Daily Devotional for May 31, 2011

Psalm 90:14
When morning comes, let your love satisfy all our needs. Then we can celebrate and be glad for what time we have left.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

If you are like me – and most people – you probably are in the habit of using three products to do a task, when one would have been sufficient. I used to have a whole basket of cleaning products – scrub for the shower tile, disinfectant for surfaces, window cleaner for the windows and mirrors, furniture polish for the wood, and many more products that commercials and advertisements told me we simply could not stay clean unless we purchased them!

But then I stumbled onto a recipe at my grandmother’s for a cleaning solution she called “Glass Plus.” I’m not talking about the commercial brand by the same name… this was a concoction of 2 tablespoons ammonia, 1 teaspoon of dish detergent, and 2 cups of rubbing alcohol. You put all of this in a clean plastic gallon milk jug, and fill it with water. Not only does this solution clean mirrors and windows beautifully… it also disinfects surfaces at the same time.

When I fill a spray bottle with this solution, I don’t need a bottle of disinfectant AND a bottle of window cleaner. I can use this solution on all sorts of spills… in virtually every room of the house, and even on outside surfaces… and it’s far cheaper than those store brands! One spray bottle of this concoction satisfies virtually all of my household cleaning needs!

Do you see the correlation with our Spiritual life? We run around trying to get all of these “aids” that we think we need to make us more Spiritual, when God has already given us all that we need. We have Jesus… we have the Bible… we can go to God in prayer any time of the night or day. The Holy Spirit is always with us, ready to give us wisdom, courage, and comfort. God has given us an “all-in-One” product!

Most of us will still try other products from time to time. We’ll be lured in by the commercials and ads, and we will wonder… is this “glass plus” cleaner really enough to get the job done? And honestly, a lot of us will get caught up in external things Spiritually, too. We’ll become fascinated with a particular set of Bible study aids or a certain speaker. We’ll listen non-stop to the music of a favorite Christian musical artist or group… or we’ll decide that hymns are old school, and we need Contemporary Christian music to really “feel the Holy Spirit” in our lives. We’ll become so absorbed in this or that ministry in our church or community and fail to recognize that God is at work all around us – in people and ministries of all sizes, shapes and colors.

The bottom line is that we need to remind ourselves that God truly is an “All-in-One” solution Who satisfies every single one of our needs. If we wake each morning and give our day – and our needs to Him, think of how much extra time and energy we will have… and how much better things will go. Are you still trying extra products and gadgets? Or have you settled in for the long haul with God and let Him handle things for you? Isn’t it time you simplified your life and put Him in charge? Are you ready to let go… and let God?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 30, 2011

Luke 23:13-25
Then Pilate called in the high priests, rulers, and the others and said, "You brought this man to me as a disturber of the peace. I examined him in front of all of you and found there was nothing to your charge. And neither did Herod, for he has sent him back here with a clean bill of health. It's clear that he's done nothing wrong, let alone anything deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go."

At that, the crowd went wild: "Kill him! Give us Barabbas!" (Barabbas had been thrown in prison for starting a riot in the city and for murder.) Pilate still wanted to let Jesus go, and so spoke out again. But they kept shouting back, "Crucify! Crucify him!"

He tried a third time. "But for what crime? I've found nothing in him deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go." But they kept at it, a shouting mob, demanding that he be crucified. And finally they shouted him down. Pilate caved in and gave them what they wanted. He released the man thrown in prison for rioting and murder, and gave them Jesus to do whatever they wanted.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

The other night, our cat Mabel came in the living room while we were watching TV, and she began to pace around… and even whimper. My husband asked her, “Is your food bowl empty?” I checked… there was plenty of food. We both looked at each other and laughed. We knew that she wanted a dish of milk… a treat we have only recently begun to give our cats. Normally we give them milk right before bedtime, when we feed them for the night. But it was a couple of hours earlier, and Mabel was already begging.

Finally, we caved. I poured a small saucer of milk, and she came running to the laundry room where we feed them and began to lap at the cold treat. We had given in to her demands. And while the only consequence will be that she once again thinks she can manipulate us into doing whatever she wants, in essence, we were her “Pilate.”

Quite honestly, we are all a lot like Pilate more often than we care to admit. We cave to our peers and do things we know we shouldn’t. We give in to our own frailties and desires and fall off our diet, buy that new pair of shoes or the latest electronic gadget or computer game we can’t really afford, and cheat – just this once – on a test, our taxes, or our significant other. And if you read Luke 22, you see that Jesus’ disciples were no better. Peter denied Jesus three times after His arrest – before the rooster could even signal the dawn of a new day. We are weak souls indeed!

The Good News is that we don’t have to succumb to our weaknesses. We have Inner Strength that we cannot even comprehend… in the form of the Holy Spirit. We can call on the Holy Spirit any hour of the night or day to shore up our resolve… to give us courage to stand up to the temptation of that extra cookie, a persuasive friend, or the lure of something we know we should avoid. Pilate knew that to choose Barabbas was right… but it would bring him ridicule and/or discomfort from the people, and he did not have the necessary courage and faith to do this.

When we make the more difficult choice of doing the right thing… we can depend on God to bless the outcome of our faithfulness. When your boss says, “Lie for me, or lose your job,” the temptation may be to do what it takes to stay employed. But God will help you find another – better – place to work, if you do the right thing and your boss fires you, as threatened. When a friend or loved one says, “You think you’re too good for me. I don’t want to hang around you anymore” because you won’t do something illicit or illegal, walk away, knowing God will see you through whatever the outcome. When you think you can’t possibly exercise or do some sort of workout to get in better physical shape, God can help you take the baby steps that lead to bigger steps… and give you the strength and courage to persevere.

It all starts with one thing – a simple prayer… “Lord help me.” He can… and He will! We may have been modern-day “Pilates” in the past, but we don’t have to continue with this kind of behavior. It’s time to exercise our faith muscle… to call on the Holy Spirit to guide and protect us… and to trust God to keep His promises. How deep is your faith? How strong is your resolve? Who is guarding your heart and guiding your choices these days?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 29, 2011

Psalm 90:16-17
Do wonderful things for us, your servants, and show your mighty power to our children. Our Lord and our God, treat us with kindness and let all go well for us. Please let all go well!

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

You may have heard the story of Will Norton, a teenager who graduated from Joplin High School on Sunday afternoon, May 22nd, then headed home with his dad. As Will drove, the EF-5 tornado struck, and he and his dad were picked up in their SUV and swirled and tossed violently around in the air. Will’s dad clung desperately to him as the tornado literally pulled him through the vehicle’s sunroof. Will’s dad was badly injured and was taken to a Joplin hospital. Will was nowhere to be found.

For days, hundreds of volunteers, family members and friends searched the rubble of Joplin for Will Norton. Hospitals as far away as Kansas City, Tulsa, and Hot Springs, Arkansas, were queried to see if perhaps Will had been taken there. And on Friday night, May 27th, Will’s body was found in Joplin – in a pond. He had not survived.

Will’s dad reported that as the tornado pulled him from the SUV, he continually quoted scripture verses. His Aunt Tracey posted on a Facebook page, “…another night, but now one with the peace of knowing where Will is. Sadness in my heart for those that have lost so much. May God guide them to peace.” Earlier in the week, Will’s Aunt Tracey had been interviewed by CNN’s Anderson Cooper, and while on camera, she turned to comfort Will’s sister, saying, “We’ll be okay, baby… we’ll be okay.” And while their hearts are broken and they are devastated by the loss of this young man… who from all accounts was a pretty amazing kid… their prayer has been answered… and all has gone [relatively] well.

This family, like many who have endured suffering and anguish because of the tornado, knows the love and kindness of total strangers who have come from all parts of the country – just to help. They know the prayers of people from around the world that God would lead them to their loved one – dead or alive – and give them peace and some sense of closure. They know that, in the days ahead, God will send people to minister to them – and they will in turn minister to others out of their grief… and all will be well.

Do you have this peace and comfort? Do you feel the power and presence of God in your life in such a way that you know that… no matter what is hurled your way… all will go well? Can you claim, with confidence, that even if a tornado sucked you into the air and through the sunroof, you would be at peace… maybe even have the ability to quote the word of God as you rose to meet Him? As Christians, we need to know God in such a way that we are fully confident that all will go well, regardless of our situation. We must strive to develop the kind of relationship that gives us the continual “peace that passes all understanding.”

I’m sure that in the days to come, many will look at Will Norton’s family and question how and why they can appear so peaceful in the midst of such a horrific tragedy. I’m sure some will question their grieving process and how they can possibly think that all is going well. And I am equally sure they have their private moments when all is anything but well in their world. However, they understand that God is using this tragedy for His glory… and He has not even begun to show them all the ways that He can bring good out of such an ugly, devastating event.

For now, these families who are enduring this destruction with such dignity are my new heroes. They truly are living the faith that with God, all is going well… and I want to be just like them… don’t you?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 28, 2011

Luke 21:34-36
"But be on your guard. Don't let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by parties and drinking and shopping. Otherwise, that Day is going to take you by complete surprise, spring on you suddenly like a trap, for it's going to come on everyone, everywhere, at once. So, whatever you do, don't go to sleep at the switch. Pray constantly that you will have the strength and wits to make it through everything that's coming and end up on your feet before the Son of Man."

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

“Live for today!” “Seize the moment!” “Life is not a dress rehearsal!” “You only get one chance, so go for it!” “Just do it!” We’ve all heard these clichés and others. And there is some truth in each of them. A lot of people waste time procrastinating or waiting for someone to sweep them off their feet or their “ship to come in” – and they totally miss out on some of life’s best moments!

But there are also those who have a bad day, so they go shopping and pay with plastic for things they cannot afford and really don’t need, because it makes them feel better temporarily. Others party and go crazy and plan to settle down later. They even call it “sowing wild oats.” Still others figure, “My life is down the tubes anyway, so why bother?!” And all of these philosophies are simply “stinkin’ thinkin’!”

Do you remember a few weeks ago when air traffic controllers went to sleep on the job, and the result was some very scary near-misses by a few planes in the air… and a couple that were trying to land? Jesus is telling us “Don’t go to sleep at the switch.” We cannot get caught up in living for the moment and our own interests so much that we lose focus on Him and what He desires from us – and for us. We must put God first… then ask Him to show us how to prioritize everything – and everyone else – on our list.

Please understand… God wants us to fully enjoy our lives. He wants us to “seize the moment” and live every minute like it was our last. But He wants to show us how we can best accomplish this… how to live with no regrets, so that when He returns or calls us home, we can stand proudly before Him and hear, “You lived and served well.” All it takes is a shift in attitude on our part… moving a step closer to Him and away from our own selfish interests. Life isn’t a dress rehearsal… are you making the most of your shot at it?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 27, 2011

Luke 21:8-15
Jesus replied: Don't be fooled by those who will come and claim to be me. They will say, "I am Christ!" and "Now is the time!" But don't follow them. When you hear about wars and riots, don't be afraid. These things will have to happen first, but that isn't the end.

Nations will go to war against one another, and kingdoms will attack each other. There will be great earthquakes, and in many places people will starve to death and suffer terrible diseases. All sorts of frightening things will be seen in the sky.

Before all this happens, you will be arrested and punished. You will be tried in your meeting places and put in jail. Because of me you will be placed on trial before kings and governors. But this will be your chance to tell about your faith.

Don't worry about what you will say to defend yourselves. I will give you the wisdom to know what to say. None of your enemies will be able to oppose you or to say that you are wrong.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

I will be the first to admit that these last few weeks of deadly tornadoes have really taken a toll on my spirit. From just down the road at Vilonia, Arkansas, to further southeast in Tuscaloosa, the devastation seemed unfathomable. Harrowing stories of loss, destruction – and survival – left me with a lump in my throat. When Joplin, Missouri, was hit, I found myself sitting on the couch watching the coverage and listening to the stories in tears. By the time we watched live coverage of a tornado that ripped through a community north of Oklahoma City, I was truly disturbed. I saw families with children and pets literally climb from underneath the rubble that had - minutes earlier - been their homes and wave a “we’re okay” signal to the helicopter crew.

I asked God, “Why?” It’s a normal, fair question… one God doesn’t mind us asking. I’ve come to truly believe that God does not cause these disasters. But at the same time, He allows them to happen. And I can see how those who straddle the fence over their faith in God’s promises could be asking, “What kind of God would allow such devastation?” I get it… and so does God!

As if that wasn’t enough, we’ve just had another “prediction” that the world would end. Of course, it did not. No one knows the hour… remember? “Why is all of this happening, God? Can You give us at least some hint of your motives and purposes in all of this?” At least a portion of the answer came to me in these verses in Luke. Notice that Jesus warns us first against “doomsday deceivers” who want to predict when He will return. But then, look at verse 11, which says, in part… All sorts of frightening things will be seen in the sky.” If you have watched the news reports lately, you have certainly seen plenty of frightening things in our skies.

So what have I taken away from all of this? Look at the last verse of this passage again… “I will give you the wisdom to know what to say. None of your enemies will be able to oppose you…” I have asked myself, “What if that were our community? What if that were my son/daughter who was missing? What if my mother’s Facebook page had a post that simply read “Gone”? What if my husband and I and our pets dug out of our safe room and found that everything we owned was gone… the trees sanded bare around rubble that was once our home? What if we didn’t get the warning in time and awoke in a hospital… or heaven? What if we… and most of our community… had to completely start over and rebuild from scratch?”

Without fail, the answer I have received – almost instantly – has been… “It would be okay.” I don’t mean it would be great or that I would not be devastated… but I would have peace, because God will always be with me. None of my enemies – including tornadoes – are able to oppose me. With every news report, I read and hear stories of great faith… saving grace… an outpouring of love and compassion from one person to another. I see the hand of God at work, knitting together communities of people from all corners of the country – and even the world – to offer prayers, support, and physical manpower to help with the rescue and recovery.

As the pastor of one Joplin church said, “This is just the building – the real church is the people themselves.” We are more than our “stuff,” and in these weeks of true human loss and tragedy, each of us has been given a chance to model true Christian behavior. We can donate to the Red Cross and other organizations. We can contribute bottled water and toiletries to drives at our local churches to be delivered and dispensed to the victims of these devastating storms. And we can pray for everyone involved – from the victims to the survivors to the rescue workers who rush to the scene to give physical assistance.

I marvel at how people rebuild and recover from such devastating disasters… but they do. And I know that this can’t happen under human power alone. God surely uses these situations to build His Kingdom and strengthen the faith of His children. This might not be the way we would do it, but that’s why we are not God!

Today, take some time to stop and pray for those who are involved in these natural disasters… tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, and more. Ask God to use this situation for His glory… to bring about a great strengthening of resolve and faith in His promises to help us defeat all enemies – even “Mother Nature’s” wrath. Ask God to strengthen your own faith… to give you courage and confidence that you can handle anything that is hurled your way – with His help. Pray for those who are directly involved in these tragedies… that they might have comfort, courage, and peace for their journey. And always…always... thank God for never deserting us… even in the vortex of a tornado.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 26, 2011

Judges 16:26-30
A young man was leading Samson by the hand, and Samson said to him, "I need to lean against something. Take me over to the columns that hold up the roof." The Philistine rulers were celebrating in a temple packed with people and with three thousand more on the flat roof. They had all been watching Samson and making fun of him.

Samson prayed, "Please remember me, LORD God. The Philistines poked out my eyes, but make me strong one last time, so I can take revenge for at least one of my eyes!" Samson was standing between the two middle columns that held up the roof. He felt around and found one column with his right hand, and the other with his left hand.

Then he shouted, "Let me die with the Philistines!" He pushed against the columns as hard as he could, and the temple collapsed with the Philistine rulers and everyone else still inside. Samson killed more Philistines when he died than he had killed during his entire life.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

I watched CNN’s Anderson Cooper interview a young woman in Joplin, Missouri, who was caught in the devastating tornado that ravaged her community. The woman said that while she took refuge underneath an overpass, she observed an eighteen-wheeler flying through the air… literally tossed about by the tornado. When it came to rest, the vehicle was on its side. She left her car and rushed to check on the driver, who was trapped in the cab. The windshield was loose in one spot, and she somehow managed to grab hold of the windshield wipers and rip the windshield away so that the man could climb out and free himself.

She explained that after she rescued this driver, she returned to her car, and a law enforcement officer approached her with a person who was injured and asked her to drive this person to medical help. She began searching for a Red Cross rescue unit for this person… thinking she could stick around and volunteer. The woman explained that she had volunteered for the Red Cross before in disasters that were far more minor.

Anderson Cooper was amazed that this young woman who had just experienced such a shocking event was willing and able to volunteer to help others. He was even more stunned when she casually said, “Well, my home was destroyed, so this gave me something to do.” It was as if she said, “Lord, my eyes have been poked out by the enemy, but please remember me one more time. Let me bring something constructive and good out of all of this chaos.”

I wonder… how often do we do this? When our “eyes” are gouged out by the enemy, do we ask God to give us opportunities to serve? Or do we “tuck tail” and run for the hills? Samson was by no means a perfect man. He had his flaws… and his failures. His faith may have faltered at times, but He never gave up on God… and God never gave up on Samson!

God has not given up on you, either. It may seem like He has turned His back on you… but truly, this is not the case. God may step back and give us a little room to squirm… a chance to learn a few hard lessons… but He never deserts us completely. We are the ones who walk away. But it doesn’t have to be like this. We have everything to gain by staying faithful to God… and everything to lose by trying to do things our own way. We shouldn’t have to have a tornado or an “eyes gouged out” moment to shake us into a right relationship with God, but if that’s where you find yourself… there is still hope.

Stop what you are doing and talk with God. Ask Him to forgive you for wandering away and thinking you could make it on your own. Humbly come before Him and offer yourself to Him…gouged eyes and all…and see what He has in store. Discover the opportunities that God has waiting for you… to serve… to be a blessing… and to be blessed.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 25, 2011

Judges 16:15-21
"Samson," Delilah said, "you claim to love me, but you don't mean it! You've made me look like a fool three times now, and you still haven't told me why you are so strong."

Delilah started nagging and pestering him day after day, until he couldn't stand it any longer. Finally, Samson told her the truth. "I have belonged to God ever since I was born, so my hair has never been cut. If it were ever cut off, my strength would leave me, and I would be as weak as anyone else."

Delilah realized that he was telling the truth. So she sent someone to tell the Philistine rulers, "Come to my house one more time. Samson has finally told me the truth." The Philistine rulers went to Delilah's house, and they brought along the silver they had promised her.

Delilah had lulled Samson to sleep with his head resting in her lap. She signaled to one of the Philistine men as she began cutting off Samson's seven braids. And by the time she was finished, Samson's strength was gone. Delilah tied him up and shouted, "Samson, the Philistines are attacking!”

Samson woke up and thought, "I'll break loose and escape, just as I always do." He did not realize that the LORD had stopped helping him. The Philistines grabbed Samson and poked out his eyes. They took him to the prison in Gaza and chained him up. Then they put him to work, turning a millstone to grind grain.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

When I was teaching school, I can’t count the number of times I asked a child, “Why did you do such-and-such?” and the child replied, “He/she told me to!” Apparently, school-age children are helpless against the suggestions and persuasions of their peers! But the same might be said of “children” of all ages.

Teenagers are influenced by their friends to participate in all sorts of activities… drinking, drug abuse, sexual experimentation, “youthful mischief” and more. Adults are seduced, literally, by their own desires for the acceptance and approval of others, gratification of a variety of appetites and addictions, and self-validation. So it’s no stretch to see how Samson caved when Delilah persisted. She wooed Samson and accused him of not loving her. She played on his vulnerabilities and emotions and totally manipulated him. In the end, Samson abandoned his sensibility, his reliance on God, and his principles… and it cost him dearly.

When Delilah told the Philistines to cut Samson’s hair, the Bible says that God stopped helping him. Our strength from God may not lie in our hair, but we are still a lot like Samson. We want so badly to be loved and accepted… to be appreciated and to fit in with our friends and family… and we often compromise our faith in an attempt to accomplish this. Samson would have done just about anything to please Delilah… and he pretty well did. But the Philistines, who were in cahoots with Delilah, gouged out Samson’s eyes and put him in prison! Things did not turn out anywhere close to what Samson had hoped would happen!

Things often don’t go as we had hoped, either. Our best efforts to fit in or attain the level of satisfaction we were seeking are thwarted… and sometimes they end badly. We fail to recognize that God has stopped helping us, too. Notice I did not say that God left us… because He doesn’t do that. But when we step away from God and try to do things our own way, He does sometimes take a step backward and rein in His help for awhile.

God used a human like Samson to accomplish many things. But like all humans, Samson had his weaknesses. One of those was what can be seen as a “disconnect” from God. What would have happened if Samson had taken the time to ask God what to do before he told Delilah about his hair? What if Samson had just stopped and asked God to guide his words and his choices… and to give him the strength to do the right thing – even if he was tempted to choose otherwise?

What if we did this? Would the outcome in many of our situations be different? Wouldn’t it make sense that taking a few minutes to talk with God and seek His advice could result in better outcomes… and prevent a lot of heartache and frustration? Isn’t it worth a shot? Isn’t it time we stop trying to “fly by the seat of our pants” and making choices just because they make us feel good or please others… and start living out our faith in God by consulting Him about all aspects of our life each and every day?

We do carry the strength and power of God with us… maybe not in a long thick head of hair - but in our heart and soul, nonetheless. Are we willing to risk losing even some of this power by making poor choices? Who is telling you what to do and how to act these days?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 24, 2011

Judges 15:1-3
Later on—it was during the wheat harvest—Samson visited his bride, bringing a young goat. He said, "Let me see my wife—show me her bedroom."

But her father wouldn't let him in. He said, "I concluded that by now you hated her with a passion, so I gave her to your best man. But her little sister is even more beautiful. Why not take her instead?"

Samson said, "That does it. This time when I wreak havoc on the Philistines, I'm blameless."

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Jumping to conclusions… we’ve all done it. Someone doesn’t return a phone call, and we automatically assume they don’t want to speak with us. Or we see two people whispering in the corner of a room, and we decide they must be talking about us. Guests visit our gym or football stadium, and nobody welcomes them… and they conclude that we are unfriendly and unsportsmanlike. Worse yet… people visit our church, and no one greets them or smiles in their direction, and they deem our church as “unfriendly” and unwelcoming. We are all guilty of making assumptions and drawing conclusions.

In Samson’s case, several assumptions were made, including Samson’s conclusion that he was actually married to the Philistine bride who he had wed in a lavish, seven-day bachelor party/wedding of sorts. Let’s just say he got a little sidetracked, and when he went to get her some time later, she had been given to the best man by her father, who assumed Samson didn’t really want to marry her.

I hope you will read these chapters in Judges as we look at the lessons they contain… but suffice it to say that Samson and the Philistines made some assumptions and decisions that led to a whole lot of trouble! And we do that, too! We trust the wrong people… we fail to get all of the facts, or we set ourselves up to be mistreated or disappointed… and we assume the worst!

I don’t know why we rush to conclusions without doing sufficient investigation first to make sure we are on the right track. Maybe we listen to the wrong people and are misinformed. Sometimes we get in a hurry and don’t take time to really think through a situation and get all the facts. Sometimes we are in an “it’s all about me” mode and just naturally assume that others are against us in some manner. And most of the time, we fail to consult God and ask Him to sort out all of this so that we can proceed in a wise, calm, mature manner.

Samson got caught up in riddles, seduction, and the agendas of other people. In his case, it was all God’s orchestration – giving him reason to come up against the Philistines and defeat them. In our cases, I’m afraid the reasons are not so Godly. Jumping to conclusions caused Samson’s father-in-law and bride to lose their lives. Jumping to conclusions caused the Philistines to be conquered – and virtually destroyed – by Samson, under God’s power.

Jumping to conclusions may not get us killed… but it can result in a lot of heartache and frustration that is totally needless. The next time you are tempted to jump to conclusions, stop and ask God to show you what is really happening. Ask Him to give you wisdom and peace about the situation – and to show you how you should react. Stay in contact and conversation with God, so that you can operate in confidence and peace instead of paranoia and misinformation. God will show you how to sift through everything and make the right choices… are you asking the right questions?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 23, 2011

Proverbs 20:18
Be sure you have sound advice before making plans or starting a war.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Often, I will see a post on Facebook from someone planning a trip… “Where’s a good place to stay in Destin?” “How was the weather at Such-and-Such destination last week?” “What are the gas prices like down toward Disneyland?” The advice of someone who has “been there/done that” on a vacation can be very helpful to someone who is still in the planning stages. And it makes perfect sense to ask. Wouldn’t you want to know the best restaurants and motels, cheapest places to get gas, and best times of day to visit certain attractions and avoid long lines?

If you study history, you will see that even back to Old Testament days, people consulted others before starting – or participating in – a war. Strategy was discussed – what worked and what did not, which routes were best, what would happen if this approach or that one were taken, and more. And the right advice often made a huge difference in the outcome.

So what does this have to do with our faith walk? God is using this verse to remind us to seek HIS advice and the advice of fellow believers before making big decisions. Don’t get the advice of just anyone. Seek someone who seems to have a strong connection with God… someone who is known to make wise decisions in his/her own daily living… someone who you are certain prays and studies God’s word before making the first move.

Quite often, God will use others to guide us in the right direction, so find a couple of trustworthy people to consult when you are in need of sound advice. Be sure you ask God to choose these “go-to” advisors for you. He will point you in their direction and make it crystal clear to you that these are the right folks to help you.

God did not call us to serve Him by ourselves. He wants us to interact and lean on one another for help… and that includes sound advice. Find your “go-to” friends and catalog their contact info. When a decision arises, ask God to point you in the right direction… and He will show you who to ask and how to proceed. You will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have decided according to His will… and your choices will be solid as a Rock.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 22, 2011

Proverbs 20:3
It makes you look good when you avoid a fight -- only fools love to quarrel.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Do you know someone who comes in the door trying to pick a fight? It’s really hard to even have a conversation with this person, because he/she takes everything you say the wrong way – or there is potential for this to happen. Those who love to quarrel often have a way of drawing you into their argument before you even realize what is happening.

Pretty soon, you notice that people are avoiding this person altogether, because it’s easier than risking getting into an argument… and the person who loves to argue starts to look rather foolish and sad.

Often we do find ourselves drawn into an argument before we realize what is happening. So the challenge is to stay on guard and to hold our tongue… to think before we speak, and to choose our words carefully. We’ve all heard the recommendation to “count to ten” before we speak in these situations. Just recently I read an article by an expert who suggested we needed to count longer – maybe even to 100! I’m not sure that is necessary, but give yourself a few seconds to collect your thoughts and calm your nerves… and quietly ask God to give you the right things to say and a loving demeanor.

I have not always chosen my words carefully in these situations… and regretfully, I’ve come off looking as foolish as the other guy. I have to tell you, there is a lot of satisfaction in knowing you walked away from a quarrel without losing your cool. In those situations, I am very quick to thank God… because I know I could never do that under my own steam.

I pray that we would all learn to control our emotions… and our words… as we grow in our walk with God. I pray that we would learn to stop more often and count to ten… or twenty or thirty… and give ourselves time to ask God for His strength and wisdom. I pray that we would “take the high road” and walk away with our integrity… claws retracted and reputation intact! I pray that God would work in each of us to develop this ability more thoroughly… and may your arguments and quarrels become less frequent… and far less foolish.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 21, 2011

Proverbs 19:6-7
Lots of people flock around a generous person;
everyone's a friend to the philanthropist.

When you're down on your luck, even your family avoids you—
yes, even your best friends wish you'd get lost.

If they see you coming, they look the other way—
out of sight, out of mind.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

If you have ever experienced the breakup or divorce of a couple with whom you were friends or acquaintances, you know how awkward it can be to maintain contact with the parties involved. This has happened to my husband and me… and often, we like both people and really don’t want to choose sides. Sometimes, it seems easier just to avoid both of them than to have to figure out how to deal with such a dicey situation.

Or maybe you know someone who has been injured or come down with a debilitating illness… and all of a sudden, you really don’t know how you are supposed to react to this person – or how to help. So a lot of times, we back off and pretend we are busy or make up some other excuse for not coming around… or we just completely cut the person out of our circle.

And maybe you have been on the “receiving end” of this sort of situation. Maybe because of circumstances beyond your control, things have changed in your life… health, finances, relationships… and you find that people you thought cared about you have disappeared. It happens more often than we want to think… and it hurts.

It’s easy to be friends and acquaintances with healthy, successful, generous people. And sadly, some people hang around these kind of folks because of what is in it for themselves. But God has called us to “love one another”… and that means loving others for themselves – not what they can do for you. This means not waiting to call someone and ask how they are doing until you need to follow that question with, “Listen… I need a big favor.” We are to continue to make the effort to stay in touch with people and love them – even when it’s awkward, or we don’t know how to help, or they seem so down on their luck that they feel like they have nothing to offer another human being.

We are all God’s children. He loves each and every one of us… and to Him, we are all tremendously valuable. If we are going to love one another like true Disciples of Christ, we must love in all circumstances and at all times. Ask yourself some hard questions about the people in your circle… and those from whom you have disconnected. Ask yourself why you surround yourself with some – and why you have distanced from others. The answers might astound you – and you might find that God is calling you to do some shifting in your “circle.”

Be obedient to the will of God… love others not for what they can do for you, but because of who they are and what they mean to you personally. Don’t let “out of sight – out of mind” apply to you and your relationships. Would you want others… or worse yet – God Himself… to treat you this way? Don’t be guilty of offering others any less than you would hope for yourself in relationships. Be a true vessel of the love and light of Christ, and treat others as God instructs you to do so.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 20, 2011

Judges 11:29-39
Then the LORD's Spirit took control of Jephthah, and Jephthah went through Gilead and Manasseh, raising an army. Finally, he arrived at Mizpah in Gilead, where he promised the LORD, "If you will let me defeat the Ammonites and come home safely, I will sacrifice to you whoever comes out to meet me first."

From Mizpah, Jephthah attacked the Ammonites, and the LORD helped him defeat them. Jephthah and his army destroyed the twenty towns between Aroer and Minnith, and others as far as Abel-Keramim. After that, the Ammonites could not invade Israel any more.

When Jephthah returned to his home in Mizpah, the first one to meet him was his daughter. She was playing a tambourine and dancing to celebrate his victory, and she was his only child.

"Oh!" Jephthah cried. Then he tore his clothes in sorrow and said to his daughter, "I made a sacred promise to the LORD, and I must keep it. Your coming out to meet me has broken my heart."

"Father," she said, "you made a sacred promise to the LORD, and he let you defeat the Ammonites. Now, you must do what you promised, even if it means I must die.

But first, please let me spend two months, wandering in the hill country with my friends. We will cry together, because I can never get married and have children." "Yes, you may have two months," Jephthah said. She and some other girls left, and for two months they wandered in the hill country, crying because she could never get married and have children. Then she went back to her father. He did what he had promised, and she never got married.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Okay, first of all, if our father promised someone something that involved a sacrifice on our part, I seriously doubt we would be so agreeable, don’t you?! Even if it didn’t involve human sacrifice – OUR human sacrifice – I still don’t think we would be so accommodating. We would hope that our dad would say, “You’re right… I really didn’t mean it! I would never think of allowing you (or your friends or possessions) to be harmed, just because I promised.” Never mind that God had saved an entire clan of people because of Jephthah’s promise…after all, we bargain with God all the time, don’t we? Surely we don’t mean to follow through… even if He delivers!

This passage illustrates a very important point… if we are going to bargain with God, we better be ready, willing, and able to deliver on our end… because God doesn’t play around! Moreover, if we do bargain with God, we had better be careful what we offer in return for whatever we ask of Him. I am pretty certain I could not have done what Jephthah’s daughter did. For one thing, she really had nothing to do with her father’s bargain with God… she was an innocent bystander caught in the cross-hairs.

On the other hand, had I been Jephthah… even considering his daughter’s willingness… I am not sure I could have followed through with killing her. I would probably have been on my knees, asking God to have mercy on me and find a suitable substitute. But that is not where we want to be, is it? We don’t want to be in a relationship with God where we are making promises we can’t possibly deliver, and hoping He will be merciful and accept something else!

Because of the blood of Jesus, living sacrifices are no longer necessary from us mere mortals. But there are plenty of times we do come before God and ask for His help, promising all sorts of things in return… “Just let me lose this 10 pounds, and I promise I will give up ice cream and start jogging every day.” We tell Him, “Please heal my loved one, and I will never miss another Sunday of worship services!” We ask, “Can you just help me make it through these finals, and I promise that next semester, I will study really hard and be ready!”

When we make promises to God in return for requesting His help, we had better be ready, willing, and able to deliver. If we don’t have the courage and fortitude of Jephthah and his daughter to fully make good on our vows, we better rethink what we are asking – and how we ask for it. Is your word your bond… with people in everyday life – and especially with God? Shouldn’t it be?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 19, 2011

Judges 4:14-24
Deborah shouted, "Barak, it's time to attack Sisera! Because today the LORD is going to help you defeat him. In fact, the LORD has already gone on ahead to fight for you."

Barak led his ten thousand troops down from Mount Tabor. And during the battle, the LORD confused Sisera, his chariot drivers, and his whole army. Everyone was so afraid of Barak and his army, that even Sisera jumped down from his chariot and tried to escape. Barak's forces went after Sisera's chariots and army as far as Harosheth-Ha-Goiim. Sisera's entire army was wiped out.

Only Sisera escaped. He ran to Heber's camp, because Heber and his family had a peace treaty with the king of Hazor. Sisera went to the tent that belonged to Jael, Heber's wife. She came out to greet him and said, " Come in, sir! Please come on in. Don't be afraid."

After they had gone inside, Sisera lay down, and Jael covered him with a blanket. "Could I have a little water?" he asked. "I'm thirsty." Jael opened a leather bottle and poured him some milk, then she covered him back up. "Stand at the entrance to the tent," Sisera told her. "If someone comes by and asks if anyone is inside, tell them `No.'"

Sisera was exhausted and soon fell fast asleep. Jael took a hammer and drove a tent-peg through his head into the ground, and he died. Meanwhile, Barak had been following Sisera, and Jael went out to meet him. "The man you're looking for is inside," she said. "Come in and I'll show him to you."

They went inside, and there was Sisera--dead and stretched out with a tent-peg through his skull. That same day the Israelites defeated the Canaanite King Jabin, and his army was no longer powerful enough to attack the Israelites. Jabin grew weaker while the Israelites kept growing stronger, and at last the Israelites destroyed him.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

I bet you are expecting me to use this story to say, “Never underestimate the power of a woman!” Or maybe you’re saying to yourself, “WOW! I didn’t know these sort of things were written about in the Old Testament!” But what I really want you to understand today from this story is that when God makes a promise, He means what He says! And as I heard a pastor say recently, “It’s a fixed fight! The only way you can lose is to forfeit!”

God told Deborah that He was going to help Barak defeat Sisera’s army. In fact, He told her that He had already sent an army ahead to start the fighting. Basically, all Barak and his army had to do was show up! And that’s what they did… and the battle was successful – except for capturing and/or killing Sisera, the leader.

I guess Sisera thought he could run, hide and get away, but God had other plans… and he used Jael to accomplish them. See, as this pastor explained it so beautifully… “God has taken away your enemy’s ability to hurt you – you have nothing to fear. If you call on God, He is obligated to deliver you.” All you have to do is show up and trust Him to do it!

Does this mean we can ask for anything under the sun and expect to get it? NO! God’s will is still in play. But when we ask God to help us… He must, because He has promised to do so – according to His will.

I don’t know if I could have been as brave as Jael. I’d like to think so, because to do otherwise would have been, in essence, to forfeit. Do we really believe that God is with us… that He has “fixed the fight” for us? Isn’t it time we started showing up and trusting Him to already be there with His army in tow? Are we ready to start living, speaking and believing what He has promised? Do you have your “tent-peg” handy?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 18, 2011

Proverbs 18:20-21
Make your words good – you will be glad you did. Words can bring death or life! Talk too much, and you will eat everything you say.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

A friend recently sent me a video from YouTube that portrayed a blind man sitting on a sidewalk with a sign that read, “I’m blind… please help.” People would pass him, and occasionally someone would toss a coin his way. Then a woman stopped, walked back, picked up the sign and scribbled something on the back of it. She turned the cardboard over and stood it up beside the man… and he began to be flooded with coins.

The woman returned, and the man asked, “What did you do to my sign?” She replied, “I wrote a sign… but with different words.” Her words were… “It’s a beautiful day, and I can’t see it.” You can see this video for yourself at http://youtu.be/Hzgzim5m7oU.

How often are we guilty of choosing the wrong words? Do you suppose you are more persuasive when you tell a child, “Don’t!” or “No!”… or when you say, “That stove is hot… if you touch it, you will get burned.”? When you tell a friend, “You’re turning into a jerk,” do you really think he/she will listen? But if you say, “You know I love you, but other people are starting to avoid you because of how you are acting,” you might get his/her attention.

When you tell someone, “You really need to be coming to church” – how do you suppose they feel? But if you say… “We have such a great time at church, and we’d love it if you would come with us” – you might have a chance of getting them there. If you tell someone, “God loves you so much and wants to bless you in ways you can’t imagine,” won’t that get you farther than saying, “You better turn to God… or else!”?

Often we say things out of love and care or concern… but that’s not how they are received. I’ve heard people (who usually are known for a rather sharp tongue and blunt attitude anyway) say, “Well, I told them that for their own good!” No… these people failed to choose good words… and in doing so, they did far more harm than any good they ever hoped to accomplish. The Bible tells us that the tongue holds the power of life or death… and the difference is often determined by how we choose our words.

What about you? Are you a blind man today… or is it a beautiful day and you can’t see it? The difference is all in a matter of words. Have you asked God to help you choose yours wisely today?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 17, 2011

Proverbs 16:33
We make our own decisions, but the LORD alone determines what happens.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

For some time now, I have been in prayer for a friend who is seriously ill. In visiting with family members, the comment has been made, “We’re not ready to lose him.” Oh, how I get that! I remember distinctly when my dad suffered a stroke the day after surgery to repair a hernia. He was paralyzed from the chest downward, and by evening, his feet had begun to turn black. My dad was already battling renal failure and had to undergo nightly dialysis. This development was a cruel blow on top of his other maladies.

Because the paralysis was impeding blood flow to the lower portion of my dad’s body, the doctor told us, “We may have to remove his feet.” For someone like my dad… a “working man” in his day… a welder who was comfortable hoisting heavy metal, pulling a 40-foot fifth-wheel down the road behind a dually pickup or bush-hogging a dozen acres of land in a day on his tractor… this would have been worse than death. Rendering him unable to care for himself at home and relegated to a skilled-care facility (which is where he would have had to be to receive the care he needed) would have been the ultimate insult for him. Suddenly, my grandmother’s phrase “There’s lots worse things than dying” rang in my ears.

As I spoke with a lifelong close friend of my mom’s on the phone that night, she kept saying, “We just have to pray that your daddy gets better!” I told her, “No… we have to pray for God’s will” – and I meant it. See, we get a vote, but God has the final say. And honestly, we can’t possibly know what He knows… or what is truly best like He can.

My dad did not survive the night. He suffered a massive heart attack and went to heaven to be with Jesus, my brother, and others who had passed before him. And crazy as it sounds… as much as I miss him every day… I was at peace with this. Oh, I was sad… and I cried and grieved… and I still do at times. But God knew as well as I did – or better - that this was the best outcome for my daddy.

Some nearly twelve years later, I have experienced the loss of many loved ones, and each one has been bittersweet. My vote has often been to let them stick around… but God’s chose otherwise… and I accept that. And truly, these experiences have given me strength and courage to trust God’s choices in other areas, too. I always have a vote… and I don’t hesitate to let God know how I really feel. But in the end, I have to defer to His wisdom and add… “if it is Your will, LORD.”

When we let God have the final say… knowing we may not like it… we can find peace and comfort in His decisions. We can find blessings we weren’t expecting, and strength we didn’t know we had. I pray my friend gets well… and I pray for peace for his family. I don’t want to lose him, either. But at the same time, I believe his healing may very well come in heaven rather than on earth. I pray that others who are battling illnesses, hardships, tough decisions, and more might have the outcomes they seek. But I know that God may have other – much better – plans!

However God decides… whatever He chooses in each circumstance… I know that He is holding all of us in the palm of His hand… and He truly does have the final say. And because I know that His promises are sure and He is all-knowing… full of power, grace, mercy, and amazing love… this is good enough for me. What about you?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 16, 2011

James 4:7-8
Surrender to God! Resist the devil, and he will run from you. Come near to God, and he will come near to you.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

I was all set for an afternoon of listing antiques for sale on Etsy.com and writing devos, when I lost my Internet connection. For the next five hours, I was unable to access the world-wide web, send or receive e-mail, read blogs, and more. I found other activities to occupy the time, but I have to admit… I was frustrated and uncomfortable. It’s not that I can’t go for hours – or even days – without being online. It’s more that I felt disconnected… and frankly, I have come to rely heavily on the Internet in my daily routine.

Once the Internet service was restored, I started reading scriptures online and writing devos, and I was struck by a very profound question… “Do we feel as anxious and frustrated about a ‘disconnect’ from God?” When we feel separated – or at least distanced somewhat – from God… like we are not communicating as well as we once were… does that make us uneasy? Are we bothered at all by this?

I don’t know about you, but I have gotten to a point where I know pretty well right away when I’ve moved away from God. Notice I didn’t say when God moves away from me… because I don’t believe He ever does that. But I let other things get in the way from time to time, and I move away from Him… fail to stay in constant communication… let my “connection” drop for awhile.

Just as losing the Internet connection makes me feel a little unnerved, losing my connection with God makes me feel much the same way. Honestly, if it didn’t, I would be even more concerned. See, when we become comfortable with being distanced from God, Satan has an open door… and he is not afraid to step right in and start working. That is not something that I want to experience!

So I am using this temporary disconnect as a reminder that I must stay “online” with God. I must draw near to Him and let Him strengthen the connection between us. If I will call on God and “login” with Him, He will be ready to interact with me in a number of incredible ways. I have no intention of letting my God-connection drop… what about you?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 15, 2011

Luke 18:9-14
Jesus told a story to some people who thought they were better than others and who looked down on everyone else: Two men went into the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood over by himself and prayed, "God, I thank you that I am not greedy, dishonest, and unfaithful in marriage like other people. And I am really glad that I am not like that tax collector over there. I go without eating for two days a week, and I give you one tenth of all I earn."

The tax collector stood off at a distance and did not think he was good enough even to look up toward heaven. He was so sorry for what he had done that he pounded his chest and prayed, "God, have pity on me! I am such a sinner."

Then Jesus said, "When the two men went home, it was the tax collector and not the Pharisee who was pleasing to God. If you put yourself above others, you will be put down. But if you humble yourself, you will be honored."

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

You may have heard the recent news report about a woman who injects her 8-year-old daughter with Botox, because – in her words… “a lot of the moms were giving their kids Botox… and I’m not the only one doing it. I think a lot of the kids making the lines on the face a big deal made her want to do it more.” The San Francisco mother contends that she is doing this to keep up with the “beauty-take-all world” of the pageant circuit.

Sadly, this little girl will apparently not get a chance to genuinely be herself. And I have to wonder if this incessant concern over physical appearance (I mean… c’mon… wrinkles on an 8-year-old’s face?!) won’t spill over into arrogance as this little girl grows into a young woman. “Normal” people will never be in her league… and those with physical deformities and more will most certainly be viewed as less than acceptable. At least the potential is there for some pretty scary attitudes and behaviors.

I am so done with phony people, aren’t you?! I’m worn out with people who say one thing to your face and act another way when you aren’t looking. I’m tired of the people who view those with poor hygiene and shabby clothing – or the “wrong” color or lifestyle choice – as beneath them. Give me good ole humble Christians who are striving to live in God’s will and focus on serving Him rather than serving themselves! Sometimes, I think God is thinking the same thing. Don’t you figure He gets tired of all of the grandstanding and arrogance… particularly when it comes from people who profess to be His Disciples?

Let’s look at what we are doing… in every aspect of our lives. Where are we setting ourselves – or those around us – up for the potential to operate in arrogance and piety? Where are we behaving as if we are better than others… or trying to be something – or someone – we are not? Do you see how this grieves God? Isn’t it time we became humble, genuine servants who say, “Here I am LORD… warts and all. If You can use me in some manner, I’m ready and willing to serve. Just point me in the right direction.”?

God may not ask you to take a “tax collector” (or a homeless person or someone whose beliefs don’t match your own) home with you for a meal. But whatever He asks of us, we must be ready – and willing – to do. If you were one of the people in Jesus’ story, who would you most resemble today?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 14, 2011

Luke 18:1-8
Jesus told his disciples a story about how they should keep on praying and never give up: In a town there was once a judge who didn't fear God or care about people. In that same town there was a widow who kept going to the judge and saying, "Make sure that I get fair treatment in court."

For a while the judge refused to do anything. Finally, he said to himself, "Even though I don't fear God or care about people, I will help this widow because she keeps on bothering me. If I don't help her, she will wear me out."

The Lord said: Think about what that crooked judge said. Won't God protect his chosen ones who pray to him day and night? Won't he be concerned for them? He will surely hurry and help them. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find on this earth anyone with faith?

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

On a recent local newscast, a reporter visited our high school campus to talk with the track coach, Dale Cresswell, and members of his team. The Heber Springs High School track and field teams won the Triple Crown this year – 4A State Champs in indoor, outdoor, and cross-country. Team member Jake Sanders said, “When it was brought up, I kinda laughed at it the first time I heard about it. Then after we won cross-country by so many points, we just moved on to the next thing, and we just started working really hard for indoor and outdoor, and it worked out.” Michael Dorsey said, “It’s just crazy, because… we’ve never won it, and low and behold, everyone came through in the end… and it just blew ‘em away.”

This team of high school athletes never gave up. They saw the potential for greatness and tremendous achievement, and they kept working toward it. And in the end, they were rewarded with recognition of their hard work… and the bragging rights of being the first 4A school in history to win the Triple Crown. Their persistence, faithfulness, teamwork, and loyalty was blessed.

There is a great lesson here for all of us in our Christian walk. A “can’t-do attitude” is not allowed. Nothing is too big for God to accomplish. When it looks like there is no way… He makes a way! That is why we are told in scripture to pray without ceasing. Just like the track team kept picking off opponents and forging ahead toward one championship after another, we must keep pursuing God. We must never say “Never” – because if what we ask of God is part of His plan, nothing is impossible… anything can happen!

What are you working toward… what are you asking of God and believing He can bring to fruition? How high is your aim? How deep is your faith? Are you pursuing God with everything you’ve got… and believing He will answer? Are you working toward a “Triple Crown” of blessings? Shouldn’t you?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 13, 2011

Psalm 90:12
Teach us to use wisely all the time we have.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Today, our great-nephew Timothy is two years old. The time has flown, and I fully understand what people mean when they say that we turn around and our children are grown! I sat at a recent high school baseball game and looked around at teenagers who I knew as babies just yesterday – or so it seemed. I looked at their young, energetic faces and watched them interact with friends. When you are in 8th or 9th grade, you think high school will never end, and one week after graduation, you’re wondering where the time went.

The next thing you know, you are a young adult. Maybe you went to college, and that time flew by. Maybe you went straight to work, and now you wonder where those years in your late teens-to-early twenties went. Young parents find themselves wondering where the time went as their babies rapidly grew into toddlers and young children.

Those becoming grandparents for the first time wonder how in the world they got there… when did their kids become old enough to have children of their own? Even older folks look at the younger ones and think, “I was their age… what seems like just yesterday!” The old cliché is no joke – time truly does fly!

I’ve said that I’m just now old enough to appreciate babies… and too old to chase after them! But one thing I have realized with Timothy is that each day I spend with him is a day I will never get back. So I have learned to let a lot of things go in favor of time spent reading books or dancing and singing to yet another episode of “Jack’s Big Music Show” – or riding the tricycle on the driveway and playing and splashing in the bath tub. So what if I don’t get the newspaper read or see the news and weather forecast. Who cares if I didn’t get my makeup on for a day or two and we stayed in our pj’s until nearly noon? What’s the worst that can happen if the house is a wreck for a week or two? We’re making memories and spending quality time together… and I’m making sure that Timothy knows how important he is to us.

One of the greatest commodities we have is time. Most of us will tell anyone who will listen that we never have enough of it. The truth is… most of us just don’t use our time wisely. There is nothing wrong with relaxing, having a hobby, working for a living – or even piddling away a few hours doing nothing. But many of us need to stop and take a hard look at our priorities… and how we use our time. We need to ask God to teach us how to use wisely all the time we have… when to work and when to play – and how to arrive at a healthy balance.

In so many areas of our life, we waste time that we will never get back again. We squander chances to enjoy the company of friends and family in favor of mundane or insignificant activities. We choose to participate in things that bring no meaning or purpose to our life… much less serve God in any capacity… and we think we are really living.

I challenge you today to stop and ask God if you are truly using wisely the time that He has given you. Ask Him to show you what activities are really worthwhile… and which ones you could easily eliminate. Pray for balance in your life between rest and relaxation – and honest, productive work. If you will trust God to show you how to use your time wisely, you will know when to earnestly give something your total attention… and when you need to simply stay home your pj’s and dance like a two-year-old. Our time is finite… how are you spending yours?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 12, 2011

Psalm 89:1-2
Our LORD, I will sing of your love forever. Everyone yet to be born will hear me praise your faithfulness. I will tell them, "God's love can always be trusted, and his faithfulness lasts as long as the heavens."

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Lately, I have observed a great example of faithfulness and devotion… among a group of mothers who never miss a single one of their sons’ and daughters’ sporting events. I’ve watched about a half dozen mothers in particular who are always in the stands, no matter what. They travel the countryside all hours of the day and night, sit outside in all sorts of weather… and they wouldn’t think of not being there for a single minute - even if their child is warming the bench! I’m not sure if their children realize what a gift this is… or how much effort and dedication it requires… but these mothers are truly special in my book!

Things are changing for some of these moms. Their “babies” are graduating – from high school and/or college. And some of these mothers are feeling a little bittersweet – ready for a break and some rest, but also sad that this chapter of life has come to an end. One mom-turned-grandma consoled them on Facebook with assurance that in a few years, they will be like she is… back at the sporting events watching grandchildren.

Now you may be wondering why I am talking about this with relationship to these verses in the Psalms, and I’ll gladly explain. See, God is like these moms. He’s always with us. He attends every event we attend… He watches over us night and day. He travels far and wide and endures all kinds of “weather” just to be with us and support us through every event in our lives. And just like the young athletes, we often fail to recognize what a tremendous gift this is. We do not fully comprehend just how faithful God is toward us… how devoted He is to our every breath!

Scripture tells us that we can’t run far enough, climb high enough, or dig deeply enough to get away from God… He is always with us. And in my book, that is a good thing! I have to agree with the Psalmist… God’s faithfulness is worthy of my praise… and lasts as long as the heavens. When I look up into the “stands” of life, I’m grateful that God is there looking back at me… aren’t you? Are you trusting Him to support you in every endeavor? Do you sing of His unending love? God is our biggest cheerleader… our Number One Fan. Shouldn’t we be His in return?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 11, 2011

Joshua 5:13-15
One day, Joshua was near Jericho when he saw a man standing some distance in front of him. The man was holding a sword, so Joshua walked up to him and asked, "Are you on our side or on our enemies' side?"

"Neither," he answered. "I am here because I am the commander of the LORD's army."

Joshua fell to his knees and bowed down to the ground. "I am your servant," he said. "Tell me what to do."

"Take off your sandals," the commander answered. "This is a holy place."

So Joshua took off his sandals.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Recently, I met a friend I had not seen in awhile at Wal-Mart, and as we talked, I learned that she was experiencing some hardships. This person really wanted to talk. I had a lot of shopping to do, but this woman was hurting, and she really needed encouragement. Part of me wanted to say, “Listen, I’d love to keep visiting, but I’ve got to get my shopping done.” But another Voice said, “You are my servant… I’m using you to offer words of assurance to this person.” In that moment, I realized that even in the grocery store, we can stand on Holy ground!

Do you recognize God and/or His agents when they show up in your life? When an angel comes to minister to you, are you aware that God has just done a holy thing for you? When God presents you with an opportunity to minister in His name, do you seize it? See, we probably won’t get a soldier with a sword. Our “sign” most likely will not be that literal. We will have to watch for more subtle indications that God is present… that He is creating a holy place where we need to “remove our sandals” and connect with Him.

I believe that we are given opportunities every day to bless and be a blessing for God. And the more attuned we become to His will and His presence, the more this will happen. But sadly, some of us will miss many of these because we are 1) not aware, and 2) not obedient.

Do you get that God is waiting to bless you and meet your needs in ways you can’t even begin to imagine? Do you understand that you have to be awake and alert in order to connect – to recognize when you are standing in a holy place? Are you so caught up in the day-to-day activities of life and survival that you are missing out on what’s really important? Isn’t it time we worked a little harder at connecting with God in a deep and intimate way, so that we never fail to recognize Him or His agents?

How often do you stand in a holy place these days? Are you ready to step out and up – to take off your sandals… and truly make the connection of a lifetime?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 10, 2011

Galatians 6:1-3
Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Problems and burdens are like holes in your underwear… at some point, everybody’s got ‘em! You can put on your clothes and assume that nobody will be any the wiser about the tiny hole – or the giant rip – underneath. And it’s the same with our problems… we can smooth them over and act as if we have none. But the fact remains… every single person has some sort of challenge or burden at one time or another.

Quite often, we make the colossal mistake of assuming that the other guy has no troubles… because after all, he makes good money, drives a nice car, lives in a big fancy house, and everything seems to go his way. We may not realize that his relationships are falling apart, he’s in debt up to his eyeballs, and the doctor just told him his “numbers” are through the roof. Because his exterior is neat, clean and starched, we may not see what lies underneath.

As Christians, we often make the mistake of looking past those in our immediate circle. We seek the lost… those who have no relationship with Jesus Christ… those who need a church home or clearly wear their problems like a shabby, threadbare coat. We see the obvious while completely missing “the elephant in the room.” One example of this is pastors and those in ministry. People tend to overlook these folks and their needs, assuming that they must have it all together – given their position and all. Often, nothing could be farther from the truth.

Pastors have health issues, family woes, money troubles, losses and grief and more… just like the rest of us. We once attended a church where the pastor stood up one Sunday and announced he was taking a break from the pulpit to deal with his own severe depression. Few, if any, in the congregation had a clue that he was suffering in this manner… and it was humbling to think we had not realized his serious burden. But often we don’t remember to ask people how they are doing – or even to pray for them!

As Christians, we are called to share each others’ burdens. We are not to be so self-absorbed or busy trying to “add to the flock” that we overlook the immediate needs of our own brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s time we took a look around us. Who in your immediate circle is flying under the radar? Who needs someone to ask, “Are you alright? Is there anything I can do for you?” What friends and family members need a word of encouragement… assurance that you care about them and have not forgotten how precious they are – to you and to God?

Never assume that the other guy has it all together based on outward appearance. Just as you should never criticize those whose burdens seem huge, distasteful – or even senseless – you should not criticize those who appear to have no problems. I assure you, their troubles may not be as big as some in the grand scheme of things… but on any given day, they can seem quite huge and frustrating. Just as we are not to judge those who appear to have big troubles or sins, we must not judge those who appear to be trouble free.

Have you looked around your backyard today? Have you asked yourself, “What is really happening with So-and-So… and have I been paying attention to his/her needs?” We’re all in this together… Jesus called us to love one another. Are you doing your part?

©2011 Debbie Robus