holy Communion table. She had returned on Sunday afternoon to leave a bucket to finish out a “disaster kit” filled with cleaning supplies that, ironically, would aid in the cleanup of places just like the Albert Pike Campground area in southwestern Arkansas.
As we watched these stories unfold in the media, we couldn’t help but ask, “Why, God? Why did a two-year-old toddler have to die before her mother’s eyes? Why was a faithful Christian servant murdered in her church sanctuary… and by the very symbol of Your protection?” As I read over this scripture passage, God very clearly reminded me that He was with the people at Albert Pike Campground… and He was with Miss Lill. God is always with us, even in the most horrific circumstances. I know… you are thinking this doesn’t make sense… why doesn’t He rescue us? I believe He does… just not in the ways we envision.
I believe that there is so much about God we cannot ever understand… His power and how He really operates. If we did, we wouldn’t need Him. I believe that even in the most terrifying situations, such as being swept away by flood waters or being beaten with a brass cross, God is there, saying, “Hold My hand… I’m right here with you. You’ll see… I will make this okay.” And just as God orchestrates everything perfectly, we will see His power at work in these two tragedies. He will use the lady who made disaster relief buckets and the people who needed them to change lives. Satan may have meant these two events for evil… his plan was surely to cause us to say, “What kind of God would allow this?” But God is saying… “Don’t turn away from me in fear… turn TO me and realize that I was there all along… and I am still with you.”
This is a hard lesson. We humans want someone to blame… and more often than not we blame God instead of the real culprit – Satan. We see the negative more than the positive, and we lose our way – and our faith. Let’s renew our faith and trust in God. Let’s recognize today that He is still in control… and He is still right beside us. Let’s acknowledge that God can take the most horrific events and bring blessings out of them… and let’s take comfort in realizing how powerful He is. This is an amazing thing… we serve an awesome God. Don’t be afraid. God is bringing east, west, north and south together… and He is always… ALWAYS with us.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't be afraid! I am with you. From both east and west I will bring you together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In case you have been under a rock for the last few days, this has not been the happiest week for Arkansans at large. A massive flash flood swept away campers in southwest Arkansas, killing dozens and leaving others injured and incredibly frightened. Many lost not only family members and friends, but also pets, belongings, and more. Some literally lost the clothing off their backs from the force of the water. The devastation and destruction is truly incredible.
In northeastern Arkansas, Lillian Wilson, an 80-year-old woman known locally as “Miss Lill,” was beaten to death in the sanctuary of her church with a 2-foot brass cross from the Holy Communion table. She had returned on Sunday afternoon to leave a bucket to finish out a “disaster kit” filled with cleaning supplies that, ironically, would aid in the cleanup of places just like the Albert Pike Campground area in southwestern Arkansas.
As we watched these stories unfold in the media, we couldn’t help but ask, “Why, God? Why did a two-year-old toddler have to die before her mother’s eyes? Why was a faithful Christian servant murdered in her church sanctuary… and by the very symbol of Your protection?” As I read over this scripture passage, God very clearly reminded me that He was with the people at Albert Pike Campground… and He was with Miss Lill. God is always with us, even in the most horrific circumstances. I know… you are thinking this doesn’t make sense… why doesn’t He rescue us? I believe He does… just not in the ways we envision.
I believe that there is so much about God we cannot ever understand… His power and how He really operates. If we did, we wouldn’t need Him. I believe that even in the most terrifying situations, such as being swept away by flood waters or being beaten with a brass cross, God is there, saying, “Hold My hand… I’m right here with you. You’ll see… I will make this okay.” And just as God orchestrates everything perfectly, we will see His power at work in these two tragedies. He will use the lady who made disaster relief buckets and the people who needed them to change lives. Satan may have meant these two events for evil… his plan was surely to cause us to say, “What kind of God would allow this?” But God is saying… “Don’t turn away from me in fear… turn TO me and realize that I was there all along… and I am still with you.”
This is a hard lesson. We humans want someone to blame… and more often than not we blame God instead of the real culprit – Satan. We see the negative more than the positive, and we lose our way – and our faith. Let’s renew our faith and trust in God. Let’s recognize today that He is still in control… and He is still right beside us. Let’s acknowledge that God can take the most horrific events and bring blessings out of them… and let’s take comfort in realizing how powerful He is. This is an amazing thing… we serve an awesome God. Don’t be afraid. God is bringing east, west, north and south together… and He is always… ALWAYS with us.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 12, 2010
June 12 ~ Isaiah 43:1
Descendants of Jacob, I, the LORD, created you and formed your nation. Israel, don't be afraid. I have rescued you. I have called you by name; now you belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we first got our cats, they were just weeks old… tiny babies, really. We brought them home and looked at “the girls” and decided on names. We thought about Lucy and Ethel – and our calico even had patches of reddish fur. But in the end, she was Mabel, and the “tuxedo” cat became our Lucy. We would call them by their names, and they would totally ignore us. They did not recognize these sounds. Their names were as unfamiliar to them as were their new owners. But we kept working at it. We would stroke their fur and call their name. We would play with them, toss something to them, and call their name again.
Today, our “babies” are eleven years old. And they know their names. We call them by name, and they answer. There is no confusion. We rescued them from the pound and gave them a name, and they are precious to us. They belong to us… they captured our hearts, and we would do just about anything for them.
It’s the same way with Jesus… but times a zillion or more. He rescued us. He gave us a name… and we belong to Him. We are precious to Him… and each of us is uniquely special in His eyes. We may share the same name as dozens of other people (and if you think your name is unique, search for it on Google or Facebook!), but when Jesus thinks of your name, He thinks only of YOU! And He’s got your back – always – forever! Now how can we be afraid with a love and protection like Jesus?! He created us and formed us – He calls us by name, and we belong to Him. He died for us, so that we never have to fear Satan and his evil again. If the One who did all of this for us has rescued us, what could we possibly have to fear?
It’s time for us to hear Him call us… and to answer. It is time to trust and believe in His power. I know it’s hard… Satan will NOT give up and go away. But we have to keep working on kicking him to the curb and trusting God to handle things for us. I’m working on this in my own life…how are you doing?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Descendants of Jacob, I, the LORD, created you and formed your nation. Israel, don't be afraid. I have rescued you. I have called you by name; now you belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we first got our cats, they were just weeks old… tiny babies, really. We brought them home and looked at “the girls” and decided on names. We thought about Lucy and Ethel – and our calico even had patches of reddish fur. But in the end, she was Mabel, and the “tuxedo” cat became our Lucy. We would call them by their names, and they would totally ignore us. They did not recognize these sounds. Their names were as unfamiliar to them as were their new owners. But we kept working at it. We would stroke their fur and call their name. We would play with them, toss something to them, and call their name again.
Today, our “babies” are eleven years old. And they know their names. We call them by name, and they answer. There is no confusion. We rescued them from the pound and gave them a name, and they are precious to us. They belong to us… they captured our hearts, and we would do just about anything for them.
It’s the same way with Jesus… but times a zillion or more. He rescued us. He gave us a name… and we belong to Him. We are precious to Him… and each of us is uniquely special in His eyes. We may share the same name as dozens of other people (and if you think your name is unique, search for it on Google or Facebook!), but when Jesus thinks of your name, He thinks only of YOU! And He’s got your back – always – forever! Now how can we be afraid with a love and protection like Jesus?! He created us and formed us – He calls us by name, and we belong to Him. He died for us, so that we never have to fear Satan and his evil again. If the One who did all of this for us has rescued us, what could we possibly have to fear?
It’s time for us to hear Him call us… and to answer. It is time to trust and believe in His power. I know it’s hard… Satan will NOT give up and go away. But we have to keep working on kicking him to the curb and trusting God to handle things for us. I’m working on this in my own life…how are you doing?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 11, 2010
June 11 ~ Psalm 118:6
The LORD is on my side, and I am not afraid of what others can do to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose your friend posted something inappropriate on Facebook. What would you do? Would you ignore it? Would you “like” it? Would you say something? Suppose the comment were something that could get your friend into trouble, if someone saw it and misconstrued its meaning? Would you say something then? If you felt your friend would be mad at you, even if your intentions were totally honorable, would you still tell them? This happened to me recently. I saw a post on Facebook that I knew my friend would never post. It was really inappropriate. I assumed right away that her account had been hacked, and I sent a private message to tell her. She replied and thanked me… and the post disappeared.
Was I concerned that my friend would be upset, or even possibly block me for mentioning this? Maybe a little… but here’s what I did. I waited an hour or so before contacting her, and during this time, I asked God what I should do. I kept being drawn back to the computer and this post, so I felt God was saying, “Tell her. I’ll handle the rest.” So that’s what I did… and I am very glad that I listened.
I’ll be the first to tell you, I have not always handled things this way. I’ve not always entered into these situations prayerfully, which is a huge mistake. And I’ve also buried my head in the sand and failed to act because of what I thought others might think – or how they might react. We need to realize that God can use us for His purposes – even when we are afraid. And when we listen to God and only act when HE says to do so, He will always protect us. If we go off half-cocked and without consulting Him, we may have to suffer the consequences of our actions. I’m not saying God’s protection is conditional, necessarily… but to some extent it is. He will never desert us, but He may allow us to squirm a little in order to learn and grow.
So be brave and courageous. Stay in close communication with God at all times and about all things. When you feel He is telling you to make a move… don’t be afraid… don’t fear the consequences. Trust God to work out the details. Recognize His strength and power to work in - and through - you to accomplish His will in all circumstances.
©2010 Debbie Robus
The LORD is on my side, and I am not afraid of what others can do to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose your friend posted something inappropriate on Facebook. What would you do? Would you ignore it? Would you “like” it? Would you say something? Suppose the comment were something that could get your friend into trouble, if someone saw it and misconstrued its meaning? Would you say something then? If you felt your friend would be mad at you, even if your intentions were totally honorable, would you still tell them? This happened to me recently. I saw a post on Facebook that I knew my friend would never post. It was really inappropriate. I assumed right away that her account had been hacked, and I sent a private message to tell her. She replied and thanked me… and the post disappeared.
Was I concerned that my friend would be upset, or even possibly block me for mentioning this? Maybe a little… but here’s what I did. I waited an hour or so before contacting her, and during this time, I asked God what I should do. I kept being drawn back to the computer and this post, so I felt God was saying, “Tell her. I’ll handle the rest.” So that’s what I did… and I am very glad that I listened.
I’ll be the first to tell you, I have not always handled things this way. I’ve not always entered into these situations prayerfully, which is a huge mistake. And I’ve also buried my head in the sand and failed to act because of what I thought others might think – or how they might react. We need to realize that God can use us for His purposes – even when we are afraid. And when we listen to God and only act when HE says to do so, He will always protect us. If we go off half-cocked and without consulting Him, we may have to suffer the consequences of our actions. I’m not saying God’s protection is conditional, necessarily… but to some extent it is. He will never desert us, but He may allow us to squirm a little in order to learn and grow.
So be brave and courageous. Stay in close communication with God at all times and about all things. When you feel He is telling you to make a move… don’t be afraid… don’t fear the consequences. Trust God to work out the details. Recognize His strength and power to work in - and through - you to accomplish His will in all circumstances.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 10, 2010
June 10 ~ Psalm 56:4
I praise your promises! I trust you and am not afraid. No one can harm me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother has a dear friend who is suffering from serious heart problems. She told my mom that recently she was so worried about her situation, and… “The Lord seemed to say to me, ‘You cannot add one second to your life.’” After that, she said she experienced great peace.
At some point in our lives, we will all probably be in a situation where we are driving a motorized vehicle, and someone says to us, “Move over and let me drive.” I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but we are all so busy trying to “drive the car” that is our life. You know those bumper stickers that say, “God is my co-pilot?” The truth is, God should be our pilot! HE should be “driving the car!” He wants us to “move over and let Him drive,” and the sooner we do this, the sooner we can ditch our fears.
My mom’s friend is right, “We cannot add one second to our lives… we cannot fight the enemies that Satan hurls at us. But GOD can… and He will, if we will simply get out of the way.” Move over and let God drive. Operate in courage and faith and toss fear out the window. Believe in the power of Almighty God to conquer all of your demons and enemies… and praise Him for doing so.
©2010 Debbie Robus
I praise your promises! I trust you and am not afraid. No one can harm me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother has a dear friend who is suffering from serious heart problems. She told my mom that recently she was so worried about her situation, and… “The Lord seemed to say to me, ‘You cannot add one second to your life.’” After that, she said she experienced great peace.
At some point in our lives, we will all probably be in a situation where we are driving a motorized vehicle, and someone says to us, “Move over and let me drive.” I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but we are all so busy trying to “drive the car” that is our life. You know those bumper stickers that say, “God is my co-pilot?” The truth is, God should be our pilot! HE should be “driving the car!” He wants us to “move over and let Him drive,” and the sooner we do this, the sooner we can ditch our fears.
My mom’s friend is right, “We cannot add one second to our lives… we cannot fight the enemies that Satan hurls at us. But GOD can… and He will, if we will simply get out of the way.” Move over and let God drive. Operate in courage and faith and toss fear out the window. Believe in the power of Almighty God to conquer all of your demons and enemies… and praise Him for doing so.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 9, 2010
June 9 ~ Psalm 46:2
And so, we won't be afraid! Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever gotten news that absolutely sent you into a tailspin? As soon as you heard it, your mind started racing… “Omigosh… what will happen next? How will this end? Will everyone be okay? What does this mean for me?” It seems that Satan has a tremendous ability to upset our apple cart with very little effort sometimes. All he has to do is plant a seed of doubt or fear in our mind, and we are off to the races!
The next time you get this feeling… the next time something rattles your cage even momentarily, remember Psalm 46:2… “and so, we won’t be afraid. Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.” Let the devil try his hardest to upset us and make us worry, shake, rattle and roll. But let God’s peace and power cover us! Stand up and say, “It will be okay. God will make it so! I am not going to let this concern me for even one minute!”
Psalm 46:10 says, “Our God says, ‘Calm down, and learn that I am God!’” Stop and rest in that for a while. Then thank Him for being so merciful… for blessing us with His power, grace and mercy. Thank God that you don’t have to operate in fear for even one minute… and kick that ole devil to the curb!
©2010 Debbie Robus
And so, we won't be afraid! Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever gotten news that absolutely sent you into a tailspin? As soon as you heard it, your mind started racing… “Omigosh… what will happen next? How will this end? Will everyone be okay? What does this mean for me?” It seems that Satan has a tremendous ability to upset our apple cart with very little effort sometimes. All he has to do is plant a seed of doubt or fear in our mind, and we are off to the races!
The next time you get this feeling… the next time something rattles your cage even momentarily, remember Psalm 46:2… “and so, we won’t be afraid. Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.” Let the devil try his hardest to upset us and make us worry, shake, rattle and roll. But let God’s peace and power cover us! Stand up and say, “It will be okay. God will make it so! I am not going to let this concern me for even one minute!”
Psalm 46:10 says, “Our God says, ‘Calm down, and learn that I am God!’” Stop and rest in that for a while. Then thank Him for being so merciful… for blessing us with His power, grace and mercy. Thank God that you don’t have to operate in fear for even one minute… and kick that ole devil to the curb!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 8, 2010
June 8 ~ Psalm 37:4
Do what the LORD wants, and he will give you your heart's desire.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt you were supposed to do something, but you really didn’t want to do it? Maybe school seemed too hard or your job was unfulfilling, and you were tempted to quit - but you knew that this was where God wanted you to be for the moment. Or maybe you had your entire weekend mapped out – fun on the lake, meals with friends, and more… but your youth group or Sunday School class was having a prayer vigil at the church. And as much as you didn’t want to go, you knew you should. Or maybe you had some extra change in your pocket and a big, cold drink from Sonic sounded good - but as you left Wal-Mart, the Salvation Army guy was ringing his bell and asking for donations. In each case, if you gave up your desires to do what you felt GOD wanted you to do, how did you feel? Didn’t you feel better afterward?
More than this, have you ever chosen what you felt GOD wanted over what you wanted, then experienced amazing blessings later that seemed inexplicable? I can tell you that this has happened to me. More than once, I have dragged myself to something I didn’t want to attend, and I ended up being incredibly blessed. There have been times I really wanted to do something for myself – or to give up on a project when I became discouraged - but I felt God saying, “Do this anyway,” and the outcome was amazing. Somehow, when we do what God wants, He gives us time to do what we want, too. Maybe it’s not the same day… but eventually we get that day on the lake with friends or family. Eventually we get the big drink at Sonic and the time for ourselves - and blessings we didn’t even anticipate or expect.
When we keep GOD at the forefront and do what He wants first, wonderful things happen. He really does give us our heart’s desire – according to His will. This means that just because you want a silver BMW, dont expect God to give you one because you do what He wants. You may never be a millionaire or live a fancy lifestyle. But whatever God chooses to give you – however He elects to bless – will be perfect for you. Try it for yourself. Do what God wants, out of a spirit of love, obedience and gratitude… and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Do what the LORD wants, and he will give you your heart's desire.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt you were supposed to do something, but you really didn’t want to do it? Maybe school seemed too hard or your job was unfulfilling, and you were tempted to quit - but you knew that this was where God wanted you to be for the moment. Or maybe you had your entire weekend mapped out – fun on the lake, meals with friends, and more… but your youth group or Sunday School class was having a prayer vigil at the church. And as much as you didn’t want to go, you knew you should. Or maybe you had some extra change in your pocket and a big, cold drink from Sonic sounded good - but as you left Wal-Mart, the Salvation Army guy was ringing his bell and asking for donations. In each case, if you gave up your desires to do what you felt GOD wanted you to do, how did you feel? Didn’t you feel better afterward?
More than this, have you ever chosen what you felt GOD wanted over what you wanted, then experienced amazing blessings later that seemed inexplicable? I can tell you that this has happened to me. More than once, I have dragged myself to something I didn’t want to attend, and I ended up being incredibly blessed. There have been times I really wanted to do something for myself – or to give up on a project when I became discouraged - but I felt God saying, “Do this anyway,” and the outcome was amazing. Somehow, when we do what God wants, He gives us time to do what we want, too. Maybe it’s not the same day… but eventually we get that day on the lake with friends or family. Eventually we get the big drink at Sonic and the time for ourselves - and blessings we didn’t even anticipate or expect.
When we keep GOD at the forefront and do what He wants first, wonderful things happen. He really does give us our heart’s desire – according to His will. This means that just because you want a silver BMW, dont expect God to give you one because you do what He wants. You may never be a millionaire or live a fancy lifestyle. But whatever God chooses to give you – however He elects to bless – will be perfect for you. Try it for yourself. Do what God wants, out of a spirit of love, obedience and gratitude… and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 7, 2010
June 7 ~ Psalm 27:3
Armies may surround me, but I won't be afraid; war may break out, but I will trust you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The next time someone says to me, “I think the ‘end times’ are near,” I’m gonna shout “Whoopie!!!” People say that in the same tone as they say, “Oooo… the boogie man is gonna get you!” If you stop and think about it, this is a ridiculous comment. Okay, maybe they say it because they see souls yet to be won to Christ and feel time is short. But this is really not how I hear it. I hear it more like “Be afraid… be very afraid!”
I, for one, am not afraid! For one thing, Psalm 27:3 tells us not to be. War may break out – the world may seem to fall apart – but we have nothing to fear. If we truly believe in God’s promises – if we believe that we are saved by the blood of Jesus Christ and destined for Paradise, then we have absolutely, positively NOTHING to fear – most certainly about ‘end times!’
I may not have another day, week, month, or year. I have no clue… and frankly, even pondering it is a waste of the time God has given me to serve Him on this earth. I know that He knows exactly to the minute how long I have here, and He is counting on me to use my time wisely and to trust Him for the rest. So what if we are in the ‘end times’ – I’m ready…aren’t you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Armies may surround me, but I won't be afraid; war may break out, but I will trust you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The next time someone says to me, “I think the ‘end times’ are near,” I’m gonna shout “Whoopie!!!” People say that in the same tone as they say, “Oooo… the boogie man is gonna get you!” If you stop and think about it, this is a ridiculous comment. Okay, maybe they say it because they see souls yet to be won to Christ and feel time is short. But this is really not how I hear it. I hear it more like “Be afraid… be very afraid!”
I, for one, am not afraid! For one thing, Psalm 27:3 tells us not to be. War may break out – the world may seem to fall apart – but we have nothing to fear. If we truly believe in God’s promises – if we believe that we are saved by the blood of Jesus Christ and destined for Paradise, then we have absolutely, positively NOTHING to fear – most certainly about ‘end times!’
I may not have another day, week, month, or year. I have no clue… and frankly, even pondering it is a waste of the time God has given me to serve Him on this earth. I know that He knows exactly to the minute how long I have here, and He is counting on me to use my time wisely and to trust Him for the rest. So what if we are in the ‘end times’ – I’m ready…aren’t you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 6, 2010
June 6 ~ 2 Chronicles 20:17
You won't even have to fight. Just take your positions and watch the LORD rescue you from your enemy. Don't be afraid. Just do as you're told. And as you march out tomorrow, the LORD will be there with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1994, a classmate of mine died of breast cancer. Following her death, more than one person said to me, “I didn’t know what to say or do, so I just didn’t do anything.” I told them that they really didn’t have to say or do anything… they just needed to give the family members a hug or a handshake and let them know they cared. I vowed that someday, I was going to write a book called, What to Say and Do… When You Don’t Know What to Say and Do. When I experienced firsthand the warmth and love of so many friends and family members – and the distance of a small handful - following the deaths of my brother and my dad, God guided the thoughts and chapters, and I wrote this very book!
I realized that the reason so many people back away from this type of situation – or many others – is fear. They fear they will say the wrong thing – or act inappropriately – or they fear that no words will come to them whatsoever. The truth is that all we have to do is ask God to guide us, and whatever we say will be right. Really, all we have to do is stand back, so to speak, and let God do the walking and talking for us! He will bless our efforts and give those who receive our compassion a kind ear toward how we present the message. All we have to do is march out and do as God says.
So the next time you hesitate to greet someone at church – or to invite someone to worship with you – or you see a friend in the store who you know is in need of a friendly smile or a hug – or someone you know loses a loved one – step up and out in faith. God will do everything else. All you have to do is show up and be ready. When was the last time you marched out and let God use you for His purposes? Isn’t it time you did just that?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You won't even have to fight. Just take your positions and watch the LORD rescue you from your enemy. Don't be afraid. Just do as you're told. And as you march out tomorrow, the LORD will be there with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1994, a classmate of mine died of breast cancer. Following her death, more than one person said to me, “I didn’t know what to say or do, so I just didn’t do anything.” I told them that they really didn’t have to say or do anything… they just needed to give the family members a hug or a handshake and let them know they cared. I vowed that someday, I was going to write a book called, What to Say and Do… When You Don’t Know What to Say and Do. When I experienced firsthand the warmth and love of so many friends and family members – and the distance of a small handful - following the deaths of my brother and my dad, God guided the thoughts and chapters, and I wrote this very book!
I realized that the reason so many people back away from this type of situation – or many others – is fear. They fear they will say the wrong thing – or act inappropriately – or they fear that no words will come to them whatsoever. The truth is that all we have to do is ask God to guide us, and whatever we say will be right. Really, all we have to do is stand back, so to speak, and let God do the walking and talking for us! He will bless our efforts and give those who receive our compassion a kind ear toward how we present the message. All we have to do is march out and do as God says.
So the next time you hesitate to greet someone at church – or to invite someone to worship with you – or you see a friend in the store who you know is in need of a friendly smile or a hug – or someone you know loses a loved one – step up and out in faith. God will do everything else. All you have to do is show up and be ready. When was the last time you marched out and let God use you for His purposes? Isn’t it time you did just that?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 5, 2010
June 5 ~ 1 Chronicles 28:20
But you must see that everything is done according to these plans. Be confident, and never be afraid of anything or get discouraged. The LORD my God will help you do everything needed to finish the temple, so it can be used for worshiping him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last winter, the store where I sold antiques and “treasures” went out of business. I had to box up everything that I had left there to sell and bring it home. I had taken a lot of stuff to that store! My husband is so much more organized than I am, and he helped me by bringing everything home and unboxing it in long rows in one stall of our garage. He said, “You can sort through it there and decide what you want to do.” Let me tell you, it was a daunting task, and when I first looked at it, I was so discouraged.
I set aside two days to sort and box the items, and I asked God to give me strength, and little by little, the items got sorted and organized and “whittled down” to a manageable set. I soon had everything boxed, a car loaded for the new store, and the rest put in a closet for later. When I got to my empty space at the new store, we brought in the boxes, and I started to unpack. At first, it looked like a war zone…things stacked on shelves, tissue paper and bubble wrap everywhere, and I think the store manager was a little afraid it was not going to come together. But I kept working, and soon the booth was finished… and we were all pleased with how nice it looked.
From time to time, our lives resemble a “war zone” of disarray, confusion, and stuff. But we must not be discouraged. Consider that in all of this, God is building something within us. He is still there, helping clear out the clutter… mentally, physically, and spiritually. He is helping you do what you need to do to build His temple within your heart, so that you can worship Him better every single day. So keep plugging along. Keep unpacking, stacking, sorting…and purging the junk! Keep GOD totally in charge – and you will be amazed at how well He orchestrates the journey – and the outcome. We must remind ourselves not to be fearful or discouraged, because we have the Master Designer working in our heart. With Him in charge, there is no way we can fail.
©2010 Debbie Robus
But you must see that everything is done according to these plans. Be confident, and never be afraid of anything or get discouraged. The LORD my God will help you do everything needed to finish the temple, so it can be used for worshiping him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last winter, the store where I sold antiques and “treasures” went out of business. I had to box up everything that I had left there to sell and bring it home. I had taken a lot of stuff to that store! My husband is so much more organized than I am, and he helped me by bringing everything home and unboxing it in long rows in one stall of our garage. He said, “You can sort through it there and decide what you want to do.” Let me tell you, it was a daunting task, and when I first looked at it, I was so discouraged.
I set aside two days to sort and box the items, and I asked God to give me strength, and little by little, the items got sorted and organized and “whittled down” to a manageable set. I soon had everything boxed, a car loaded for the new store, and the rest put in a closet for later. When I got to my empty space at the new store, we brought in the boxes, and I started to unpack. At first, it looked like a war zone…things stacked on shelves, tissue paper and bubble wrap everywhere, and I think the store manager was a little afraid it was not going to come together. But I kept working, and soon the booth was finished… and we were all pleased with how nice it looked.
From time to time, our lives resemble a “war zone” of disarray, confusion, and stuff. But we must not be discouraged. Consider that in all of this, God is building something within us. He is still there, helping clear out the clutter… mentally, physically, and spiritually. He is helping you do what you need to do to build His temple within your heart, so that you can worship Him better every single day. So keep plugging along. Keep unpacking, stacking, sorting…and purging the junk! Keep GOD totally in charge – and you will be amazed at how well He orchestrates the journey – and the outcome. We must remind ourselves not to be fearful or discouraged, because we have the Master Designer working in our heart. With Him in charge, there is no way we can fail.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 4, 2010
June 4 ~ 1 Chronicles 22:13
If you obey the laws and teachings that the LORD gave Moses, you will be successful. Be strong and brave and don't get discouraged or be afraid of anything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
So often, we operate in fear, because we do not really recognize God’s presence. We have not made the connection between seeking His will – and doing it – and experiencing His protection, blessings, and success. So often we ask, “Why is this happening to me? I’ve done everything I was supposed to do… I’ve lived right and been a good person.” And maybe we have done exactly this. But we have missed one vital component… we have not ASKED God what He wants… and then acted on it.
The difference between muddling through life and really LIVING lies greatly in Who is making the decisions and guiding our steps. If we are including God in all of our plans… physically asking, “Lord, what do you want me to do? How do YOU want me to proceed?”… and then acting on God’s will, we truly have nothing to fear. God will handle everything – from selling the property we need to unload to working out conflicts in our marriage or relationship to helping us find a new vehicle to drive or our first apartment.
If something doesn’t seem to be coming together in your life, I encourage you to stop and ask God to guide your steps. And if you feel you have been doing this already, I encourage you to step back and take a good hard look at all aspects of your relationship with Him. What are you missing? There very well may be something that is not lining up fully with His will for your life. Once you figure out what piece of the puzzle is turned the wrong direction and make an adjustment, you very well may see a shift in everything else. And remember… God’s timing is always perfect. Trust Him to know which time is the right time… and ditch the fear factor. Operate in perfect confidence that you are in God’s will… and He is in total control, and you will be successful.
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you obey the laws and teachings that the LORD gave Moses, you will be successful. Be strong and brave and don't get discouraged or be afraid of anything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
So often, we operate in fear, because we do not really recognize God’s presence. We have not made the connection between seeking His will – and doing it – and experiencing His protection, blessings, and success. So often we ask, “Why is this happening to me? I’ve done everything I was supposed to do… I’ve lived right and been a good person.” And maybe we have done exactly this. But we have missed one vital component… we have not ASKED God what He wants… and then acted on it.
The difference between muddling through life and really LIVING lies greatly in Who is making the decisions and guiding our steps. If we are including God in all of our plans… physically asking, “Lord, what do you want me to do? How do YOU want me to proceed?”… and then acting on God’s will, we truly have nothing to fear. God will handle everything – from selling the property we need to unload to working out conflicts in our marriage or relationship to helping us find a new vehicle to drive or our first apartment.
If something doesn’t seem to be coming together in your life, I encourage you to stop and ask God to guide your steps. And if you feel you have been doing this already, I encourage you to step back and take a good hard look at all aspects of your relationship with Him. What are you missing? There very well may be something that is not lining up fully with His will for your life. Once you figure out what piece of the puzzle is turned the wrong direction and make an adjustment, you very well may see a shift in everything else. And remember… God’s timing is always perfect. Trust Him to know which time is the right time… and ditch the fear factor. Operate in perfect confidence that you are in God’s will… and He is in total control, and you will be successful.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 3, 2010
June 3 ~ 2 Kings 6:16
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Nobody likes to feel outnumbered. The good news is, in our Christian life, it may seem that way, but in truth, we have more “troops” on our side than we even realize! Truly, no weapon formed against us will prosper, if we are living within God’s will.
I will be honest… I didn’t really understand this when I was a teenager and young adult. And I now see just how generous God’s grace was over me during those years. I still remember being laughed at because I didn’t smoke cigarettes and wouldn’t try marijuana or other drugs. I still recall the sting of not being included in trips to the lake or other outings because I wasn’t allowed to wear a bikini bathing suit or the crop tops and low-rise jeans my girlfriends were wearing. I’ve heard the names… “prude,” “goody two-shoes,” and more. And I admit…at the time, these things really hurt. They made me feel like I was an outsider… like I was outnumbered, and everyone else was having more fun and laughing at me. And honestly, Satan delighted in this… and he could have so easily won me over, had God’s grace not covered me.
See, I didn’t realize it then, but for every temptation Satan hurled at me, God stood back, arms folded, watching His angels surround me and give me the resolve and courage I needed to muddle through each situation. It wasn’t easy, and I don’t have a spotless record! But now I see so clearly that I was I just didn’t realize Who had my back… I was never outnumbered! And neither are you!
God has a army of angels surrounding each of us, ready to fight off Satan’s attackers. We can call on them any hour of the night or day. All we have to do is say, “Lord, I need you. I’m upset, and I’m about to say something that I know I will regret later.” Or, “Lord, everyone else is doing this… I really, really want to fit in… can you help me?” Or, “Father, I don’t think I can fight this disease and the ailments of aging any more. Can you please give me strength and peace?”
When I sleepily rock our nephew Timothy in the middle of the night, and he will not settle down, I have prayed for God to give him rest and relaxation. I’ve envisioned him surrounded by angels who lovingly soothe him and calm him as he returns to sleep in his crib. I have felt the presence of angels in a hospital room as my dad lay dying, and I have acknowledged that they were far more powerful than the demons of his illness and suffering. I have been tempted to lash out in anger and frustration at someone when I felt they were mistreating me, and I’ve asked God to surround me with legions of angels to protect me – and my intended target. And always… ALWAYS… God answers when I call on Him. AND… He will do the very same thing for you. Nothing is too big or too small for God… and we do not have to operate one second more in fear.
Are you calling on God and His army of angels to calm your fears and give you courage – and encouragement? Do you recognize the enemy and confront him headlong by calling on The Great Commander? Isn’t it time we stopped giving in, compromising and declaring defeat unnecessarily? We need recognize that we are never outnumbered as Christians. Help is only a prayer away. I wish I had used them more often when I was younger, but I am making up for lost time now! God is truly my ultimate “lifeline” – is He yours?
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Nobody likes to feel outnumbered. The good news is, in our Christian life, it may seem that way, but in truth, we have more “troops” on our side than we even realize! Truly, no weapon formed against us will prosper, if we are living within God’s will.
I will be honest… I didn’t really understand this when I was a teenager and young adult. And I now see just how generous God’s grace was over me during those years. I still remember being laughed at because I didn’t smoke cigarettes and wouldn’t try marijuana or other drugs. I still recall the sting of not being included in trips to the lake or other outings because I wasn’t allowed to wear a bikini bathing suit or the crop tops and low-rise jeans my girlfriends were wearing. I’ve heard the names… “prude,” “goody two-shoes,” and more. And I admit…at the time, these things really hurt. They made me feel like I was an outsider… like I was outnumbered, and everyone else was having more fun and laughing at me. And honestly, Satan delighted in this… and he could have so easily won me over, had God’s grace not covered me.
See, I didn’t realize it then, but for every temptation Satan hurled at me, God stood back, arms folded, watching His angels surround me and give me the resolve and courage I needed to muddle through each situation. It wasn’t easy, and I don’t have a spotless record! But now I see so clearly that I was I just didn’t realize Who had my back… I was never outnumbered! And neither are you!
God has a army of angels surrounding each of us, ready to fight off Satan’s attackers. We can call on them any hour of the night or day. All we have to do is say, “Lord, I need you. I’m upset, and I’m about to say something that I know I will regret later.” Or, “Lord, everyone else is doing this… I really, really want to fit in… can you help me?” Or, “Father, I don’t think I can fight this disease and the ailments of aging any more. Can you please give me strength and peace?”
When I sleepily rock our nephew Timothy in the middle of the night, and he will not settle down, I have prayed for God to give him rest and relaxation. I’ve envisioned him surrounded by angels who lovingly soothe him and calm him as he returns to sleep in his crib. I have felt the presence of angels in a hospital room as my dad lay dying, and I have acknowledged that they were far more powerful than the demons of his illness and suffering. I have been tempted to lash out in anger and frustration at someone when I felt they were mistreating me, and I’ve asked God to surround me with legions of angels to protect me – and my intended target. And always… ALWAYS… God answers when I call on Him. AND… He will do the very same thing for you. Nothing is too big or too small for God… and we do not have to operate one second more in fear.
Are you calling on God and His army of angels to calm your fears and give you courage – and encouragement? Do you recognize the enemy and confront him headlong by calling on The Great Commander? Isn’t it time we stopped giving in, compromising and declaring defeat unnecessarily? We need recognize that we are never outnumbered as Christians. Help is only a prayer away. I wish I had used them more often when I was younger, but I am making up for lost time now! God is truly my ultimate “lifeline” – is He yours?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 2, 2010
June 2 ~ Judges 6:10
I am your God, and I told you not to worship Amorite gods, even though you are living in the land of the Amorites. But you refused to listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all heard the phrase… “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” And sadly, we do just that much of the time. We are pretty weak creatures, it seems, and when the going gets tough, quite often we just fold up and quit. It’s easier to give in and have a drink and appear to go with the flow at a party than to leave or tell your underage friends that drinking is not cool. When someone posts something offensive on Facebook, it’s easier to ignore it than to send them a private message saying you don’t approve – much less post an actual comment to that effect for everyone to see. Do you realize that by ignoring the offensive comments of your Facebook “friends,” you are in essence condoning them?
This passage is for adults, too. Many of us have found it easier to turn and look the other way in the workplace than to confront things that are happening that shouldn’t be. We’ve perfected the art of the “white lie” to friends, co-workers and spouses about everything from who we are talking with on the telephone to what we purchased at the store to what was said about them behind their back at the last supper club. And gossip has become an art form for many. See, we all have our “Amorite gods” at times!
Just because you’ve always done something – or done things a certain way – doesn’t mean you have to continue. This can be the day when we decide that we are going to live for God, even though we reside “in the land of the Amorites.” We cannot always change our environment – where we live, the people with whom we work, and even our friends and acquaintances – but we can change ourselves… our attitudes, our behaviors, and our reactions. We can live for God wherever we are planted. Who is your God today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am your God, and I told you not to worship Amorite gods, even though you are living in the land of the Amorites. But you refused to listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all heard the phrase… “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” And sadly, we do just that much of the time. We are pretty weak creatures, it seems, and when the going gets tough, quite often we just fold up and quit. It’s easier to give in and have a drink and appear to go with the flow at a party than to leave or tell your underage friends that drinking is not cool. When someone posts something offensive on Facebook, it’s easier to ignore it than to send them a private message saying you don’t approve – much less post an actual comment to that effect for everyone to see. Do you realize that by ignoring the offensive comments of your Facebook “friends,” you are in essence condoning them?
This passage is for adults, too. Many of us have found it easier to turn and look the other way in the workplace than to confront things that are happening that shouldn’t be. We’ve perfected the art of the “white lie” to friends, co-workers and spouses about everything from who we are talking with on the telephone to what we purchased at the store to what was said about them behind their back at the last supper club. And gossip has become an art form for many. See, we all have our “Amorite gods” at times!
Just because you’ve always done something – or done things a certain way – doesn’t mean you have to continue. This can be the day when we decide that we are going to live for God, even though we reside “in the land of the Amorites.” We cannot always change our environment – where we live, the people with whom we work, and even our friends and acquaintances – but we can change ourselves… our attitudes, our behaviors, and our reactions. We can live for God wherever we are planted. Who is your God today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 1, 2010
June 1 ~ Deuteronomy 3:21-22
Then I told Joshua, " You saw how the LORD our God helped us destroy King Sihon and King Og. So don't be afraid! Wherever you go, the LORD will fight on your side and help you destroy your enemies."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s just about summertime! We will be scattering in a zillion directions… vacations, summer camps, Boys State and Girls State, football practice, baseball and softball tournaments, swimming lessons, and much more. Some of you will be getting ready to head to college… or possibly Basic Training for the military. Some may be retiring or changing jobs… or getting married…having a baby, or moving to another city - or just to another apartment!
At every turn, our lives are filled with changes and new situations… and often, fears of the unknown. But if we stop and look around, we see that people have been going through these same things for years and doing just fine – with God’s help! Sometimes when I face something new or different and think it seems daunting, I remind myself of two things: 1) God is with me and will help me; and 2) plenty of other people have done this with His help - and so can I!
The message for today, this first day of a new month is… “You can do it… whatever ‘it’ is, because God will fight on your side and help you destroy any and all enemies.” God will see you through your challenges and obstacles - and even the new and exciting adventures that seem a little scary. Nothing is too big for God! Have a wonderful summer, and keep always Him close!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Then I told Joshua, " You saw how the LORD our God helped us destroy King Sihon and King Og. So don't be afraid! Wherever you go, the LORD will fight on your side and help you destroy your enemies."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s just about summertime! We will be scattering in a zillion directions… vacations, summer camps, Boys State and Girls State, football practice, baseball and softball tournaments, swimming lessons, and much more. Some of you will be getting ready to head to college… or possibly Basic Training for the military. Some may be retiring or changing jobs… or getting married…having a baby, or moving to another city - or just to another apartment!
At every turn, our lives are filled with changes and new situations… and often, fears of the unknown. But if we stop and look around, we see that people have been going through these same things for years and doing just fine – with God’s help! Sometimes when I face something new or different and think it seems daunting, I remind myself of two things: 1) God is with me and will help me; and 2) plenty of other people have done this with His help - and so can I!
The message for today, this first day of a new month is… “You can do it… whatever ‘it’ is, because God will fight on your side and help you destroy any and all enemies.” God will see you through your challenges and obstacles - and even the new and exciting adventures that seem a little scary. Nothing is too big for God! Have a wonderful summer, and keep always Him close!
©2010 Debbie Robus
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