1 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Here we are again… at the end of another year! No doubt, we have all encountered our own share of joys, triumphs, challenges and tribulations. Surely no one can live 365 consecutive uneventful days! There will be highs and lows for each of us. But the one thing that is indisputable is the availability of God’s spirit… His strength and power readily offered to each of us.
So often, we say, “This is so hard! I don’t know how I will make it!” We worry, fret, and operate in fear. The Apostle Paul’s words for Timothy work equally well for us. God has His hand on us…He is equipping us with fortitude and courage. With God by our side - His Holy Spirit living within us - nothing is beyond what we can handle. Because of His spirit of power, love and self-discipline, we are able to endure hardships, embrace victories… and keep a level head through all of it!
As we start a new year, I encourage you to make sure you are equipped for what lies ahead. Don’t enter 2013 without the power and strength of God to undergird you. Take some time right now to pause and ask Him to be with you every step of the way. In the words of scripture, put on the full armor of God, so that each minute of the day is as full and rich as possible.
There’s one more thing… remember to be grateful. Thank God for all He does for you… the blessings, care, power and encouragement He provides. Thank Him for giving us Jesus… and for sending His Holy Spirit to be your constant companion. And also thank God for the other people who come in and out of your life… for brief encounters and lasting relationships… for opportunities to bless and serve… and for those who enrich your life in His name.
Make this year the one you truly live with purpose. Realize your full potential with God as the driving force within you. Operate humbly under His power, and remember to be grateful in all circumstances. I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating… with God’s power behind us, we are stronger than we think! Make 2013 the year you fully embrace this thought… and live by example. Happy New Year’s Eve… and God bless you!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 30, 2012
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
So we’re not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There’s far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can’t see now will last forever.
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.
I am in an extraordinary position these days. On one hand, I am watching the last days and weeks of my grandmother’s life unfold. Her body is wearing out, her ability to speak is virtually gone, and her mind is foggy at best. She doesn’t have many good days, but she can still smile beautifully when someone greets her. And I know my grandmother… she is already looking ahead to her heavenly celebration, which will be lavish and exciting. Of course, none of us have ever seen heaven firsthand, but she and I have talked about how wonderful it will be. We know it will last forever and make us forget any troubles or unhappiness we ever experienced…and my grandmother looks forward to this.
At the same time, I am watching my niece’s three children grow and develop. Every day is new when you are 3½, 19 months and 5 months old. Each day I see these children grow and develop… and I am shown God in action, making new life. As He allows them to learn new things and demonstrate acquired skills, I am blessed. The sleepless nights with baby Timothy have given way to a darling toddler who has the most vivid imagination I’ve ever seen…and wakes us early in the morning to “tell you something very important!” The baby girl who could only point and squeal a few weeks ago now runs to us with arms open wide and says, “Bye?” (meaning, “Can I come with you?”). The tiny baby who slept most of the time is now sitting upright, gurgling and laughing… and all too soon he will be crawling and getting into everything!
The minute we are born, we start our trek toward heaven. We may be granted 100 years or 1 day here, but heaven will last forever. Every life is filled with ups and downs. There are cycles of good times, and often there are incredible challenges and heartaches along the way. But through it all, God is granting us grace and strength for the journey. I pray that you trust Him for all of your needs. I hope you recognize His presence in even the smallest thing… a hug from a child, the beauty of a snowfall, or even a smile from an aging grandparent. Learn to recognize the rhythms and grace of God in your life… and to rely on His strength for your daily living.
We’re not giving up… how could we?! God is with us, meeting our every need and preparing us for a glorious eternity with Him in heaven. Whatever challenges we face in this life really are “small potatoes” compared to the coming good times. This is great news for all who believe in Jesus Christ and have asked Him to forgive our sins and be LORD of our lives. We can enjoy every minute of the day, regardless of what it brings, because GOD is on our side!
Are you trusting God for the things you cannot see… believing in a lavish celebration and a forever life in heaven? Who gives you strength? Who holds your future? Are you ready to “let go and let God?” Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2012 Debbie Robus
So we’re not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There’s far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can’t see now will last forever.
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.
I am in an extraordinary position these days. On one hand, I am watching the last days and weeks of my grandmother’s life unfold. Her body is wearing out, her ability to speak is virtually gone, and her mind is foggy at best. She doesn’t have many good days, but she can still smile beautifully when someone greets her. And I know my grandmother… she is already looking ahead to her heavenly celebration, which will be lavish and exciting. Of course, none of us have ever seen heaven firsthand, but she and I have talked about how wonderful it will be. We know it will last forever and make us forget any troubles or unhappiness we ever experienced…and my grandmother looks forward to this.
At the same time, I am watching my niece’s three children grow and develop. Every day is new when you are 3½, 19 months and 5 months old. Each day I see these children grow and develop… and I am shown God in action, making new life. As He allows them to learn new things and demonstrate acquired skills, I am blessed. The sleepless nights with baby Timothy have given way to a darling toddler who has the most vivid imagination I’ve ever seen…and wakes us early in the morning to “tell you something very important!” The baby girl who could only point and squeal a few weeks ago now runs to us with arms open wide and says, “Bye?” (meaning, “Can I come with you?”). The tiny baby who slept most of the time is now sitting upright, gurgling and laughing… and all too soon he will be crawling and getting into everything!
The minute we are born, we start our trek toward heaven. We may be granted 100 years or 1 day here, but heaven will last forever. Every life is filled with ups and downs. There are cycles of good times, and often there are incredible challenges and heartaches along the way. But through it all, God is granting us grace and strength for the journey. I pray that you trust Him for all of your needs. I hope you recognize His presence in even the smallest thing… a hug from a child, the beauty of a snowfall, or even a smile from an aging grandparent. Learn to recognize the rhythms and grace of God in your life… and to rely on His strength for your daily living.
We’re not giving up… how could we?! God is with us, meeting our every need and preparing us for a glorious eternity with Him in heaven. Whatever challenges we face in this life really are “small potatoes” compared to the coming good times. This is great news for all who believe in Jesus Christ and have asked Him to forgive our sins and be LORD of our lives. We can enjoy every minute of the day, regardless of what it brings, because GOD is on our side!
Are you trusting God for the things you cannot see… believing in a lavish celebration and a forever life in heaven? Who gives you strength? Who holds your future? Are you ready to “let go and let God?” Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 29, 2012
1 Samuel 30:6
David was now in great danger because all his men were very bitter about losing their sons and daughters, and they began to talk of stoning him. But David found strength in the Lord his God.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My husband’s oldest brother spent Christmas at his mother-in-law’s, in a city 150+ miles from his home in Little Rock, Arkansas. While he and his wife were away, the epic Christmas Day snowstorm ravaged much of our state, leaving their neighborhood looking like a war zone. Downed trees now weigh down power lines. Streets and driveways are impassable because of fallen tree limbs. Utility workers are vigilantly trying to restore electrical power to cold, hungry residents who are anxious to take a hot shower and get out of the dark.
This is the third time that my brother-in-law and his wife have experienced devastating power outages… twice to ice and snow, and once after residual high winds from a hurricane. They are weary and understandably frustrated. I am sure that they – and many of those who have been without power for at least four days now - have felt a little like David… vulnerable and downhearted… discouraged and miserable. But help is arriving. All throughout our state, those who can are rallying to assist others. Those who cannot physically help are sending money to organizations like the American Red Cross… and countless numbers are praying for those in need.
The strength of the LORD comes in many forms. My husband and his middle brother drove to Little Rock to help clear trees and unblock their older brother’s driveway. I am sure that this was of great comfort to him… and served as a reminder that God is still in control… still recognizing his needs – and meeting them. I know that his family, friends and church family are all praying for them as they face a huge cleanup and restoration project in coming weeks… and this must encourage them tremendously.
Thankfully, few of us will ever face something as daunting as the potential to be stoned by our peers. But we may endure hardships that feel just as formidable. Let us remember that God is with us. He is strengthening us for whatever obstacles and challenges we face, and He will equip us to meet them head-on.
Are you calling on God for strength today? Do you feel His presence and His power? When you face difficult times, where do you turn? Take heart… God is with you… find strength in the LORD your God!
©2012 Debbie Robus
David was now in great danger because all his men were very bitter about losing their sons and daughters, and they began to talk of stoning him. But David found strength in the Lord his God.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My husband’s oldest brother spent Christmas at his mother-in-law’s, in a city 150+ miles from his home in Little Rock, Arkansas. While he and his wife were away, the epic Christmas Day snowstorm ravaged much of our state, leaving their neighborhood looking like a war zone. Downed trees now weigh down power lines. Streets and driveways are impassable because of fallen tree limbs. Utility workers are vigilantly trying to restore electrical power to cold, hungry residents who are anxious to take a hot shower and get out of the dark.
This is the third time that my brother-in-law and his wife have experienced devastating power outages… twice to ice and snow, and once after residual high winds from a hurricane. They are weary and understandably frustrated. I am sure that they – and many of those who have been without power for at least four days now - have felt a little like David… vulnerable and downhearted… discouraged and miserable. But help is arriving. All throughout our state, those who can are rallying to assist others. Those who cannot physically help are sending money to organizations like the American Red Cross… and countless numbers are praying for those in need.
The strength of the LORD comes in many forms. My husband and his middle brother drove to Little Rock to help clear trees and unblock their older brother’s driveway. I am sure that this was of great comfort to him… and served as a reminder that God is still in control… still recognizing his needs – and meeting them. I know that his family, friends and church family are all praying for them as they face a huge cleanup and restoration project in coming weeks… and this must encourage them tremendously.
Thankfully, few of us will ever face something as daunting as the potential to be stoned by our peers. But we may endure hardships that feel just as formidable. Let us remember that God is with us. He is strengthening us for whatever obstacles and challenges we face, and He will equip us to meet them head-on.
Are you calling on God for strength today? Do you feel His presence and His power? When you face difficult times, where do you turn? Take heart… God is with you… find strength in the LORD your God!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 28, 2012
1 Peter 4:11
Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Today, many in our state are without power, following an epic Christmas Day blizzard. These folks are staying with friends or family members… huddled around a space heater powered by a generator… or bundled up in layers of clothing and blankets trying to stay warm in a freezing cold house. Thousands of support people are working diligently throughout the area to provide safety, emergency medical services, transportation, a warm meal, and whatever assistance is needed. Men and women from our state and those around us are making every effort to clear downed trees and power lines and restore electrical connections.
Whether they realize it or not, all of these people are exercising their gifts and calling on the strength and energy that God supplies to accomplish vital tasks. You may have never considered that providing a warm meal or a place to stay for a needy neighbor or relative was your gift… but it certainly can be! You may not have thought about those who work for utility companies or soldiers in the National Guard as people who are answering God’s call on their life… but this very well may be the case. As I spent a snowy day doing laundry in my warm, cozy house, I thought about the clothes I washed, dried and folded. Believe it or not, keeping a clean, well-run household… and yes, even doing laundry, can bring glory to God when done right! These simple tasks show others that you care about them - and their comfort and appearance.
Cleaning your room and holding up your end of the household bargain, being a good student and doing your best in school, caring for family pets, doing your best as a parent and/or spouse, and working hard at your job can all be considered gifts. When done to the best of our ability, whatever we do can be strengthened and energized by God. And when we give Him our best, He magnifies and multiplies our efforts.
So the next time you start to think of the things you do in a day as routine, mundane or unimportant, ask yourself how well you are performing the task… and whether you have given an effort that God cares to bless and strengthen. Are you using your gifts to glorify Him? Are you giving Him your best at all times? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Today, many in our state are without power, following an epic Christmas Day blizzard. These folks are staying with friends or family members… huddled around a space heater powered by a generator… or bundled up in layers of clothing and blankets trying to stay warm in a freezing cold house. Thousands of support people are working diligently throughout the area to provide safety, emergency medical services, transportation, a warm meal, and whatever assistance is needed. Men and women from our state and those around us are making every effort to clear downed trees and power lines and restore electrical connections.
Whether they realize it or not, all of these people are exercising their gifts and calling on the strength and energy that God supplies to accomplish vital tasks. You may have never considered that providing a warm meal or a place to stay for a needy neighbor or relative was your gift… but it certainly can be! You may not have thought about those who work for utility companies or soldiers in the National Guard as people who are answering God’s call on their life… but this very well may be the case. As I spent a snowy day doing laundry in my warm, cozy house, I thought about the clothes I washed, dried and folded. Believe it or not, keeping a clean, well-run household… and yes, even doing laundry, can bring glory to God when done right! These simple tasks show others that you care about them - and their comfort and appearance.
Cleaning your room and holding up your end of the household bargain, being a good student and doing your best in school, caring for family pets, doing your best as a parent and/or spouse, and working hard at your job can all be considered gifts. When done to the best of our ability, whatever we do can be strengthened and energized by God. And when we give Him our best, He magnifies and multiplies our efforts.
So the next time you start to think of the things you do in a day as routine, mundane or unimportant, ask yourself how well you are performing the task… and whether you have given an effort that God cares to bless and strengthen. Are you using your gifts to glorify Him? Are you giving Him your best at all times? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 27, 2012
1 Corinthians 10:13
No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it.
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.
My husband and I watched Ken Burn’s documentary, The Dust Bowl, about the tragic situation man created in the Great Plains of America in the 1930s by turning the grasslands into wheat farms. When a drought ensued, huge storm clouds of dust were created as the winds whipped across the Plains. Much of the land in four or five states was buried beneath the soil. Cattle, crops and homes were destroyed and/or buried. Families gave up and moved away… many to California. Still others stayed and toughed it out… some became so despondent that they committed suicide. One woman who was interviewed told of her mother walking away one day and never returning. The woman was just a tiny girl at the time. That was the last time she ever saw her mother.
Burns interviewed a number of survivors who experienced the Dust Bowl as small children. The pervading story they told was one of perseverance… and of faith. One man told of being at church with his sister when a particular storm hit. Others spoke of parents and grandparents who were “religious sorts” or had a strong faith [in God] that sustained them.
What struck me profoundly as I watched this film was that all of the troubles and tribulations we face today are certainly nothing new… financial woes, sick and hungry children and family members, natural disasters, loss of jobs and relationships, homelessness, depression and despondency. I was reminded that God never left the people of the Great Plains… and He will never leave us. Sure, many succumbed to temptations… or lost their lives to such things as dust pneumonia, getting buried in a dust storm – or even suicide. But many hung on and survived. And I have to believe that a good number of them recognized God’s presence by their side.
I don’t know what you are facing today. I don’t know what tempts or troubles you. I have no idea what challenges you face each day… or whether you feel discouraged – or even hopeless. But I am here to tell you that God is still with you. He has not left… and He will not desert you. If you will only call on Him, you can feel Him lifting you out of the dirt and saying, “I’m gonna help you… we’ve got this!” You are not alone… you are not experiencing anything that God has not helped countless others survive already… and He will do the same for you. Have you asked Him to help? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it.
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.
My husband and I watched Ken Burn’s documentary, The Dust Bowl, about the tragic situation man created in the Great Plains of America in the 1930s by turning the grasslands into wheat farms. When a drought ensued, huge storm clouds of dust were created as the winds whipped across the Plains. Much of the land in four or five states was buried beneath the soil. Cattle, crops and homes were destroyed and/or buried. Families gave up and moved away… many to California. Still others stayed and toughed it out… some became so despondent that they committed suicide. One woman who was interviewed told of her mother walking away one day and never returning. The woman was just a tiny girl at the time. That was the last time she ever saw her mother.
Burns interviewed a number of survivors who experienced the Dust Bowl as small children. The pervading story they told was one of perseverance… and of faith. One man told of being at church with his sister when a particular storm hit. Others spoke of parents and grandparents who were “religious sorts” or had a strong faith [in God] that sustained them.
What struck me profoundly as I watched this film was that all of the troubles and tribulations we face today are certainly nothing new… financial woes, sick and hungry children and family members, natural disasters, loss of jobs and relationships, homelessness, depression and despondency. I was reminded that God never left the people of the Great Plains… and He will never leave us. Sure, many succumbed to temptations… or lost their lives to such things as dust pneumonia, getting buried in a dust storm – or even suicide. But many hung on and survived. And I have to believe that a good number of them recognized God’s presence by their side.
I don’t know what you are facing today. I don’t know what tempts or troubles you. I have no idea what challenges you face each day… or whether you feel discouraged – or even hopeless. But I am here to tell you that God is still with you. He has not left… and He will not desert you. If you will only call on Him, you can feel Him lifting you out of the dirt and saying, “I’m gonna help you… we’ve got this!” You are not alone… you are not experiencing anything that God has not helped countless others survive already… and He will do the same for you. Have you asked Him to help? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 26, 2012
1 Chronicles 16:11
Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This afternoon, I spent quite a while standing in front of one of our big windows with my camera and tripod in front of me. I photographed birds that came to dine at our feeder this snowy day. I was mesmerized by the little feathered creatures… especially the purple finches. I wanted to get the perfect picture of one of them. So I stood there… continually seeking an opportunity for just the right photo op!
I got quite a few nice pictures… but I’m not sure any of them are “perfect.” So I will have to try again another time. Still, I learned some things while standing in the window. I discovered that the female finches are feisty… they will peck at the males and make them move, so that they can get to the seeds! I noticed that these birds are persistent. If they get knocked off their perch, they fly right back and try again. I also observed that when a bigger bird approaches the feeder, the others take a step back - maybe not so much out of respect for the bird as for his/her size - but they do move!
What does this have to do with the strength of the LORD? Well, for starters, the God who cares about these tiny feathered foul is the same God who cares incredibly about every detail of our lives. The God who makes sure that these tiny creatures are scrappy and strong enough to survive will give us all of the strength we need to face every minute of our day. The Heavenly Father who took time to give the purple finches a beautiful ruddy red breast, the cardinals their brilliant hue, and the big fat dove the detailed black and brown speckled covering will surely care about every aspect of our being.
Additionally, I realized that persistence pays. I had quite a few pictures to cull… those that were out of focus or not well-composed. And in life, we will have some things that don’t work out so well. But if we continually seek God… if we persist in our desire to follow His will and hear His voice… He will answer. God will equip us with strength and courage for our journey… from the best day to our worst.
Are you searching for the LORD in your daily living? Are you continually seeking God and expecting Him to show up in your life? Where do you gather strength? Are you sure you are looking in the right places? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I got quite a few nice pictures… but I’m not sure any of them are “perfect.” So I will have to try again another time. Still, I learned some things while standing in the window. I discovered that the female finches are feisty… they will peck at the males and make them move, so that they can get to the seeds! I noticed that these birds are persistent. If they get knocked off their perch, they fly right back and try again. I also observed that when a bigger bird approaches the feeder, the others take a step back - maybe not so much out of respect for the bird as for his/her size - but they do move!
What does this have to do with the strength of the LORD? Well, for starters, the God who cares about these tiny feathered foul is the same God who cares incredibly about every detail of our lives. The God who makes sure that these tiny creatures are scrappy and strong enough to survive will give us all of the strength we need to face every minute of our day. The Heavenly Father who took time to give the purple finches a beautiful ruddy red breast, the cardinals their brilliant hue, and the big fat dove the detailed black and brown speckled covering will surely care about every aspect of our being.
Additionally, I realized that persistence pays. I had quite a few pictures to cull… those that were out of focus or not well-composed. And in life, we will have some things that don’t work out so well. But if we continually seek God… if we persist in our desire to follow His will and hear His voice… He will answer. God will equip us with strength and courage for our journey… from the best day to our worst.
Are you searching for the LORD in your daily living? Are you continually seeking God and expecting Him to show up in your life? Where do you gather strength? Are you sure you are looking in the right places? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 25, 2012
Revelation 21:6-7
Everything is finished! I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will freely give water from the life-giving fountain to everyone who is thirsty. All who win the victory will be given these blessings. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband went out to check on a few folks this morning, and he stopped by my niece’s house to leave some things they had forgotten last night at our house. The children were dancing around amidst all of their Christmas gifts and the surprises Santa Claus left for them. Timothy stopped suddenly, commanded everyone’s attention and said, “I need to tell everybody… Grandma and Grandpa are bringing more presents!” My sister says that when they arrived and “more presents” were opened, Timothy was like virtually every other kid in the world on Christmas morning… he announced, “We need more presents!”
In many ways, a lot of us could say that everything is finished this Christmas. But in the most important way of all, this truly is the beginning rather than the end. We do need more - of Jesus - and we can have more of Him each and every day. Jesus truly is the Alpha and the Omega… for each believer, everything begins and ends with Him. But we’re by no means done! For us, every day is Christmas – or should be… a new beginning… another chance to share the Good News of Christ with others and to serve as His hands and feet on this earth.
So celebrate Christmas today. Open gifts, have an extra cookie or piece of pie, enjoy family and friends - and maybe watch a ballgame or two on TV or a holiday movie. But remember that we are not finished! Jesus will return someday. In the meantime, we have work to do. We must keep Him in our hearts every single day and share His message with others. We may not say “Merry Christmas” again for another eleven months or so… but we must share the Christmas spirit all year long.
Jesus is bringing more presents… freedom, victory and blessings for each of us…are you ready to receive them? Is your “Christmas” finished… or has it just begun?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Everything is finished! I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will freely give water from the life-giving fountain to everyone who is thirsty. All who win the victory will be given these blessings. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband went out to check on a few folks this morning, and he stopped by my niece’s house to leave some things they had forgotten last night at our house. The children were dancing around amidst all of their Christmas gifts and the surprises Santa Claus left for them. Timothy stopped suddenly, commanded everyone’s attention and said, “I need to tell everybody… Grandma and Grandpa are bringing more presents!” My sister says that when they arrived and “more presents” were opened, Timothy was like virtually every other kid in the world on Christmas morning… he announced, “We need more presents!”
In many ways, a lot of us could say that everything is finished this Christmas. But in the most important way of all, this truly is the beginning rather than the end. We do need more - of Jesus - and we can have more of Him each and every day. Jesus truly is the Alpha and the Omega… for each believer, everything begins and ends with Him. But we’re by no means done! For us, every day is Christmas – or should be… a new beginning… another chance to share the Good News of Christ with others and to serve as His hands and feet on this earth.
So celebrate Christmas today. Open gifts, have an extra cookie or piece of pie, enjoy family and friends - and maybe watch a ballgame or two on TV or a holiday movie. But remember that we are not finished! Jesus will return someday. In the meantime, we have work to do. We must keep Him in our hearts every single day and share His message with others. We may not say “Merry Christmas” again for another eleven months or so… but we must share the Christmas spirit all year long.
Jesus is bringing more presents… freedom, victory and blessings for each of us…are you ready to receive them? Is your “Christmas” finished… or has it just begun?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 24, 2012
Galatians 2:19-21
What actually took place is this: I tried keeping rules and working my head off to please God, and it didn’t work. So I quit being a “law man” so that I could be God’s man. Christ’s life showed me how, and enabled me to do it. I identified myself completely with him. Indeed, I have been crucified with Christ. My ego is no longer central. It is no longer important that I appear righteous before you or have your good opinion, and I am no longer driven to impress God. Christ lives in me. The life you see me living is not “mine,” but it is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I am not going to go back on that.
Is it not clear to you that to go back to that old rule-keeping, peer-pleasing religion would be an abandonment of everything personal and free in my relationship with God? I refuse to do that, to repudiate God’s grace. If a living relationship with God could come by rule-keeping, then Christ died unnecessarily.
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.
It’s Christmas Eve, and like many people, we are scurrying to do last-minute things before the family arrives for dinner and holiday festivities. There was a time, not so many years ago, when I would have thrown myself into a tizzy…cooking, cleaning, decorating and getting everything “just so” for the arrival of my family and friends. I did clean our house and decorate - and there will be a delicious potluck meal… although traditional turkey and ham are not on the menu this year! But my focus has definitely shifted from concentrating on everything being “Christmas-card perfect” to spending time with those who visit and truly enjoying the hours we will share together.
For the first time in at least 15 years, I did not write a “Christmas newsletter” to enclose in holiday cards… and I scaled back my Christmas card list significantly. I still care deeply about every person on the list… but I’m finding other ways throughout the year to let them know this, so I don’t feel that a card during the Christmas season is as necessary as I once did. Instead, I spent the two-plus days it would have taken me to address these cards to play with Timothy and Zola and introduce them to the wonder and excitement of Christmas.
Last Christmas Eve, we got everything ready for a big holiday dinner… decorated the house…filled the stockings… sent the cards and prepared for an evening of fun and festivities. Then my grandmother fell on our driveway as she stepped from the car and suffered a bloody puncture wound and concussion. We ate in shifts… and my grandmother spent two nights in the hospital. She never made it inside our house. That was when the “Christmas rules” totally flew out the door for me.
Sitting in a hospital room late on Christmas Eve, looking at my frail little grandmother with her head wrapped in a turban of gauze, I watched nurses and aides scurry in and out to check on her. They were not home enjoying a family dinner… they were ministering to others in God’s name. The next morning, a very cheerful aide came in to straighten the room. She was bubbling with “Merry Christmas!” greetings. She could have been grumpy and full of complaints about missing Christmas morning with her children and extended family. Instead, she did everything possible to make my grandmother comfortable and to bring her cheer.
THIS is what God asks of us. He wants us to toss the “rules” of the world to the curb and focus on being the hands and feet of Jesus. The true celebration of Christ’s birth is to bring joy, grace, mercy, peace and comfort to others. It won’t matter if there is dust on our furniture or we don’t have turkey and ham this year. What will matter is that we gather and share this holiday… that we revel in the surprise and amazement of the little ones as they open their packages and stare at the lights… that we hug each other and thank God that we are together, with plenty to eat, warm beds in which to sleep, and all of our basic needs more than met.
Each one of us celebrates Christmas for a few of the 365 days in each year. But what we really need to do is to celebrate Christmas every day… to surrender our ego and focus on serving Jesus and sharing His love with others. If we don’t do this, the Apostle Paul is right… Jesus came to earth, suffered, bled and died for nothing. I don’t believe for one minute that this is the case - do you? What will you do to demonstrate this today… and in the year ahead?
I pray that your Christmas Eve is blessed… that you share love, peace and joy with at least one other person. If you are spending the holidays alone, pick up the phone and call someone to say, “I love you.” Attend a worship service and celebrate Christ’s birth with others. Visit a shut-in or someone in the nursing home… or spend some quiet time talking to God and thanking Him for all of His blessings in your life. But let this be the year that you toss “rules” to the curb and really start to live in Christ Jesus. Make this the Christmas that you truly begin to celebrate Him! Merry Christmas Eve!
©2012 Debbie Robus
What actually took place is this: I tried keeping rules and working my head off to please God, and it didn’t work. So I quit being a “law man” so that I could be God’s man. Christ’s life showed me how, and enabled me to do it. I identified myself completely with him. Indeed, I have been crucified with Christ. My ego is no longer central. It is no longer important that I appear righteous before you or have your good opinion, and I am no longer driven to impress God. Christ lives in me. The life you see me living is not “mine,” but it is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I am not going to go back on that.
Is it not clear to you that to go back to that old rule-keeping, peer-pleasing religion would be an abandonment of everything personal and free in my relationship with God? I refuse to do that, to repudiate God’s grace. If a living relationship with God could come by rule-keeping, then Christ died unnecessarily.
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.
It’s Christmas Eve, and like many people, we are scurrying to do last-minute things before the family arrives for dinner and holiday festivities. There was a time, not so many years ago, when I would have thrown myself into a tizzy…cooking, cleaning, decorating and getting everything “just so” for the arrival of my family and friends. I did clean our house and decorate - and there will be a delicious potluck meal… although traditional turkey and ham are not on the menu this year! But my focus has definitely shifted from concentrating on everything being “Christmas-card perfect” to spending time with those who visit and truly enjoying the hours we will share together.
For the first time in at least 15 years, I did not write a “Christmas newsletter” to enclose in holiday cards… and I scaled back my Christmas card list significantly. I still care deeply about every person on the list… but I’m finding other ways throughout the year to let them know this, so I don’t feel that a card during the Christmas season is as necessary as I once did. Instead, I spent the two-plus days it would have taken me to address these cards to play with Timothy and Zola and introduce them to the wonder and excitement of Christmas.
Last Christmas Eve, we got everything ready for a big holiday dinner… decorated the house…filled the stockings… sent the cards and prepared for an evening of fun and festivities. Then my grandmother fell on our driveway as she stepped from the car and suffered a bloody puncture wound and concussion. We ate in shifts… and my grandmother spent two nights in the hospital. She never made it inside our house. That was when the “Christmas rules” totally flew out the door for me.
Sitting in a hospital room late on Christmas Eve, looking at my frail little grandmother with her head wrapped in a turban of gauze, I watched nurses and aides scurry in and out to check on her. They were not home enjoying a family dinner… they were ministering to others in God’s name. The next morning, a very cheerful aide came in to straighten the room. She was bubbling with “Merry Christmas!” greetings. She could have been grumpy and full of complaints about missing Christmas morning with her children and extended family. Instead, she did everything possible to make my grandmother comfortable and to bring her cheer.
THIS is what God asks of us. He wants us to toss the “rules” of the world to the curb and focus on being the hands and feet of Jesus. The true celebration of Christ’s birth is to bring joy, grace, mercy, peace and comfort to others. It won’t matter if there is dust on our furniture or we don’t have turkey and ham this year. What will matter is that we gather and share this holiday… that we revel in the surprise and amazement of the little ones as they open their packages and stare at the lights… that we hug each other and thank God that we are together, with plenty to eat, warm beds in which to sleep, and all of our basic needs more than met.
Each one of us celebrates Christmas for a few of the 365 days in each year. But what we really need to do is to celebrate Christmas every day… to surrender our ego and focus on serving Jesus and sharing His love with others. If we don’t do this, the Apostle Paul is right… Jesus came to earth, suffered, bled and died for nothing. I don’t believe for one minute that this is the case - do you? What will you do to demonstrate this today… and in the year ahead?
I pray that your Christmas Eve is blessed… that you share love, peace and joy with at least one other person. If you are spending the holidays alone, pick up the phone and call someone to say, “I love you.” Attend a worship service and celebrate Christ’s birth with others. Visit a shut-in or someone in the nursing home… or spend some quiet time talking to God and thanking Him for all of His blessings in your life. But let this be the year that you toss “rules” to the curb and really start to live in Christ Jesus. Make this the Christmas that you truly begin to celebrate Him! Merry Christmas Eve!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 23, 2012
Ezra 4:4-6
Then the local residents tried to discourage and frighten the people of Judah to keep them from their work. They bribed agents to work against them and to frustrate their plans. This went on during the entire reign of King Cyrus of Persia and lasted until King Darius of Persia took the throne.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Lies… threats… bribery… gossip and rumors…the Bible says all of these things – and more – have gone on since the long before the time of King Cyrus of Persia, who lived from 576 B.C. to 530 B.C. Frustration is nothing new, dear friend!
What HAS changed is JESUS! In the time of King Cyrus, all of these things that discouraged, frightened and frustrated were a distraction at best… causing people to lose focus and wander away from God. In this particular instance, these actions were attempts to stop the building of a temple. But even today, it would be so easy for us to become mired in the problems of the “daily grind” and lose our way… were it not for Jesus.
If you read much of the Old Testament, you will see that people had to jump through some pretty big hoops to stay close to God. They were not able to communicate with Him directly and relied on priests and prophets to intercede on their behalf. They had to burn offerings and sacrifices in order to atone for their sins. You think we have laws now? You should read the Old Testament laws concerning every behavior and action under the sun!
When God sent Jesus, everything changed. Now, not only are we able to communicate directly with Him… Jesus paid for every single one of our sins. No more sacrifices or burnt offerings are needed… no more asking someone else to speak to God on our behalf is required… no more wondering where we stand need happen! Because of Jesus, we have a direct line to God! Today, when we are frustrated, we can tell God how we feel. His Holy Spirit helps us maneuver the challenges that arise in our lives each day and keeps us on track.
There will still be lies, threats, bribery, gossip and rumors… but when these are lodged in our direction, we can talk to God and ask Him to help us handle these things according to His will. And we most certainly do not have to engage in these behaviors ourselves! When we are discouraged, frightened, and distracted, we don’t have to wander away from God and wonder how we will ever manage. All we have to do is humbly ask Him to help us… and He will deliver answers, calm and peace.
People often say that the true celebration of Jesus lies in the Holy Week of Easter, when we remember His crucifixion, death and resurrection… how He took our sins on the cross. But since we are very near the celebration of Christmas, let’s fully revel in Christ’s birth… the fact that God did send Him to rescue us and give us great help - including coping skills for frustration and the devil’s attempts to distract us.
Let’s take time to stop and thank God for offering us such a tremendous sacrifice and opening the door for us to communicate with Him directly. Let’s praise God for loving us so much… for offering us grace, mercy and forgiveness. AND… let’s be sure we accept His great gift! If you have never invited Jesus Christ to be the LORD of your life and fill your heart with His Holy Spirit, I can’t think of a better time to do so!
Don’t waste another minute wandering around in confusion. Embrace the gift of Jesus and let Him help you handle everything. He can… He will. All you have to do is ask.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Then the local residents tried to discourage and frighten the people of Judah to keep them from their work. They bribed agents to work against them and to frustrate their plans. This went on during the entire reign of King Cyrus of Persia and lasted until King Darius of Persia took the throne.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Lies… threats… bribery… gossip and rumors…the Bible says all of these things – and more – have gone on since the long before the time of King Cyrus of Persia, who lived from 576 B.C. to 530 B.C. Frustration is nothing new, dear friend!
What HAS changed is JESUS! In the time of King Cyrus, all of these things that discouraged, frightened and frustrated were a distraction at best… causing people to lose focus and wander away from God. In this particular instance, these actions were attempts to stop the building of a temple. But even today, it would be so easy for us to become mired in the problems of the “daily grind” and lose our way… were it not for Jesus.
If you read much of the Old Testament, you will see that people had to jump through some pretty big hoops to stay close to God. They were not able to communicate with Him directly and relied on priests and prophets to intercede on their behalf. They had to burn offerings and sacrifices in order to atone for their sins. You think we have laws now? You should read the Old Testament laws concerning every behavior and action under the sun!
When God sent Jesus, everything changed. Now, not only are we able to communicate directly with Him… Jesus paid for every single one of our sins. No more sacrifices or burnt offerings are needed… no more asking someone else to speak to God on our behalf is required… no more wondering where we stand need happen! Because of Jesus, we have a direct line to God! Today, when we are frustrated, we can tell God how we feel. His Holy Spirit helps us maneuver the challenges that arise in our lives each day and keeps us on track.
There will still be lies, threats, bribery, gossip and rumors… but when these are lodged in our direction, we can talk to God and ask Him to help us handle these things according to His will. And we most certainly do not have to engage in these behaviors ourselves! When we are discouraged, frightened, and distracted, we don’t have to wander away from God and wonder how we will ever manage. All we have to do is humbly ask Him to help us… and He will deliver answers, calm and peace.
People often say that the true celebration of Jesus lies in the Holy Week of Easter, when we remember His crucifixion, death and resurrection… how He took our sins on the cross. But since we are very near the celebration of Christmas, let’s fully revel in Christ’s birth… the fact that God did send Him to rescue us and give us great help - including coping skills for frustration and the devil’s attempts to distract us.
Let’s take time to stop and thank God for offering us such a tremendous sacrifice and opening the door for us to communicate with Him directly. Let’s praise God for loving us so much… for offering us grace, mercy and forgiveness. AND… let’s be sure we accept His great gift! If you have never invited Jesus Christ to be the LORD of your life and fill your heart with His Holy Spirit, I can’t think of a better time to do so!
Don’t waste another minute wandering around in confusion. Embrace the gift of Jesus and let Him help you handle everything. He can… He will. All you have to do is ask.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 22, 2012
Matthew 16:2-4
He replied, “You know the saying, ‘Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.’ You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don’t know how to interpret the signs of the times! Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah.” Then Jesus left them and went away.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When you think about it, we’ve come a long, long way in weather technology! Yes, you can still look at a red sky in the early morning and anticipate foul weather later in the day. But aren’t you glad we have such detailed radar now and the ability to pinpoint storms… especially since we live in “Tornado Alley”?
The sad thing is that a lot of us have not come very far in our ability to predict “the signs of the times.” In other words, we can recognize a “hook echo” on the local television station’s sophisticated radar screen, but we fail regularly at recognizing the presence of God… His hand in the events of our lives… how He has knit things together perfectly… and where He is leading us.
Many of us waste a lot of time in life asking God to “show me a sign,” when He has already given us all of the information we need. We grow frustrated, because we just can’t see how things are going to work out… when all we really need to do is calm down, relax, and trust God for the outcome.
So the next time you are tempted to say, “LORD, I need a sign,” stop and take a deep breath. It’s very possible He has already provided you with all of the signals you need. Listen for His voice. Look around at the events of your life and how things are working together. See where God is leading you. Calm down, relax, and rest in the LORD. This may not be a high-tech, newfangled idea, but it works! The signs and wonders of God are already around us… have you taken time to find them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
He replied, “You know the saying, ‘Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.’ You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don’t know how to interpret the signs of the times! Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah.” Then Jesus left them and went away.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When you think about it, we’ve come a long, long way in weather technology! Yes, you can still look at a red sky in the early morning and anticipate foul weather later in the day. But aren’t you glad we have such detailed radar now and the ability to pinpoint storms… especially since we live in “Tornado Alley”?
The sad thing is that a lot of us have not come very far in our ability to predict “the signs of the times.” In other words, we can recognize a “hook echo” on the local television station’s sophisticated radar screen, but we fail regularly at recognizing the presence of God… His hand in the events of our lives… how He has knit things together perfectly… and where He is leading us.
Many of us waste a lot of time in life asking God to “show me a sign,” when He has already given us all of the information we need. We grow frustrated, because we just can’t see how things are going to work out… when all we really need to do is calm down, relax, and trust God for the outcome.
So the next time you are tempted to say, “LORD, I need a sign,” stop and take a deep breath. It’s very possible He has already provided you with all of the signals you need. Listen for His voice. Look around at the events of your life and how things are working together. See where God is leading you. Calm down, relax, and rest in the LORD. This may not be a high-tech, newfangled idea, but it works! The signs and wonders of God are already around us… have you taken time to find them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 21, 2012
Psalm 46:1-3
God is our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble. And so, we won’t be afraid!
Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.
Let the ocean roar and foam, and its raging waves shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today was the day we were all supposed to die. Many interpreted calculations on a Mayan calendar to indicate that the world would end today… December 21, 2012. But here we are! Matthew 24:36 tells us… “No one knows the day or hour. The angels in heaven don’t know, and the Son himself doesn’t know. Only the Father knows.” That’s good enough for me… what about you?
See, I believe the words of Psalm 46:1-3. I believe that God will help in times of trouble. I trust His mighty strength… He is my fortress. So I say, “Bring it!” Let the mountains tumble and the oceans roar. Let the earth tremble! There has not been a single thing in my life to this day that I could not handle with God’s help. There has yet to be any obstacle too big for Him to overcome… a problem He could not solve.
Did I always like the outcome? Was everything easy, pleasant and “ooey-gooey” nice? Absolutely not! Were there heartaches and difficulties? Most definitely! Was I left alone to figure out how to manage by myself? Never!
I do not dwell on the end of the world – or the end of my life. Either way, I plan to wake up in heaven! I hope you will be there with me someday. I pray that you are trusting God as your mighty fortress… ready to help in times of trouble. I trust that you do not live in fear of the temptations and struggles the devil throws your way. Our God is awesome, amazing, strong and powerful. He never leaves our side.
I don’t know what tomorrow holds… but I know WHO holds tomorrow. I am counting on God to always be my fortress and my strength in all situations. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
God is our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble. And so, we won’t be afraid!
Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.
Let the ocean roar and foam, and its raging waves shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today was the day we were all supposed to die. Many interpreted calculations on a Mayan calendar to indicate that the world would end today… December 21, 2012. But here we are! Matthew 24:36 tells us… “No one knows the day or hour. The angels in heaven don’t know, and the Son himself doesn’t know. Only the Father knows.” That’s good enough for me… what about you?
See, I believe the words of Psalm 46:1-3. I believe that God will help in times of trouble. I trust His mighty strength… He is my fortress. So I say, “Bring it!” Let the mountains tumble and the oceans roar. Let the earth tremble! There has not been a single thing in my life to this day that I could not handle with God’s help. There has yet to be any obstacle too big for Him to overcome… a problem He could not solve.
Did I always like the outcome? Was everything easy, pleasant and “ooey-gooey” nice? Absolutely not! Were there heartaches and difficulties? Most definitely! Was I left alone to figure out how to manage by myself? Never!
I do not dwell on the end of the world – or the end of my life. Either way, I plan to wake up in heaven! I hope you will be there with me someday. I pray that you are trusting God as your mighty fortress… ready to help in times of trouble. I trust that you do not live in fear of the temptations and struggles the devil throws your way. Our God is awesome, amazing, strong and powerful. He never leaves our side.
I don’t know what tomorrow holds… but I know WHO holds tomorrow. I am counting on God to always be my fortress and my strength in all situations. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 20, 2012
Proverbs 12:24
Work hard, and you will be a leader; be lazy, and you will end up a slave.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I heard someone being interviewed on television about her success, and she said, “All of my life, everything centered on work. My parents got up and went to work every day. That was just what you did… this was how we got ahead… this is what I know.” I thought about my own parents and grandparents… especially my dad’s parents – my Mam-ma Polly and grandfather, Truman. Both worked very hard. They went to bed each night right after supper so they could get up around 3:00 a.m. My grandmother cooked a big breakfast, so that my grandfather would have the energy and strength to work hard all day, and she packed his lunch bucket with a healthy lunch.
While Mam-ma cooked breakfast, my Pap-pa tended to his cattle and fed them. Often, my grandmother would also do some household chores … wash a load of laundry, clean the kitchen, iron some clothes. Shortly before 7:00 a.m., she started up the big old yellow school bus that sat in the front yard. If it was winter, she let it warm up a bit before she started her morning route. Then she worked all day as a chairside assistant for a local dentist, while my grandfather operated heavy construction equipment as part of a road crew for our county.
My grandmother picked up her bus riders after school, made the route back to her home, and then she started dinner (and it was never Hamburger Helper!) She worked in her garden, sewed and made hand-pieced quilts, handled household chores, and played with my sister, brother and me when we visited (which was at least once a week).
From the time my grandmother was a little girl of about ten years old, she worked… gathering potatoes for a local farmer, picking strawberries in the spring, carrying firewood for a neighbor, and more. I learned a lot about hard work from my grandparents. And as I have said before…while they virtually scratched out a living all of their lives, I thought they were incredibly rich and successful.
This scripture is about more than working hard for a paycheck. In truth, if you want anything in life, you have to work hard for it. Laziness will make you a slave – and not just to other people upon whom you may depend for the basics of survival… food, clothing and shelter. If you are lazy in how you handle your health and fitness, you will become a slave to doctors, obesity and the troubles it brings, and more. If you are lazy in your relationships, you will become the slave of loneliness and sorrow. If you are lazy in your Christian faith, you will become a slave to the devil. You will give him room – and license – to create frustration and havoc in your life.
Hard work may sound like no fun… but slavery is the real enemy. The key to success and joy is to be responsible and dependable… to work hard… to show up to class or work on time (or early!) and give 100% of your effort… to put determination into your diet and exercise regime…to cultivate your relationships with others… and especially to nurture your relationship with our Heavenly Father.
If you want to follow the ultimate role model for a hard worker, look no further than Jesus Christ. The KING of KINGS was busy every day, traveling and teaching, healing, loving others and demonstrating grace and mercy. Surely His example should demonstrate how important these traits are! If hard work was considered vital to Jesus, shouldn’t it be doubly so for us? How hard are you working these days… in all areas of your life? Where have you become lazy and a bit of a slacker? Isn’t it time to renew your efforts and determination to be free from the slavery of the devil… to live like a leader for the LORD? There is no time like the present… what are you waiting for?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Work hard, and you will be a leader; be lazy, and you will end up a slave.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I heard someone being interviewed on television about her success, and she said, “All of my life, everything centered on work. My parents got up and went to work every day. That was just what you did… this was how we got ahead… this is what I know.” I thought about my own parents and grandparents… especially my dad’s parents – my Mam-ma Polly and grandfather, Truman. Both worked very hard. They went to bed each night right after supper so they could get up around 3:00 a.m. My grandmother cooked a big breakfast, so that my grandfather would have the energy and strength to work hard all day, and she packed his lunch bucket with a healthy lunch.
My grandmother picked up her bus riders after school, made the route back to her home, and then she started dinner (and it was never Hamburger Helper!) She worked in her garden, sewed and made hand-pieced quilts, handled household chores, and played with my sister, brother and me when we visited (which was at least once a week).
This scripture is about more than working hard for a paycheck. In truth, if you want anything in life, you have to work hard for it. Laziness will make you a slave – and not just to other people upon whom you may depend for the basics of survival… food, clothing and shelter. If you are lazy in how you handle your health and fitness, you will become a slave to doctors, obesity and the troubles it brings, and more. If you are lazy in your relationships, you will become the slave of loneliness and sorrow. If you are lazy in your Christian faith, you will become a slave to the devil. You will give him room – and license – to create frustration and havoc in your life.
Hard work may sound like no fun… but slavery is the real enemy. The key to success and joy is to be responsible and dependable… to work hard… to show up to class or work on time (or early!) and give 100% of your effort… to put determination into your diet and exercise regime…to cultivate your relationships with others… and especially to nurture your relationship with our Heavenly Father.
If you want to follow the ultimate role model for a hard worker, look no further than Jesus Christ. The KING of KINGS was busy every day, traveling and teaching, healing, loving others and demonstrating grace and mercy. Surely His example should demonstrate how important these traits are! If hard work was considered vital to Jesus, shouldn’t it be doubly so for us? How hard are you working these days… in all areas of your life? Where have you become lazy and a bit of a slacker? Isn’t it time to renew your efforts and determination to be free from the slavery of the devil… to live like a leader for the LORD? There is no time like the present… what are you waiting for?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 19, 2012
Exodus 14:4
The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I wish I had a dollar for every time I say to Timothy, “Calm down!” Part of this is his attempt to manipulate me… to see just how far he can push the envelope. And a big part of it is frustration, because when you are three, there are so many things you want to do… and the results are often less than successful. So there are temper tantrums and arguments, and lots and lots of tears – both real and the dramatic kind!
I have to laugh at how much we Christians are like three-year-olds. We still don’t get it that God is on our side. He fights for us every day… and so many of the “battles” and frustrations we experience are totally unnecessary. If only we would stay calm, we would see that God is in control, working things out for us. If only we would get still and listen for His voice, there would be a lot fewer challenges and frustrations in our lives.
As Timothy grows, I am hoping he will learn to stay calm and work through his challenges… to allow the grownups who surround him to help solve problems and make decisions. And as we grow in our faith in Jesus Christ, may we also learn to stay calm and let Him fight for us. Let us praise Him as our Protector and Shield, whose wisdom is always perfect and sure. Let us give thanks that we are so greatly loved. Stay calm and trust in the LORD, who is always on our side.
©2012 Debbie Robus
The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I wish I had a dollar for every time I say to Timothy, “Calm down!” Part of this is his attempt to manipulate me… to see just how far he can push the envelope. And a big part of it is frustration, because when you are three, there are so many things you want to do… and the results are often less than successful. So there are temper tantrums and arguments, and lots and lots of tears – both real and the dramatic kind!
I have to laugh at how much we Christians are like three-year-olds. We still don’t get it that God is on our side. He fights for us every day… and so many of the “battles” and frustrations we experience are totally unnecessary. If only we would stay calm, we would see that God is in control, working things out for us. If only we would get still and listen for His voice, there would be a lot fewer challenges and frustrations in our lives.
As Timothy grows, I am hoping he will learn to stay calm and work through his challenges… to allow the grownups who surround him to help solve problems and make decisions. And as we grow in our faith in Jesus Christ, may we also learn to stay calm and let Him fight for us. Let us praise Him as our Protector and Shield, whose wisdom is always perfect and sure. Let us give thanks that we are so greatly loved. Stay calm and trust in the LORD, who is always on our side.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 18, 2012
John 5:39-40
“You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren’t willing to receive from me the life you say you want.
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 house where we live overlooks Greers Ferry Dam. A lot of days, fog comes and goes over the river. One evening shortly after we moved here, the dam “disappeared.” I told my husband, “I can’t see the dam!” He laughed and said, “Fog has rolled in. The dam is still there!”
A lot of us are walking around “in a fog.” Jesus is standing right in front of us, but often, we can’t see Him because of this. We fail to recognize His presence in our lives, especially when things become difficult, frustrating – or even mundane. We are so busy looking for a “Christmas Pageant.” We expect angels to sing and the heavens to open and bright light to pour forth. We anticipate some shift in the universe that signals the presence of God, when all the while, He never went anywhere. He was still there.
Today, I encourage you to stop, look and listen… and feel the presence of Jesus in your life. Experience His Holy Spirit working in and through you in every breath you take. As you read the scriptures and seek God, don’t miss Him. Hear His voice as His Holy Word leads you through each life. Feel the love, comfort, grace, and mercy He offers you. Never miss His wisdom and strength!
We’re in the middle of one of the busiest weeks of the year. It’s easy to lose focus… to find ourselves shrouded “in a fog.” Don’t let your life get so busy or out of focus that you lose sight of Jesus. He’s standing right before you. Are you ready to reach out to Him and embrace the life He offers?
©2012 Debbie Robus
“You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren’t willing to receive from me the life you say you want.
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 house where we live overlooks Greers Ferry Dam. A lot of days, fog comes and goes over the river. One evening shortly after we moved here, the dam “disappeared.” I told my husband, “I can’t see the dam!” He laughed and said, “Fog has rolled in. The dam is still there!”
A lot of us are walking around “in a fog.” Jesus is standing right in front of us, but often, we can’t see Him because of this. We fail to recognize His presence in our lives, especially when things become difficult, frustrating – or even mundane. We are so busy looking for a “Christmas Pageant.” We expect angels to sing and the heavens to open and bright light to pour forth. We anticipate some shift in the universe that signals the presence of God, when all the while, He never went anywhere. He was still there.
Today, I encourage you to stop, look and listen… and feel the presence of Jesus in your life. Experience His Holy Spirit working in and through you in every breath you take. As you read the scriptures and seek God, don’t miss Him. Hear His voice as His Holy Word leads you through each life. Feel the love, comfort, grace, and mercy He offers you. Never miss His wisdom and strength!
We’re in the middle of one of the busiest weeks of the year. It’s easy to lose focus… to find ourselves shrouded “in a fog.” Don’t let your life get so busy or out of focus that you lose sight of Jesus. He’s standing right before you. Are you ready to reach out to Him and embrace the life He offers?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 17, 2012
Philippians 1:6
There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I’m reading Pastor Joel Osteen’s book, Become a Better You, and the passage I read this morning dealt with how we think of ourselves… our personal criticisms. He pointed out that (hopefully) we would never consider telling someone else, “You’re dumb… you’re fat… you are ugly… you’re worthless and a major disappointment…you don’t matter…” or making other unkind statements. Yet many of us look in the mirror every day and say these very same things – or a derivation of them – to ourselves. Osteen points out that, as Christians, this is just plain “stinkin’ thinkin’!"
God sees every fault and flaw we have… but He sees the “good work begun in us”… He sees our potential. God is not mad at us or disappointed by our failures when He knows that we are continually trying to do better. Is this a license to sin? That was the question posed to Osteen, who answered by saying that we can all sin any time we please. The difference is that those of us who are striving to serve God to the best of our ability should not have any desire to sin. The temptations are still there… the frustrations and opportunities for misbehaving still exist… but our desires and focus have changed. And as long as we center our lives on God and keep “pressing toward the mark” of serving Him in all things, we will be able to manage our temptations and beat back the lure of sin.
So the next time you start to get down on yourself… or someone else… ask a very simple question… “Am I doing my best and pressing toward the mark? Is this person I am so upset with or critical of trying to the best of his/her ability?” When someone is giving his/her best effort, God is please and blesses that effort. And if God is satisfied with the work being done, we surely have no room to complain!
You may not be where you want to be – or even where you ought to be this day. But if you are focused on God and giving Him your very best, the “good work” continues… and a “better you” is in production! This is a reason to praise God and give Him thanks! Has God begun a good work in your life today? Have you taken time to be grateful?
©2012 Debbie Robus
There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I’m reading Pastor Joel Osteen’s book, Become a Better You, and the passage I read this morning dealt with how we think of ourselves… our personal criticisms. He pointed out that (hopefully) we would never consider telling someone else, “You’re dumb… you’re fat… you are ugly… you’re worthless and a major disappointment…you don’t matter…” or making other unkind statements. Yet many of us look in the mirror every day and say these very same things – or a derivation of them – to ourselves. Osteen points out that, as Christians, this is just plain “stinkin’ thinkin’!"
God sees every fault and flaw we have… but He sees the “good work begun in us”… He sees our potential. God is not mad at us or disappointed by our failures when He knows that we are continually trying to do better. Is this a license to sin? That was the question posed to Osteen, who answered by saying that we can all sin any time we please. The difference is that those of us who are striving to serve God to the best of our ability should not have any desire to sin. The temptations are still there… the frustrations and opportunities for misbehaving still exist… but our desires and focus have changed. And as long as we center our lives on God and keep “pressing toward the mark” of serving Him in all things, we will be able to manage our temptations and beat back the lure of sin.
So the next time you start to get down on yourself… or someone else… ask a very simple question… “Am I doing my best and pressing toward the mark? Is this person I am so upset with or critical of trying to the best of his/her ability?” When someone is giving his/her best effort, God is please and blesses that effort. And if God is satisfied with the work being done, we surely have no room to complain!
You may not be where you want to be – or even where you ought to be this day. But if you are focused on God and giving Him your very best, the “good work” continues… and a “better you” is in production! This is a reason to praise God and give Him thanks! Has God begun a good work in your life today? Have you taken time to be grateful?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 16, 2012
Philippians 3:12-14
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.
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.
There isn’t much I can add to this scripture passage. I certainly relate to the words of the Apostle Paul... I do not have it all together. While some would say I “have it made”… no life is without frustrations, worries and concerns – at least from time to time. Like others, my life has ups and downs. And I am definitely not an expert in all of this. I prayerfully share my thoughts about these scriptures with you. I try to offer my personal insight into how God is speaking through these verses about the events of our daily living… and how we can apply His teachings to our own lives.
But I am sure that there are days my message misses the mark… or holds little meaning or relevance for your own life. Because after all, these are my personal applications of God’s word. This is what He speaks to me on any given day.
Still, there is one thing I would hope that we could share from this… and that is a determination to press forward… to never turn back… to keep our eye on the prize of a life lived for Jesus Christ. Along the way, there will be challenges, troubles, and even heartaches. But if we keep running toward Jesus, He will meet us… and meet our needs.
One thing I would offer you today is this… as we press forward toward Jesus, we have to let go of many of our frustrations. We cannot harbor grudges. We can’t dredge up the insults and disappointments of our past. Our experiences shape us… but they must not define us. So whatever resentments you harbor… whatever mistakes you have made… whatever insults and offenses you have suffered… you must let them go. If you want to move onward with Jesus, you have to give Him your past – all of it. We must learn from the past… but we must live in the present and future with Christ.
So press onward! Reach for the goal of an earthly life lived for Jesus… and Eternity spent in His presence. Don’t get smug or overconfident. Stay close to God… and stay humble. But reach out for Christ…give Him the burdens of your past… and focus on what He has in store for you next!
©2012 Debbie Robus
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.
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.
There isn’t much I can add to this scripture passage. I certainly relate to the words of the Apostle Paul... I do not have it all together. While some would say I “have it made”… no life is without frustrations, worries and concerns – at least from time to time. Like others, my life has ups and downs. And I am definitely not an expert in all of this. I prayerfully share my thoughts about these scriptures with you. I try to offer my personal insight into how God is speaking through these verses about the events of our daily living… and how we can apply His teachings to our own lives.
But I am sure that there are days my message misses the mark… or holds little meaning or relevance for your own life. Because after all, these are my personal applications of God’s word. This is what He speaks to me on any given day.
Still, there is one thing I would hope that we could share from this… and that is a determination to press forward… to never turn back… to keep our eye on the prize of a life lived for Jesus Christ. Along the way, there will be challenges, troubles, and even heartaches. But if we keep running toward Jesus, He will meet us… and meet our needs.
One thing I would offer you today is this… as we press forward toward Jesus, we have to let go of many of our frustrations. We cannot harbor grudges. We can’t dredge up the insults and disappointments of our past. Our experiences shape us… but they must not define us. So whatever resentments you harbor… whatever mistakes you have made… whatever insults and offenses you have suffered… you must let them go. If you want to move onward with Jesus, you have to give Him your past – all of it. We must learn from the past… but we must live in the present and future with Christ.
So press onward! Reach for the goal of an earthly life lived for Jesus… and Eternity spent in His presence. Don’t get smug or overconfident. Stay close to God… and stay humble. But reach out for Christ…give Him the burdens of your past… and focus on what He has in store for you next!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 15, 2012
Psalm 34:1-8
I will always praise the Lord.
With all my heart, I will praise the Lord.
Let all who are helpless, listen and be glad.
Honor the Lord with me! Celebrate his great name.
I asked the Lord for help, and he saved me from all my fears.
Keep your eyes on the Lord! You will shine like the sun and never blush with shame.
I was a nobody, but I prayed, and the Lord saved me from all my troubles. If you honor the Lord, his angel will protect you.
Discover for yourself that the Lord is kind. Come to him for protection, and you will be glad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We cannot ignore what happened in Connecticut. As a kindergarten teacher for 8 years (and a first-grade teacher for one year), I am truly heartsick over this tragedy. My students were my children… and all of them are still precious to me. One of these students contacted me on Facebook yesterday to say…”Thought about you a lot today with all this mayhem! I'm glad we were blessed with peaceful times when we were in grade school and you were teaching. It is just awful what has been happening…” This came from one of my first-graders, with whom I shared the joys of a Christmas classroom 35 years ago. The bond between teacher and child is a profound one.
In my short career, I experienced the sudden death of one kindergarten teacher who suffered a brain aneurysm shortly before I took her maternity leave… and the death of another two years later in a Thanksgiving weekend car accident. Our school lost a first-grader one morning when his bicycle was sucked into the brushes of the city street sweeper as he made his way to school. A few years later, we lost a second grader, when her then 13-year-old brother came into the home one evening and fatally stabbed her, his grandfather, and his mother – a junior high teacher in our school system – and injured his four-year-old brother.
I know what you are thinking… where on earth did I teach to experience so much tragedy? This all happened in a neighborhood elementary school in Russellville, Arkansas… a then-quiet, mid-sized college town. And my point in sharing this today is not to try to minimalize what has happened in Connecticut… but rather, to tell you that we will all get through this!
Immediately after hearing the first reports yesterday, I had this compelling image of Jesus… left arm tightly embracing the beautiful children who had just been ushered to Him…right arm reaching down to scoop up the devastated parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, and community members who were in horrific agony. I pictured tears in Jesus’ eyes… an intense sadness over what had transpired… but also, a quiet strength.
Today, as I read Psalm 34, I listened carefully to the words… “I asked the Lord for help, and he saved me from all my fears… I was a nobody, but I prayed, and the Lord saved me from all my troubles.” We must focus on Jesus now… we must call on Him for comfort and strength. There will never be a way to make sense of what has happened… but we can learn some things from it. We can learn to hold each other a little more closely and cherish every minute of the day. We can learn to be more awake and alert to those in our midst who may be troubled and in need of assistance. We can teach our children about Jesus and the home He is preparing for us… because people will die, and children of all ages need to feel the assurance that heaven is a safe, secure, and joyful place of rest.
We are not going to recover from this overnight. I know this from experience. There will be questions and moments of sheer rage… we will even cry out to God and ask, “Why, LORD… WHY did You allow this to happen?” But at the end of the day, we must recognize that God loves us… He really, really loves us… and He is still protecting us and saving us from our troubles. Picture the victims of this heinous crime snuggled in the bosom of Jesus. Feel His arms wrapped tightly around you, saying, “It may take a while… but you’re gonna be okay.”
One more thing… remember to pray for the brother and father of this murderer. They lost two loved ones. They are hurting. I remember how people ostracized the father of the young man who stabbed his family. Mired in the grief of losing three family members and dealing with the nurture of his troubled son and the little one who was injured, he must have wondered if God – and others - really cared for him. I know that He did… and that many in the community cared, as well. And I know that we must show love and compassion to these survivors, also. They have lost – and suffered tremendously. But God can help them, too.
Praise the LORD today. Set aside some time for prayer for all involved in this tragedy. Then take a break from the news coverage and do something to celebrate the season of our LORD’s birth. Honor the LORD with me. Celebrate His name! Let all who are helpless listen… and be glad!
©2012 Debbie Robus
I will always praise the Lord.
With all my heart, I will praise the Lord.
Let all who are helpless, listen and be glad.
Honor the Lord with me! Celebrate his great name.
I asked the Lord for help, and he saved me from all my fears.
Keep your eyes on the Lord! You will shine like the sun and never blush with shame.
I was a nobody, but I prayed, and the Lord saved me from all my troubles. If you honor the Lord, his angel will protect you.
Discover for yourself that the Lord is kind. Come to him for protection, and you will be glad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We cannot ignore what happened in Connecticut. As a kindergarten teacher for 8 years (and a first-grade teacher for one year), I am truly heartsick over this tragedy. My students were my children… and all of them are still precious to me. One of these students contacted me on Facebook yesterday to say…”Thought about you a lot today with all this mayhem! I'm glad we were blessed with peaceful times when we were in grade school and you were teaching. It is just awful what has been happening…” This came from one of my first-graders, with whom I shared the joys of a Christmas classroom 35 years ago. The bond between teacher and child is a profound one.
In my short career, I experienced the sudden death of one kindergarten teacher who suffered a brain aneurysm shortly before I took her maternity leave… and the death of another two years later in a Thanksgiving weekend car accident. Our school lost a first-grader one morning when his bicycle was sucked into the brushes of the city street sweeper as he made his way to school. A few years later, we lost a second grader, when her then 13-year-old brother came into the home one evening and fatally stabbed her, his grandfather, and his mother – a junior high teacher in our school system – and injured his four-year-old brother.
I know what you are thinking… where on earth did I teach to experience so much tragedy? This all happened in a neighborhood elementary school in Russellville, Arkansas… a then-quiet, mid-sized college town. And my point in sharing this today is not to try to minimalize what has happened in Connecticut… but rather, to tell you that we will all get through this!
Immediately after hearing the first reports yesterday, I had this compelling image of Jesus… left arm tightly embracing the beautiful children who had just been ushered to Him…right arm reaching down to scoop up the devastated parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, and community members who were in horrific agony. I pictured tears in Jesus’ eyes… an intense sadness over what had transpired… but also, a quiet strength.
Today, as I read Psalm 34, I listened carefully to the words… “I asked the Lord for help, and he saved me from all my fears… I was a nobody, but I prayed, and the Lord saved me from all my troubles.” We must focus on Jesus now… we must call on Him for comfort and strength. There will never be a way to make sense of what has happened… but we can learn some things from it. We can learn to hold each other a little more closely and cherish every minute of the day. We can learn to be more awake and alert to those in our midst who may be troubled and in need of assistance. We can teach our children about Jesus and the home He is preparing for us… because people will die, and children of all ages need to feel the assurance that heaven is a safe, secure, and joyful place of rest.
We are not going to recover from this overnight. I know this from experience. There will be questions and moments of sheer rage… we will even cry out to God and ask, “Why, LORD… WHY did You allow this to happen?” But at the end of the day, we must recognize that God loves us… He really, really loves us… and He is still protecting us and saving us from our troubles. Picture the victims of this heinous crime snuggled in the bosom of Jesus. Feel His arms wrapped tightly around you, saying, “It may take a while… but you’re gonna be okay.”
One more thing… remember to pray for the brother and father of this murderer. They lost two loved ones. They are hurting. I remember how people ostracized the father of the young man who stabbed his family. Mired in the grief of losing three family members and dealing with the nurture of his troubled son and the little one who was injured, he must have wondered if God – and others - really cared for him. I know that He did… and that many in the community cared, as well. And I know that we must show love and compassion to these survivors, also. They have lost – and suffered tremendously. But God can help them, too.
Praise the LORD today. Set aside some time for prayer for all involved in this tragedy. Then take a break from the news coverage and do something to celebrate the season of our LORD’s birth. Honor the LORD with me. Celebrate His name! Let all who are helpless listen… and be glad!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 14, 2012
Isaiah 40:6-11
Someone told me to shout, and I asked, “What should I shout?”
We humans are merely grass, and we last no longer than wild flowers. At the Lord’s command, flowers and grass disappear, and so do we. Flowers and grass fade away, but what our God has said will never change. Your God Is Here!
There is good news for the city of Zion. Shout it as loud as you can from the highest mountain. Don’t be afraid to shout to the towns of Judah, “Your God is here!” Look! The powerful Lord God is coming to rule with his mighty arm. He brings with him what he has taken in war, and he rewards his people.
The Lord cares for his nation, just as shepherds care for their flocks. He carries the lambs in his arms, while gently leading the mother sheep.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The temperatures are mild here today… it’s a good day for “outside work.” So my husband is busy trimming shrubs and blowing leaves. We have beautiful pink “knock-out” roses in our front flower beds, and they have actually bloomed and been prettier this fall than they were all summer during drought conditions. So we had an autumn wreath and “fall” pillows on the front porch, flanked by bright pink roses!
With recent frosts and a bit of a “cold snap,” the roses finally began to wither and fade. So today, my husband is pruning them back for a winter’s rest. We know that they will return next spring with vigor and renewed beauty. The rose is still a beautiful flower… my husband is still caring for the bushes…but the momentary splendor and loveliness has faded.
As I read this passage and thought about the roses, I also thought of my grandmother, who appears to be finishing her earthly life in the coming days/weeks/months. Her former vigor and enthusiasm have waned and faded… her ability to “tell you what” or even get out a good “my land a livin’” is gone. But she can still smile when she sees a precious friend or loved one. She still belongs to God...and I know that He is still here! I cupped her face and tried to soothe her one day this week as she struggled to get comfortable, and I thought, “This must be how God comforts us!” When we are frustrated, sick, lonely, and fading, God must stroke our cheek and say, “There, there… I’m still here! I am carrying you and meeting your every need. Lean in closer and feel my love and care.”
Every life has ebbs and flows… ups and downs… times of great splendor and beauty – and times when the loveliness fades. But we must always remember that GOD IS HERE! He has not left. God never fades away… His word is still true… His love is still sure… His mercy and goodness endure forever. This is great news! This hope and promise are what will lift us to “bloom” another day. You may be experiencing a momentary or temporary pruning, but with God, all things are possible… and your future is bright.
So when you start to feel frustration creeping in… when you start to wither and fade… remember Who is holding you, stroking your face, giving you strength and courage. Say to yourself… and to anyone else who will listen… our God is still HERE!... and be encouraged.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Someone told me to shout, and I asked, “What should I shout?”
We humans are merely grass, and we last no longer than wild flowers. At the Lord’s command, flowers and grass disappear, and so do we. Flowers and grass fade away, but what our God has said will never change. Your God Is Here!
There is good news for the city of Zion. Shout it as loud as you can from the highest mountain. Don’t be afraid to shout to the towns of Judah, “Your God is here!” Look! The powerful Lord God is coming to rule with his mighty arm. He brings with him what he has taken in war, and he rewards his people.
The Lord cares for his nation, just as shepherds care for their flocks. He carries the lambs in his arms, while gently leading the mother sheep.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The temperatures are mild here today… it’s a good day for “outside work.” So my husband is busy trimming shrubs and blowing leaves. We have beautiful pink “knock-out” roses in our front flower beds, and they have actually bloomed and been prettier this fall than they were all summer during drought conditions. So we had an autumn wreath and “fall” pillows on the front porch, flanked by bright pink roses!
With recent frosts and a bit of a “cold snap,” the roses finally began to wither and fade. So today, my husband is pruning them back for a winter’s rest. We know that they will return next spring with vigor and renewed beauty. The rose is still a beautiful flower… my husband is still caring for the bushes…but the momentary splendor and loveliness has faded.
As I read this passage and thought about the roses, I also thought of my grandmother, who appears to be finishing her earthly life in the coming days/weeks/months. Her former vigor and enthusiasm have waned and faded… her ability to “tell you what” or even get out a good “my land a livin’” is gone. But she can still smile when she sees a precious friend or loved one. She still belongs to God...and I know that He is still here! I cupped her face and tried to soothe her one day this week as she struggled to get comfortable, and I thought, “This must be how God comforts us!” When we are frustrated, sick, lonely, and fading, God must stroke our cheek and say, “There, there… I’m still here! I am carrying you and meeting your every need. Lean in closer and feel my love and care.”
Every life has ebbs and flows… ups and downs… times of great splendor and beauty – and times when the loveliness fades. But we must always remember that GOD IS HERE! He has not left. God never fades away… His word is still true… His love is still sure… His mercy and goodness endure forever. This is great news! This hope and promise are what will lift us to “bloom” another day. You may be experiencing a momentary or temporary pruning, but with God, all things are possible… and your future is bright.
So when you start to feel frustration creeping in… when you start to wither and fade… remember Who is holding you, stroking your face, giving you strength and courage. Say to yourself… and to anyone else who will listen… our God is still HERE!... and be encouraged.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 13, 2012
Psalm 37:4
Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As Christmas approaches, millions of children are trying their hardest to be nice so that Santa will bring them every present their heart desires. Yesterday, I listened to a grandmother go through the litany of toys that her grandchild had requested… and most of them are going to be under the tree on Christmas Day! I have to tell you, I am so glad that Timothy is still discovering Santa Claus. He understands that he and Zola must be good and get along so Santa will visit them. But at least for this year, these children have no clue that they can ask for things and expect them! They will be thrilled with whatever surprises are waiting under the tree… and we have all chosen things we feel they need and will enjoy.
Let’s be clear… God is not Santa Claus – or vice versa. I do not mean to make light of our relationship with our Heavenly Father by this analogy. And our relationship with God is not based on whether we are “naughty or nice.” But at the same time, we ask God for all sorts of things every day… and many of us assume that we are “good enough,” He will give them to us. That’s one reason I love this particular translation of Psalm 37:4. It doesn’t say, “Be a good boy or girl, and God will give you everything you want.” It says, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” There is a huge difference.
To take delight in the LORD means to find joy and purpose in serving Him… to seek HIS will for your life and to be about the business of pleasing Him. In return, God will supply all of your needs. The “heart’s desires” of a Christian should be to operate in love, peace and happiness while sharing Christ’s love and GOOD NEWS with others. It’s not about wealth and fame… or even “success”… and it’s surely not about material possessions. God knows what we need and how to supply our heart’s desires. If we seek to delight in Him, He will gladly do this for us.
So by all means, be nice this Christmas season. Believe in Santa Claus and enjoy whatever he leaves under your tree. But stay close to God… especially in the coming days. Ask Him to relieve your stresses and frustrations, and to supply your heart’s desires as you seek to be His servant on this earth. Focus more on sharing God’s love and care with others than on asking Him for personal gifts. Then be amazed to see how He blesses you out of His deep and abiding love for you…His faithful servant. “Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” Will you recognize – and appreciate - them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As Christmas approaches, millions of children are trying their hardest to be nice so that Santa will bring them every present their heart desires. Yesterday, I listened to a grandmother go through the litany of toys that her grandchild had requested… and most of them are going to be under the tree on Christmas Day! I have to tell you, I am so glad that Timothy is still discovering Santa Claus. He understands that he and Zola must be good and get along so Santa will visit them. But at least for this year, these children have no clue that they can ask for things and expect them! They will be thrilled with whatever surprises are waiting under the tree… and we have all chosen things we feel they need and will enjoy.
Let’s be clear… God is not Santa Claus – or vice versa. I do not mean to make light of our relationship with our Heavenly Father by this analogy. And our relationship with God is not based on whether we are “naughty or nice.” But at the same time, we ask God for all sorts of things every day… and many of us assume that we are “good enough,” He will give them to us. That’s one reason I love this particular translation of Psalm 37:4. It doesn’t say, “Be a good boy or girl, and God will give you everything you want.” It says, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” There is a huge difference.
To take delight in the LORD means to find joy and purpose in serving Him… to seek HIS will for your life and to be about the business of pleasing Him. In return, God will supply all of your needs. The “heart’s desires” of a Christian should be to operate in love, peace and happiness while sharing Christ’s love and GOOD NEWS with others. It’s not about wealth and fame… or even “success”… and it’s surely not about material possessions. God knows what we need and how to supply our heart’s desires. If we seek to delight in Him, He will gladly do this for us.
So by all means, be nice this Christmas season. Believe in Santa Claus and enjoy whatever he leaves under your tree. But stay close to God… especially in the coming days. Ask Him to relieve your stresses and frustrations, and to supply your heart’s desires as you seek to be His servant on this earth. Focus more on sharing God’s love and care with others than on asking Him for personal gifts. Then be amazed to see how He blesses you out of His deep and abiding love for you…His faithful servant. “Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” Will you recognize – and appreciate - them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 12, 2012
Luke 9:23
Then Jesus said to all the people: If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross each day and follow me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Whew! Was I ever “brought up short” about this today! I was helping my grandmother with her lunch at the assisted living facility when an aide came to sit at the table and help feed another resident. I would guess she was in her late 30s or early 40s. She asked if I was ready for Christmas, and we began to visit. She told me about her four-year-old grand-daughter who is coming… and what she had asked for (and this woman had purchased) as gifts. As she rose to help another resident, she said, “Since I lost my husband, Christmas just isn’t the same.” I asked how long he had been gone, and she said, “a few years… he suffered a heart attack while we were en route to the hospital to see about a family member, and he died in my arms.” I swallowed hard to fight back tears. I told her how sorry I was, and she smiled and wished me a good day as she left.
The aide who came to replace her at the table sat down, and I said, “She just told me about her husband.” This woman looked like maybe she was in her 50s, and she said, “Yes, we commiserate a lot, because I lost my husband, too.” This woman went on to tell me that her husband died a year ago of cancer. She was equally friendly and positive as she talked about her grandchildren and caring for others. Both women were incredibly sweet and attentive to my grandmother and to her table-mate.
When I looked at my scripture outline for these devos and read the verse for today, I knew why God placed me at the facility during lunch. Even in the midst of my frenzy to get things done for Christmas… my worries and concerns about my grandmother, who appears to be in her last weeks, if not days… the general busyness of our day and all of the myriad of other “stressors” we each encounter… nothing is about ME… or YOU! It’s about serving Jesus… being His hands and feet for others… and sharing His Good News at every turn.
The question today is… “How are you doing?” Are you joyful and patient, positive and helpful? Or are you a miserable example of what it means to be a Disciple of Christ? Do you go around with the weight of the world on your shoulders… are you a drag to be around – or a delight? Is everything about you and your troubles… or are you genuinely interested in the well-being of others? Do you bother to find out about their day or what is going on in their life? Or are you too busy letting others know – either by body language, your comments, or both - just how bad you’ve got it?
Jesus is calling us to take up His cross and follow Him… to lay aside the worries of our day and let Him handle them… to focus on loving others and showing care and concern for what is challenging or frustrating them – and to share their joys and triumphs. Again I ask… “How are you doing?” It would seem that most of us have plenty of room for improvement in this area. Are you ready to follow Jesus completely? Are YOU ready to really focus on serving Him in everything? Who needs to know this day that you truly care? Isn’t it time you showed them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Then Jesus said to all the people: If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross each day and follow me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Whew! Was I ever “brought up short” about this today! I was helping my grandmother with her lunch at the assisted living facility when an aide came to sit at the table and help feed another resident. I would guess she was in her late 30s or early 40s. She asked if I was ready for Christmas, and we began to visit. She told me about her four-year-old grand-daughter who is coming… and what she had asked for (and this woman had purchased) as gifts. As she rose to help another resident, she said, “Since I lost my husband, Christmas just isn’t the same.” I asked how long he had been gone, and she said, “a few years… he suffered a heart attack while we were en route to the hospital to see about a family member, and he died in my arms.” I swallowed hard to fight back tears. I told her how sorry I was, and she smiled and wished me a good day as she left.
The aide who came to replace her at the table sat down, and I said, “She just told me about her husband.” This woman looked like maybe she was in her 50s, and she said, “Yes, we commiserate a lot, because I lost my husband, too.” This woman went on to tell me that her husband died a year ago of cancer. She was equally friendly and positive as she talked about her grandchildren and caring for others. Both women were incredibly sweet and attentive to my grandmother and to her table-mate.
When I looked at my scripture outline for these devos and read the verse for today, I knew why God placed me at the facility during lunch. Even in the midst of my frenzy to get things done for Christmas… my worries and concerns about my grandmother, who appears to be in her last weeks, if not days… the general busyness of our day and all of the myriad of other “stressors” we each encounter… nothing is about ME… or YOU! It’s about serving Jesus… being His hands and feet for others… and sharing His Good News at every turn.
The question today is… “How are you doing?” Are you joyful and patient, positive and helpful? Or are you a miserable example of what it means to be a Disciple of Christ? Do you go around with the weight of the world on your shoulders… are you a drag to be around – or a delight? Is everything about you and your troubles… or are you genuinely interested in the well-being of others? Do you bother to find out about their day or what is going on in their life? Or are you too busy letting others know – either by body language, your comments, or both - just how bad you’ve got it?
Jesus is calling us to take up His cross and follow Him… to lay aside the worries of our day and let Him handle them… to focus on loving others and showing care and concern for what is challenging or frustrating them – and to share their joys and triumphs. Again I ask… “How are you doing?” It would seem that most of us have plenty of room for improvement in this area. Are you ready to follow Jesus completely? Are YOU ready to really focus on serving Him in everything? Who needs to know this day that you truly care? Isn’t it time you showed them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 11, 2012
December 11 ~ Philippians 4:13
Christ gives me the strength to face anything.
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.
In his book, Become a Better You, Joel Osteen admonishes us to quit putting ourselves down… that doesn’t do us any good. Forget the past… it’s over and done and can’t be changed. If we continue feel guilty about the past, we will lack the strength to live victoriously today – and beyond.” I’m paraphrasing here, but Pastor Osteen makes a very important point.
While Christ gives us the strength to face anything, a lot of us are pretty busy counteracting that strength at every turn by living in the past, wallowing in guilt and shame over something that happened ten years ago, or blaming our childhood for the mistakes we make today! We need to recognize that we are all human. We all have moments that we regret… something we said that was not so kind, a poorly made choice. Who among us hasn’t said (if only to ourselves), “You didn’t do your best on that test… you should have studied more,” or “You should pray more… longer… harder…” or “I can’t believe you gave such a lousy performance – on the court, the field, or in the concert. You should have practiced more”… or even “You are a lousy mom/dad/grandparent/friend. How could you treat this person so badly”?
You can fill in the blanks with your own litany of criticisms. But the point is that we are wasting valuable time living in guilt, shame and resentment and frustration instead of saying, “LORD, I have all of the strength I need because of You… help me to focus my thoughts and actions in a positive direction. Forgive me for the things I’ve done… and help me to do better.” This is what God asks of us… that we humbly admit our shortcomings and disappointments – then try to do better moving forward.
We must remember that God knows what flawed creatures we are… and He loves us anyway. He wants us to succeed… to be happy, productive, hopeful servants. And He has equipped us with everything we need. OUR JOB is to recognize His power within us… and to embrace it!
I’m not suggesting that we limp along in life, make mistakes, then throw up our hands and say, “Oh, well!” We must take responsibility for our actions… and our faults. But we serve a God who stands ready to pick us up and deliver us into a better day… if only we will receive His gifts of wisdom, hope, forgiveness – and strength.
We have a choice today… we can continue to wallow in the past and let the devil remind us about the mistakes we have made – or we can invite Christ Jesus to fill us with His Holy Spirit and give us all the strength we will ever need… and more. We can stay stuck in our rut… or we can let Jesus propel us into a hopeful, productive future. Which way will you decide to go?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Christ gives me the strength to face anything.
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.
In his book, Become a Better You, Joel Osteen admonishes us to quit putting ourselves down… that doesn’t do us any good. Forget the past… it’s over and done and can’t be changed. If we continue feel guilty about the past, we will lack the strength to live victoriously today – and beyond.” I’m paraphrasing here, but Pastor Osteen makes a very important point.
While Christ gives us the strength to face anything, a lot of us are pretty busy counteracting that strength at every turn by living in the past, wallowing in guilt and shame over something that happened ten years ago, or blaming our childhood for the mistakes we make today! We need to recognize that we are all human. We all have moments that we regret… something we said that was not so kind, a poorly made choice. Who among us hasn’t said (if only to ourselves), “You didn’t do your best on that test… you should have studied more,” or “You should pray more… longer… harder…” or “I can’t believe you gave such a lousy performance – on the court, the field, or in the concert. You should have practiced more”… or even “You are a lousy mom/dad/grandparent/friend. How could you treat this person so badly”?
You can fill in the blanks with your own litany of criticisms. But the point is that we are wasting valuable time living in guilt, shame and resentment and frustration instead of saying, “LORD, I have all of the strength I need because of You… help me to focus my thoughts and actions in a positive direction. Forgive me for the things I’ve done… and help me to do better.” This is what God asks of us… that we humbly admit our shortcomings and disappointments – then try to do better moving forward.
We must remember that God knows what flawed creatures we are… and He loves us anyway. He wants us to succeed… to be happy, productive, hopeful servants. And He has equipped us with everything we need. OUR JOB is to recognize His power within us… and to embrace it!
I’m not suggesting that we limp along in life, make mistakes, then throw up our hands and say, “Oh, well!” We must take responsibility for our actions… and our faults. But we serve a God who stands ready to pick us up and deliver us into a better day… if only we will receive His gifts of wisdom, hope, forgiveness – and strength.
We have a choice today… we can continue to wallow in the past and let the devil remind us about the mistakes we have made – or we can invite Christ Jesus to fill us with His Holy Spirit and give us all the strength we will ever need… and more. We can stay stuck in our rut… or we can let Jesus propel us into a hopeful, productive future. Which way will you decide to go?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 10, 2012
Colossians 3:15-17
Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I don’t know about you, but I have a sneaking feeling I have not operated fully in the “Sing-your-heart-out-to-God” Department lately. I’ve let situations and circumstances… frustrations and bumps in the road affect me lately. I’ve not necessarily gone off and done my own thing, but I am pretty certain I’ve not always been in tune with others. And while I am incredibly thankful for all of my blessings, I don’t think any of us are ever thankful enough!
We’re right in the middle of the holiday season. Everywhere you turn, people are getting wild and crazy with stress, frustration, worry, overspending, the busyness of getting it all done, and more. Others are wondering if they will even have a meal to eat on Christmas day… much less toys for their children – or even a roof over their heads. Still others are struggling with illness, relationship issues, the challenges of single parenthood – or aging… and loneliness. It’s pretty easy to get to a point where we lose step with each other…and tempers can flare. We can also see how/why some would appear to have a reason to do anything and everything but sing their hearts out to God.
The thing is…our worst day with God is better than our best day without Him. And even when everything seems to be falling apart, God is still on the clock. He is still by our side, ready to offer common sense, wisdom and the truth for our situation. There is an old adage that says, “If you don’t feel close to God, guess who moved!” That adage applies to this scripture passage. Keep the peace of Christ in your heart… continually be thankful… and let God handle all of the details of your life. C’mon now, move a little closer to Him and feel His presence!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I don’t know about you, but I have a sneaking feeling I have not operated fully in the “Sing-your-heart-out-to-God” Department lately. I’ve let situations and circumstances… frustrations and bumps in the road affect me lately. I’ve not necessarily gone off and done my own thing, but I am pretty certain I’ve not always been in tune with others. And while I am incredibly thankful for all of my blessings, I don’t think any of us are ever thankful enough!
We’re right in the middle of the holiday season. Everywhere you turn, people are getting wild and crazy with stress, frustration, worry, overspending, the busyness of getting it all done, and more. Others are wondering if they will even have a meal to eat on Christmas day… much less toys for their children – or even a roof over their heads. Still others are struggling with illness, relationship issues, the challenges of single parenthood – or aging… and loneliness. It’s pretty easy to get to a point where we lose step with each other…and tempers can flare. We can also see how/why some would appear to have a reason to do anything and everything but sing their hearts out to God.
The thing is…our worst day with God is better than our best day without Him. And even when everything seems to be falling apart, God is still on the clock. He is still by our side, ready to offer common sense, wisdom and the truth for our situation. There is an old adage that says, “If you don’t feel close to God, guess who moved!” That adage applies to this scripture passage. Keep the peace of Christ in your heart… continually be thankful… and let God handle all of the details of your life. C’mon now, move a little closer to Him and feel His presence!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 9, 2012
1 John 2:27
Christ gave you the Holy Spirit and He lives in you. You do not need anyone to teach you. The Holy Spirit is able to teach you all things. What He teaches you is truth and not a lie. Live by the help of Christ as the Holy Spirit has taught you.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My mother recently donated her encyclopedias to the used book store. The staff there said that people do buy them. When I was growing up, we depended on encyclopedias for all sorts of answers. I remember spending hours in the college library doing research and getting information and wisdom from the books that covered the shelves there. Today, with the Internet, we have up-to-the-minute info… literally at our fingertips! And with the advent of smart phones, tablets, and more, this information goes with us wherever we go!
Does this mean we never need school and teachers… college, specialized training and continuing education courses? Should we just “drop out” of life and depend on these technological innovations for all of our knowledge? Absolutely not! And this passage is not telling you to never take a Bible study course or to drop out of your Sunday school class.
But here’s what it is saying…you have the Holy Spirit within you, and He will guide you to the answers. They may come through prayer and Bible study. They may come in an organized class… from a Godly friend… or even that still small Voice you hear in your head. But the Holy Spirit will be your starting point.
A couple of years ago, I was so exasperated one day by a situation with my grandmother. I left her house feeling incredibly helpless, and I wracked my brain to think of someone I could talk to about this. I pulled into the parking lot at Wal-Mart, and before I went inside to shop, I sat in the car and said, “LORD… I don’t know what to do.” Very clearly, I heard Him ask, “If someone came to YOU with these questions, what would you tell them?”
I sat and thought about what my own advice would be in this very same situation… and I realized that the Holy Spirit had just revealed my answer to me. In that very instance, I didn’t need to talk to anyone else… I just needed to listen to The One who was in my heart already. And often, this is the case. If we will only sit still long enough to hear His voice, He will give us the wisdom and truth that we need… and we can take it to the bank!
Whatever you need today… whatever answers you seek… start with the Holy Spirit. Spend some time in His presence and ask Him, “Where do I go from here?” Feel the Holy Spirit surrounding you with wisdom and truth… and trust His answers. You may ultimately have to consult another person – or even a book! But the perfect starting point is always in your heart. Have you heard from the Holy Spirit today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Christ gave you the Holy Spirit and He lives in you. You do not need anyone to teach you. The Holy Spirit is able to teach you all things. What He teaches you is truth and not a lie. Live by the help of Christ as the Holy Spirit has taught you.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My mother recently donated her encyclopedias to the used book store. The staff there said that people do buy them. When I was growing up, we depended on encyclopedias for all sorts of answers. I remember spending hours in the college library doing research and getting information and wisdom from the books that covered the shelves there. Today, with the Internet, we have up-to-the-minute info… literally at our fingertips! And with the advent of smart phones, tablets, and more, this information goes with us wherever we go!
Does this mean we never need school and teachers… college, specialized training and continuing education courses? Should we just “drop out” of life and depend on these technological innovations for all of our knowledge? Absolutely not! And this passage is not telling you to never take a Bible study course or to drop out of your Sunday school class.
But here’s what it is saying…you have the Holy Spirit within you, and He will guide you to the answers. They may come through prayer and Bible study. They may come in an organized class… from a Godly friend… or even that still small Voice you hear in your head. But the Holy Spirit will be your starting point.
A couple of years ago, I was so exasperated one day by a situation with my grandmother. I left her house feeling incredibly helpless, and I wracked my brain to think of someone I could talk to about this. I pulled into the parking lot at Wal-Mart, and before I went inside to shop, I sat in the car and said, “LORD… I don’t know what to do.” Very clearly, I heard Him ask, “If someone came to YOU with these questions, what would you tell them?”
I sat and thought about what my own advice would be in this very same situation… and I realized that the Holy Spirit had just revealed my answer to me. In that very instance, I didn’t need to talk to anyone else… I just needed to listen to The One who was in my heart already. And often, this is the case. If we will only sit still long enough to hear His voice, He will give us the wisdom and truth that we need… and we can take it to the bank!
Whatever you need today… whatever answers you seek… start with the Holy Spirit. Spend some time in His presence and ask Him, “Where do I go from here?” Feel the Holy Spirit surrounding you with wisdom and truth… and trust His answers. You may ultimately have to consult another person – or even a book! But the perfect starting point is always in your heart. Have you heard from the Holy Spirit today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 8, 2012
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping.
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.
I’m trying very hard to keep the same “rules” at our house that Timothy and Zola (and someday, their baby brother Nathan) have at home. So even though I hung my least fragile Christmas ornaments on the lower 3 feet of my tree, I reminded the children today to… “Remember, we look, but we don’t touch.” I find myself thinking… “It wouldn’t really hurt anything if they touched those ornaments.” But I know we must be consistent, so we don’t allow this.
Toddlers and three-year-olds (and sometimes older “children”) do not understand why they hear the word “No!” so much. It’s hard to explain to them that our reasons are sound. Often, they try to pull the wool over our eyes… and sometimes, they succeed. They have no idea how much we love them… and that we will never stop!
My husband took a picture of me today sitting under the tree with Zola… an almost exact replica of a pose I have with Zola’s mother, when she was just a few months older than Zola is now. And while I know that Timmy and Zola’s mother did not understand all of our rules (I still remember a Christmas when she insisted she had to open her gifts on December 23rd because “I just can’t stand to wait any longer!)… we stuck by them. Still, we’ve never stopped loving her… and we never will.
As faith-filled Christians, God wants us to follow the Apostle Paul’s advice to the Corinthians and stay awake and alert to those who would try to deceive us… to stand up for our convictions and “stick to our guns”… to always give all we have as His disciples… and to never stop loving – Him and one another. That’s a tall order… but then, so is being a Christian!
I know that God has modeled all of this in my life… and in yours, as well. We can’t fool God…even though many of us have tried – or will someday. He is always “awake and alert!” God has stuck to His word and upheld His promises… given EVERYTHING (including His Only Son)…loved us unconditionally…and never faltered. That’s “amazing grace” in action! This should give us tremendous hope and courage. Here is our perfect example of how to live – and serve – well. Are you modeling these traits in your own life? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping.
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.
I’m trying very hard to keep the same “rules” at our house that Timothy and Zola (and someday, their baby brother Nathan) have at home. So even though I hung my least fragile Christmas ornaments on the lower 3 feet of my tree, I reminded the children today to… “Remember, we look, but we don’t touch.” I find myself thinking… “It wouldn’t really hurt anything if they touched those ornaments.” But I know we must be consistent, so we don’t allow this.
Toddlers and three-year-olds (and sometimes older “children”) do not understand why they hear the word “No!” so much. It’s hard to explain to them that our reasons are sound. Often, they try to pull the wool over our eyes… and sometimes, they succeed. They have no idea how much we love them… and that we will never stop!
My husband took a picture of me today sitting under the tree with Zola… an almost exact replica of a pose I have with Zola’s mother, when she was just a few months older than Zola is now. And while I know that Timmy and Zola’s mother did not understand all of our rules (I still remember a Christmas when she insisted she had to open her gifts on December 23rd because “I just can’t stand to wait any longer!)… we stuck by them. Still, we’ve never stopped loving her… and we never will.
As faith-filled Christians, God wants us to follow the Apostle Paul’s advice to the Corinthians and stay awake and alert to those who would try to deceive us… to stand up for our convictions and “stick to our guns”… to always give all we have as His disciples… and to never stop loving – Him and one another. That’s a tall order… but then, so is being a Christian!
I know that God has modeled all of this in my life… and in yours, as well. We can’t fool God…even though many of us have tried – or will someday. He is always “awake and alert!” God has stuck to His word and upheld His promises… given EVERYTHING (including His Only Son)…loved us unconditionally…and never faltered. That’s “amazing grace” in action! This should give us tremendous hope and courage. Here is our perfect example of how to live – and serve – well. Are you modeling these traits in your own life? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 7, 2012
Luke 12:25-28
“Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can’t even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don’t fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you?
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
For several years, a couple of my closest friends and I exchanged Christmas gifts. As circumstances changed in our lives, children came along, and we got busier, it became harder to get together… especially during the holidays. Before long, picking out gifts for each other was more of a chore than a blessing. The year I took a simple gift to one of these friends and her family… and she reciprocated with a lavish gift certificate to a local specialty store… I said, “No more!” We are not doing this out of love for each other as much as a made-up obligation to reciprocate.
This was the last year we exchanged Christmas gifts. And I can tell you, we both love each other as much as ever. The only thing that has changed is that we stopped worrying about appearances and started caring more about the heart and what makes us friends in the first place. Sure, we’ve exchanged some gifts over the years that we will both treasure. But our friendship is not defined by material objects. I am not her friend because of a Christmas Santa I gave her one Christmas… or the holiday decoration I bought for with her gift certificate. It’s far more important to me to know that I can pick up the phone and call her anytime, and she will be there for me in whatever way I need.
We worry so much about appearances… what will this person think… will we be under-dressed/over-dressed… will they like our gift… did we do enough… did we say the right thing (or the wrong thing)… whether people will think we are a good person – or a bad one! What we need to concentrate on is being the best that God created us to be… in all aspects of our life. We need to be the best disciple… the best friend… the best parent/grandparent/aunt/uncle/cousin/sibling… the best student/teacher/coach/mentor - or the best worker…the best community supporter… even the best patient when we are sick! Whatever God puts before us… whatever situation we find ourselves in at the moment… we should focus on being the most stellar example of a Godly creation that we can be.
I don’t know where you find yourself these days. I have no clue what challenges, frustrations, obstacles, joys, hopes and dreams you have. But I know that God wants you to concentrate on being YOU… to serve HIM… and to stand tall like the most beautiful wildflower in the field – because in His eyes, you are!
What sort of “flower” will you be today? Will you worry and fret about what others think and how you appear? Will you be a shabby “flower” in one of God’s fields… or will you be spectacular?
©2012 Debbie Robus
“Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can’t even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don’t fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you?
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
For several years, a couple of my closest friends and I exchanged Christmas gifts. As circumstances changed in our lives, children came along, and we got busier, it became harder to get together… especially during the holidays. Before long, picking out gifts for each other was more of a chore than a blessing. The year I took a simple gift to one of these friends and her family… and she reciprocated with a lavish gift certificate to a local specialty store… I said, “No more!” We are not doing this out of love for each other as much as a made-up obligation to reciprocate.
This was the last year we exchanged Christmas gifts. And I can tell you, we both love each other as much as ever. The only thing that has changed is that we stopped worrying about appearances and started caring more about the heart and what makes us friends in the first place. Sure, we’ve exchanged some gifts over the years that we will both treasure. But our friendship is not defined by material objects. I am not her friend because of a Christmas Santa I gave her one Christmas… or the holiday decoration I bought for with her gift certificate. It’s far more important to me to know that I can pick up the phone and call her anytime, and she will be there for me in whatever way I need.
We worry so much about appearances… what will this person think… will we be under-dressed/over-dressed… will they like our gift… did we do enough… did we say the right thing (or the wrong thing)… whether people will think we are a good person – or a bad one! What we need to concentrate on is being the best that God created us to be… in all aspects of our life. We need to be the best disciple… the best friend… the best parent/grandparent/aunt/uncle/cousin/sibling… the best student/teacher/coach/mentor - or the best worker…the best community supporter… even the best patient when we are sick! Whatever God puts before us… whatever situation we find ourselves in at the moment… we should focus on being the most stellar example of a Godly creation that we can be.
I don’t know where you find yourself these days. I have no clue what challenges, frustrations, obstacles, joys, hopes and dreams you have. But I know that God wants you to concentrate on being YOU… to serve HIM… and to stand tall like the most beautiful wildflower in the field – because in His eyes, you are!
What sort of “flower” will you be today? Will you worry and fret about what others think and how you appear? Will you be a shabby “flower” in one of God’s fields… or will you be spectacular?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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