Matthew 7:12
Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, a dear friend of mine was having surgery in a Little Rock hospital. I telephoned the hospital to inquire about my friend and see how her surgery went. After talking to several people, the consensus was, “She’s not here.” I knew she was there, and I was insistent that they keep looking. Eventually, someone on the hospital staff located her – she had been moved to another area of the recovery room, and quite frankly, they had temporarily lost track of her! This was a scary thought.
While the staff was able to excuse it by saying the woman’s children had stepped out for a bite to eat and there was no one there to speak up when her name was called in the waiting area, the fact that my friend’s name was not on any lists or computer files made me wonder about how careful people were at that facility. I had to ask myself … what if they were the ones having surgery? Wouldn’t they want documentation that showed that they were in the building? Wouldn’t they want someone to be able to locate them?
This is a drastic, dramatic illustration of treating others as we want to be treated … but isn’t this in essence what we do quite often? We “lose” others because we lose focus and become self-absorbed. We don’t see the needs and consider the feelings of others because we are so busy with our own. Their names don’t appear on our “roster” … and we have ample excuses should we be called out for it. But the truth is … we want others to notice us and care about us! We don’t want to be misplaced or forgotten.
It’s time for a reality check. We need to be looking up, out, and all around. Who in our path needs something from us today? It could be a simple smile, handshake, e-mail message, ride to school or the store, or a brief phone call. Others may be sick or injured and in need of more specific or detailed attention. Never assume that you know the level of someone’s need until you have done a proper assessment. The single older lady with the “sniffle” may need more help and attention than the woman half her age who is hospitalized with pneumonia. The student with the broken wrist may need help with school work, dressing and putting on shoes, and getting in and out of the building each day for classes. The grieving parent may need someone to come and help with everyday chores around the house until he/she can get a few days/weeks under the belt and begin to think clearly and function somewhat normally again.
The harried single mother with two kids may need someone to listen to her vent … or to sit and read stories to the children while she takes a hot shower. The college student who is juggling a full class load and a part-time job to pay for tuition and books may simply need to know that someone is available to listen or help where needed.
The bottom line is that we are called to serve others and meet their needs … just as they are called to do the same for ours. If we make excuses and let others get “lost in the shuffle,” we can hardly expect anything different for ourselves, can we? Ask God to open your eyes, ears, heart and mind to the needs of those around you. As you ask Him to meet your needs each day, think about who He will send to help you – and how this will be accomplished. Then ask where you have something to offer in return. God and others are counting on you to find the right balance.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 30, 2010
Matthew 7:2
God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have really thought about what to say today. I’ve asked God to give me His message through this scripture passage. Here is what I keep getting …
Many of us operate in assumptions rather than truth. We listen to our friends, our family members, the guy on the television who we deem an “authority” on certain topics, and others … and we formulate our attitudes and positions based on what we hear from them and assume to be truthful. More than once, I have mentioned to someone, “So-and-so is such a nice person,” only to receive a tirade about what a terrible person “So-and-so” really is. I’ve had people tell me how awful someone is, and when I reply, “That person is a good friend of mine,” – or worse yet, “That person is a member of my family,” the person complaining starts to back-pedal … and on at least one occasion, the person persisted to the point I had to end the discussion. Apparently he never comprehended my repeated phrase, “you are talking about my family.” I’ve had people tell me, “You have never lived around this minority or that one … you have no idea how they behave.”
I do not operate in absolutes. I’m not saying all of my friends and family members are perfect and never have a bad moment. I’m not saying that any group of people doesn’t have “bad apples.” But I’m saying that we are hard on people … and often, we want others to come along for the ride and agree with us. And this is how terrible misunderstandings and the mistreatment of others begins.
Suppose someone told you that a friend of yours sent out a vicious e-mail that resulted in getting people you hang around with in trouble at school … or even expelled. Suppose you never saw the e-mail for yourself … but you readily assumed that the person accused of sending it did so. And you and the rest of your buddies were very tough on this person … to the point of ostracizing them and being downright rude and unkind toward them. And then suppose you found out that the person you accused of sending the vicious e-mail never did so … somewhere down the line, a false accusation had been made.
I won’t repeat the story, because I’ve shared it in a devo before, but a version of this happened to me in junior high. The school “bully” distorted something I said on a church trip and caused every single person on the trip to be mad at me to the point that only a couple of them spoke to me the whole bus ride home from Dallas. I don’t know that some of the relationships ever fully recovered, but it was months before the “bully” let it slip one day that she made it all up. It was really hard to forgive some of those who had dissed me – especially people I considered my close friends. They had not believed me… or trusted that I would never say or do those things. They assumed the other person’s story was true.
I can’t say how God dealt with my friends over this, except to tell you I know some were deeply saddened and remorseful for how they had reacted and treated me. And I can only imagine how people would feel if they falsely accused someone of sending a vicious e-mail … or they talked disrespectfully or unkindly about someone only to find out they were bad-mouthing a dear friend or relative.
I don’t know how God deals with people who spread lies and rumors and try to scare folks into believing one way or another … politically, religiously, socially, or personally. But I know this … the judgment and the retaliation belong to God, not us. We may not see it in our lifetime … those who are mistreated may never realize vindication this side of heaven. But God will deal with injustice … in His time and His way. And I can assure you, if you mistreat others, God will deal with you, and it ain’t gonna be pretty!
The message for today is to use your brain. Think before you pass judgment. Ask yourself … “Have I done the right amount of investigation on my own to form an accurate opinion, or am I trusting the word of someone else?” Be careful how you treat others … mindful that people are “innocent until proven guilty.” Before you disrespect those who do not appear to be “like you,” get to know them and their situation. Ask God to give you an open, loving, generous heart for His people. And at the end of the day, ask Him to have mercy on you and those around you … and compassion for those who are judging you in return!
©2010 Debbie Robus
God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have really thought about what to say today. I’ve asked God to give me His message through this scripture passage. Here is what I keep getting …
Many of us operate in assumptions rather than truth. We listen to our friends, our family members, the guy on the television who we deem an “authority” on certain topics, and others … and we formulate our attitudes and positions based on what we hear from them and assume to be truthful. More than once, I have mentioned to someone, “So-and-so is such a nice person,” only to receive a tirade about what a terrible person “So-and-so” really is. I’ve had people tell me how awful someone is, and when I reply, “That person is a good friend of mine,” – or worse yet, “That person is a member of my family,” the person complaining starts to back-pedal … and on at least one occasion, the person persisted to the point I had to end the discussion. Apparently he never comprehended my repeated phrase, “you are talking about my family.” I’ve had people tell me, “You have never lived around this minority or that one … you have no idea how they behave.”
I do not operate in absolutes. I’m not saying all of my friends and family members are perfect and never have a bad moment. I’m not saying that any group of people doesn’t have “bad apples.” But I’m saying that we are hard on people … and often, we want others to come along for the ride and agree with us. And this is how terrible misunderstandings and the mistreatment of others begins.
Suppose someone told you that a friend of yours sent out a vicious e-mail that resulted in getting people you hang around with in trouble at school … or even expelled. Suppose you never saw the e-mail for yourself … but you readily assumed that the person accused of sending it did so. And you and the rest of your buddies were very tough on this person … to the point of ostracizing them and being downright rude and unkind toward them. And then suppose you found out that the person you accused of sending the vicious e-mail never did so … somewhere down the line, a false accusation had been made.
I won’t repeat the story, because I’ve shared it in a devo before, but a version of this happened to me in junior high. The school “bully” distorted something I said on a church trip and caused every single person on the trip to be mad at me to the point that only a couple of them spoke to me the whole bus ride home from Dallas. I don’t know that some of the relationships ever fully recovered, but it was months before the “bully” let it slip one day that she made it all up. It was really hard to forgive some of those who had dissed me – especially people I considered my close friends. They had not believed me… or trusted that I would never say or do those things. They assumed the other person’s story was true.
I can’t say how God dealt with my friends over this, except to tell you I know some were deeply saddened and remorseful for how they had reacted and treated me. And I can only imagine how people would feel if they falsely accused someone of sending a vicious e-mail … or they talked disrespectfully or unkindly about someone only to find out they were bad-mouthing a dear friend or relative.
I don’t know how God deals with people who spread lies and rumors and try to scare folks into believing one way or another … politically, religiously, socially, or personally. But I know this … the judgment and the retaliation belong to God, not us. We may not see it in our lifetime … those who are mistreated may never realize vindication this side of heaven. But God will deal with injustice … in His time and His way. And I can assure you, if you mistreat others, God will deal with you, and it ain’t gonna be pretty!
The message for today is to use your brain. Think before you pass judgment. Ask yourself … “Have I done the right amount of investigation on my own to form an accurate opinion, or am I trusting the word of someone else?” Be careful how you treat others … mindful that people are “innocent until proven guilty.” Before you disrespect those who do not appear to be “like you,” get to know them and their situation. Ask God to give you an open, loving, generous heart for His people. And at the end of the day, ask Him to have mercy on you and those around you … and compassion for those who are judging you in return!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 29, 2010
Matthew 5:7
God blesses those people who are merciful. They will be treated with mercy!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I believe that mercy is one of the hardest traits for us to cultivate. When someone is in your face, or you feel you have been mistreated or betrayed, it’s hard to feel mercy toward them. When you see someone who is behaving in an inappropriate manner or choosing a lifestyle that you feel is wrong for them, it’s sometimes hard to show unconditional love. When a friend “borrows” something from you and never pays it back – even acts like it never happened – it’s hard to feel generous toward that person again. When your phone calls go unanswered or aren’t returned, and then the person acts like you just spoke the next time he/she sees you, it’s a challenge to be civil sometimes … much less kind.
What we have to realize is that we do these sorts of things to Jesus every single day. We lie, cheat and steal from Him. We are willing to take and take from Jesus, but we have little time and service for His children in return. We choose behaviors and lifestyles that absolutely make Him crazy. We go days/weeks/months without talking to our Heavenly Father … much less listening. Then we expect Him to love us anyway and welcome us back with open arms when we realize our mistakes.
We are more than willing to receive Jesus’ grace and mercy … but are we offering the same to others? The Bible is very clear that God blesses those who are merciful … and He treats them with mercy. I don’t know about you, but I really, really want and need Jesus’ mercy. I am betting a lot of other people do, too. If showing mercy to others is the ticket, then I am there … are you? If calling on Jesus to give me strength and courage to be gracious and merciful toward those who I may not feel deserve it, I am more than happy to do so. If showing mercy to others will draw me closer to Christ, I am so willing to do whatever it takes.
I pray that we will ask God to grant us the strength and courage, kindness and compassion to be merciful toward others … and in the bargain, to gain His favor and mercy. I pray that we will not show mercy merely to receive mercy for ourselves … but because this brings us closer to Jesus and demonstrates that we truly are becoming His disciples. I pray that we will feel the power of the Holy Spirit and truly want to share His mercy with others. Being merciful isn’t always easy – or even popular – but it’s so worth our effort. Where has God granted you mercy today… and where can you show mercy to others?
©2010 Debbie Robus
God blesses those people who are merciful. They will be treated with mercy!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I believe that mercy is one of the hardest traits for us to cultivate. When someone is in your face, or you feel you have been mistreated or betrayed, it’s hard to feel mercy toward them. When you see someone who is behaving in an inappropriate manner or choosing a lifestyle that you feel is wrong for them, it’s sometimes hard to show unconditional love. When a friend “borrows” something from you and never pays it back – even acts like it never happened – it’s hard to feel generous toward that person again. When your phone calls go unanswered or aren’t returned, and then the person acts like you just spoke the next time he/she sees you, it’s a challenge to be civil sometimes … much less kind.
What we have to realize is that we do these sorts of things to Jesus every single day. We lie, cheat and steal from Him. We are willing to take and take from Jesus, but we have little time and service for His children in return. We choose behaviors and lifestyles that absolutely make Him crazy. We go days/weeks/months without talking to our Heavenly Father … much less listening. Then we expect Him to love us anyway and welcome us back with open arms when we realize our mistakes.
We are more than willing to receive Jesus’ grace and mercy … but are we offering the same to others? The Bible is very clear that God blesses those who are merciful … and He treats them with mercy. I don’t know about you, but I really, really want and need Jesus’ mercy. I am betting a lot of other people do, too. If showing mercy to others is the ticket, then I am there … are you? If calling on Jesus to give me strength and courage to be gracious and merciful toward those who I may not feel deserve it, I am more than happy to do so. If showing mercy to others will draw me closer to Christ, I am so willing to do whatever it takes.
I pray that we will ask God to grant us the strength and courage, kindness and compassion to be merciful toward others … and in the bargain, to gain His favor and mercy. I pray that we will not show mercy merely to receive mercy for ourselves … but because this brings us closer to Jesus and demonstrates that we truly are becoming His disciples. I pray that we will feel the power of the Holy Spirit and truly want to share His mercy with others. Being merciful isn’t always easy – or even popular – but it’s so worth our effort. Where has God granted you mercy today… and where can you show mercy to others?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 28, 2010
2 Timothy 1:10
Now Christ Jesus has come to show us the kindness of God. Christ our Savior defeated death and brought us the good news. It shines like a light and offers life that never ends.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There’s a lot of talk this weekend about the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and the tragedy that unfolded in New Orleans five years ago. Many of us were glued to our televisions, feeling so sad for the people who were there and wondering how on earth this happened in America in 2005. A lot of us donated money to the American Red Cross and other organizations that were providing relief and assistance. If you were like me, you prayed for those who were trapped in New Orleans and/or trying to get out … the rescue workers who made it there to help … and all of those who suffered losses – family members, homes, pets, and some their very lives.
Believe it or not, even today there are those who say that Hurricane Katrina was the result of God’s wrath on a “wicked city”. Some people actually believe in a God who operates – at least at times – in unkindness. Honestly, to believe this is to fail to believe in salvation through Jesus Christ. Yes, sinful behavior – including yours and mine – grieves God. But I don’t think God considers New Orleans – or its people – to be more “wicked” than those living anywhere else. And while God could easily wipe out New Orleans and its people … or Heber Springs or our entire country, for that matter … He operates much differently.
Sometimes God allows us to feel uncomfortable for a season, so that we draw closer to Him. And even following Hurricane Katrina, many who live there will tell you that good things have come to the people of New Orleans. Yes, a lot of people in the Gulf are still suffering and struggling five years later, but blessings have been seen and experienced on every street corner. And they come from the kindness of God … and the kindness of His children toward one another. Does the old adage about catching more flies with honey than vinegar ring a bell?
If you stop and think about it, you have given God every reason to be unkind toward you … to punish you and cause all manner of disaster to rain down upon you. But does this happen? Oh, you may feel persecuted from time to time, but truly, God is not operating in unkindness toward us. And as Christians, we must follow His lead. We must treat others with kindness and compassion. We must watch not only what we do, but what we say. And saying that God brought Hurricane Katrina to punish the people of New Orleans for their wicked ways is neither true nor kind.
Today, I want us to think about our thoughts, actions, and comments. I want us to check ourselves and see if we are showing the kindness of God to others as Christ shows it toward us. Are we shining like a light for Christ and sharing His Good News with others? Are we operating in kindness and compassion, and honoring the sacrifice Jesus made for each of us on the cross? Isn’t it time we started? Ask God to help you – to show you how to operate more in the realm of kindness toward others. And say a prayer for the people of New Orleans and the entire Gulf Coast this weekend … and ask God to bless them as they continue to rebuild.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Now Christ Jesus has come to show us the kindness of God. Christ our Savior defeated death and brought us the good news. It shines like a light and offers life that never ends.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There’s a lot of talk this weekend about the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and the tragedy that unfolded in New Orleans five years ago. Many of us were glued to our televisions, feeling so sad for the people who were there and wondering how on earth this happened in America in 2005. A lot of us donated money to the American Red Cross and other organizations that were providing relief and assistance. If you were like me, you prayed for those who were trapped in New Orleans and/or trying to get out … the rescue workers who made it there to help … and all of those who suffered losses – family members, homes, pets, and some their very lives.
Believe it or not, even today there are those who say that Hurricane Katrina was the result of God’s wrath on a “wicked city”. Some people actually believe in a God who operates – at least at times – in unkindness. Honestly, to believe this is to fail to believe in salvation through Jesus Christ. Yes, sinful behavior – including yours and mine – grieves God. But I don’t think God considers New Orleans – or its people – to be more “wicked” than those living anywhere else. And while God could easily wipe out New Orleans and its people … or Heber Springs or our entire country, for that matter … He operates much differently.
Sometimes God allows us to feel uncomfortable for a season, so that we draw closer to Him. And even following Hurricane Katrina, many who live there will tell you that good things have come to the people of New Orleans. Yes, a lot of people in the Gulf are still suffering and struggling five years later, but blessings have been seen and experienced on every street corner. And they come from the kindness of God … and the kindness of His children toward one another. Does the old adage about catching more flies with honey than vinegar ring a bell?
If you stop and think about it, you have given God every reason to be unkind toward you … to punish you and cause all manner of disaster to rain down upon you. But does this happen? Oh, you may feel persecuted from time to time, but truly, God is not operating in unkindness toward us. And as Christians, we must follow His lead. We must treat others with kindness and compassion. We must watch not only what we do, but what we say. And saying that God brought Hurricane Katrina to punish the people of New Orleans for their wicked ways is neither true nor kind.
Today, I want us to think about our thoughts, actions, and comments. I want us to check ourselves and see if we are showing the kindness of God to others as Christ shows it toward us. Are we shining like a light for Christ and sharing His Good News with others? Are we operating in kindness and compassion, and honoring the sacrifice Jesus made for each of us on the cross? Isn’t it time we started? Ask God to help you – to show you how to operate more in the realm of kindness toward others. And say a prayer for the people of New Orleans and the entire Gulf Coast this weekend … and ask God to bless them as they continue to rebuild.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 27, 2010
Galatians 1:10
I am not trying to please people. I want to please God. Do you think I am trying to please people? If I were doing that, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Probably every single one of us has heard our mom say, “If So-and-So told you to jump off a cliff, would you do it?” in response to something we said or did “…because So-and-So said/did it.” We are driven by what others think much of the time. So we see a couple going through a divorce, and we think, “Oh, well… lots of people get divorced.” We hear that someone’s mother or father or another family member or friend passed away, and we think, “That’s too bad, but it happens every day.”
We hear that our friend didn’t make the cheer squad and we think, “Too bad, but there were only so many slots available.” We see someone who is dirty or smells bad, and we either think, “That’s not my problem,” or we turn and look the other way and pretend we didn’t notice.
We assume that because many elderly people in the nursing home are out of their mind and so sick and decrepit that they wouldn’t even know if we came to visit, much less be able to sit and talk with us. We take a look at someone who goes into the ER and is disheveled and acting erratically and supposedly in serious pain, and we think … “That person is probably on drugs and wanting more narcotics or a ‘quick fix’.” We drive right past the homeless people on the street or cut a wide berth for the dirty person in the aisle at the grocery store and pretend we didn’t see them … much less acknowledge they might have a need we can meet.
You don’t have to address what you don’t acknowledge… and the world says, “You don’t have to concern yourself with these people and situations … they are not your problem.”
The truth is that, while they are not literally our problem, as disciples of Christ, any person who is suffering or in need requires our attention on some level. We cannot turn and look the other way. We can’t pretend we are too busy, or the person is too crazy, or the situation is simply too unpleasant for us to handle. If we are going to be the hands and feet of Jesus, we have to act like it!
This doesn’t mean we have to become 100% involved and engrossed in the person’s problems. But we have to show compassion. We have to care that others are going through a divorce and offer to pray for them. We have to care when someone doesn’t make the team or the cheer squad and be kind and sympathetic toward them … listen if they need to talk, and encourage them to try again or to try out for something else. We have to visit those who are grieving, send cards, and yes – attend a few funerals.
We have to support missions for homeless people and smile kindly at others in the stores and on the streets, regardless of how they look or smell. We have to stop passing judgment based on appearances. We have to stop calling people names and discriminating against them. I don’t care if Sam does act like an idiot… we do not call him that to his face – or behind his back. I don’t care of Sue is wealthy and can afford “help” in a crisis … we must still offer ours, as well. Mr. Joe may very well be old and grumpy and can barely get around … but he still deserves our kindness.
Do you see what I mean by this? Our “world” – and the devil – has told us that it’s all about us, and we don’t have to concern ourselves with others. Jesus died on the cross for us. The other guy is on his own. But this is not entirely true. Yes, Jesus died on the cross for us … but He died for the other guy, too. And… he taught us that we are to love others as we love ourselves … and that’s not always a popular stand.
We have to stop caring what others think, because their ways are not always God’s ways. We have to be sure that our thoughts and our actions line up with the word of God and the teachings of Jesus. We can’t talk one way and walk another. How are your words and deeds lining up these days? Who are you pleasing… and to whom are you listening?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am not trying to please people. I want to please God. Do you think I am trying to please people? If I were doing that, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Probably every single one of us has heard our mom say, “If So-and-So told you to jump off a cliff, would you do it?” in response to something we said or did “…because So-and-So said/did it.” We are driven by what others think much of the time. So we see a couple going through a divorce, and we think, “Oh, well… lots of people get divorced.” We hear that someone’s mother or father or another family member or friend passed away, and we think, “That’s too bad, but it happens every day.”
We hear that our friend didn’t make the cheer squad and we think, “Too bad, but there were only so many slots available.” We see someone who is dirty or smells bad, and we either think, “That’s not my problem,” or we turn and look the other way and pretend we didn’t notice.
We assume that because many elderly people in the nursing home are out of their mind and so sick and decrepit that they wouldn’t even know if we came to visit, much less be able to sit and talk with us. We take a look at someone who goes into the ER and is disheveled and acting erratically and supposedly in serious pain, and we think … “That person is probably on drugs and wanting more narcotics or a ‘quick fix’.” We drive right past the homeless people on the street or cut a wide berth for the dirty person in the aisle at the grocery store and pretend we didn’t see them … much less acknowledge they might have a need we can meet.
You don’t have to address what you don’t acknowledge… and the world says, “You don’t have to concern yourself with these people and situations … they are not your problem.”
The truth is that, while they are not literally our problem, as disciples of Christ, any person who is suffering or in need requires our attention on some level. We cannot turn and look the other way. We can’t pretend we are too busy, or the person is too crazy, or the situation is simply too unpleasant for us to handle. If we are going to be the hands and feet of Jesus, we have to act like it!
This doesn’t mean we have to become 100% involved and engrossed in the person’s problems. But we have to show compassion. We have to care that others are going through a divorce and offer to pray for them. We have to care when someone doesn’t make the team or the cheer squad and be kind and sympathetic toward them … listen if they need to talk, and encourage them to try again or to try out for something else. We have to visit those who are grieving, send cards, and yes – attend a few funerals.
We have to support missions for homeless people and smile kindly at others in the stores and on the streets, regardless of how they look or smell. We have to stop passing judgment based on appearances. We have to stop calling people names and discriminating against them. I don’t care if Sam does act like an idiot… we do not call him that to his face – or behind his back. I don’t care of Sue is wealthy and can afford “help” in a crisis … we must still offer ours, as well. Mr. Joe may very well be old and grumpy and can barely get around … but he still deserves our kindness.
Do you see what I mean by this? Our “world” – and the devil – has told us that it’s all about us, and we don’t have to concern ourselves with others. Jesus died on the cross for us. The other guy is on his own. But this is not entirely true. Yes, Jesus died on the cross for us … but He died for the other guy, too. And… he taught us that we are to love others as we love ourselves … and that’s not always a popular stand.
We have to stop caring what others think, because their ways are not always God’s ways. We have to be sure that our thoughts and our actions line up with the word of God and the teachings of Jesus. We can’t talk one way and walk another. How are your words and deeds lining up these days? Who are you pleasing… and to whom are you listening?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 26, 2010
Psalm 138:8
You, LORD, will always treat me with kindness. Your love never fails. You have made us what we are. Don't give up on us now!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When it comes to imitating Jesus, this scripture passage represents a tall order. If we are truly Christ’s disciples – if we truly imitate Him in our everyday lives, then we have to treat others with kindness. Our love must never fail. That also means we can’t give up on others.
Have you ever wanted to “wash your hands and walk away” from someone? “That’s it! I’ve had it! I’m done with So-and-So!” Oh, how all of us have wanted to utter that phrase … and many do exactly that. And I’m not saying we have to take repeated abuse from someone. We don’t have to be their best buddy, or even maintain continual contact with those who are unkind toward us or ungrateful, disrespectful, a constant mooch, or just plain unlovely. But we still have to love them.
We still have to pray for those who are hard to love. We still have to pray for the alcoholic or drug addict who can’t seem to get it together. We still have to pray for the bully in our class and the deadbeat dad. We still have to pray for those who are abusive or negative, and those who appear to simply be “losers” in life. Because at the end of the day, every single one of these people is as much a child of the LORD as you and I … and precious to Him. And what He has done for us, He can do for them … and He wants to do that and more!
So the LORD, whom we are asking to continue to treat us with kindness… the same LORD we are asking not to give up on us, is the very LORD who loves those we find difficult. We must love them and pray for them and offer reasonable encouragement and support. That doesn’t mean we have to be involved in their lives or their drama … that we have to give them money, or bail them out of troubles, or even necessarily give them our time and attention. But we have to give them our love and prayers … our kindness and the hope of better days and better ways through Jesus Christ.
It’s not always easy. I’ve literally had the door slammed in my face as I tried to help. I’ve been told my encouragement and witness was not welcome. I’ve felt the slings and arrows of others, and I’ve found it very hard to be kind and loving and to sincerely pray for those people. But I’ve seen the results of my efforts and how God can use us. I’ve seen the outcome make a positive turnaround – more than once. And I can assure you, I will never, ever give up on other people. As long as we are alive … and more importantly - JESUS is alive … there is hope and a chance for change.
Who do you need to offer prayers for today? Who do you need to encourage? Where could your kindness make a difference? Who have you felt like giving up on lately? This is the day to change your mind. This is the day to trust Jesus to make a difference … then get busy doing for others what He is doing for you. Sit back and watch Him work, and be amazed at the power of His love and kindness.
©2010 Debbie Robus
You, LORD, will always treat me with kindness. Your love never fails. You have made us what we are. Don't give up on us now!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When it comes to imitating Jesus, this scripture passage represents a tall order. If we are truly Christ’s disciples – if we truly imitate Him in our everyday lives, then we have to treat others with kindness. Our love must never fail. That also means we can’t give up on others.
Have you ever wanted to “wash your hands and walk away” from someone? “That’s it! I’ve had it! I’m done with So-and-So!” Oh, how all of us have wanted to utter that phrase … and many do exactly that. And I’m not saying we have to take repeated abuse from someone. We don’t have to be their best buddy, or even maintain continual contact with those who are unkind toward us or ungrateful, disrespectful, a constant mooch, or just plain unlovely. But we still have to love them.
We still have to pray for those who are hard to love. We still have to pray for the alcoholic or drug addict who can’t seem to get it together. We still have to pray for the bully in our class and the deadbeat dad. We still have to pray for those who are abusive or negative, and those who appear to simply be “losers” in life. Because at the end of the day, every single one of these people is as much a child of the LORD as you and I … and precious to Him. And what He has done for us, He can do for them … and He wants to do that and more!
So the LORD, whom we are asking to continue to treat us with kindness… the same LORD we are asking not to give up on us, is the very LORD who loves those we find difficult. We must love them and pray for them and offer reasonable encouragement and support. That doesn’t mean we have to be involved in their lives or their drama … that we have to give them money, or bail them out of troubles, or even necessarily give them our time and attention. But we have to give them our love and prayers … our kindness and the hope of better days and better ways through Jesus Christ.
It’s not always easy. I’ve literally had the door slammed in my face as I tried to help. I’ve been told my encouragement and witness was not welcome. I’ve felt the slings and arrows of others, and I’ve found it very hard to be kind and loving and to sincerely pray for those people. But I’ve seen the results of my efforts and how God can use us. I’ve seen the outcome make a positive turnaround – more than once. And I can assure you, I will never, ever give up on other people. As long as we are alive … and more importantly - JESUS is alive … there is hope and a chance for change.
Who do you need to offer prayers for today? Who do you need to encourage? Where could your kindness make a difference? Who have you felt like giving up on lately? This is the day to change your mind. This is the day to trust Jesus to make a difference … then get busy doing for others what He is doing for you. Sit back and watch Him work, and be amazed at the power of His love and kindness.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 25, 2010
Titus 2:7
Always set a good example for others. Be sincere and serious when you teach.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I have become quite familiar with a show on NickJr. called “The Wonder Pets.” Timothy loves it! The program features three animals in a pre-school … Linny the guinea pig, Tuck the turtle, and “Ming-Ming, too!” – a fuzzy yellow duckling. In each episode, the three animals are happily playing in their tanks or cages, until the “phone” (a recycled food can filled with pencils) begins to ring, signaling that “there’s an animal in trouble somewhere.” They hear the animal’s story and figure out how they can assist. Ming-Ming always says, “This is serious!” (Although her “serious” sounds like “sewious!”)
The Wonder Pets have figured out that there is a time to have fun … and a time to be serious. When it comes to the nuts and bolts of performing a rescue, they get very serious and work together to get the job done. Then they can have some fun with the animal and its family. And in much the same way, there are times for Christians to have fun … and times for us to be serious.
Yes, we want people to know that Christian living is fun. Retreats, float trips, get-aways and socials are wonderful. Having fun at Sunday School, laughing in worship, and celebrating special events are all part of God’s plan. But the saving of souls for all eternity is serious business, and there are times when we need to settle in and settle down … and really get into what God’s word tells us.
The happy, joy-filled Christian also needs to spend time with those who are sad and in need of a sympathetic ear … those who are sick … the poor and downtrodden. We have to show others that we can be sincere and serious and help them in times of need … that we can pray with them and for them, and that we can offer encouragement and support. We have to have time when we come together to study and worship in a spirit of humility and holiness … quiet reflection and a solemn attitude. We are not saying that Christian living is sad or somber … we are showing respect and honor for the teachings and ministries of Jesus … and meeting the needs of others His name.
Just like The Wonder Pets, there is a time for Christians to be playful and have fun … and there is a time to get serious. The Wonder Pets theme song says, “We’re not too big, and we’re not too tough, but when we work together, we’ve got the right stuff!” That should be the motto for us as Christians. We should “play” together and share the joy of our faith, but we should also roll up our sleeves and work together to accomplish the serious work for the Kingdom of Heaven.
What is our behavior saying to others these days? Do we, as Christians, have “the right stuff” – and are we showing this to others? Are we setting a good example for Christ … and are we keeping a good balance between “fun” and the serious work of His Kingdom? There’s “a person in trouble somewhere” – the “phone” is ringing … how will we answer?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Always set a good example for others. Be sincere and serious when you teach.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I have become quite familiar with a show on NickJr. called “The Wonder Pets.” Timothy loves it! The program features three animals in a pre-school … Linny the guinea pig, Tuck the turtle, and “Ming-Ming, too!” – a fuzzy yellow duckling. In each episode, the three animals are happily playing in their tanks or cages, until the “phone” (a recycled food can filled with pencils) begins to ring, signaling that “there’s an animal in trouble somewhere.” They hear the animal’s story and figure out how they can assist. Ming-Ming always says, “This is serious!” (Although her “serious” sounds like “sewious!”)
The Wonder Pets have figured out that there is a time to have fun … and a time to be serious. When it comes to the nuts and bolts of performing a rescue, they get very serious and work together to get the job done. Then they can have some fun with the animal and its family. And in much the same way, there are times for Christians to have fun … and times for us to be serious.
Yes, we want people to know that Christian living is fun. Retreats, float trips, get-aways and socials are wonderful. Having fun at Sunday School, laughing in worship, and celebrating special events are all part of God’s plan. But the saving of souls for all eternity is serious business, and there are times when we need to settle in and settle down … and really get into what God’s word tells us.
The happy, joy-filled Christian also needs to spend time with those who are sad and in need of a sympathetic ear … those who are sick … the poor and downtrodden. We have to show others that we can be sincere and serious and help them in times of need … that we can pray with them and for them, and that we can offer encouragement and support. We have to have time when we come together to study and worship in a spirit of humility and holiness … quiet reflection and a solemn attitude. We are not saying that Christian living is sad or somber … we are showing respect and honor for the teachings and ministries of Jesus … and meeting the needs of others His name.
Just like The Wonder Pets, there is a time for Christians to be playful and have fun … and there is a time to get serious. The Wonder Pets theme song says, “We’re not too big, and we’re not too tough, but when we work together, we’ve got the right stuff!” That should be the motto for us as Christians. We should “play” together and share the joy of our faith, but we should also roll up our sleeves and work together to accomplish the serious work for the Kingdom of Heaven.
What is our behavior saying to others these days? Do we, as Christians, have “the right stuff” – and are we showing this to others? Are we setting a good example for Christ … and are we keeping a good balance between “fun” and the serious work of His Kingdom? There’s “a person in trouble somewhere” – the “phone” is ringing … how will we answer?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 24, 2010
2 Timothy 1:13
Now follow the example of the correct teaching I gave you, and let the faith and love of Christ Jesus be your model.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
At the end of this devotional, I’ve posted a link to a YouTube video of a Cuban baby dancing on a tabletop. This is really cute. Clearly this baby is following the example of teaching from someone else – he didn’t think this up on his own! Babies learn from others. Early on, we sat Timothy on our laps and read books to him. Now he brings the books to us and wants us to read them to him. He has learned from our model. He hears adults talking, and he mimics their words. He sees the characters on Jack’s Big Music Show and Yo Gabba Gabba! dancing, and he tries to dance, too.
Sadly, if Timothy hears bad language or sees inappropriate behaviors, he may very well imitate those, too. Helping babies and young children develop well is a huge responsibility and requires that those of us who are older always check our behavior and make sure we are demonstrating only positive actions and speech.
In much the same way, we Christians must model the correct teachings of the Bible … the faith and love of Christ Jesus. Others are watching … non-believers, “baby” Christians, and those who may look to us for leadership and a reflection of living in a manner that honors and pleases God. Everybody has a bad day – or a less than stellar moment. But on the whole, we must be continually on our guard, checking our behavior … our thoughts, words and actions … so that what we exhibit and demonstrate lines up with the word of God.
The baby in the video is having fun. The adults in his world have shown him how to “let go” and move to the music, and he is enjoying himself and the attention he is garnering from those around him. Christians can have fun, too. We have this crazy notion that following the teachings of Jesus and His model for living will turn us into boring, miserable, stiff, stuck-up robots who march along in silent compliance to rigid demands and requirements. This is simply not true.
Living for Jesus can be as freeing and fun as a Cuban baby learning to dance! We can learn to dance in the joy and blessings of following Jesus … sharing Him with others. We can model Christ’s teachings, faith and love to others in a way that shows just how fun life in Christ really is!
What are you modeling? Are you showing others how to live in the joy, faith and love of Christ? Are you a “fun” Christian? When others look at you, do they see someone for whom living in Christ is a chore, or do they see the joy of new discoveries, much like a baby who discovers the joy of reading books? Ask God to show you where you may have missed the mark. Ask Him to reveal to you the joy of living for Jesus … and to help you convey this to others. God is calling us to set a good example. How are you doing these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOt0nsZLjds
Now follow the example of the correct teaching I gave you, and let the faith and love of Christ Jesus be your model.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
At the end of this devotional, I’ve posted a link to a YouTube video of a Cuban baby dancing on a tabletop. This is really cute. Clearly this baby is following the example of teaching from someone else – he didn’t think this up on his own! Babies learn from others. Early on, we sat Timothy on our laps and read books to him. Now he brings the books to us and wants us to read them to him. He has learned from our model. He hears adults talking, and he mimics their words. He sees the characters on Jack’s Big Music Show and Yo Gabba Gabba! dancing, and he tries to dance, too.
Sadly, if Timothy hears bad language or sees inappropriate behaviors, he may very well imitate those, too. Helping babies and young children develop well is a huge responsibility and requires that those of us who are older always check our behavior and make sure we are demonstrating only positive actions and speech.
In much the same way, we Christians must model the correct teachings of the Bible … the faith and love of Christ Jesus. Others are watching … non-believers, “baby” Christians, and those who may look to us for leadership and a reflection of living in a manner that honors and pleases God. Everybody has a bad day – or a less than stellar moment. But on the whole, we must be continually on our guard, checking our behavior … our thoughts, words and actions … so that what we exhibit and demonstrate lines up with the word of God.
The baby in the video is having fun. The adults in his world have shown him how to “let go” and move to the music, and he is enjoying himself and the attention he is garnering from those around him. Christians can have fun, too. We have this crazy notion that following the teachings of Jesus and His model for living will turn us into boring, miserable, stiff, stuck-up robots who march along in silent compliance to rigid demands and requirements. This is simply not true.
Living for Jesus can be as freeing and fun as a Cuban baby learning to dance! We can learn to dance in the joy and blessings of following Jesus … sharing Him with others. We can model Christ’s teachings, faith and love to others in a way that shows just how fun life in Christ really is!
What are you modeling? Are you showing others how to live in the joy, faith and love of Christ? Are you a “fun” Christian? When others look at you, do they see someone for whom living in Christ is a chore, or do they see the joy of new discoveries, much like a baby who discovers the joy of reading books? Ask God to show you where you may have missed the mark. Ask Him to reveal to you the joy of living for Jesus … and to help you convey this to others. God is calling us to set a good example. How are you doing these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOt0nsZLjds
Daily Devotional for August 23, 2010
Philippians 4:9
You know the teachings I gave you, and you know what you heard me say and saw me do. So follow my example. And God, who gives peace, will be with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, a young mother hit her 14-month-old toddler across the face with her open hand while flying from Dallas, Texas, to Albuquerque, New Mexico. A flight attendant removed the child from her seat and carried her to the back of the plane. Upon landing, police were summoned, and the parents were interviewed. The incident was deemed “isolated,” and the child was returned to the parents; however, the police said the flight attendant acted properly.
People are watching! I feel like I have to remind us of this from time to time. This is a great illustration of both sides of the coin. On one hand, people saw an adult mistreat a child. The mother said the child kicked her, and she “popped her.” You may think that is acceptable. But many, including the flight attendant who removed the child, did not. Some may feel the flight attendant should have minded her own business. But clearly this was not the opinion of the police or Southwest Airlines.
My point is this … from time to time, we are all the frustrated mother who “pops” a child. We act inappropriately – or at best, impulsively – and do something that we may regret later … gossip, speak unkindly, lie, cheat, steal, exceed the speed limit, and much more. On the other hand, there are often opportunities for us to be the “flight attendant” and step in to challenge something we feel is inappropriate. Yet we frequently sit idly by and say or do nothing.
We can tell someone sharing gossip that “I don’t need to hear this,” or we can offer a kind smile and a helping hand to someone acting out in frustration. We can drive defensively – without talking on our cell phones or texting. We can hand back that extra dollar the cashier gave us by mistake and treat the “nerd” at school with kindness and a friendly smile. We can encourage those who are participating in sinful behavior to act differently by simply modeling “right” behavior ourselves. Again, people are watching!
We fail to recognize the power and peace of following God … listening to His voice and the teachings of Jesus Christ … and doing what is right. We don’t trust in Him to give us peace and comfort … and we don’t comprehend the power of our example for others. We can make a difference for the Kingdom of God by simply living quiet lives of service, joy, and peace in Christ. The flight attendant didn’t berate the mother … she quietly removed the child and took her to the back of the plane, where she comforted her.
We can be like the flight attendant. We can diffuse situations by quietly acting as a calm, peaceful servant of Christ. Others will notice … it will matter … and God will flood us with peace and joy in the bargain. Are you willing to lead by example?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You know the teachings I gave you, and you know what you heard me say and saw me do. So follow my example. And God, who gives peace, will be with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, a young mother hit her 14-month-old toddler across the face with her open hand while flying from Dallas, Texas, to Albuquerque, New Mexico. A flight attendant removed the child from her seat and carried her to the back of the plane. Upon landing, police were summoned, and the parents were interviewed. The incident was deemed “isolated,” and the child was returned to the parents; however, the police said the flight attendant acted properly.
People are watching! I feel like I have to remind us of this from time to time. This is a great illustration of both sides of the coin. On one hand, people saw an adult mistreat a child. The mother said the child kicked her, and she “popped her.” You may think that is acceptable. But many, including the flight attendant who removed the child, did not. Some may feel the flight attendant should have minded her own business. But clearly this was not the opinion of the police or Southwest Airlines.
My point is this … from time to time, we are all the frustrated mother who “pops” a child. We act inappropriately – or at best, impulsively – and do something that we may regret later … gossip, speak unkindly, lie, cheat, steal, exceed the speed limit, and much more. On the other hand, there are often opportunities for us to be the “flight attendant” and step in to challenge something we feel is inappropriate. Yet we frequently sit idly by and say or do nothing.
We can tell someone sharing gossip that “I don’t need to hear this,” or we can offer a kind smile and a helping hand to someone acting out in frustration. We can drive defensively – without talking on our cell phones or texting. We can hand back that extra dollar the cashier gave us by mistake and treat the “nerd” at school with kindness and a friendly smile. We can encourage those who are participating in sinful behavior to act differently by simply modeling “right” behavior ourselves. Again, people are watching!
We fail to recognize the power and peace of following God … listening to His voice and the teachings of Jesus Christ … and doing what is right. We don’t trust in Him to give us peace and comfort … and we don’t comprehend the power of our example for others. We can make a difference for the Kingdom of God by simply living quiet lives of service, joy, and peace in Christ. The flight attendant didn’t berate the mother … she quietly removed the child and took her to the back of the plane, where she comforted her.
We can be like the flight attendant. We can diffuse situations by quietly acting as a calm, peaceful servant of Christ. Others will notice … it will matter … and God will flood us with peace and joy in the bargain. Are you willing to lead by example?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 22, 2010
Colossians 3:15
Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace. So let the peace that comes from Christ control your thoughts. And be grateful.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It seems like everywhere I go these days, people are grumbling. As I bought groceries early one morning, I was greeted with a loud conversation between two stockers who were complaining about our government leaders and how bad they feel things are going in this country. Not once did they acknowledge how blessed they are to have a job. The “peace” of my early morning shopping trip was blasted by their agitated tirade … and they didn’t appear to be living peacefully themselves.
I hear others complain about everything from poor health to their lousy jobs or how much they hate school to how “foreigners” are overtaking our country, and more. Sadly, I don’t notice nearly as many people who are eager to share how blessed they are … how much God has done for them … how fortunate they feel to be able to get out of bed every morning and breathe fresh air. I don’t notice many people who answer the question, “How is work?” or “How is school?” with a response that indicates that they are grateful for the opportunity to have a job or the chance to obtain an education.
Back to the stockers at the grocery store – they peppered their conversation with references to a televangelist and other church “leaders” who are warning us about how bad things are. Frankly, their reference to this particular evangelist – who I consider to be a grumbler who operates in spreading fear – spoke volumes to me. They never once mentioned prayer for our nation, trusting God to help us through our struggles, or anything that was remotely related to experiencing the peace of Christ. And I had to ask myself … what does this say to others who hear them? Do people recognize them as part of the body of Christ, allowing Him to control their thoughts and give them peace? Do others see any sign that these people are grateful or walking in faith?
Or does our grumbling, complaining and negative body language give others the impression that we are fearful and pessimistic? Does our apparent lack of peace and confidence actually turn off others … especially those who are riding the fence about whether or not to trust Jesus for themselves?
What is wrong with us? Why have we allowed the devil to have such victory in this area of our lives? Why have we let him steal our peace? Why aren’t we talking with God and asking Him to show us how to get through the challenges of our day, then moving forward in the peace and comfort of feeling confident that He will do exactly this? Why aren’t we more grateful for how blessed we are?
I believe the devil makes it too easy and too “fun” to grumble and gripe. For many of us it has become our favorite pastime and hobby. But we need to take a good hard look at our behavior and kick this negativity to the curb. It’s time to start operating in positives. I’m not talking about being phony. If we truly are trusting God to control our thoughts and give us peace, behaving as if we are peaceful and grateful is authentic … and reflects our commitment to being an honorable member of the body of Christ.
I pray that we will each set aside some time this next week to examine our lives … our thoughts, speech, and actions. Let’s see where we need to make some changes. Let’s see where we need to trust God more … and operate in blessings and gratitude. Let’s kick Satan - and his negativity and dissention - to the curb and represent the body of Christ as we were chosen to do. Are you with me on this?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace. So let the peace that comes from Christ control your thoughts. And be grateful.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It seems like everywhere I go these days, people are grumbling. As I bought groceries early one morning, I was greeted with a loud conversation between two stockers who were complaining about our government leaders and how bad they feel things are going in this country. Not once did they acknowledge how blessed they are to have a job. The “peace” of my early morning shopping trip was blasted by their agitated tirade … and they didn’t appear to be living peacefully themselves.
I hear others complain about everything from poor health to their lousy jobs or how much they hate school to how “foreigners” are overtaking our country, and more. Sadly, I don’t notice nearly as many people who are eager to share how blessed they are … how much God has done for them … how fortunate they feel to be able to get out of bed every morning and breathe fresh air. I don’t notice many people who answer the question, “How is work?” or “How is school?” with a response that indicates that they are grateful for the opportunity to have a job or the chance to obtain an education.
Back to the stockers at the grocery store – they peppered their conversation with references to a televangelist and other church “leaders” who are warning us about how bad things are. Frankly, their reference to this particular evangelist – who I consider to be a grumbler who operates in spreading fear – spoke volumes to me. They never once mentioned prayer for our nation, trusting God to help us through our struggles, or anything that was remotely related to experiencing the peace of Christ. And I had to ask myself … what does this say to others who hear them? Do people recognize them as part of the body of Christ, allowing Him to control their thoughts and give them peace? Do others see any sign that these people are grateful or walking in faith?
Or does our grumbling, complaining and negative body language give others the impression that we are fearful and pessimistic? Does our apparent lack of peace and confidence actually turn off others … especially those who are riding the fence about whether or not to trust Jesus for themselves?
What is wrong with us? Why have we allowed the devil to have such victory in this area of our lives? Why have we let him steal our peace? Why aren’t we talking with God and asking Him to show us how to get through the challenges of our day, then moving forward in the peace and comfort of feeling confident that He will do exactly this? Why aren’t we more grateful for how blessed we are?
I believe the devil makes it too easy and too “fun” to grumble and gripe. For many of us it has become our favorite pastime and hobby. But we need to take a good hard look at our behavior and kick this negativity to the curb. It’s time to start operating in positives. I’m not talking about being phony. If we truly are trusting God to control our thoughts and give us peace, behaving as if we are peaceful and grateful is authentic … and reflects our commitment to being an honorable member of the body of Christ.
I pray that we will each set aside some time this next week to examine our lives … our thoughts, speech, and actions. Let’s see where we need to make some changes. Let’s see where we need to trust God more … and operate in blessings and gratitude. Let’s kick Satan - and his negativity and dissention - to the curb and represent the body of Christ as we were chosen to do. Are you with me on this?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 21, 2010
Colossians 3:12
God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I think of living in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ, I think of a certain woman who attends my church. I don’t know her very well, but she has got to be one of the kindest, most gentle and loving people I’ve ever met. She radiates with a love for Jesus and an abiding faith in Him. She is like a magnet … her spirit is contagious! Just thinking of her makes me smile … and she is almost always smiling!
On the other hand, when I hear the names of a few other people, I feel my skin bristle. It’s as if I know that any encounter with them will be unpleasant, based on past experience. At some point we will disagree, or something will not suit them, and they will let everyone know. I know that these are Christian people who have big hearts and the potential to love and serve God with a gentle, kind, patient spirit. I’ve seen them do it. But more often, I’ve seen them behave in the opposite manner.
You surely know people who are like the lady in my church – you may even know her! You know those who are always gentle, kind and loving … patient and ready to help … and humble. Sadly, you probably know people who are arrogant or spoiled, grumpy … who always have to have their own way, and are restless at best.
If someone lined up a group of people … a mix of both gentle, kind, humble, patient folks and those who behaved in the opposite manner … and then told you that all of these people were faith-filled Christians – disciples of Christ – would you believe them? If you were told to interview each one, and then choose a half dozen or so to get to know better, which ones would you choose? If you were told that you should pick one to be your spiritual friend or mentor … someone with whom to study the word of God and the teachings of Jesus … would you choose the grump? Would you believe what he/she had to say about a faith-filled life in Christ?
Attitude does matter. I’m not saying we should be phony and pretend to be happy and kind when we are not feeling it. But I know for a fact that God can help us overcome a lot of negativity in our lives. He can help us rise above it. He can give us joy and kindness, humility and meekness, gentleness and patience – even when our world seems to be crumbling around us. He can use us to show others how to walk in these traits even when their worlds are crumbling or less than perfect.
So today, I challenge all of us to ask God to help us be more gentle, kind, humble, meek and patient … in all circumstances! I pray that we will all become “magnets” for Jesus … drawing others to us so that we can share His love and the message of the cross. What’s your attitude these days? Are you behaving like the apple of God’s eye … or could you use a little “spit and polish?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I think of living in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ, I think of a certain woman who attends my church. I don’t know her very well, but she has got to be one of the kindest, most gentle and loving people I’ve ever met. She radiates with a love for Jesus and an abiding faith in Him. She is like a magnet … her spirit is contagious! Just thinking of her makes me smile … and she is almost always smiling!
On the other hand, when I hear the names of a few other people, I feel my skin bristle. It’s as if I know that any encounter with them will be unpleasant, based on past experience. At some point we will disagree, or something will not suit them, and they will let everyone know. I know that these are Christian people who have big hearts and the potential to love and serve God with a gentle, kind, patient spirit. I’ve seen them do it. But more often, I’ve seen them behave in the opposite manner.
You surely know people who are like the lady in my church – you may even know her! You know those who are always gentle, kind and loving … patient and ready to help … and humble. Sadly, you probably know people who are arrogant or spoiled, grumpy … who always have to have their own way, and are restless at best.
If someone lined up a group of people … a mix of both gentle, kind, humble, patient folks and those who behaved in the opposite manner … and then told you that all of these people were faith-filled Christians – disciples of Christ – would you believe them? If you were told to interview each one, and then choose a half dozen or so to get to know better, which ones would you choose? If you were told that you should pick one to be your spiritual friend or mentor … someone with whom to study the word of God and the teachings of Jesus … would you choose the grump? Would you believe what he/she had to say about a faith-filled life in Christ?
Attitude does matter. I’m not saying we should be phony and pretend to be happy and kind when we are not feeling it. But I know for a fact that God can help us overcome a lot of negativity in our lives. He can help us rise above it. He can give us joy and kindness, humility and meekness, gentleness and patience – even when our world seems to be crumbling around us. He can use us to show others how to walk in these traits even when their worlds are crumbling or less than perfect.
So today, I challenge all of us to ask God to help us be more gentle, kind, humble, meek and patient … in all circumstances! I pray that we will all become “magnets” for Jesus … drawing others to us so that we can share His love and the message of the cross. What’s your attitude these days? Are you behaving like the apple of God’s eye … or could you use a little “spit and polish?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 20, 2010
Philippians 1:27
Above all else, you must live in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ. Then, whether I visit you or not, I will hear that all of you think alike. I will know that you are working together and that you are struggling side by side to get others to believe the good news.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you are old enough – or you have seen the modern-day movies – you know about Dennis the Menace. He was really just a typical kid, but he gave his next-door neighbors, the Wilsons, “the business” – as Beaver Cleaver would put it! He was a thorn in Mr. Wilson’s side from sun-up to sundown, and Mr. Wilson did not react kindly. Mrs. Wilson, on the other hand, saw Dennis for who he was, and she accepted him and loved him.
We don’t know a whole lot about Mr. Wilson, aside from his interaction with Dennis. He may have been a really “stand-up” guy … a pillar of his community, good boss, and wonderful friend to many. But all we saw was a cranky old codger who grumbled, griped, complained and disliked children - especially Dennis. On the other hand, we saw Mrs. Wilson as someone who extended grace and mercy. She was loving and gentle … someone we wanted to be around and get to know. And then there was Dennis … innocent, precocious, and curious … and something of a “sponge,” soaking up the characteristics and behaviors of those around him.
In real life, you probably know at least a few “Mr. Wilsons.” They may be Christians who read their Bible daily, go to church every Sunday, pray often, and help with a handful of ministry projects. But to be around them, you would be hard-pressed to see Christian love, grace and mercy in action. Something is always irritating them. They grumble and/or speak with an unkind tone to their voice, and the least little thing sets them off. They are always negative about something or someone, and frankly, they appear to be somewhat miserable.
God wants us to be more like Mrs. Wilson. Oh, sure, the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world may tromp through our rose garden and pester the tar out of us from time to time, but we don’t let it get us down. We look upon everyone with the same love, grace and mercy that Christ extends to us each and every day. We realize that we are all His children … loved equally … and we do our best to share that love with others in the hopes they will catch a glimpse of Christ in us.
Our goal as Christians is to live in a way that honors Christ – to work together with other Christians to share His Good News … to offer love, grace and mercy to those in our path. If we are modern-day “Mr. Wilsons,” we are missing the mark, and we fail to honor the gift of the cross. Everybody has an occasional bad day, but even on those, we must work hard to live honorably for Jesus.
Who do you more closely resemble today – Mr. Wilson or Mrs. Wilson? How are the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world reading you? Are you honoring the good news of Christ or giving your faith walk a black eye? It comes down to a choice … what will you decide?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Above all else, you must live in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ. Then, whether I visit you or not, I will hear that all of you think alike. I will know that you are working together and that you are struggling side by side to get others to believe the good news.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you are old enough – or you have seen the modern-day movies – you know about Dennis the Menace. He was really just a typical kid, but he gave his next-door neighbors, the Wilsons, “the business” – as Beaver Cleaver would put it! He was a thorn in Mr. Wilson’s side from sun-up to sundown, and Mr. Wilson did not react kindly. Mrs. Wilson, on the other hand, saw Dennis for who he was, and she accepted him and loved him.
We don’t know a whole lot about Mr. Wilson, aside from his interaction with Dennis. He may have been a really “stand-up” guy … a pillar of his community, good boss, and wonderful friend to many. But all we saw was a cranky old codger who grumbled, griped, complained and disliked children - especially Dennis. On the other hand, we saw Mrs. Wilson as someone who extended grace and mercy. She was loving and gentle … someone we wanted to be around and get to know. And then there was Dennis … innocent, precocious, and curious … and something of a “sponge,” soaking up the characteristics and behaviors of those around him.
In real life, you probably know at least a few “Mr. Wilsons.” They may be Christians who read their Bible daily, go to church every Sunday, pray often, and help with a handful of ministry projects. But to be around them, you would be hard-pressed to see Christian love, grace and mercy in action. Something is always irritating them. They grumble and/or speak with an unkind tone to their voice, and the least little thing sets them off. They are always negative about something or someone, and frankly, they appear to be somewhat miserable.
God wants us to be more like Mrs. Wilson. Oh, sure, the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world may tromp through our rose garden and pester the tar out of us from time to time, but we don’t let it get us down. We look upon everyone with the same love, grace and mercy that Christ extends to us each and every day. We realize that we are all His children … loved equally … and we do our best to share that love with others in the hopes they will catch a glimpse of Christ in us.
Our goal as Christians is to live in a way that honors Christ – to work together with other Christians to share His Good News … to offer love, grace and mercy to those in our path. If we are modern-day “Mr. Wilsons,” we are missing the mark, and we fail to honor the gift of the cross. Everybody has an occasional bad day, but even on those, we must work hard to live honorably for Jesus.
Who do you more closely resemble today – Mr. Wilson or Mrs. Wilson? How are the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world reading you? Are you honoring the good news of Christ or giving your faith walk a black eye? It comes down to a choice … what will you decide?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 19, 2010
1 Corinthians 1:17
Christ did not send me to baptize. He sent me to tell the good news without using big words that would make the cross of Christ lose its power.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have to tell you … I am so grateful for www.BibleGateway.org and the numerous Bible commentaries and concordances I own. I can sort of tell you verses from the Bible and that “the Bible says so-and-so,” but I am terrible about remembering where particular scripture passages are located. But with keyword searches and indexes, I do pretty well. I’ve always admired people who can say, “You know, in Matthew 5:12, we read “xyz”, or Psalm 48 tells us …”abc”.
At the same time, I don’t think this makes me less of a Christian because I cannot do this. I may not know - off the top of my head - where certain scriptures are located in the Bible, but I know how to find them! And more importantly, I know how to apply the scriptures in the Bible to everyday situations and, hopefully, share the love of Christ in a way that is meaningful to others.
I know people who can recite scripture and verse all day long, but they honestly appear as if they could care less about really, truly serving others. I know preachers who can deliver a dandy sermon on Sunday … but they are lost as a goose when it comes to meeting the needs of those in attendance the rest of the week. I know Sunday School teachers who do a great job of delivering a Bible lesson, but the other six days of the week they just as well not know the members of their class, for all the time they spend thinking of them, praying for them, and truly leading them in their Christian growth.
You’ve probably been around people who appear to be “good Christians” because they tell you how much they know about the Bible, how often they pray and attend Bible studies, and how much they give to the church. But I believe a really “good” Christian is one who shares the Good News of Jesus Christ in a way that others can readily comprehend. I believe that true servants of Jesus minister and nurture because they “live by example.” In other words, they model the teachings and ministry of Jesus.
Head knowledge and heart knowledge are very different. There’s an old saying that “People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” What do people know about you? Do they know that you can recite a lot of scripture … or do they know that you are willing to step in and help them with a moment’s notice? Do they know that you are a big financial supporter of the church … or do they know that when they are sick, injured or in trouble, you will be there to do whatever is needed to help them recover? Do they know that you are an excellent speaker who can deliver a devotional, testimony or Sunday School lesson in a heartbeat … or do they know from observation and the things you have shared that you truly “walk the walk” and follow Jesus through thick and thin?
How powerful is the cross of Christ in your witness? Is it masked by fancy words and big talk, or is it laid bare … pure, unadulterated, and holy … for others to truly see? Christ didn’t send most of us to baptize … but He did give us a purpose in ministry for Him. Have you discovered yours yet? Isn’t it time to do so?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Christ did not send me to baptize. He sent me to tell the good news without using big words that would make the cross of Christ lose its power.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have to tell you … I am so grateful for www.BibleGateway.org and the numerous Bible commentaries and concordances I own. I can sort of tell you verses from the Bible and that “the Bible says so-and-so,” but I am terrible about remembering where particular scripture passages are located. But with keyword searches and indexes, I do pretty well. I’ve always admired people who can say, “You know, in Matthew 5:12, we read “xyz”, or Psalm 48 tells us …”abc”.
At the same time, I don’t think this makes me less of a Christian because I cannot do this. I may not know - off the top of my head - where certain scriptures are located in the Bible, but I know how to find them! And more importantly, I know how to apply the scriptures in the Bible to everyday situations and, hopefully, share the love of Christ in a way that is meaningful to others.
I know people who can recite scripture and verse all day long, but they honestly appear as if they could care less about really, truly serving others. I know preachers who can deliver a dandy sermon on Sunday … but they are lost as a goose when it comes to meeting the needs of those in attendance the rest of the week. I know Sunday School teachers who do a great job of delivering a Bible lesson, but the other six days of the week they just as well not know the members of their class, for all the time they spend thinking of them, praying for them, and truly leading them in their Christian growth.
You’ve probably been around people who appear to be “good Christians” because they tell you how much they know about the Bible, how often they pray and attend Bible studies, and how much they give to the church. But I believe a really “good” Christian is one who shares the Good News of Jesus Christ in a way that others can readily comprehend. I believe that true servants of Jesus minister and nurture because they “live by example.” In other words, they model the teachings and ministry of Jesus.
Head knowledge and heart knowledge are very different. There’s an old saying that “People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” What do people know about you? Do they know that you can recite a lot of scripture … or do they know that you are willing to step in and help them with a moment’s notice? Do they know that you are a big financial supporter of the church … or do they know that when they are sick, injured or in trouble, you will be there to do whatever is needed to help them recover? Do they know that you are an excellent speaker who can deliver a devotional, testimony or Sunday School lesson in a heartbeat … or do they know from observation and the things you have shared that you truly “walk the walk” and follow Jesus through thick and thin?
How powerful is the cross of Christ in your witness? Is it masked by fancy words and big talk, or is it laid bare … pure, unadulterated, and holy … for others to truly see? Christ didn’t send most of us to baptize … but He did give us a purpose in ministry for Him. Have you discovered yours yet? Isn’t it time to do so?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 18, 2010
Philemon 1:6
As you share your faith with others, I pray that they may come to know all the blessings Christ has given us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One phone call … ultimately, the balance of two lives came down to a single phone call. Journalists Laura Ling and Euna Lee were captured by North Korean military patrol on the North Korea/China border on March 17, 2009. The two were charged as spies and sentenced to hard labor for twelve years.
Efforts to rescue the women were largely unsuccessful until it was learned that North Korean leader Kim Jong Il desired a face-to-face meeting with former U.S. President Bill Clinton. It seems that when Kim Jong Il’s father died, then-President Clinton had been the first person to call him … even ahead of his own allies. Kim Jong Il wanted to meet the person who had been so kind and thoughtful, and an exchange was brokered … a meeting with Clinton led to the release of the two young reporters. In August, 140 days later, President Clinton met with Kim Jong Il … and Euna Lee and Laura Ling were set free.
I share this story with you today for two reasons. First, I want to emphasize the power of one gesture. When we reach out to someone else with a smile, a handshake, a kind word, a phone call, note of encouragement or even an e-mail message, we have no idea how we impact that person. A dear friend of mine once related to me how I had hugged her in line for Holy Communion one Sunday, and it made her day. I did not remember hugging her, specifically. Another lady told my mother-in-law, “When Debbie sees me, she always hugs me.” I didn’t realize I hugged this woman, either. But after that comment, I made sure I always did! A simple hug meant the world to her. So my first point is that our seemingly small gestures do matter. Just look at what a phone call to express sympathy did for two young women held captive in North Korea!
The second point is that we cannot begin to comprehend the power of sharing our faith with others, in ways great and small. We have no idea how even the simplest expressions of love for another person … a simple “God bless you” … can make a huge difference. I recently shared with you about telling my cousin, “I’m praying for you.” I don’t remember that at all … but he surely does! Inviting a friend or family member to church, sharing a copy of a really good inspirational book, or even commenting to someone on Facebook about your walk with God or telling them God cares about them can have a huge impact.
We need to pay closer attention to our day and how we conduct ourselves. We need to be more aware of those around us … their needs and the ways God is calling us to share His love with them. We need to smile, hug and love more. How hard is it to say, “I’m praying for you” (then be sure you really do pray for them!) or “God bless you”? What’s keeping you from asking, “Where do you go to church?” or saying, “We have a great youth group at our church, and we’d love for you to visit.”? Are you denying others the opportunity to know all of the blessings of Christ because you aren’t sharing your faith? Because honestly, that’s what it boils down to … it’s either apathy or indifference on our part, timidity, or plain old selfishness and an “it’s-all-about-me” attitude … and it grieves God.
I don’t think this truly describes most of us. I believe that we really want to share our faith, but maybe we’ve just lacked confidence or gotten bogged down in daily living and forgotten to look up and out at those around us. We can change this … with God’s help. Ask Him to show you how and where to share. Start with one call … one smile … one hug or blessing. The more you give, the easier it gets – and the more the blessings multiply. I pray that today is the day we all get busy sharing our faith. I can’t wait to see what happens … can you?!
©2010 Debbie Robus
As you share your faith with others, I pray that they may come to know all the blessings Christ has given us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One phone call … ultimately, the balance of two lives came down to a single phone call. Journalists Laura Ling and Euna Lee were captured by North Korean military patrol on the North Korea/China border on March 17, 2009. The two were charged as spies and sentenced to hard labor for twelve years.
Efforts to rescue the women were largely unsuccessful until it was learned that North Korean leader Kim Jong Il desired a face-to-face meeting with former U.S. President Bill Clinton. It seems that when Kim Jong Il’s father died, then-President Clinton had been the first person to call him … even ahead of his own allies. Kim Jong Il wanted to meet the person who had been so kind and thoughtful, and an exchange was brokered … a meeting with Clinton led to the release of the two young reporters. In August, 140 days later, President Clinton met with Kim Jong Il … and Euna Lee and Laura Ling were set free.
I share this story with you today for two reasons. First, I want to emphasize the power of one gesture. When we reach out to someone else with a smile, a handshake, a kind word, a phone call, note of encouragement or even an e-mail message, we have no idea how we impact that person. A dear friend of mine once related to me how I had hugged her in line for Holy Communion one Sunday, and it made her day. I did not remember hugging her, specifically. Another lady told my mother-in-law, “When Debbie sees me, she always hugs me.” I didn’t realize I hugged this woman, either. But after that comment, I made sure I always did! A simple hug meant the world to her. So my first point is that our seemingly small gestures do matter. Just look at what a phone call to express sympathy did for two young women held captive in North Korea!
The second point is that we cannot begin to comprehend the power of sharing our faith with others, in ways great and small. We have no idea how even the simplest expressions of love for another person … a simple “God bless you” … can make a huge difference. I recently shared with you about telling my cousin, “I’m praying for you.” I don’t remember that at all … but he surely does! Inviting a friend or family member to church, sharing a copy of a really good inspirational book, or even commenting to someone on Facebook about your walk with God or telling them God cares about them can have a huge impact.
We need to pay closer attention to our day and how we conduct ourselves. We need to be more aware of those around us … their needs and the ways God is calling us to share His love with them. We need to smile, hug and love more. How hard is it to say, “I’m praying for you” (then be sure you really do pray for them!) or “God bless you”? What’s keeping you from asking, “Where do you go to church?” or saying, “We have a great youth group at our church, and we’d love for you to visit.”? Are you denying others the opportunity to know all of the blessings of Christ because you aren’t sharing your faith? Because honestly, that’s what it boils down to … it’s either apathy or indifference on our part, timidity, or plain old selfishness and an “it’s-all-about-me” attitude … and it grieves God.
I don’t think this truly describes most of us. I believe that we really want to share our faith, but maybe we’ve just lacked confidence or gotten bogged down in daily living and forgotten to look up and out at those around us. We can change this … with God’s help. Ask Him to show you how and where to share. Start with one call … one smile … one hug or blessing. The more you give, the easier it gets – and the more the blessings multiply. I pray that today is the day we all get busy sharing our faith. I can’t wait to see what happens … can you?!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 17, 2010
1 John 1:6-7
If we say that we share in life with God and keep on living in the dark, we are lying and are not living by the truth.
But if we live in the light, as God does, we share in life with each other. And the blood of his Son Jesus washes all our sins away.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I attended a bridal shower for a friend. I had never met the hostess before, but she was warm and friendly, and we found we instantly had quite a few things in common. The conversation turned to Facebook, and how some people utilize it to communicate with others. She noted a childhood friend who is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. This friend is using Facebook to keep her “friends” updated on her condition … posting comments about chemotherapy treatments, sharing photos of her newest hair scarves, and more.
On the other hand, the woman had a co-worker who became ill with cancer last March, but she chose not to tell anyone except a very small number of close friends and family. She endured her illness in secret, not allowing most people to visit her or even be advised of her condition. And in May, she died. The woman related that she felt badly that she did not know her co-worker was ill and suffering virtually in secret.
I was reminded of a friend whose mother became ill and didn’t want anyone to know. I asked, “If people don’t know she is ill, how can they know to pray for her healing?” I respect a person’s right to privacy. But at the same time I am reminded of what a former pastor once told me … “I can’t visit someone who is sick if I don’t know about them.” Frankly, if I am ill, I want all of the prayers I can get … don’t you?!
Looking at this passage another way … if we are claiming to have faith in God, but we pretend we have no needs … or we make a concerted effort to hide our situation out of embarrassment or a sense that we should be able to handle things on our own – or that some aspect of our life is too dark or ugly to admit to anyone else - we are not living by the truth. And certainly, if we are acting smugly and giving others the impression they cannot be “real” with us for fear of judgment or retribution, we are lying and failing to share in life with each other.
When Jesus died for our sins, He gave us a new life in Him – a life in which He charges us to go into the world and be His light – to offer hope and healing to others in His name, and to love unconditionally, with grace and mercy. This means we must welcome opportunities to pray for others and to share their concerns. We must offer others the promise of help in Jesus … reconciliation and restoration because of the cross. It’s somewhat the “go big or go home” concept. Because of the blood of Jesus, we can no longer hide in the shadows and darkness and live a lie. We must step up and step out … live and love in the light of God.
What about you? Where do you stand today? How “big” are you going with your faith and ministry?
©2010 Debbie Robus
If we say that we share in life with God and keep on living in the dark, we are lying and are not living by the truth.
But if we live in the light, as God does, we share in life with each other. And the blood of his Son Jesus washes all our sins away.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I attended a bridal shower for a friend. I had never met the hostess before, but she was warm and friendly, and we found we instantly had quite a few things in common. The conversation turned to Facebook, and how some people utilize it to communicate with others. She noted a childhood friend who is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. This friend is using Facebook to keep her “friends” updated on her condition … posting comments about chemotherapy treatments, sharing photos of her newest hair scarves, and more.
On the other hand, the woman had a co-worker who became ill with cancer last March, but she chose not to tell anyone except a very small number of close friends and family. She endured her illness in secret, not allowing most people to visit her or even be advised of her condition. And in May, she died. The woman related that she felt badly that she did not know her co-worker was ill and suffering virtually in secret.
I was reminded of a friend whose mother became ill and didn’t want anyone to know. I asked, “If people don’t know she is ill, how can they know to pray for her healing?” I respect a person’s right to privacy. But at the same time I am reminded of what a former pastor once told me … “I can’t visit someone who is sick if I don’t know about them.” Frankly, if I am ill, I want all of the prayers I can get … don’t you?!
Looking at this passage another way … if we are claiming to have faith in God, but we pretend we have no needs … or we make a concerted effort to hide our situation out of embarrassment or a sense that we should be able to handle things on our own – or that some aspect of our life is too dark or ugly to admit to anyone else - we are not living by the truth. And certainly, if we are acting smugly and giving others the impression they cannot be “real” with us for fear of judgment or retribution, we are lying and failing to share in life with each other.
When Jesus died for our sins, He gave us a new life in Him – a life in which He charges us to go into the world and be His light – to offer hope and healing to others in His name, and to love unconditionally, with grace and mercy. This means we must welcome opportunities to pray for others and to share their concerns. We must offer others the promise of help in Jesus … reconciliation and restoration because of the cross. It’s somewhat the “go big or go home” concept. Because of the blood of Jesus, we can no longer hide in the shadows and darkness and live a lie. We must step up and step out … live and love in the light of God.
What about you? Where do you stand today? How “big” are you going with your faith and ministry?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 16, 2010
Hebrews 13:16
But don't forget to help others and to share your possessions with them. This too is like offering a sacrifice that pleases God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few months ago, we invited some friends over for a “soup supper” one evening. I made three “soups” – loaded baked potato, chili, and what I call “calico bean pot.” One of the guests in particular really liked my bean soup. He said, “I would like to have your recipe.” Now, I could have been really stingy and said, “Sorry, Bud … that’s a secret recipe.” I could reason that by keeping this recipe to myself, it would be all mine – somewhat one of my “signature dishes.” The only place for our family and friends to enjoy it would be at our table. But instead, I told this guest I would be glad to share the recipe with him.
Sometimes, we are like this as Christians. We don’t want to share what we have with others – from time and talent to material possessions to the blessings of an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. It’s like we think we will somehow diminish our self-worth or our own experience if we share with others. In truth, we all have more than we need of everything … material possessions, a few minutes of time for others, a helping hand, and even abundance in our relationship with God Almighty. If we share with others in God’s name, are we really afraid He will make us do without? Do you really believe that helping others and sharing your possessions with them will cause God to deplete your own supply?
Truly, the more we give, the more we get … although this should not be our motivation. We can find instance after instance in the Bible where someone tried to make a sacrifice, and God was so pleased that He blessed them abundantly. You can’t outdo God! So really, we have nothing to lose by giving to others. Whatever we give away, God will replace … in amounts we can’t even measure!
Don’t forget to help others and share your possessions with them … including your love and compassion. You will be amazed at what happens when you please God in this manner … and He will most surely bless you in return.
©2010 Debbie Robus
But don't forget to help others and to share your possessions with them. This too is like offering a sacrifice that pleases God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few months ago, we invited some friends over for a “soup supper” one evening. I made three “soups” – loaded baked potato, chili, and what I call “calico bean pot.” One of the guests in particular really liked my bean soup. He said, “I would like to have your recipe.” Now, I could have been really stingy and said, “Sorry, Bud … that’s a secret recipe.” I could reason that by keeping this recipe to myself, it would be all mine – somewhat one of my “signature dishes.” The only place for our family and friends to enjoy it would be at our table. But instead, I told this guest I would be glad to share the recipe with him.
Sometimes, we are like this as Christians. We don’t want to share what we have with others – from time and talent to material possessions to the blessings of an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. It’s like we think we will somehow diminish our self-worth or our own experience if we share with others. In truth, we all have more than we need of everything … material possessions, a few minutes of time for others, a helping hand, and even abundance in our relationship with God Almighty. If we share with others in God’s name, are we really afraid He will make us do without? Do you really believe that helping others and sharing your possessions with them will cause God to deplete your own supply?
Truly, the more we give, the more we get … although this should not be our motivation. We can find instance after instance in the Bible where someone tried to make a sacrifice, and God was so pleased that He blessed them abundantly. You can’t outdo God! So really, we have nothing to lose by giving to others. Whatever we give away, God will replace … in amounts we can’t even measure!
Don’t forget to help others and share your possessions with them … including your love and compassion. You will be amazed at what happens when you please God in this manner … and He will most surely bless you in return.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 15, 2010
2 Corinthians 1:4
He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One day a young teacher made a comment in the teacher’s lounge about her baby girl. I don’t know what I said to her, but I tried to commiserate, and she wheeled sharply around and said, “Until you have a baby, you couldn’t possibly understand.” It was a cutting, unkind remark, and others in the room were astounded. And for the record, giving birth does not make a woman a mother – and plenty of “dads” never fathered a child.
But this story does have a point. Often, when we minister to people, they don’t believe we fully understand their situation unless we have similar experience upon which to draw. I believe this is why God allows us to endure troubles and tribulations – with His help and comfort, of course. God has used some of the most devastating and difficult experiences of my life to equip me to minister to others who were going through similar circumstances.
I do not say this to brag. I wish I never had to know the sadness and grief of losing my father-in-law, brother, and my own dad … grandparents, cousins and other family members and friends. I wish we had never had to bury our beloved pets. I wish my fellow teacher had not been strangled to death at the hands of her abusive husband. I wish I had never had surgery or a broken bone. I wish I had never had to attend the funeral of a student or watched a loved one succumb to dementia or Alzheimer’s. And yet, these things pale in comparison to what many of you and others have endured.
But because God carried me through all of these situations, when I speak to someone in need or send a card of encouragement, I can assure them with firsthand knowledge that He is with them. They know that I speak from experience, so my words are not merely lip service or “the right thing to say.” I believe that God’s comfort in my own troubles has enabled me to comfort others without saying or doing something stupid … well, most of the time! My experience has taught me how to genuinely share God’s love and peace with others.
Experience bases come with age, and you may feel that you are young and don’t have anything to contribute to others to offer them comfort. And certainly those who are older than I am have a larger experience base from which to draw. But each of us has a unique, God-given perspective on troubles of one kind or another. When we see someone going through a similar situation, we should reach out to that person and let them know that we understand … and share how God helped us through it.
And the next time you start to ask, “LORD, why is this happening to me?” consider this … maybe God is equipping you for ministry to others. I would like to think that something positive could come out of our troubles, wouldn’t you? Every time I share God’s comfort with someone, I feel a little of the pain and sorrow of my own situations lighten a bit. See, God continues to comfort me as He uses me to minister to others. He wants to do this for you, as well. Who will you comfort today? Look around and see needs that you can help to meet in the name of Jesus. Share your comfort with others, and receive a double blessing.
©2010 Debbie Robus
He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One day a young teacher made a comment in the teacher’s lounge about her baby girl. I don’t know what I said to her, but I tried to commiserate, and she wheeled sharply around and said, “Until you have a baby, you couldn’t possibly understand.” It was a cutting, unkind remark, and others in the room were astounded. And for the record, giving birth does not make a woman a mother – and plenty of “dads” never fathered a child.
But this story does have a point. Often, when we minister to people, they don’t believe we fully understand their situation unless we have similar experience upon which to draw. I believe this is why God allows us to endure troubles and tribulations – with His help and comfort, of course. God has used some of the most devastating and difficult experiences of my life to equip me to minister to others who were going through similar circumstances.
I do not say this to brag. I wish I never had to know the sadness and grief of losing my father-in-law, brother, and my own dad … grandparents, cousins and other family members and friends. I wish we had never had to bury our beloved pets. I wish my fellow teacher had not been strangled to death at the hands of her abusive husband. I wish I had never had surgery or a broken bone. I wish I had never had to attend the funeral of a student or watched a loved one succumb to dementia or Alzheimer’s. And yet, these things pale in comparison to what many of you and others have endured.
But because God carried me through all of these situations, when I speak to someone in need or send a card of encouragement, I can assure them with firsthand knowledge that He is with them. They know that I speak from experience, so my words are not merely lip service or “the right thing to say.” I believe that God’s comfort in my own troubles has enabled me to comfort others without saying or doing something stupid … well, most of the time! My experience has taught me how to genuinely share God’s love and peace with others.
Experience bases come with age, and you may feel that you are young and don’t have anything to contribute to others to offer them comfort. And certainly those who are older than I am have a larger experience base from which to draw. But each of us has a unique, God-given perspective on troubles of one kind or another. When we see someone going through a similar situation, we should reach out to that person and let them know that we understand … and share how God helped us through it.
And the next time you start to ask, “LORD, why is this happening to me?” consider this … maybe God is equipping you for ministry to others. I would like to think that something positive could come out of our troubles, wouldn’t you? Every time I share God’s comfort with someone, I feel a little of the pain and sorrow of my own situations lighten a bit. See, God continues to comfort me as He uses me to minister to others. He wants to do this for you, as well. Who will you comfort today? Look around and see needs that you can help to meet in the name of Jesus. Share your comfort with others, and receive a double blessing.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 14, 2010
Romans 1:11
I want to see you and share with you the same blessings that God's Spirit has given me. Then you will grow stronger in your faith.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you watched some of the late-night infomercials that have become so popular recently? Usually there is a “host” and an “expert” who tout the virtues of the latest weight-loss program, kitchen gadget, vacuum cleaner, and more. There is often a legion of “ordinary people” who testify to the effectiveness of said program or product. And apparently, lots of people listen and believe what they hear, because this marketing ploy apparently works!
This verse from Paul does not represent an infomercial. He wants to extol the virtues and blessings of living for Jesus and having the Holy Spirit in his heart … but this is no gimmick. He is not offering false hope or a product that won’t deliver. When he promises that the Romans will grow stronger in their faith, he means it. And truly, his success at convincing them lies in how well he delivers the message and any “testimonials” he can garner from fellow believers.
How well are you “selling” your faith to others? Are you able to promote the Good News of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit in a way that makes others want to believe for themselves? Are you convincing with your demonstration and the way you conduct your own life? Can you share about the blessings that you have experienced and offer testimonials – your own and those of others? Do you live your life in a way that demonstrates for others a life of blessings and God’s abundant love? Do others look at you and say, “I want what he/she has!” (And I’m talking Spiritually here – not materially.)
We would probably do well to study an infomercial or two and see if we can figure out what makes them so compelling – and so successful – and apply that to our Christian witness. How well we reach others with the Gospel of Jesus and His love may very well depend on how convincing we are with our “delivery.” So I ask you today … how well are you sharing your story? How convincing is your witness? Do others see your life in Christ and want the same? Or do you need to polish your “presentation”?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I want to see you and share with you the same blessings that God's Spirit has given me. Then you will grow stronger in your faith.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you watched some of the late-night infomercials that have become so popular recently? Usually there is a “host” and an “expert” who tout the virtues of the latest weight-loss program, kitchen gadget, vacuum cleaner, and more. There is often a legion of “ordinary people” who testify to the effectiveness of said program or product. And apparently, lots of people listen and believe what they hear, because this marketing ploy apparently works!
This verse from Paul does not represent an infomercial. He wants to extol the virtues and blessings of living for Jesus and having the Holy Spirit in his heart … but this is no gimmick. He is not offering false hope or a product that won’t deliver. When he promises that the Romans will grow stronger in their faith, he means it. And truly, his success at convincing them lies in how well he delivers the message and any “testimonials” he can garner from fellow believers.
How well are you “selling” your faith to others? Are you able to promote the Good News of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit in a way that makes others want to believe for themselves? Are you convincing with your demonstration and the way you conduct your own life? Can you share about the blessings that you have experienced and offer testimonials – your own and those of others? Do you live your life in a way that demonstrates for others a life of blessings and God’s abundant love? Do others look at you and say, “I want what he/she has!” (And I’m talking Spiritually here – not materially.)
We would probably do well to study an infomercial or two and see if we can figure out what makes them so compelling – and so successful – and apply that to our Christian witness. How well we reach others with the Gospel of Jesus and His love may very well depend on how convincing we are with our “delivery.” So I ask you today … how well are you sharing your story? How convincing is your witness? Do others see your life in Christ and want the same? Or do you need to polish your “presentation”?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 13, 2010
Acts 2:44
All the Lord's followers often met together, and they shared everything they had.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have never prepared food for a potluck meal, but I bet you’ve eaten one! The beauty of a potluck is that no one person has to prepare every single dish. Time, money, and culinary talents are combined to create something delicious and enjoyable for all.
Imagine if your church held a potluck dinner, and everyone showed up to eat, but nobody brought a covered dish! Or suppose there were dishes provided – a couple of pies, a salad, and one casserole – and dozens of hungry people were standing in line with plates and utensils.
Sadly, this is a pretty good analogy for how Christian service looks. Needy people who are hungry for God’s word and His love are standing in line with their “plates” in their hands, but nobody is showing up to serve them … and what is provided is merely a drop in the bucket.
Christian service should resemble a potluck. Each Christian should share his/her time, talents, money and abilities for the benefit of the entire group. No one person should have to do everything – no one person can! But each person can do what God calls him/her to do, and the effects will be multiplied exponentially.
It’s a funny thing … we’re all eager to get in line with our “plate and fork” and be served by God. We all understand the “getting” end of Christian nurture. But we have all sorts of handy excuses for why we can’t – or won’t – give in return. We can change this. We can start now to make a difference. We can ask ourselves – or our fellow Christians – where our services would fit the best, and then we can get busy contributing as much as possible. In the Kingdom of God, there is always a “potluck” somewhere. The question is … what will you take to the table?
©2010 Debbie Robus
All the Lord's followers often met together, and they shared everything they had.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have never prepared food for a potluck meal, but I bet you’ve eaten one! The beauty of a potluck is that no one person has to prepare every single dish. Time, money, and culinary talents are combined to create something delicious and enjoyable for all.
Imagine if your church held a potluck dinner, and everyone showed up to eat, but nobody brought a covered dish! Or suppose there were dishes provided – a couple of pies, a salad, and one casserole – and dozens of hungry people were standing in line with plates and utensils.
Sadly, this is a pretty good analogy for how Christian service looks. Needy people who are hungry for God’s word and His love are standing in line with their “plates” in their hands, but nobody is showing up to serve them … and what is provided is merely a drop in the bucket.
Christian service should resemble a potluck. Each Christian should share his/her time, talents, money and abilities for the benefit of the entire group. No one person should have to do everything – no one person can! But each person can do what God calls him/her to do, and the effects will be multiplied exponentially.
It’s a funny thing … we’re all eager to get in line with our “plate and fork” and be served by God. We all understand the “getting” end of Christian nurture. But we have all sorts of handy excuses for why we can’t – or won’t – give in return. We can change this. We can start now to make a difference. We can ask ourselves – or our fellow Christians – where our services would fit the best, and then we can get busy contributing as much as possible. In the Kingdom of God, there is always a “potluck” somewhere. The question is … what will you take to the table?
©2010 Debbie Robus
August 12 ~ Luke 3:11
Luke 3:11
John told them, "If you have two coats, give one to someone who doesn't have any. If you have food, share it with someone else."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am reminded of the Andy Griffith episode where Opie is asked to contribute to charity, and he gives a measly three cents. His dad is very upset with him, and Opie finally admits that he saved up his allowance to buy a winter coat for a needy friend. There is also an episode where Opie gives up a job delivering groceries so that another friend who needs the money can work.
This passage is about so much more than clothes and food. And as “Opie Taylor” shows us, putting the needs of the other guy ahead of our own isn’t always easy or popular. But this doesn’t negate the fact that it’s the right thing to do. It seems like Opie had a knack for seeing needs and meeting them. Sadly, if some of us see a need, we turn and look away.
We talk a lot about nurture these days. But what does “nurture” really mean? I believe it means following Luke 3:11. I believe that real nurture means turning off your favorite television program and spending that hour talking to someone who could use a friend or writing get-well cards and notes of encouragement to people you know who are struggling. Real nurture means picking up an extra package of diapers at the store and giving them to your co-worker who has a new baby and two other kids and can barely pay the bills. True nurture means dropping everything when someone you know gets sick or dies … and rushing to the side of that person and/or family and friends to offer comfort and support.
Christian nurture requires us to lift our heads, open our eyes and ears, and look outside of ourselves to see the needs of others … and then meet them! If we don’t perform some act of Christian nurture almost every day, we probably aren’t serving very well. I didn’t say we have to cook a meal or give away clothing or do something on a grand scale. I am talking about something as simple as sacrificing five or ten minutes to really ask a friend, “How are you doing?” - and stick around for their answer. I’m talking about sending an e-mail to someone to let them know that God cares about them – and so do you. I’m talking about going out of your way to be polite to someone at the grocery store or in the school cafeteria.
There are countless ways to offer Christian nurture, if we will notice them. The question is … are we paying attention?
©2010 Debbie Robus
John told them, "If you have two coats, give one to someone who doesn't have any. If you have food, share it with someone else."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am reminded of the Andy Griffith episode where Opie is asked to contribute to charity, and he gives a measly three cents. His dad is very upset with him, and Opie finally admits that he saved up his allowance to buy a winter coat for a needy friend. There is also an episode where Opie gives up a job delivering groceries so that another friend who needs the money can work.
This passage is about so much more than clothes and food. And as “Opie Taylor” shows us, putting the needs of the other guy ahead of our own isn’t always easy or popular. But this doesn’t negate the fact that it’s the right thing to do. It seems like Opie had a knack for seeing needs and meeting them. Sadly, if some of us see a need, we turn and look away.
We talk a lot about nurture these days. But what does “nurture” really mean? I believe it means following Luke 3:11. I believe that real nurture means turning off your favorite television program and spending that hour talking to someone who could use a friend or writing get-well cards and notes of encouragement to people you know who are struggling. Real nurture means picking up an extra package of diapers at the store and giving them to your co-worker who has a new baby and two other kids and can barely pay the bills. True nurture means dropping everything when someone you know gets sick or dies … and rushing to the side of that person and/or family and friends to offer comfort and support.
Christian nurture requires us to lift our heads, open our eyes and ears, and look outside of ourselves to see the needs of others … and then meet them! If we don’t perform some act of Christian nurture almost every day, we probably aren’t serving very well. I didn’t say we have to cook a meal or give away clothing or do something on a grand scale. I am talking about something as simple as sacrificing five or ten minutes to really ask a friend, “How are you doing?” - and stick around for their answer. I’m talking about sending an e-mail to someone to let them know that God cares about them – and so do you. I’m talking about going out of your way to be polite to someone at the grocery store or in the school cafeteria.
There are countless ways to offer Christian nurture, if we will notice them. The question is … are we paying attention?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 11, 2010
Matthew 25:21
"Wonderful!" his master replied. "You are a good and faithful servant. I left you in charge of only a little, but now I will put you in charge of much more. Come and share in my happiness!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a kid, I assumed my paternal grandparents were rich. They grew their own food on their farm – including Black Angus beef. My grandmother made beautiful clothes for herself, my sister and me - and our Barbies! We had a horse to ride, and twenty acres to explore. My grandparents always seemed to live in abundance.
What I could not see as a child was how hard they worked for the things they had. I knew they went to bed right after supper and rose early each morning. I knew my grandmother drove a school bus each day and then worked as a chairside assistant for a local dentist. I knew that each afternoon after she made the return trip in the school bus, she worked in her garden, quilted or sewed, and cooked wonderful meals … often alongside a big vat of dentures she was “setting” for a patient at work! I knew my grandfather got up early each day to feed his cattle … then operated heavy equipment - like road graders and bulldozers - for the county. After work, he came home and tended to his cattle and his crops.
With all of this work, my grandparents still managed to do for others. They were active members of their church. They shared their food with those who were hungry and ministered to sick and needy family members and friends. They always had time for their three grandchildren. And when their home of more than 25 years burned to the ground one December 20th, others came to their side and returned the favor.
Fellow church members who were traveling south for the winter offered their home to my grandparents. A local contractor agreed to put a “rush” on building a new house for them. The church members, family and friends opened their closets, wallets and hearts and “pounded” them with everything from staples for the kitchen to furniture, household items and more. People rallied around my grandmother when my grandfather died in 1984. Since that time, she has lived in the abundance of blessings from friends and family who “see after” her in ways great and small. And at almost 98 years of age, she still returns the blessings by doing for others as much as she can.
Early in their adult lives, God called my grandparents to serve Him … and they answered. God saw how well they did with so little, and He continued to heap blessings upon them. I’m not talking money, cars, lavish homes and opulent wealth. I’m talking about blessings that matter. Because I can tell you with confidence that I’ve been to enough estate sales to know it’s true that “you cannot take it with you!”
What is God asking you to do? Is He starting with something seemingly small? If so, are you stepping up and answering? I promise you, the “assignments” get bigger … but so do the blessings. Living in the abundance of a life spent serving God - in whatever manner He asks – will result in wealth you can’t even imagine … the kind that matters for all eternity. Don’t you want to hear God say, “I’m proud of you … you are a good and faithful servant!”? Don’t you want to share in His happiness? What are you doing today to make that happen?
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Wonderful!" his master replied. "You are a good and faithful servant. I left you in charge of only a little, but now I will put you in charge of much more. Come and share in my happiness!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a kid, I assumed my paternal grandparents were rich. They grew their own food on their farm – including Black Angus beef. My grandmother made beautiful clothes for herself, my sister and me - and our Barbies! We had a horse to ride, and twenty acres to explore. My grandparents always seemed to live in abundance.
What I could not see as a child was how hard they worked for the things they had. I knew they went to bed right after supper and rose early each morning. I knew my grandmother drove a school bus each day and then worked as a chairside assistant for a local dentist. I knew that each afternoon after she made the return trip in the school bus, she worked in her garden, quilted or sewed, and cooked wonderful meals … often alongside a big vat of dentures she was “setting” for a patient at work! I knew my grandfather got up early each day to feed his cattle … then operated heavy equipment - like road graders and bulldozers - for the county. After work, he came home and tended to his cattle and his crops.
With all of this work, my grandparents still managed to do for others. They were active members of their church. They shared their food with those who were hungry and ministered to sick and needy family members and friends. They always had time for their three grandchildren. And when their home of more than 25 years burned to the ground one December 20th, others came to their side and returned the favor.
Fellow church members who were traveling south for the winter offered their home to my grandparents. A local contractor agreed to put a “rush” on building a new house for them. The church members, family and friends opened their closets, wallets and hearts and “pounded” them with everything from staples for the kitchen to furniture, household items and more. People rallied around my grandmother when my grandfather died in 1984. Since that time, she has lived in the abundance of blessings from friends and family who “see after” her in ways great and small. And at almost 98 years of age, she still returns the blessings by doing for others as much as she can.
Early in their adult lives, God called my grandparents to serve Him … and they answered. God saw how well they did with so little, and He continued to heap blessings upon them. I’m not talking money, cars, lavish homes and opulent wealth. I’m talking about blessings that matter. Because I can tell you with confidence that I’ve been to enough estate sales to know it’s true that “you cannot take it with you!”
What is God asking you to do? Is He starting with something seemingly small? If so, are you stepping up and answering? I promise you, the “assignments” get bigger … but so do the blessings. Living in the abundance of a life spent serving God - in whatever manner He asks – will result in wealth you can’t even imagine … the kind that matters for all eternity. Don’t you want to hear God say, “I’m proud of you … you are a good and faithful servant!”? Don’t you want to share in His happiness? What are you doing today to make that happen?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 10, 2010
Isaiah 58:7
Share your food with everyone who is hungry; share your home with the poor and homeless. Give clothes to those in need; don't turn away your relatives.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, my maternal grandmother’s only remaining sister became very ill. She lives in a nursing home, and her two children both live on opposite coasts. Her daughter phoned my mom from New York and said she was coming to see her mother. She said she had asked the nursing home for a cot, so that she could stay in her mother’s room. My mom immediately said, “That’s not necessary … you can stay with us.”
Subsequently, Mom picked up her cousin at the airport, then again at a Little Rock hospital after her aunt was taken there for surgery. Then Mom’s husband returned the cousin to the Little Rock airport for her flight back to New York. He might have only met this woman once in his life before the weekend, but he graciously offered to drive her to the airport. This allowed my mom to work on an editing deadline for a book she is writing that must go to the publisher at the end of the week. Mom was already running behind because she took countless hours to spend with her aunt and cousin. She shrugged and said, “We don’t get to choose when we die.” She gets it that you “don’t turn away your relatives.”
Often, we are called upon to do things that are inconvenient. People don’t get sick or die on a schedule. Divorces, new babies, natural disasters, and much more happen at seemingly inopportune times. People find themselves needing a place to stay. I once observed my Mam-ma bake a wedding cake for a cousin who otherwise would not have had one, and when she came to get it, Mam-ma opened her dresser drawer, removed a brand new night gown, and handed it to the girl. Did I mention my grandparents were middle class farmers who barely made ends meet?
Many of us have become very comfortable. God has piled our blessings high, and we have somewhat become “hoarders.” It’s time to start giving away and sharing with others … not only our extras, but even the good stuff! I recently took a few articles of clothing to the local thrift shop. I have to admit, I had pulled out a couple of blouses a few weeks ago and then put them back in my closet, thinking they were too good to give away. The truth is, I don’t need them, won’t wear them, and someone else could. We all have these sorts of things. We could all share a meal with someone who needs one … or buy a sack of groceries for someone we know is struggling. We could anonymously purchase an Angel Food gift certificate for a family in need or offer to drive a relative to an appointment … or leave a package of diapers on the doorstep of young parents on a limited budget.
If you are a teenager, you could offer to do yard work for an elderly person, or give up some of your iTune downloads to buy a meal for a hungry friend. You could offer a ride to someone you know who needs one … or you could give away those extra t-shirts and your discarded-but-still-perfectly-good athletic shoes to someone who has little to none. Maybe you can help a friend or classmate who can’t afford the back-to-school supplies. The point is … WE CAN ALL DO MORE … and we should! I challenge you today to prayerfully look around and see who you can bless. Ask God to show you who needs to see Christian love in action, then share it! I guarantee you that YOU will receive the bigger blessing. That’s not the reason for doing so, but it’s a nice added bonus … and who doesn’t want to be blessed by the Lord!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Share your food with everyone who is hungry; share your home with the poor and homeless. Give clothes to those in need; don't turn away your relatives.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, my maternal grandmother’s only remaining sister became very ill. She lives in a nursing home, and her two children both live on opposite coasts. Her daughter phoned my mom from New York and said she was coming to see her mother. She said she had asked the nursing home for a cot, so that she could stay in her mother’s room. My mom immediately said, “That’s not necessary … you can stay with us.”
Subsequently, Mom picked up her cousin at the airport, then again at a Little Rock hospital after her aunt was taken there for surgery. Then Mom’s husband returned the cousin to the Little Rock airport for her flight back to New York. He might have only met this woman once in his life before the weekend, but he graciously offered to drive her to the airport. This allowed my mom to work on an editing deadline for a book she is writing that must go to the publisher at the end of the week. Mom was already running behind because she took countless hours to spend with her aunt and cousin. She shrugged and said, “We don’t get to choose when we die.” She gets it that you “don’t turn away your relatives.”
Often, we are called upon to do things that are inconvenient. People don’t get sick or die on a schedule. Divorces, new babies, natural disasters, and much more happen at seemingly inopportune times. People find themselves needing a place to stay. I once observed my Mam-ma bake a wedding cake for a cousin who otherwise would not have had one, and when she came to get it, Mam-ma opened her dresser drawer, removed a brand new night gown, and handed it to the girl. Did I mention my grandparents were middle class farmers who barely made ends meet?
Many of us have become very comfortable. God has piled our blessings high, and we have somewhat become “hoarders.” It’s time to start giving away and sharing with others … not only our extras, but even the good stuff! I recently took a few articles of clothing to the local thrift shop. I have to admit, I had pulled out a couple of blouses a few weeks ago and then put them back in my closet, thinking they were too good to give away. The truth is, I don’t need them, won’t wear them, and someone else could. We all have these sorts of things. We could all share a meal with someone who needs one … or buy a sack of groceries for someone we know is struggling. We could anonymously purchase an Angel Food gift certificate for a family in need or offer to drive a relative to an appointment … or leave a package of diapers on the doorstep of young parents on a limited budget.
If you are a teenager, you could offer to do yard work for an elderly person, or give up some of your iTune downloads to buy a meal for a hungry friend. You could offer a ride to someone you know who needs one … or you could give away those extra t-shirts and your discarded-but-still-perfectly-good athletic shoes to someone who has little to none. Maybe you can help a friend or classmate who can’t afford the back-to-school supplies. The point is … WE CAN ALL DO MORE … and we should! I challenge you today to prayerfully look around and see who you can bless. Ask God to show you who needs to see Christian love in action, then share it! I guarantee you that YOU will receive the bigger blessing. That’s not the reason for doing so, but it’s a nice added bonus … and who doesn’t want to be blessed by the Lord!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 9, 2010
Proverbs 17:17
A friend is always a friend, and relatives are born to share our troubles.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This devo begins a group that relate to “Sharing the Good News – and God’s Love,” and it’s probably where you may think I’ve gone to meddling! But I am convinced that many of us have fallen short in this area. I have to believe that when I hear of children who have not spoken to their parents in months, or even years. I know we have grown insensitive and self-absorbed when I hear in the news of someone who died alone in their home from heat exhaustion and malnutrition, because not even their next-door neighbors bothered to check on them. I am convinced of this when I hear in the news of a child who committed suicide because he/she was bullied relentlessly and nobody did anything to stop it.
You can call it what you want … busyness, your own set of troubles, “work got in the way,” or just plain not wanting to get involved. The fact is, we are called as Christians to love one another … and that means we’re going to have to become involved at some point. If you are to love your neighbor as you love yourself, you will have to check on him/her. If you are going to honor your father and mother, you will have to call and visit them once in a while. We’re going to have to look up from our own lives and see those around us – and get busy meeting the needs of others.
Imagine if Jesus had said, “I’m too busy,” or “It’s not my problem… I need to stay out of this.” What if Jesus had held a grudge against His Father and refused to communicate! I know … pretty preposterous, isn’t it?! But that’s what many of us do. We claim to have dozens of “close friends,” but we couldn’t tell you much about the thoughts, dreams, desires and needs of a single one of them. We’re so busy collecting acquaintances, possessions and whatever satisfies our every whim that we often fail to stop and ask, “Lord, who do I need to call today?” or “Father, do I need to reach out to a friend or family member?”
My prayer today is that we would become more genuinely concerned about the welfare of our family and friends. I pray that we would ask God to open our hearts, eyes and ears … that we would see the needs of others – and meet them! If you need help getting started, pick up the church bulletin and read the prayer concerns. I bet there is someone on there you could call, visit, or mail a card of encouragement. Or … read through the birthday list and send someone good wishes to brighten their day. Or here’s a good one … I have a card on my desk that says, “Have you prayed for your pastor today?” Well, have you?
Being a Christian is more than accepting Jesus – or even receiving the Holy Spirit. If you keep everything to yourself, you really have not fulfilled Jesus’ gift. Think of it like a credit card that doesn’t work until you call the headquarters and activate it. It’s time we activated our “Christian card” and got busy using it. Where will you “spend” some of God’s love today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
A friend is always a friend, and relatives are born to share our troubles.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This devo begins a group that relate to “Sharing the Good News – and God’s Love,” and it’s probably where you may think I’ve gone to meddling! But I am convinced that many of us have fallen short in this area. I have to believe that when I hear of children who have not spoken to their parents in months, or even years. I know we have grown insensitive and self-absorbed when I hear in the news of someone who died alone in their home from heat exhaustion and malnutrition, because not even their next-door neighbors bothered to check on them. I am convinced of this when I hear in the news of a child who committed suicide because he/she was bullied relentlessly and nobody did anything to stop it.
You can call it what you want … busyness, your own set of troubles, “work got in the way,” or just plain not wanting to get involved. The fact is, we are called as Christians to love one another … and that means we’re going to have to become involved at some point. If you are to love your neighbor as you love yourself, you will have to check on him/her. If you are going to honor your father and mother, you will have to call and visit them once in a while. We’re going to have to look up from our own lives and see those around us – and get busy meeting the needs of others.
Imagine if Jesus had said, “I’m too busy,” or “It’s not my problem… I need to stay out of this.” What if Jesus had held a grudge against His Father and refused to communicate! I know … pretty preposterous, isn’t it?! But that’s what many of us do. We claim to have dozens of “close friends,” but we couldn’t tell you much about the thoughts, dreams, desires and needs of a single one of them. We’re so busy collecting acquaintances, possessions and whatever satisfies our every whim that we often fail to stop and ask, “Lord, who do I need to call today?” or “Father, do I need to reach out to a friend or family member?”
My prayer today is that we would become more genuinely concerned about the welfare of our family and friends. I pray that we would ask God to open our hearts, eyes and ears … that we would see the needs of others – and meet them! If you need help getting started, pick up the church bulletin and read the prayer concerns. I bet there is someone on there you could call, visit, or mail a card of encouragement. Or … read through the birthday list and send someone good wishes to brighten their day. Or here’s a good one … I have a card on my desk that says, “Have you prayed for your pastor today?” Well, have you?
Being a Christian is more than accepting Jesus – or even receiving the Holy Spirit. If you keep everything to yourself, you really have not fulfilled Jesus’ gift. Think of it like a credit card that doesn’t work until you call the headquarters and activate it. It’s time we activated our “Christian card” and got busy using it. Where will you “spend” some of God’s love today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 8, 2010
Acts 8:18-24
Simon noticed that the Spirit was given only when the apostles placed their hands on the people. So he brought money and said to Peter and John, "Let me have this power too! Then anyone I place my hands on will also be given the Holy Spirit.
Peter said to him, “You and your money will both end up in hell if you think you can buy God’s gift! You don’t have any part in this, and God sees that your heart isn’t right. Get rid of these evil thoughts and ask God to forgive you. I can see that you are jealous and bound by your evil ways.
Simon said, “Please pray to the Lord, so that what you said won’t happen to me.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The first thought I had when I read this scripture passage was of the old Beatles song, “Can’t Buy Me Love.” There are probably very few of us who don’t think about money at some point in the day … from whether we have enough to pay bills, to how much more we need to save to buy something new, to how we will survive in retirement and more. But for some, money (or something in lieu of money) has become the answer to everything.
The truth of the matter is that God cannot be bought! I’m not saying we shouldn’t fund missions and think about money. I’m not saying that the system of exchanging payment for services rendered and items purchased doesn’t work. But when it comes to God, the only “payment” He will accept is raw faith. And really, this is great news, because it means that everyone is equal with God. Nobody can plunk down money and gain favor. We can’t give money to the church, family and friends, and never give any of our time and energy. Your possessions and wealth don’t make you better than your friends, classmates or co-workers, and God does not play favorites based on income level.
God wants our time, talents, service and faithfulness … and yes, our money. But only in that order, and only if the money is given to further His kingdom, not to buy His approval. The Holy Spirit is free to any and all who wish to receive Him. The woman in Luke 8:43-48 had it right. Sick for over twelve years, she saw Jesus in a crowd of people and barely touched the hem of his clothes, and instantly she was healed. Jesus said in the last part of verse 46, “Someone touched me, and I felt the power going out from me.” The woman didn’t give Jesus as much as one penny, yet she received His power and healing because of her faith. The disciples laid down their jobs, walked away from their homes and families and all of their belongings, and followed Jesus. And when He died and ascended into heaven, He gave them the power of the Holy Spirit to continue ministering and witnessing.
The question becomes, what are we doing to receive the Holy Spirit? Are we like Simon, wanting to throw some money or another form of payment toward God and buy our relationship with Him? Or are we humbly believing in His power and offering our service in whatever manner He desires? Are we pulling out our wallets for a payoff, or are we touching the hem of His clothes and serving faithfully? The difference is huge, and the consequences are eternal. How big is your faith and commitment today? Is your heart right before God?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Simon noticed that the Spirit was given only when the apostles placed their hands on the people. So he brought money and said to Peter and John, "Let me have this power too! Then anyone I place my hands on will also be given the Holy Spirit.
Peter said to him, “You and your money will both end up in hell if you think you can buy God’s gift! You don’t have any part in this, and God sees that your heart isn’t right. Get rid of these evil thoughts and ask God to forgive you. I can see that you are jealous and bound by your evil ways.
Simon said, “Please pray to the Lord, so that what you said won’t happen to me.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The first thought I had when I read this scripture passage was of the old Beatles song, “Can’t Buy Me Love.” There are probably very few of us who don’t think about money at some point in the day … from whether we have enough to pay bills, to how much more we need to save to buy something new, to how we will survive in retirement and more. But for some, money (or something in lieu of money) has become the answer to everything.
The truth of the matter is that God cannot be bought! I’m not saying we shouldn’t fund missions and think about money. I’m not saying that the system of exchanging payment for services rendered and items purchased doesn’t work. But when it comes to God, the only “payment” He will accept is raw faith. And really, this is great news, because it means that everyone is equal with God. Nobody can plunk down money and gain favor. We can’t give money to the church, family and friends, and never give any of our time and energy. Your possessions and wealth don’t make you better than your friends, classmates or co-workers, and God does not play favorites based on income level.
God wants our time, talents, service and faithfulness … and yes, our money. But only in that order, and only if the money is given to further His kingdom, not to buy His approval. The Holy Spirit is free to any and all who wish to receive Him. The woman in Luke 8:43-48 had it right. Sick for over twelve years, she saw Jesus in a crowd of people and barely touched the hem of his clothes, and instantly she was healed. Jesus said in the last part of verse 46, “Someone touched me, and I felt the power going out from me.” The woman didn’t give Jesus as much as one penny, yet she received His power and healing because of her faith. The disciples laid down their jobs, walked away from their homes and families and all of their belongings, and followed Jesus. And when He died and ascended into heaven, He gave them the power of the Holy Spirit to continue ministering and witnessing.
The question becomes, what are we doing to receive the Holy Spirit? Are we like Simon, wanting to throw some money or another form of payment toward God and buy our relationship with Him? Or are we humbly believing in His power and offering our service in whatever manner He desires? Are we pulling out our wallets for a payoff, or are we touching the hem of His clothes and serving faithfully? The difference is huge, and the consequences are eternal. How big is your faith and commitment today? Is your heart right before God?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)