Matthew 5:11-12
God will bless you when people insult you, mistreat you, and tell all kinds of evil lies about you because of me. Be happy and excited! You will have a great reward in heaven. People did these same things to the prophets who lived long ago.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a teenager, a mean-spirited girl gave me a nickname. It was supposed to be an acronym for something – although she would never tell me what the initials represented. All I knew is that others snickered and giggled when she told them what she meant by it… and I felt insulted. At a reception earlier this summer, I encountered someone I had not seen since high school, and he said, “Aren’t you XYZ (insert ugly nickname)?” I smiled and told him I had not thought about that name in years, but yes, he had recognized me.
The conversation was uncomfortable and brief. Old, unpleasant feelings were quickly dashed by the happiness of greeting friends who would never dare utter that name to me. We focused instead on remembering good times and celebrating where we are now and what is yet to come. God reminded me that I am so much more than a silly nickname. While I have not forgotten its sting – this slur does not define me.
My mother used to tell me, “People only pick on you because they like you.” She was trying to make me feel better and rise above insults and jabs made by my peers. Sorry, Mom… the truth is that people pick on others out of fear and their own insecurities. It’s hard to explain that to a kid… and nobody wants to see their child hurt or insulted by another. Just the thought that any of my nieces, nephews or little cousins might have to endure even one unkind moment breaks my heart. So imagine what this does to Jesus when HIS children are unloving toward each other!
I look at people who are hurling insults left and right these days, and I wonder what is so lacking in their own lives that they feel this is appropriate. I have to conclude that they are certainly not operating out of a spirit of grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness. They may hide behind the “Christian” label, but their actions are anything but Christ-like. I’ll be honest… I find myself asking, “What about the people who worship with me… are their thoughts and actions insulting and judgmental toward those who threaten them or their opinions in some manner? Do we as a body represent the unconditional love of Christ? If the person sitting next to me knew my true sentiments, would he/she hurl insults and mistreatment toward me?”
It’s not really a stretch to see how people become skeptical and guarded… and why a lot of folks avoid the church and those who claim to be Christians. What are we truly offering in the name of Jesus? And just as importantly, how are we reacting to insults and mistreatment launched in our direction?
Clearly, I hear God calling for me to relax… to step back and let Him have control. I feel God telling me to resist the temptation to react to insults… and most certainly to refrain from retaliation! I look at the nickname I bore through high school and see what little long-term effect it truly had on me… how God has blessed me and given me such a wonderful, abundant life. I trusted God to handle this for me, and He did. And we must encourage our children – and each other – to operate in the love and compassion of our Heavenly Father... and to rely on Him to bless us even as we are insulted and mistreated.
We must also use our own experiences with insults and mistreatment as a reminder of how to regard others. When we have any urge to offer an affront, use a slur against someone, or be openly critical or unkind, let’s stop and think about Jesus. Ask yourself, “Will my words or actions hurt another of Jesus’ children… and will His heart be broken? Will this really be worth my momentary ‘satisfaction’?”
We all need to take a step backward and remind ourselves WHO is really in charge. For whatever reason, too many of us have appointed ourselves as “judge and jury” on God’s behalf… a position He neither delegated to us nor sanctioned. We are called to operate in love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy - even when others mistreat and insult us - and to let the love of Jesus shine through. How we act – and react – will say all that is needed about our Christian faith. What are you saying these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 30, 2012
Matthew 5:43-47
"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
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.
Lately, we’ve had a lot of spotty rain showers. Just last week, my husband and I watched out our back windows as sheets of rain blew across the river valley below us – and barely a drop touched our yard for the longest time. How could the refreshing rain be so close… and yet so far away?
We have commented to each other that “Somebody who needs rain is getting it,” and we have been thankful for this. As our drought conditions continue, it would be easy to be resentful when our neighbors across town receive an inch of rain, and we get only a few drops. If that neighbor happened to be someone we really didn’t like, we could build up a pretty good head of steam over his/her soggy blessing. “That lousy fellow got water for his lawn, and we didn’t get any! How could God bless HIM?! What’s He doing letting THAT guy have rain and not us?!”
I hope you can see how ridiculous this is even as you read it. But if we are honest, we behave in exactly this manner about many things – and often! We cheer when our “enemy” is wounded in some way, and we gripe and complain if he/she gets a break. When we are wronged - or this happens to someone we care about - it rarely (if ever) occurs to us to pray for the offender… to ask God to soften his/her heart and to bring about a spirit of remorse and a desire for restitution. Instead, we rant and rave, wring our hands and cry… and we ask God “Why, LORD, WHY?” We treat these “enemies” with disdain – and sometimes disrespect.
What do you suppose would happen if we began to fervently and genuinely pray for our “enemies?” What if we prayed for the shooter who killed and injured more than 70 people recently in Colorado… or those who oppose the political candidates we support? Suppose we were to begin praying for those who mistreat and disrespect the people who do not share their views on everything from universal health care and gun control to abortion, gay rights and what constitutes a “traditional marriage?”
What if we prayed for those who protest at funerals and bomb abortion clinics? Have you ever considered what might happen if we prayed for the monsters that exploit little children, tyrants who are cruel and repressive toward the people under their control, and those who are so sick of mind as to torture innocent animals?
Closer to home, what if you prayed for that neighbor who drives you nuts, the kid in your class who is obnoxious, the teacher who intimidates students, the person who disagrees with your views on anything and everything, or the boss who is never satisfied with your work? What do you suppose would happen if you started to pray passionately for that church member who drives you up the wall or the crazy relative you wished belonged to another family?
I love how this passage explains that it’s easy to love those who agree with you and are so “lovable.” Loving the unlovely – or those who differ with us in some way – is much harder… but far more important! When we start to operate in love and concern for others… ALL others… we open the doors for God to step through and perform miracles. And notice I did NOT say to pray for these people to come around to our way of thinking! We are not asking God to necessarily change the other person… we are merely asking Him to work in this person’s life according to His will. This is very important!
When we take a step backward and look at even our worst “enemy” and say, “This is God’s child, too,” we begin to see this person in a different light. He/she may still be disagreeable, different, messed up, confused… or even evil. But God sees at least the potential for worth and significance – and HE has the final say. Our change in attitude may not have the effect that WE desire… but all concerned will be forever transformed as we place the judgment and outcome in God’s hands and operate totally in His love.
I suggest you start small. Pick out one person today that needs your love and prayers. Tomorrow, select another (you know there is more than one!), and pray for him/her. Notice how God works in and through you as you begin to release your negative feelings and allow Him to have complete control. Surrender to God’s will and operate in His love for ALL of His children. Make every effort to get to a place in your own faith walk where your joy comes from learning to truly celebrate when the other guy gets rain…and you don’t!
©2012 Debbie Robus
"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
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.
Lately, we’ve had a lot of spotty rain showers. Just last week, my husband and I watched out our back windows as sheets of rain blew across the river valley below us – and barely a drop touched our yard for the longest time. How could the refreshing rain be so close… and yet so far away?
We have commented to each other that “Somebody who needs rain is getting it,” and we have been thankful for this. As our drought conditions continue, it would be easy to be resentful when our neighbors across town receive an inch of rain, and we get only a few drops. If that neighbor happened to be someone we really didn’t like, we could build up a pretty good head of steam over his/her soggy blessing. “That lousy fellow got water for his lawn, and we didn’t get any! How could God bless HIM?! What’s He doing letting THAT guy have rain and not us?!”
I hope you can see how ridiculous this is even as you read it. But if we are honest, we behave in exactly this manner about many things – and often! We cheer when our “enemy” is wounded in some way, and we gripe and complain if he/she gets a break. When we are wronged - or this happens to someone we care about - it rarely (if ever) occurs to us to pray for the offender… to ask God to soften his/her heart and to bring about a spirit of remorse and a desire for restitution. Instead, we rant and rave, wring our hands and cry… and we ask God “Why, LORD, WHY?” We treat these “enemies” with disdain – and sometimes disrespect.
What do you suppose would happen if we began to fervently and genuinely pray for our “enemies?” What if we prayed for the shooter who killed and injured more than 70 people recently in Colorado… or those who oppose the political candidates we support? Suppose we were to begin praying for those who mistreat and disrespect the people who do not share their views on everything from universal health care and gun control to abortion, gay rights and what constitutes a “traditional marriage?”
What if we prayed for those who protest at funerals and bomb abortion clinics? Have you ever considered what might happen if we prayed for the monsters that exploit little children, tyrants who are cruel and repressive toward the people under their control, and those who are so sick of mind as to torture innocent animals?
Closer to home, what if you prayed for that neighbor who drives you nuts, the kid in your class who is obnoxious, the teacher who intimidates students, the person who disagrees with your views on anything and everything, or the boss who is never satisfied with your work? What do you suppose would happen if you started to pray passionately for that church member who drives you up the wall or the crazy relative you wished belonged to another family?
I love how this passage explains that it’s easy to love those who agree with you and are so “lovable.” Loving the unlovely – or those who differ with us in some way – is much harder… but far more important! When we start to operate in love and concern for others… ALL others… we open the doors for God to step through and perform miracles. And notice I did NOT say to pray for these people to come around to our way of thinking! We are not asking God to necessarily change the other person… we are merely asking Him to work in this person’s life according to His will. This is very important!
When we take a step backward and look at even our worst “enemy” and say, “This is God’s child, too,” we begin to see this person in a different light. He/she may still be disagreeable, different, messed up, confused… or even evil. But God sees at least the potential for worth and significance – and HE has the final say. Our change in attitude may not have the effect that WE desire… but all concerned will be forever transformed as we place the judgment and outcome in God’s hands and operate totally in His love.
I suggest you start small. Pick out one person today that needs your love and prayers. Tomorrow, select another (you know there is more than one!), and pray for him/her. Notice how God works in and through you as you begin to release your negative feelings and allow Him to have complete control. Surrender to God’s will and operate in His love for ALL of His children. Make every effort to get to a place in your own faith walk where your joy comes from learning to truly celebrate when the other guy gets rain…and you don’t!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 29, 2012
Matthew 6:12
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
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.
Our 13-year-old cats are fairly asocial. They particularly do not like sudden movements, loud noises… and children. Ironically, our little ones like Timothy and my cousin Owen want nothing more than to get close to the cats. They so want to see them, touch them, talk to them… and become friends! So one day when Owen bent down in front of a chair that housed our cat, Lucy, she reached out and gave him a declawed swat on the head. Owen was devastated. He cried, “That kitty hit me! Why that kitty not like me?” We all justified Lucy’s little swat as a reaction to someone she didn’t know – an innate fear and dislike of something unfamiliar. And even Owen still asks every time, “Where are the kitties?” Although he has not forgotten the swat, he has forgiven the cat!
Isn’t it funny that we can forgive the outburst of a small animal… but not of a human being? We can readily understand – and excuse – the behavior of a pet that reacts to particular situations and circumstances, but we have no compassion for people who are responding out of their own fears and stresses.
I’m not saying that people have a license to be rude and disgruntled – or to gripe, complain and snap at others and expect to be given a free pass. But we often react to others quickly – and rashly – (if only in our thoughts) and fail to consider what may be their “back-story”… what may be really happening within their heart and mind. More importantly, we don’t see how often we do the very same thing… toward others, and toward God. We snap, we are rude, brash, unkind, judgmental and uncaring… and we expect God and others to forgive and forget our own lapses.
I’m pretty sure that most of us have a deep desire for forgiveness. We want God to bury the hatchet and offer us a chance to make a fresh start – and we want this from our human counterparts, as well. What we don’t realize is that we have to make the first move. We have to let bygones be bygones with others and reconcile our differences in order to unblock our own forgiveness.
The more you put this into practice, the easier it becomes… and the more you see areas where you need to offer mercy and compassion to others. When you stop and consider how you feel when you are judged and unforgiven… how much you desire God’s grace and understanding in your own life… you will see more clearly how important it is that you forgive others in the same way.
The most important thing you say today could possibly be, “I am willing to forgive one person.” If you can say that you are willing to stop judging and criticizing others, or harboring ill feelings toward even one person, you will have taken a step closer to operating in God’s love and redemption. As we strive to walk more closely with Jesus every day – to emulate His tenderness and affection for us in our daily living – amazing things will happen. We will be released from the burdens of our own recklessness. We will have the peace of God’s forgiveness – and knowing His pleasure as we forgive others.
Who are you willing to forgive today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
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.
Our 13-year-old cats are fairly asocial. They particularly do not like sudden movements, loud noises… and children. Ironically, our little ones like Timothy and my cousin Owen want nothing more than to get close to the cats. They so want to see them, touch them, talk to them… and become friends! So one day when Owen bent down in front of a chair that housed our cat, Lucy, she reached out and gave him a declawed swat on the head. Owen was devastated. He cried, “That kitty hit me! Why that kitty not like me?” We all justified Lucy’s little swat as a reaction to someone she didn’t know – an innate fear and dislike of something unfamiliar. And even Owen still asks every time, “Where are the kitties?” Although he has not forgotten the swat, he has forgiven the cat!
Isn’t it funny that we can forgive the outburst of a small animal… but not of a human being? We can readily understand – and excuse – the behavior of a pet that reacts to particular situations and circumstances, but we have no compassion for people who are responding out of their own fears and stresses.
I’m not saying that people have a license to be rude and disgruntled – or to gripe, complain and snap at others and expect to be given a free pass. But we often react to others quickly – and rashly – (if only in our thoughts) and fail to consider what may be their “back-story”… what may be really happening within their heart and mind. More importantly, we don’t see how often we do the very same thing… toward others, and toward God. We snap, we are rude, brash, unkind, judgmental and uncaring… and we expect God and others to forgive and forget our own lapses.
I’m pretty sure that most of us have a deep desire for forgiveness. We want God to bury the hatchet and offer us a chance to make a fresh start – and we want this from our human counterparts, as well. What we don’t realize is that we have to make the first move. We have to let bygones be bygones with others and reconcile our differences in order to unblock our own forgiveness.
The more you put this into practice, the easier it becomes… and the more you see areas where you need to offer mercy and compassion to others. When you stop and consider how you feel when you are judged and unforgiven… how much you desire God’s grace and understanding in your own life… you will see more clearly how important it is that you forgive others in the same way.
The most important thing you say today could possibly be, “I am willing to forgive one person.” If you can say that you are willing to stop judging and criticizing others, or harboring ill feelings toward even one person, you will have taken a step closer to operating in God’s love and redemption. As we strive to walk more closely with Jesus every day – to emulate His tenderness and affection for us in our daily living – amazing things will happen. We will be released from the burdens of our own recklessness. We will have the peace of God’s forgiveness – and knowing His pleasure as we forgive others.
Who are you willing to forgive today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 28, 2012
July 28 ~ Matthew 6:14-15
"In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part.”
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 so many areas of life, we understand that there are direct correlations. Eat too much and sit on the couch all the time, and you will probably gain weight and become unhealthy. If you don’t study and do your homework, it’s likely you won’t pass your classes and graduate. Fail to show up on time for work and do a good job, and you will probably be dismissed. We get it! We know how these things work. This doesn’t mean we always do the right thing… but we are fully aware of the consequences.
Spiritually, I don’t think enough people make the connection between forgiving others and receiving God’s forgiveness. Please understand that I am not saying that God won’t forgive your sins and offer you salvation through Jesus Christ if you fail to forgive others – although forgiving others is an integral part of the life of a Christian (or should be). What I am saying is that even we Christians say and do things that displease God every single day. As faith-filled believers who continually strive to be more like Christ, we often ask God to forgive us… to strengthen us in our commitment, guide our steps, and bless us in our daily living.
The point is that we cannot ask God to do something for us that we are unwilling to do for others. We can’t say, “God, I was unkind and uncaring… please forgive me,” and then hold a grudge against someone for something they said or did that insulted us. We can’t ask God to pardon us for failing to spend time in His presence and then be critical of others who we think don’t come to church often enough or are not devoted Christians in some manner. We cannot expect God to excuse our lack of faith and courage in Spiritual matters… and become angry with those who fail to encourage us or seem to let us down along the way.
In other words, before we ask God for love, grace, mercy and forgiveness, we should ask ourselves… “Is there someone to whom I need to offer these same gifts?” When we come before God in the right frame of mind, He hears our prayers with a generous heart… ready and willing to open the floodgates of heaven and bless us beyond measure. And don’t we all want this?
Who do you need to forgive today? What do you need to correct or adjust before you spend time asking God for your own favors? Have you blocked your blessings with an unforgiving spirit? Isn’t it time you got busy making this right?
©2012 Debbie Robus
"In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part.”
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 so many areas of life, we understand that there are direct correlations. Eat too much and sit on the couch all the time, and you will probably gain weight and become unhealthy. If you don’t study and do your homework, it’s likely you won’t pass your classes and graduate. Fail to show up on time for work and do a good job, and you will probably be dismissed. We get it! We know how these things work. This doesn’t mean we always do the right thing… but we are fully aware of the consequences.
Spiritually, I don’t think enough people make the connection between forgiving others and receiving God’s forgiveness. Please understand that I am not saying that God won’t forgive your sins and offer you salvation through Jesus Christ if you fail to forgive others – although forgiving others is an integral part of the life of a Christian (or should be). What I am saying is that even we Christians say and do things that displease God every single day. As faith-filled believers who continually strive to be more like Christ, we often ask God to forgive us… to strengthen us in our commitment, guide our steps, and bless us in our daily living.
The point is that we cannot ask God to do something for us that we are unwilling to do for others. We can’t say, “God, I was unkind and uncaring… please forgive me,” and then hold a grudge against someone for something they said or did that insulted us. We can’t ask God to pardon us for failing to spend time in His presence and then be critical of others who we think don’t come to church often enough or are not devoted Christians in some manner. We cannot expect God to excuse our lack of faith and courage in Spiritual matters… and become angry with those who fail to encourage us or seem to let us down along the way.
In other words, before we ask God for love, grace, mercy and forgiveness, we should ask ourselves… “Is there someone to whom I need to offer these same gifts?” When we come before God in the right frame of mind, He hears our prayers with a generous heart… ready and willing to open the floodgates of heaven and bless us beyond measure. And don’t we all want this?
Who do you need to forgive today? What do you need to correct or adjust before you spend time asking God for your own favors? Have you blocked your blessings with an unforgiving spirit? Isn’t it time you got busy making this right?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 27, 2012
Matthew 7:1-5
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
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.
When I was in my late twenties, I got really sick and had to have some major surgery. My surgeon weighed 300 pounds if he weighed an ounce… and he was a chain smoker! Thankfully, he was a really good, well-respected surgeon, and everything turned out well. But I remember him sitting behind his desk one day, cigarette in hand, telling me, “Today’s runners are tomorrow’s arthritics.” I was running somewhere around six miles a day at the time.
While my knees tell me today that he was probably right, the words seemed a little ridiculous at the time as spoken by this man who was anything but the picture of health. And while I have not always been necessarily skinny myself, I find it hard to take medical advice from a physician who is clearly not taking care of himself/herself. Even if we know the advice to stay out of the sun, lose a few pounds, or stop eating so much red meat is sound… it’s a tough pill to swallow, when we hear it from someone who could obviously do better themselves.
To put this in perspective for us, consider telling a teenager not to smoke and drink while you are holding a cigarette in one hand and a cocktail in the other. How much stock do you think a young person would put in advice from adults to work hard and be responsible, pay their bills on time and live within a budget if those same adults are either barely getting by because of careless spending habits… or these folks won’t work and depend on handouts from others for survival?
What does it say to others when we claim to be Christians (which implies that we at least want to be like Jesus), and then we are critical of those who don’t believe as we do and treat people of other races, political leanings and/or lifestyles with open contempt and/or disgust? How can we expect God to bless us with His favor when we blatantly mistreat even one of His children or creations?
We often laugh (if only nervously) at those who are openly critical of us or others while they appear to be oblivious to the fact that they engage in many of the same behaviors or opinions. But it’s really not funny… and it displeases God. In the Contemporary English Version of this passage, Verse 1 says, “God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them.” Let this soak in for a minute. Before you start to criticize, pity, or correct another person, take a good look in the mirror. It may be that you have plenty of work to do at home without dabbling in another’s business!
Ask God to show you how and where to be more compassionate, less cynical and critical… and more patient with others. Call on Him to remove the “speck in your eye”… and to temper your desire to do the same for others. Get your own house in order, and give God room to work in your life. Let Him handle the smudges on the other guy’s face!
©2012 Debbie Robus
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
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.
When I was in my late twenties, I got really sick and had to have some major surgery. My surgeon weighed 300 pounds if he weighed an ounce… and he was a chain smoker! Thankfully, he was a really good, well-respected surgeon, and everything turned out well. But I remember him sitting behind his desk one day, cigarette in hand, telling me, “Today’s runners are tomorrow’s arthritics.” I was running somewhere around six miles a day at the time.
While my knees tell me today that he was probably right, the words seemed a little ridiculous at the time as spoken by this man who was anything but the picture of health. And while I have not always been necessarily skinny myself, I find it hard to take medical advice from a physician who is clearly not taking care of himself/herself. Even if we know the advice to stay out of the sun, lose a few pounds, or stop eating so much red meat is sound… it’s a tough pill to swallow, when we hear it from someone who could obviously do better themselves.
To put this in perspective for us, consider telling a teenager not to smoke and drink while you are holding a cigarette in one hand and a cocktail in the other. How much stock do you think a young person would put in advice from adults to work hard and be responsible, pay their bills on time and live within a budget if those same adults are either barely getting by because of careless spending habits… or these folks won’t work and depend on handouts from others for survival?
What does it say to others when we claim to be Christians (which implies that we at least want to be like Jesus), and then we are critical of those who don’t believe as we do and treat people of other races, political leanings and/or lifestyles with open contempt and/or disgust? How can we expect God to bless us with His favor when we blatantly mistreat even one of His children or creations?
We often laugh (if only nervously) at those who are openly critical of us or others while they appear to be oblivious to the fact that they engage in many of the same behaviors or opinions. But it’s really not funny… and it displeases God. In the Contemporary English Version of this passage, Verse 1 says, “God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them.” Let this soak in for a minute. Before you start to criticize, pity, or correct another person, take a good look in the mirror. It may be that you have plenty of work to do at home without dabbling in another’s business!
Ask God to show you how and where to be more compassionate, less cynical and critical… and more patient with others. Call on Him to remove the “speck in your eye”… and to temper your desire to do the same for others. Get your own house in order, and give God room to work in your life. Let Him handle the smudges on the other guy’s face!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 26, 2012
Matthew 18:21-22
Peter came up to the Lord and asked, “How many times should I forgive someone who does something wrong to me? Is seven times enough?” Jesus answered: Not just seven times, but seventy-seven times!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There seems to be a general consensus that you can make a behavior a habit in twenty-one days – or three weeks. So it would follow that forgiving someone for doing something wrong every day for three weeks would pretty well solidify our ability to forgive that person. Yet Jesus says to forgive seventy-seven times… or 10 weeks! Why do you suppose He chose this time frame? If something becomes a habit or “part of our nature” in three weeks, why continue working on it another seven?
If you read the parable in Matthew 18 that follows this command from Jesus in Verses 21-22, you will see that He is trying to get us to a point where we don’t even think about the offense… where forgiveness is second nature. He illustrates our forgiveness from God and makes the point that literally forgiving someone seventy-seven times is not the issue – it’s about treating others as God treats us.
Look… we cannot hope to be even the least bit like God and harbor feelings of un-forgiveness in our heart. We must practice forgiveness of all people and things until this becomes habitual… second nature. Notice Jesus didn’t say, “Don’t be cautious or smart. Don’t become a doormat for others.” This is not about allowing someone to mistreat you or take advantage of you in some way. But when someone or something is offensive to you, and you harbor a feeling of ill will toward that person or situation, YOU are the one who is most affected.
Forgiveness is liberating. Forgiveness says that we are better than the offense (which is a tool of the devil). Forgiveness indicates that we are striving to be like our Heavenly Father, Who forgives us over and again each and every day. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness… but rather, a sign of strength in the LORD!
Who do you need to forgive today? Where do you need to implement a “three-week course” in forgiveness and make this a habit in your life? Do you truly desire to grow closer to Jesus and become more like Him? Start exercising forgiveness in your life today. Work hard at forgiving seventy-seven times… and more! Operate in the freedom of Christ’s love, grace and mercy… and extend it to those you meet. This is one habit we could all stand to cultivate!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Peter came up to the Lord and asked, “How many times should I forgive someone who does something wrong to me? Is seven times enough?” Jesus answered: Not just seven times, but seventy-seven times!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There seems to be a general consensus that you can make a behavior a habit in twenty-one days – or three weeks. So it would follow that forgiving someone for doing something wrong every day for three weeks would pretty well solidify our ability to forgive that person. Yet Jesus says to forgive seventy-seven times… or 10 weeks! Why do you suppose He chose this time frame? If something becomes a habit or “part of our nature” in three weeks, why continue working on it another seven?
If you read the parable in Matthew 18 that follows this command from Jesus in Verses 21-22, you will see that He is trying to get us to a point where we don’t even think about the offense… where forgiveness is second nature. He illustrates our forgiveness from God and makes the point that literally forgiving someone seventy-seven times is not the issue – it’s about treating others as God treats us.
Look… we cannot hope to be even the least bit like God and harbor feelings of un-forgiveness in our heart. We must practice forgiveness of all people and things until this becomes habitual… second nature. Notice Jesus didn’t say, “Don’t be cautious or smart. Don’t become a doormat for others.” This is not about allowing someone to mistreat you or take advantage of you in some way. But when someone or something is offensive to you, and you harbor a feeling of ill will toward that person or situation, YOU are the one who is most affected.
Forgiveness is liberating. Forgiveness says that we are better than the offense (which is a tool of the devil). Forgiveness indicates that we are striving to be like our Heavenly Father, Who forgives us over and again each and every day. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness… but rather, a sign of strength in the LORD!
Who do you need to forgive today? Where do you need to implement a “three-week course” in forgiveness and make this a habit in your life? Do you truly desire to grow closer to Jesus and become more like Him? Start exercising forgiveness in your life today. Work hard at forgiving seventy-seven times… and more! Operate in the freedom of Christ’s love, grace and mercy… and extend it to those you meet. This is one habit we could all stand to cultivate!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 25, 2012
Mark 11:22-25
Jesus was matter-of-fact: "Embrace this God-life. Really embrace it, and nothing will be too much for you. This mountain, for instance: Just say, 'Go jump in the lake'—no shuffling or shilly-shallying—and it's as good as done. That's why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you'll get God's everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive—only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins."
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.
Have you ever attempted to open a drawer, and it stuck on something? Try as you might, the drawer would only open so far, and then it would catch on whatever was sticking up and trapping the drawer’s forward progress in some manner. If you’re like me, sometimes it’s pretty tough to remove the displaced item and get the drawer to open smoothly…which probably says something about the organization and overall condition of my drawers!
Our personal lives are much like a household drawer… often unorganized and cluttered… perhaps filled to overflowing with all sorts of things. And once in a while, something will get turned “cattywompus” and derail everything. Until we take time to remove the source of our problem, nothing will go smoothly, and certainly “the drawer will not open!”
Let’s be honest… there are times when we just leave the “drawer” ajar and move on for a while. But that situation is not going to change. We have to do something. And in our personal lives, this most often means asking God to forgive us… or to help us forgive someone else. If you ever find that you have a situation where you feel like no answer comes… where you just can’t seem to have a breakthrough… stop and ask yourself, “What is blocking this? Where do I need to make an adjustment? Is there something or someone I need to forgive? Is there someone I need to ask to forgive me?”
Once we “get our drawer straight,” we often find that all sorts of things begin to operate more smoothly. Remember, with God all things are possible. But often, He is waiting on us to tidy up a few things before He delivers an answer or makes good on a promise. When was the last time you gave your drawers a good cleaning and organizing… for real, and in your personal life? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Jesus was matter-of-fact: "Embrace this God-life. Really embrace it, and nothing will be too much for you. This mountain, for instance: Just say, 'Go jump in the lake'—no shuffling or shilly-shallying—and it's as good as done. That's why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you'll get God's everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive—only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins."
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.
Have you ever attempted to open a drawer, and it stuck on something? Try as you might, the drawer would only open so far, and then it would catch on whatever was sticking up and trapping the drawer’s forward progress in some manner. If you’re like me, sometimes it’s pretty tough to remove the displaced item and get the drawer to open smoothly…which probably says something about the organization and overall condition of my drawers!
Our personal lives are much like a household drawer… often unorganized and cluttered… perhaps filled to overflowing with all sorts of things. And once in a while, something will get turned “cattywompus” and derail everything. Until we take time to remove the source of our problem, nothing will go smoothly, and certainly “the drawer will not open!”
Let’s be honest… there are times when we just leave the “drawer” ajar and move on for a while. But that situation is not going to change. We have to do something. And in our personal lives, this most often means asking God to forgive us… or to help us forgive someone else. If you ever find that you have a situation where you feel like no answer comes… where you just can’t seem to have a breakthrough… stop and ask yourself, “What is blocking this? Where do I need to make an adjustment? Is there something or someone I need to forgive? Is there someone I need to ask to forgive me?”
Once we “get our drawer straight,” we often find that all sorts of things begin to operate more smoothly. Remember, with God all things are possible. But often, He is waiting on us to tidy up a few things before He delivers an answer or makes good on a promise. When was the last time you gave your drawers a good cleaning and organizing… for real, and in your personal life? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 24, 2012
Luke 6:38
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity."
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 was talking with my neighbor the other day about a mutual friend who is the primary caregiver for her 103-year-old mother. Several years ago this friend and her husband moved her mother here from another community to share their home. The lady is now blind and virtually deaf… and wheelchair bound. You can imagine the stress this situation places on her daughter, son-in-law, and extended family… or maybe you can’t! But I said to my neighbor, “I think so often of Anne. As much as she loves her mother, I know this is a huge burden.”
The friend replied, “Oh… it’s not that bad… she has children who help her.” This is the same friend who only a couple of years ago was caring for her own mother… and telling me often how difficult and challenging it was! I am here to tell you that anyone who cares for an elderly loved one – especially those who do so at home – experiences challenges and a lot of stress! This woman may not openly share her frustrations and difficulties with her friends, but she surely has them! Others may see someone who seems to have it all together all the time… someone who is upbeat and positive. But on the inside, he/she may be anything but cheerful and confident.
On the other hand, we may make snap judgments about someone, based on an erratic action or a snippy comeback, missing completely that something is wrong in their life… that they are experiencing hardness. I have said this before, but I distinctly remember one weekend in February 1998, when my dad was gravely ill and at death’s door. I dashed into Wal-Mart to pick up a few groceries. People were cheerfully purchasing Valentines, candy and flowers. Everywhere I turned, “love was in the air.” People were smiling and laughing - talking about plans for their special holiday or something else fun. All I wanted to do is scream to anyone who would listen, “STOP the world! My daddy is dying!” But instead, I smiled in return and hurriedly left the store.
Before you pin on my medal for bravery and patience, be assured that I have made my fair share of brash, rude comments – and then some! – when life has been stressful and challenging. I am often critical, judgmental, and hard on people. There are plenty of times when I fail to consider the other person’s heart. I am just as guilty as the next guy of picking on people and jumping on their failures. But I am trying so very hard to do better – to be better.
There are a lot of people who have judged each of us unfairly. I’m sure there are those who wonder why I am not doing more… participating in more ministries in my church… getting more done with my days. I know there are those who think I don’t do enough for my own grandmother and family… or think I waste too much time on sewing and writing. There are plenty of people who are making similar judgments about you. They may be evaluating your character, your behavior, how you use your time and talents, and your attitude in general… all without having a clue about what is truly in your heart. They have no idea what God’s call is on your life… or how you are answering Him.
The point is this… if we want others to stop judging and criticizing us… we have to take the first step and do this for them. If we want others to go easy on us and lift us up, rather than kick us when we are down, we have to start the process by doing this for those in our circle and beyond. We have to stop paying attention to what others think… stop reacting to what others say about us or anyone else… and open our hearts and minds to the fact that we all have “issues.” Everybody is dealing with something… and how we treat each other can have a direct effect on the impact of these matters.
Be a humble, gentle person. Put on your “rose-colored glasses,” so to speak, and see others with a generous heart. Recognize that God loves us, warts and all, and we are to do the same for each other. Take the first step toward creating an atmosphere where God has room to build up His children in love and kindness and to use all of us to bless each other and strengthen His kingdom. When you have the urge to pick on someone… ask God to give you the courage and strength to give them a little slack.
Giving, not getting, is the way… and this begins with our attitude and how we treat others. Be the one who jump-start this process in your own circle of friends and influence. Always give as good as you wish to get… or better… and watch the blessings multiply for everyone.
©2012 Debbie Robus
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity."
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 was talking with my neighbor the other day about a mutual friend who is the primary caregiver for her 103-year-old mother. Several years ago this friend and her husband moved her mother here from another community to share their home. The lady is now blind and virtually deaf… and wheelchair bound. You can imagine the stress this situation places on her daughter, son-in-law, and extended family… or maybe you can’t! But I said to my neighbor, “I think so often of Anne. As much as she loves her mother, I know this is a huge burden.”
The friend replied, “Oh… it’s not that bad… she has children who help her.” This is the same friend who only a couple of years ago was caring for her own mother… and telling me often how difficult and challenging it was! I am here to tell you that anyone who cares for an elderly loved one – especially those who do so at home – experiences challenges and a lot of stress! This woman may not openly share her frustrations and difficulties with her friends, but she surely has them! Others may see someone who seems to have it all together all the time… someone who is upbeat and positive. But on the inside, he/she may be anything but cheerful and confident.
On the other hand, we may make snap judgments about someone, based on an erratic action or a snippy comeback, missing completely that something is wrong in their life… that they are experiencing hardness. I have said this before, but I distinctly remember one weekend in February 1998, when my dad was gravely ill and at death’s door. I dashed into Wal-Mart to pick up a few groceries. People were cheerfully purchasing Valentines, candy and flowers. Everywhere I turned, “love was in the air.” People were smiling and laughing - talking about plans for their special holiday or something else fun. All I wanted to do is scream to anyone who would listen, “STOP the world! My daddy is dying!” But instead, I smiled in return and hurriedly left the store.
Before you pin on my medal for bravery and patience, be assured that I have made my fair share of brash, rude comments – and then some! – when life has been stressful and challenging. I am often critical, judgmental, and hard on people. There are plenty of times when I fail to consider the other person’s heart. I am just as guilty as the next guy of picking on people and jumping on their failures. But I am trying so very hard to do better – to be better.
There are a lot of people who have judged each of us unfairly. I’m sure there are those who wonder why I am not doing more… participating in more ministries in my church… getting more done with my days. I know there are those who think I don’t do enough for my own grandmother and family… or think I waste too much time on sewing and writing. There are plenty of people who are making similar judgments about you. They may be evaluating your character, your behavior, how you use your time and talents, and your attitude in general… all without having a clue about what is truly in your heart. They have no idea what God’s call is on your life… or how you are answering Him.
The point is this… if we want others to stop judging and criticizing us… we have to take the first step and do this for them. If we want others to go easy on us and lift us up, rather than kick us when we are down, we have to start the process by doing this for those in our circle and beyond. We have to stop paying attention to what others think… stop reacting to what others say about us or anyone else… and open our hearts and minds to the fact that we all have “issues.” Everybody is dealing with something… and how we treat each other can have a direct effect on the impact of these matters.
Be a humble, gentle person. Put on your “rose-colored glasses,” so to speak, and see others with a generous heart. Recognize that God loves us, warts and all, and we are to do the same for each other. Take the first step toward creating an atmosphere where God has room to build up His children in love and kindness and to use all of us to bless each other and strengthen His kingdom. When you have the urge to pick on someone… ask God to give you the courage and strength to give them a little slack.
Giving, not getting, is the way… and this begins with our attitude and how we treat others. Be the one who jump-start this process in your own circle of friends and influence. Always give as good as you wish to get… or better… and watch the blessings multiply for everyone.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 23, 2012
Luke 6:31-36
"Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! If you only love the lovable, do you expect a pat on the back? Run-of-the-mill sinners do that. If you only help those who help you, do you expect a medal? Garden-variety sinners do that. If you only give for what you hope to get out of it, do you think that's charity? The stingiest of pawnbrokers does that.
"I tell you, love your enemies. Help and give without expecting a return. You'll never—I promise—regret it. Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives toward us, generously and graciously, even when we're at our worst. Our Father is kind; you be kind.
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.
Do you remember when you were a kid and teams were chosen for a game like kick-ball? Remember the kids who were such bad athletes – or so disliked – that they were the last ones chosen? Sadly, this is how we often treat people on every level. It’s the “What’s-in-it-for-me?” syndrome. If we don’t stand to get something out of a relationship or the things we do for another – or if we feel these people “bring nothing to the table” - we’re not interested! So we pick and choose who is important – in our social circle, our church, our classes at school, the workplace, our community… and every facet of our lives. We focus our time and attention on these people. And should one of them do something we don’t like – or fail to boost our ego enough or repay our kindnesses and good deeds – they are off the list, too!
If you have ever been on the receiving end of such treatment, you know that it’s no fun! Everyone wants to be liked and respected… to be treated as if he/she has value. Nobody wants to feel like others treat them in a certain manner simply for what can be gained. By the same token, most people do not enjoy doing things for others out of obligation – or in a “tit-for-tat” situation - either! In other words, I don’t want to be someone’s friend because of my “position” – either real or perceived… who I know, what my socio-economic status is, what I do for a living, or because that person is interested in what I can do for him/her.
The most enjoyable exchanges are those in which one person does something for another out of love, kindness, generosity of spirit… “just because”… whether you are the recipient or the one who is providing the “gift.” A few years ago, Christmas carolers visited my grandmother’s house one evening. She told me the next day, “I was never so embarrassed!” When I asked why, she replied, “Well, I didn’t have a thing to give them!” I told her that these young people from her church did not come by to serenade her in anticipation of a payment! They came to bring her joy and cheer during the holidays. Sadly, she failed to fully enjoy their gift, because she was so worried about how to repay them. I think she spent part of the time the kids were singing scrounging her kitchen for cookies and candy to share with them instead of enjoying their performance.
Until we learn to give of ourselves without any anticipation of repayment, we will never experience true joy. If everything we do has to have a hidden agenda… if those we associate with have to be “in the club,” we will never know what it is to fully live in Christ. By the same token, if every time someone says or does something nice for us, we worry about how we will reciprocate, we have missed the blessing of the gift. Imagine if God treated us this way. What if every time He blessed us, God expected us to immediately perform some act of service or ministry on His behalf? Would we do it? Would we genuinely desire to follow Him?
Our life in Christ is based on unconditional love. Jesus loves us no matter what… and we love Him because of this. If we felt He only loved us and met our needs according to what we could give back in return… some of us might work harder to try and “earn” His blessings. But I am betting that more of us might throw up our hands and say, “I’ll never be good enough… what’s the point?” And either way, we would lose… because the Spirit and intention of our behaviors would not be right.
What do you want people to do for you? What do you want GOD to do? What are YOU doing in for God – and for others in His name? How you answer these questions matters deeply. Take a good hard look at how God loves us and meets our needs. Think about how we are treated… and what is expected in return. Apply this to your own relationships. Follow the “Golden Rule” and treat others as you wish to be treated… even your adversaries and the unlovely! Love others and give of yourself without any thought of what you might receive from them. Be humble… forget about recognition or accolades. Never take advantage of others… never befriend someone for what you feel you can gain from the relationship. And when others do this to you, love them anyway. This is a tall order… but it’s incredibly important. How well are you doing these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
"Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! If you only love the lovable, do you expect a pat on the back? Run-of-the-mill sinners do that. If you only help those who help you, do you expect a medal? Garden-variety sinners do that. If you only give for what you hope to get out of it, do you think that's charity? The stingiest of pawnbrokers does that.
"I tell you, love your enemies. Help and give without expecting a return. You'll never—I promise—regret it. Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives toward us, generously and graciously, even when we're at our worst. Our Father is kind; you be kind.
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.
Do you remember when you were a kid and teams were chosen for a game like kick-ball? Remember the kids who were such bad athletes – or so disliked – that they were the last ones chosen? Sadly, this is how we often treat people on every level. It’s the “What’s-in-it-for-me?” syndrome. If we don’t stand to get something out of a relationship or the things we do for another – or if we feel these people “bring nothing to the table” - we’re not interested! So we pick and choose who is important – in our social circle, our church, our classes at school, the workplace, our community… and every facet of our lives. We focus our time and attention on these people. And should one of them do something we don’t like – or fail to boost our ego enough or repay our kindnesses and good deeds – they are off the list, too!
If you have ever been on the receiving end of such treatment, you know that it’s no fun! Everyone wants to be liked and respected… to be treated as if he/she has value. Nobody wants to feel like others treat them in a certain manner simply for what can be gained. By the same token, most people do not enjoy doing things for others out of obligation – or in a “tit-for-tat” situation - either! In other words, I don’t want to be someone’s friend because of my “position” – either real or perceived… who I know, what my socio-economic status is, what I do for a living, or because that person is interested in what I can do for him/her.
The most enjoyable exchanges are those in which one person does something for another out of love, kindness, generosity of spirit… “just because”… whether you are the recipient or the one who is providing the “gift.” A few years ago, Christmas carolers visited my grandmother’s house one evening. She told me the next day, “I was never so embarrassed!” When I asked why, she replied, “Well, I didn’t have a thing to give them!” I told her that these young people from her church did not come by to serenade her in anticipation of a payment! They came to bring her joy and cheer during the holidays. Sadly, she failed to fully enjoy their gift, because she was so worried about how to repay them. I think she spent part of the time the kids were singing scrounging her kitchen for cookies and candy to share with them instead of enjoying their performance.
Until we learn to give of ourselves without any anticipation of repayment, we will never experience true joy. If everything we do has to have a hidden agenda… if those we associate with have to be “in the club,” we will never know what it is to fully live in Christ. By the same token, if every time someone says or does something nice for us, we worry about how we will reciprocate, we have missed the blessing of the gift. Imagine if God treated us this way. What if every time He blessed us, God expected us to immediately perform some act of service or ministry on His behalf? Would we do it? Would we genuinely desire to follow Him?
Our life in Christ is based on unconditional love. Jesus loves us no matter what… and we love Him because of this. If we felt He only loved us and met our needs according to what we could give back in return… some of us might work harder to try and “earn” His blessings. But I am betting that more of us might throw up our hands and say, “I’ll never be good enough… what’s the point?” And either way, we would lose… because the Spirit and intention of our behaviors would not be right.
What do you want people to do for you? What do you want GOD to do? What are YOU doing in for God – and for others in His name? How you answer these questions matters deeply. Take a good hard look at how God loves us and meets our needs. Think about how we are treated… and what is expected in return. Apply this to your own relationships. Follow the “Golden Rule” and treat others as you wish to be treated… even your adversaries and the unlovely! Love others and give of yourself without any thought of what you might receive from them. Be humble… forget about recognition or accolades. Never take advantage of others… never befriend someone for what you feel you can gain from the relationship. And when others do this to you, love them anyway. This is a tall order… but it’s incredibly important. How well are you doing these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 22, 2012
Luke 6:26-30
"There's trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others, saying what flatters them, doing what indulges them. Popularity contests are not truth contests—look how many scoundrel preachers were approved by your ancestors! Your task is to be true, not popular.
"To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.
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 glass-topped coffee table on our back porch holds a potted begonia, some wrought-iron candleholders, and a decorative bird house. This house is presently the home of a rather ugly-looking, spotted Great Plains Toad, who I have named Frodo. Most of the day, Frodo sits in the birdhouse, draping his head out of the hole. At night, he often attaches himself to one of our windows and feasts on bugs drawn to the lamplight there.
I’ve kinda grown attached to Frodo. He’s cute, in an ugly sort of way. But I did my homework… he is also poisonous! Behind his eyes are glands that secrete a protective (to him) milky solution that could be toxic to dogs or cats who might find him fun to pursue. This substance can even cause some serious harm to a human, if one were to handle the frog and not wash your hands thoroughly afterward. My research indicates that Frodo may have come to this abode because his regular haunt – warm, damp ground in which to burrow – is not available right now. Ditto for his traditional fare of grubs, which he digs from the moist earth! So I will be kind to Frodo and allow him to stay in the birdhouse. I will “live generously” where he is concerned. But I will also see him for the potential scoundrel that he is… I’m aware of his truth!
There is a lesson here for all of us in our daily living. There are “scoundrels” among us… people who are a bit of a chameleon at best… changing with the wind or whatever best suits their desires at the moment. And while I don’t like to think I have any actual “enemies,” I know that there are people who only want what they feel I can give them… those who are nice enough to me when necessary but don’t actually give a hoot about my feelings or wellbeing. I recognize these people (most of the time)… and I hope I treat them generously in spite of their behavior - because God calls me to do so. I urge you to do the same.
I also ask that we would never be the scoundrel… that we would not treat others in a dishonest or disrespectful way or use them to get ahead or for our own benefit. I pray that we would operate in honesty and truth… love and genuine big-heartedness. God is calling us to be the real deal… to be sincere and authentic with others… but also to be charitable – even when we are being treated anything but kindly. It’s a tall order… but as we have discussed many times, we Christians were never promised “easy!”
I’m going to continue to allow Frodo to inhabit our birdhouse… but I won’t be doing anything to antagonize him! As for the “scoundrels” I encounter in life, I pray that I will have the wisdom to recognize them, the strength and courage to handle whatever they deliver, and the ability to treat them generously. In doing this, I hope that God will allow my best to shine through for Him. What about you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
"There's trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others, saying what flatters them, doing what indulges them. Popularity contests are not truth contests—look how many scoundrel preachers were approved by your ancestors! Your task is to be true, not popular.
"To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.
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 glass-topped coffee table on our back porch holds a potted begonia, some wrought-iron candleholders, and a decorative bird house. This house is presently the home of a rather ugly-looking, spotted Great Plains Toad, who I have named Frodo. Most of the day, Frodo sits in the birdhouse, draping his head out of the hole. At night, he often attaches himself to one of our windows and feasts on bugs drawn to the lamplight there.
I’ve kinda grown attached to Frodo. He’s cute, in an ugly sort of way. But I did my homework… he is also poisonous! Behind his eyes are glands that secrete a protective (to him) milky solution that could be toxic to dogs or cats who might find him fun to pursue. This substance can even cause some serious harm to a human, if one were to handle the frog and not wash your hands thoroughly afterward. My research indicates that Frodo may have come to this abode because his regular haunt – warm, damp ground in which to burrow – is not available right now. Ditto for his traditional fare of grubs, which he digs from the moist earth! So I will be kind to Frodo and allow him to stay in the birdhouse. I will “live generously” where he is concerned. But I will also see him for the potential scoundrel that he is… I’m aware of his truth!
There is a lesson here for all of us in our daily living. There are “scoundrels” among us… people who are a bit of a chameleon at best… changing with the wind or whatever best suits their desires at the moment. And while I don’t like to think I have any actual “enemies,” I know that there are people who only want what they feel I can give them… those who are nice enough to me when necessary but don’t actually give a hoot about my feelings or wellbeing. I recognize these people (most of the time)… and I hope I treat them generously in spite of their behavior - because God calls me to do so. I urge you to do the same.
I also ask that we would never be the scoundrel… that we would not treat others in a dishonest or disrespectful way or use them to get ahead or for our own benefit. I pray that we would operate in honesty and truth… love and genuine big-heartedness. God is calling us to be the real deal… to be sincere and authentic with others… but also to be charitable – even when we are being treated anything but kindly. It’s a tall order… but as we have discussed many times, we Christians were never promised “easy!”
I’m going to continue to allow Frodo to inhabit our birdhouse… but I won’t be doing anything to antagonize him! As for the “scoundrels” I encounter in life, I pray that I will have the wisdom to recognize them, the strength and courage to handle whatever they deliver, and the ability to treat them generously. In doing this, I hope that God will allow my best to shine through for Him. What about you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 21, 2012
Luke 11:4
Forgive our sins, as we forgive everyone who has done wrong to us. And keep us from being tempted.’”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Virtually everyone is thinking about the tragic shooting that occurred at Aurora, Colorado, yesterday. And how could you not? People are covering this story on every news media outlet – it’s all over social media. And the question of the day seems to be, “Why?” Why would someone do this? What drove them to such madness? How could someone who high school classmates described as an ordinary, albeit geeky nerd do such heinous things? What makes a seemingly brilliant student lose focus and become so dark and evil?
Before you jump straight to placing the blame on Satan, consider that it’s not quite that simple. I heard one analyst this morning describe this behavior as possibly being the result of “injustice collecting.” In other words, some people do not seem to react to “injustice” in their life… from what seems like the smallest insult to a much larger affront. Instead, these offenses build up… they are collected over time. Sometimes the person becomes sullen, withdrawn, and someone we might call an “angry old cuss.” But sometimes… this “collection” is so distressing that the person becomes totally unbalanced because of it… and he/she may react in a serious – if not violent – manner.
Either way, you can see that failure to forgive those who have wronged you can lead to some serious consequences. And yes, the devil will dance over this! We are all guilty of “injustice collecting” to some degree. There has been a point in all of our lives where we have said, “I’ve HAD it!” We’ve “blown our tops” and behaved disruptively… if only on a relatively small scale. But any time we do this, we have succumbed to the temptation to harbor our grudges or ill feelings – and allow them to fester.
This is a good time for all of us to stop and ask God to give us strength… to help us to operate in forgiveness… to let go of even the smallest offenses and grudges. Ask God to help you forgive quickly and move forward. Call on Him to remove any sense of irritation or unsettled feelings – and to help you operate in love and peace in every situation. Whenever you feel tempted to add an offense or injustice to your “collection,” stop and ask God to remove this desire. Never give the devil an inch – or a moment’s pleasure!
I will be the first in line to tell you that forgiveness is often hard. But there is no way we can ask God to pardon us if we are unwilling to do the same for others. I am so thankful that God doesn’t harbor my offenses toward Him. If I want His forgiveness – if I want to be more like Him - I can’t do this, either. What about you? Do you have an “injustice collection?” Isn’t this the perfect day to get rid of it?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Forgive our sins, as we forgive everyone who has done wrong to us. And keep us from being tempted.’”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Virtually everyone is thinking about the tragic shooting that occurred at Aurora, Colorado, yesterday. And how could you not? People are covering this story on every news media outlet – it’s all over social media. And the question of the day seems to be, “Why?” Why would someone do this? What drove them to such madness? How could someone who high school classmates described as an ordinary, albeit geeky nerd do such heinous things? What makes a seemingly brilliant student lose focus and become so dark and evil?
Before you jump straight to placing the blame on Satan, consider that it’s not quite that simple. I heard one analyst this morning describe this behavior as possibly being the result of “injustice collecting.” In other words, some people do not seem to react to “injustice” in their life… from what seems like the smallest insult to a much larger affront. Instead, these offenses build up… they are collected over time. Sometimes the person becomes sullen, withdrawn, and someone we might call an “angry old cuss.” But sometimes… this “collection” is so distressing that the person becomes totally unbalanced because of it… and he/she may react in a serious – if not violent – manner.
Either way, you can see that failure to forgive those who have wronged you can lead to some serious consequences. And yes, the devil will dance over this! We are all guilty of “injustice collecting” to some degree. There has been a point in all of our lives where we have said, “I’ve HAD it!” We’ve “blown our tops” and behaved disruptively… if only on a relatively small scale. But any time we do this, we have succumbed to the temptation to harbor our grudges or ill feelings – and allow them to fester.
This is a good time for all of us to stop and ask God to give us strength… to help us to operate in forgiveness… to let go of even the smallest offenses and grudges. Ask God to help you forgive quickly and move forward. Call on Him to remove any sense of irritation or unsettled feelings – and to help you operate in love and peace in every situation. Whenever you feel tempted to add an offense or injustice to your “collection,” stop and ask God to remove this desire. Never give the devil an inch – or a moment’s pleasure!
I will be the first in line to tell you that forgiveness is often hard. But there is no way we can ask God to pardon us if we are unwilling to do the same for others. I am so thankful that God doesn’t harbor my offenses toward Him. If I want His forgiveness – if I want to be more like Him - I can’t do this, either. What about you? Do you have an “injustice collection?” Isn’t this the perfect day to get rid of it?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 20, 2012
Luke 17:3-4
"Be alert. If you see your friend going wrong, correct him. If he responds, forgive him. Even if it's personal against you and repeated seven times through the day, and seven times he says, 'I'm sorry, I won't do it again,' forgive him."
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.
Once again, our country is deep in the throes of a horrific tragedy, as we learn more details about the senseless shooting that took place in a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, early this morning. We are heartsick for the victims and their families. We shake our heads and ask, “What sort of derelict could do this?” And therein lies part of the answer… this had to be the work of someone who was not of sound mind.
Certainly this person deserves to be punished for his crimes. Surely he must be kept away from society, so that no one else is harmed. But we must also remind ourselves that he has a mom and a dad… maybe siblings, other family members, and friends. He could be your brother… or my son… or a beloved cousin, significant other, or roommate. He is most assuredly a precious child of God. And as such, we must find it in our hearts to forgive him.
We do not diminish what this young man has done… we do not excuse his behavior in any way… we merely release any feelings of hate or unkindness we have toward him and allow God to heal our hearts. As the Aurora, Colorado, police chief said in a press conference, we will all get through this.
I pray that none of us ever has to personally experience anything as dreadful as the events of today. But all of us will be offended, insulted, mistreated or hurt in some way – most likely many times in our lives. How will we handle this? Will we become angry and sullen, hold a grudge and let the bitterness eat us alive? Will we give Satan this satisfaction? Or will we operate in the love of Christ and forgive not only those who ask us to do so… but also those who don’t?
We weren’t there when Jesus died on the cross, but He did it anyway… and asked God to forgive us. We may have asked His forgiveness since that time… and we should… but Jesus offered us love and compassion long beforehand. And we should do the same for others.
Everywhere we turn, people are saying, “Pray for the people of Colorado.” I would offer that we should also pray for the shooter… his family and friends… and anyone who has wronged us in any way – whether he/she has asked for our forgiveness or not. If we want Jesus to forgive us and love us unconditionally, we must be prepared to do no less than this for others. Who do you need to forgive today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
"Be alert. If you see your friend going wrong, correct him. If he responds, forgive him. Even if it's personal against you and repeated seven times through the day, and seven times he says, 'I'm sorry, I won't do it again,' forgive him."
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.
Once again, our country is deep in the throes of a horrific tragedy, as we learn more details about the senseless shooting that took place in a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, early this morning. We are heartsick for the victims and their families. We shake our heads and ask, “What sort of derelict could do this?” And therein lies part of the answer… this had to be the work of someone who was not of sound mind.
Certainly this person deserves to be punished for his crimes. Surely he must be kept away from society, so that no one else is harmed. But we must also remind ourselves that he has a mom and a dad… maybe siblings, other family members, and friends. He could be your brother… or my son… or a beloved cousin, significant other, or roommate. He is most assuredly a precious child of God. And as such, we must find it in our hearts to forgive him.
We do not diminish what this young man has done… we do not excuse his behavior in any way… we merely release any feelings of hate or unkindness we have toward him and allow God to heal our hearts. As the Aurora, Colorado, police chief said in a press conference, we will all get through this.
I pray that none of us ever has to personally experience anything as dreadful as the events of today. But all of us will be offended, insulted, mistreated or hurt in some way – most likely many times in our lives. How will we handle this? Will we become angry and sullen, hold a grudge and let the bitterness eat us alive? Will we give Satan this satisfaction? Or will we operate in the love of Christ and forgive not only those who ask us to do so… but also those who don’t?
We weren’t there when Jesus died on the cross, but He did it anyway… and asked God to forgive us. We may have asked His forgiveness since that time… and we should… but Jesus offered us love and compassion long beforehand. And we should do the same for others.
Everywhere we turn, people are saying, “Pray for the people of Colorado.” I would offer that we should also pray for the shooter… his family and friends… and anyone who has wronged us in any way – whether he/she has asked for our forgiveness or not. If we want Jesus to forgive us and love us unconditionally, we must be prepared to do no less than this for others. Who do you need to forgive today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 19, 2012
Luke 23:34
Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a cartoon on Facebook today where a woman was talking with Jesus. She told him that she had met some fellow believers who were on the opposite end of the political spectrum from her own views. She said, “I just don’t see how they can reconcile their faith with their position on…” Jesus interrupted her, “I’ll handle the reconciling… your job is just to love them – or maybe not to hate them.”
We have a hard time with this, don’t we? Oh, if only everyone saw things exactly as we do, the world would be such a wonderful place! But we know better… or we should! Jesus has given us the ultimate example of this when He asked God to forgive those who were beating Him, spitting on Him, stripping Him naked and gambling for His clothing… and nailing Him to a cross. Jesus said, “Father, YOU handle the reconciling… I’ll do the loving.”
It would have been so easy for Jesus to hate these people. It would have been no sweat at all for Him to say, “You know what? These people are not worth My time. I’m outta here!” He could have returned to heaven, or even continued to live on earth unbothered if He chose. He could have turned the tables and wiped out every human being who was “on the opposite end of the spectrum.” But this is not at all what Jesus did.
If we want to have even the most remote chance of being like Jesus, we have to get over ourselves. We have to start operating in love instead of hate. We have to offer acceptance to those who don’t think as we do… and forgiveness to the ones who are unkind or mistreat us in some way. We don’t have to be doormats and put ourselves in positions to be continually disrespected. But we are called to love the unlovely – to give them far better than they deserve… because that’s what Jesus does – for each of us!
The next time someone treats you rudely or disrespectfully, ask God to forgive them… and then make an effort to do the same. When you encounter someone whose position – on anything from politics to religion to the weather – is different than your own, be kind and do not act as if you are superior. Allow that this person is a child of God, too – just like you! Remember that when you point your finger at someone, four are pointing in your own direction. And never forget that Jesus didn’t die on the cross for you alone… He died for all of us.
Was it worth the price Christ paid for you? Are you truly living for Him and trying to follow His example? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a cartoon on Facebook today where a woman was talking with Jesus. She told him that she had met some fellow believers who were on the opposite end of the political spectrum from her own views. She said, “I just don’t see how they can reconcile their faith with their position on…” Jesus interrupted her, “I’ll handle the reconciling… your job is just to love them – or maybe not to hate them.”
We have a hard time with this, don’t we? Oh, if only everyone saw things exactly as we do, the world would be such a wonderful place! But we know better… or we should! Jesus has given us the ultimate example of this when He asked God to forgive those who were beating Him, spitting on Him, stripping Him naked and gambling for His clothing… and nailing Him to a cross. Jesus said, “Father, YOU handle the reconciling… I’ll do the loving.”
It would have been so easy for Jesus to hate these people. It would have been no sweat at all for Him to say, “You know what? These people are not worth My time. I’m outta here!” He could have returned to heaven, or even continued to live on earth unbothered if He chose. He could have turned the tables and wiped out every human being who was “on the opposite end of the spectrum.” But this is not at all what Jesus did.
If we want to have even the most remote chance of being like Jesus, we have to get over ourselves. We have to start operating in love instead of hate. We have to offer acceptance to those who don’t think as we do… and forgiveness to the ones who are unkind or mistreat us in some way. We don’t have to be doormats and put ourselves in positions to be continually disrespected. But we are called to love the unlovely – to give them far better than they deserve… because that’s what Jesus does – for each of us!
The next time someone treats you rudely or disrespectfully, ask God to forgive them… and then make an effort to do the same. When you encounter someone whose position – on anything from politics to religion to the weather – is different than your own, be kind and do not act as if you are superior. Allow that this person is a child of God, too – just like you! Remember that when you point your finger at someone, four are pointing in your own direction. And never forget that Jesus didn’t die on the cross for you alone… He died for all of us.
Was it worth the price Christ paid for you? Are you truly living for Him and trying to follow His example? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 18, 2012
Romans 5:6-8
Christ arrives right on time to make this happen. He didn't, and doesn't, wait for us to get ready. He presented himself for this sacrificial death when we were far too weak and rebellious to do anything to get ourselves ready. And even if we hadn't been so weak, we wouldn't have known what to do anyway. We can understand someone dying for a person worth dying for, and we can understand how someone good and noble could inspire us to selfless sacrifice. But God put his love on the line for us by offering his Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatever to him.
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.
Today, a college student from our community named Olivia received a healthy kidney from another local woman named Kathy - who felt God calling her to be the donor. Olivia suffered for three years with a kidney disease. Now, her “new” kidney is in place – and working beautifully, according to Olivia’s mom. I really don’t know Olivia or Kathy... but I’ve been reading their Facebook posts and have gleaned enough to know that Kathy has made a selfless sacrifice for Olivia.
Eleven days ago, Kathy posted on Facebook that “I will definitely be praying as I have been from the beginning!!!! God is so great to allow me to be a part of this...I still can't believe what a blessing this is to me! Can't wait to see Olivia feeling great!!!! I love you, Olivia! Meet you there!” Now THIS is obedience! This is sacrifice – one I’m not sure I could ever make. But I’m certain that Olivia and her family will forever be grateful that Kathy came forward to help.
We can’t all donate a kidney – nor are we expected to do this. But every day, God calls on us to be selfless – to think more of others than we do of our own desires and well-being. This may mean doing something as simple as taking a few minutes to move away from our computer or smart phone and write a note of encouragement to someone. We may be asked to forego our morning cup of coffee and apply that money toward a local charity or mission fundraiser. We might be led to volunteer in the church or community… to serve those who have far greater needs than our own. Or God could instruct us to stop what we are doing and pray for others. Then again, He might show you someone who needs a place to live… money for food and transportation… or one of your kidneys.
Whatever God is calling us to do, it pales in comparison to what Jesus has already done for each of us. He didn’t wait until it was convenient – or until we were deserving of such redemption. Jesus didn’t say, “Just one more game of Solitaire,” or “Let me finish this text or e-mail message.” He didn’t say, “I’m still a young man. Let me live a little first!” And God didn’t say, “I can’t sacrifice My Only Son… I’ll send Peter or James or John.”
I imagine that the waiting today was agony for Olivia’s parents… even though they were trusting God for a good outcome. But picture the anguish of sending your only child to die for the sins of undeserving – and often ungrateful – people who seem to do nothing but rebel and misbehave. We can never out-give God. Our “sacrifices” can never compare to those of Jesus on our behalf. And yet, we whine and complain when God asks us to do even the least little thing for Him.
This is a good day to stop and spend some time with God. Ask Him to show you His will for your life… where and when to “sacrifice” on His behalf. Humbly and obediently pursue His plans. Don’t ask “Why me?” or “Do I really have to?” Instead, ask, “What’s next?” God will probably never call on you to donate a kidney. But if He did… what would you say?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Christ arrives right on time to make this happen. He didn't, and doesn't, wait for us to get ready. He presented himself for this sacrificial death when we were far too weak and rebellious to do anything to get ourselves ready. And even if we hadn't been so weak, we wouldn't have known what to do anyway. We can understand someone dying for a person worth dying for, and we can understand how someone good and noble could inspire us to selfless sacrifice. But God put his love on the line for us by offering his Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatever to him.
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.
Today, a college student from our community named Olivia received a healthy kidney from another local woman named Kathy - who felt God calling her to be the donor. Olivia suffered for three years with a kidney disease. Now, her “new” kidney is in place – and working beautifully, according to Olivia’s mom. I really don’t know Olivia or Kathy... but I’ve been reading their Facebook posts and have gleaned enough to know that Kathy has made a selfless sacrifice for Olivia.
Eleven days ago, Kathy posted on Facebook that “I will definitely be praying as I have been from the beginning!!!! God is so great to allow me to be a part of this...I still can't believe what a blessing this is to me! Can't wait to see Olivia feeling great!!!! I love you, Olivia! Meet you there!” Now THIS is obedience! This is sacrifice – one I’m not sure I could ever make. But I’m certain that Olivia and her family will forever be grateful that Kathy came forward to help.
We can’t all donate a kidney – nor are we expected to do this. But every day, God calls on us to be selfless – to think more of others than we do of our own desires and well-being. This may mean doing something as simple as taking a few minutes to move away from our computer or smart phone and write a note of encouragement to someone. We may be asked to forego our morning cup of coffee and apply that money toward a local charity or mission fundraiser. We might be led to volunteer in the church or community… to serve those who have far greater needs than our own. Or God could instruct us to stop what we are doing and pray for others. Then again, He might show you someone who needs a place to live… money for food and transportation… or one of your kidneys.
Whatever God is calling us to do, it pales in comparison to what Jesus has already done for each of us. He didn’t wait until it was convenient – or until we were deserving of such redemption. Jesus didn’t say, “Just one more game of Solitaire,” or “Let me finish this text or e-mail message.” He didn’t say, “I’m still a young man. Let me live a little first!” And God didn’t say, “I can’t sacrifice My Only Son… I’ll send Peter or James or John.”
I imagine that the waiting today was agony for Olivia’s parents… even though they were trusting God for a good outcome. But picture the anguish of sending your only child to die for the sins of undeserving – and often ungrateful – people who seem to do nothing but rebel and misbehave. We can never out-give God. Our “sacrifices” can never compare to those of Jesus on our behalf. And yet, we whine and complain when God asks us to do even the least little thing for Him.
This is a good day to stop and spend some time with God. Ask Him to show you His will for your life… where and when to “sacrifice” on His behalf. Humbly and obediently pursue His plans. Don’t ask “Why me?” or “Do I really have to?” Instead, ask, “What’s next?” God will probably never call on you to donate a kidney. But if He did… what would you say?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 17, 2012
Romans 12:9-10
Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
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.
Everywhere you turn, someone is promoting a particular fitness routine… Insanity Workout®, P90X®, Boot Camp, Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred, and countless others are taking the country by storm as people seek a way to get fit – and fast! What all of these workouts have in common is a lot of focus on your body’s “core” – or “center.” In order to develop true strength and fitness, you build up your mid-section, abdominal and lower back muscles. These represent your “core” or “center.”
Once your core is strong, you have more stamina and are less prone to injury. Your workouts are more effective. You are able to lift more, exert your body for longer periods of time, and your overall health improves. But you MUST strengthen your body’s core!
Here’s the message for today… in order to be Spiritually fit and strong, you must build up your heart, which is the core of your life in Christ. I’m not talking about your physical heart… I’m referring to the center of your soul… the place where the Holy Spirit resides. In order to be a loving, faith-filled, Spiritually healthy Christian, you must maintain a strong Spiritual “core.”
What constitutes a strong Spiritual “core?” Read these verses in Romans 12 again. Love from the center of who you are - and never fake it! Be the real deal. Truly love others with the love of Christ… remembering that you are often just as unlovely as the next guy – yet Jesus always has open arms to embrace you. Look for the good in all situations… and turn away from anything that is evil. This includes gossip, backbiting, revenge and spite, hatred, bigotry, dishonesty, and deliberate mistreatment of others, to name a few. Focus on putting others first. Compliment others… build them up in good times, and support them when life brings them difficulties. Quit asking “What’s in it for me?” Instead, ask God, “Who can I bless in Your name today?”
When you start to share the love of Jesus as outlined in these verses and other passages of Scripture… when you truly operate from a strong, sound Spiritual core…amazing things can happen. Blessings flow - in all directions and in ways you can’t begin to imagine. We are all so bad to put off our workouts – to say, “I’ll start tomorrow, next week, or next year.” Don’t do this with your Spiritual core. Start exercising today. Look for ways to build up your heart… opportunities to love others as Jesus loves you. Strengthen your Spiritual core, so that you have the stamina and power to handle everything life gives you. And get ready to be blessed beyond measure in the bargain!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
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.
Everywhere you turn, someone is promoting a particular fitness routine… Insanity Workout®, P90X®, Boot Camp, Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred, and countless others are taking the country by storm as people seek a way to get fit – and fast! What all of these workouts have in common is a lot of focus on your body’s “core” – or “center.” In order to develop true strength and fitness, you build up your mid-section, abdominal and lower back muscles. These represent your “core” or “center.”
Once your core is strong, you have more stamina and are less prone to injury. Your workouts are more effective. You are able to lift more, exert your body for longer periods of time, and your overall health improves. But you MUST strengthen your body’s core!
Here’s the message for today… in order to be Spiritually fit and strong, you must build up your heart, which is the core of your life in Christ. I’m not talking about your physical heart… I’m referring to the center of your soul… the place where the Holy Spirit resides. In order to be a loving, faith-filled, Spiritually healthy Christian, you must maintain a strong Spiritual “core.”
What constitutes a strong Spiritual “core?” Read these verses in Romans 12 again. Love from the center of who you are - and never fake it! Be the real deal. Truly love others with the love of Christ… remembering that you are often just as unlovely as the next guy – yet Jesus always has open arms to embrace you. Look for the good in all situations… and turn away from anything that is evil. This includes gossip, backbiting, revenge and spite, hatred, bigotry, dishonesty, and deliberate mistreatment of others, to name a few. Focus on putting others first. Compliment others… build them up in good times, and support them when life brings them difficulties. Quit asking “What’s in it for me?” Instead, ask God, “Who can I bless in Your name today?”
When you start to share the love of Jesus as outlined in these verses and other passages of Scripture… when you truly operate from a strong, sound Spiritual core…amazing things can happen. Blessings flow - in all directions and in ways you can’t begin to imagine. We are all so bad to put off our workouts – to say, “I’ll start tomorrow, next week, or next year.” Don’t do this with your Spiritual core. Start exercising today. Look for ways to build up your heart… opportunities to love others as Jesus loves you. Strengthen your Spiritual core, so that you have the stamina and power to handle everything life gives you. And get ready to be blessed beyond measure in the bargain!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Romans 12:16
Be friendly with everyone. Don’t be proud and feel that you are smarter than others. Make friends with ordinary people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have probably told this story before, but when I was in fifth grade, my family moved to Gore, Oklahoma, for about six months so that my dad could work as a welder on a lock and dam being constructed on the Arkansas River. For the first time in my childhood, we had discretionary income. We drove about 30 miles to Muskogee to shop and eat out. We got toys and new clothes for our Barbies – and it wasn’t even our birthday or Christmas!
Gore had a tiny elementary school – one class for each grade level. Most of the students were either children of construction workers – or very poor Native Americans. But the “construction children” were the ones others seemed to look down upon in this community. We were considered “nomads” who wandered in for a few months, then moved on to another location – some referred to us as “trailer trash.” And I can assure you, the way some folks acted toward us was anything but fun or pleasant!
I think this was the first time I realized how it felt to be “ordinary” – or something less. I recognized that people didn’t see us for who we were… we were judged on a far more exacting criteria. The one place where we were treated somewhat respectfully was at the local Baptist church… because my mom, sister and I could play the piano and organ. We were considered beneficial.
Even though this job offered my dad the opportunity to provide for his family, my mom didn’t have to work outside the home, and we had “spending money”…we were miserable. We wanted to come home, where people loved us and cared about us - and treated us like we mattered.
Think about this in the context of your life today. Do you feel like you are smarter – or better – than anyone else? Are there people in your class… at work… or in your church or community who you avoid or have an unfriendly feeling toward, for some reason? Have you examined why you feel this way? Does it really matter?
Our community holds an annual class reunion of sorts each October. The class who graduated 50 years ago serves as the hosts, and a program provides brief biographies on each class member. I have yet to come away from one where I was not amazed at the accomplishments of at least one classmate… usually the one nobody ever thought would amount to anything! Chemists and scientists, college professors, doctors, lawyers, architects, artists, world travelers, and much more are represented among these students once considered “ordinary,” or even poor – and unintelligent. How many times have you heard someone express astonishment at the success of someone who was always considered to be a lousy student?
The time has come for us to recognize that this is NOT how Jesus treats us. He does not look at any of us and say, “This one is poor and doesn’t matter… he/she isn’t the brightest bulb in the box… that one has crooked teeth or a big nose. I did not die on the cross for ‘ordinary’ people!” Each of us is precious to Jesus… so precious that He gave His very life for us. He would never treat even one of us as less than another. If we want to be like Jesus, we have to do the same.
Do you have some re-evaluating to do today? Isn’t it time we all made a little attitude check and figured out where ours needs an “alignment” of sorts? How many “ordinary people” can you count among your friends?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Be friendly with everyone. Don’t be proud and feel that you are smarter than others. Make friends with ordinary people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have probably told this story before, but when I was in fifth grade, my family moved to Gore, Oklahoma, for about six months so that my dad could work as a welder on a lock and dam being constructed on the Arkansas River. For the first time in my childhood, we had discretionary income. We drove about 30 miles to Muskogee to shop and eat out. We got toys and new clothes for our Barbies – and it wasn’t even our birthday or Christmas!
Gore had a tiny elementary school – one class for each grade level. Most of the students were either children of construction workers – or very poor Native Americans. But the “construction children” were the ones others seemed to look down upon in this community. We were considered “nomads” who wandered in for a few months, then moved on to another location – some referred to us as “trailer trash.” And I can assure you, the way some folks acted toward us was anything but fun or pleasant!
I think this was the first time I realized how it felt to be “ordinary” – or something less. I recognized that people didn’t see us for who we were… we were judged on a far more exacting criteria. The one place where we were treated somewhat respectfully was at the local Baptist church… because my mom, sister and I could play the piano and organ. We were considered beneficial.
Even though this job offered my dad the opportunity to provide for his family, my mom didn’t have to work outside the home, and we had “spending money”…we were miserable. We wanted to come home, where people loved us and cared about us - and treated us like we mattered.
Think about this in the context of your life today. Do you feel like you are smarter – or better – than anyone else? Are there people in your class… at work… or in your church or community who you avoid or have an unfriendly feeling toward, for some reason? Have you examined why you feel this way? Does it really matter?
Our community holds an annual class reunion of sorts each October. The class who graduated 50 years ago serves as the hosts, and a program provides brief biographies on each class member. I have yet to come away from one where I was not amazed at the accomplishments of at least one classmate… usually the one nobody ever thought would amount to anything! Chemists and scientists, college professors, doctors, lawyers, architects, artists, world travelers, and much more are represented among these students once considered “ordinary,” or even poor – and unintelligent. How many times have you heard someone express astonishment at the success of someone who was always considered to be a lousy student?
The time has come for us to recognize that this is NOT how Jesus treats us. He does not look at any of us and say, “This one is poor and doesn’t matter… he/she isn’t the brightest bulb in the box… that one has crooked teeth or a big nose. I did not die on the cross for ‘ordinary’ people!” Each of us is precious to Jesus… so precious that He gave His very life for us. He would never treat even one of us as less than another. If we want to be like Jesus, we have to do the same.
Do you have some re-evaluating to do today? Isn’t it time we all made a little attitude check and figured out where ours needs an “alignment” of sorts? How many “ordinary people” can you count among your friends?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 15, 2012
Romans 12:20-21
Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
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 is an old adage shared in caregiving circles that suggests (I’m paraphrasing) that those receiving care often “bite the hand that feeds them.” In other words, if you are a caregiver, you probably get a lot of complaints and ingratitude – if not downright personal attacks – from the person for whom you are caring.
Even if you are not a caregiver, you may experience this in your daily living – from a fellow classmate, a co-worker, a family member, neighbor, or fellow church member. It may seem like the more you do for this person, the worse they treat you. And it is human nature for us to want to retaliate… to “give this person a dose of his/her own medicine”… to lash out – or even to turn our back on them and walk away.
I think one of the hardest actions for a Christian to master is treating others kindly – even generously – when they have offered us anything but kindness. Loving the unlovely is incredibly challenging sometimes. Doing this with the right attitude is even more difficult.
See, caregivers have to keep caregiving. You may have to continue to go to class with that irritating classmate – or work with the person who is unkind. You can’t always move away from unpleasant neighbors or distance yourself from a church member who rubs you the wrong way. And you most certainly cannot divorce your family – although many have wanted to do exactly that! So often, we treat these people kindly and with civility – but in our hearts, we are not feeling very charitable. We may even plot “mental revenge!”
God wants us to operate in a spirit of charity and kindness – no matter who or what comes our way. He wants our heart to be as generous and loving as our actions. This is a HUGE challenge… one I do not mean to diminish in the least… and I can assure you that I struggle with it daily! But we must ask God to continue to work in us – to fill us with so much joy and completeness in Him that nothing flaps us.
Ask God to help you work on your heart. Call on Him to give you a spirit of goodness and generosity toward others – from your head to your heart to your toes! The better you become at doing this, the lighter your heart will feel… the more joy and peace you will experience. Another adage says, “Living well is the best revenge.” Revel in demonstrating kindness and love… let God handle the paybacks… and truly live well in the LORD.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
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 is an old adage shared in caregiving circles that suggests (I’m paraphrasing) that those receiving care often “bite the hand that feeds them.” In other words, if you are a caregiver, you probably get a lot of complaints and ingratitude – if not downright personal attacks – from the person for whom you are caring.
Even if you are not a caregiver, you may experience this in your daily living – from a fellow classmate, a co-worker, a family member, neighbor, or fellow church member. It may seem like the more you do for this person, the worse they treat you. And it is human nature for us to want to retaliate… to “give this person a dose of his/her own medicine”… to lash out – or even to turn our back on them and walk away.
I think one of the hardest actions for a Christian to master is treating others kindly – even generously – when they have offered us anything but kindness. Loving the unlovely is incredibly challenging sometimes. Doing this with the right attitude is even more difficult.
See, caregivers have to keep caregiving. You may have to continue to go to class with that irritating classmate – or work with the person who is unkind. You can’t always move away from unpleasant neighbors or distance yourself from a church member who rubs you the wrong way. And you most certainly cannot divorce your family – although many have wanted to do exactly that! So often, we treat these people kindly and with civility – but in our hearts, we are not feeling very charitable. We may even plot “mental revenge!”
God wants us to operate in a spirit of charity and kindness – no matter who or what comes our way. He wants our heart to be as generous and loving as our actions. This is a HUGE challenge… one I do not mean to diminish in the least… and I can assure you that I struggle with it daily! But we must ask God to continue to work in us – to fill us with so much joy and completeness in Him that nothing flaps us.
Ask God to help you work on your heart. Call on Him to give you a spirit of goodness and generosity toward others – from your head to your heart to your toes! The better you become at doing this, the lighter your heart will feel… the more joy and peace you will experience. Another adage says, “Living well is the best revenge.” Revel in demonstrating kindness and love… let God handle the paybacks… and truly live well in the LORD.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 14, 2008
Romans 14:1
Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don't see things the way you do. And don't jump all over them every time they do or say something you don't agree with—even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.
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 have to admit… this is sometimes a hard one for me. It’s not that I think I have all the answers. I certainly do not think I know more about scripture and Christian faith than anyone else! But I really have a hard time being gentle with people who feel that natural disasters or world events are “God’s punishment” for our disobedience. I don’t feel all that welcoming toward those who insist that our country is doomed if we don’t “put prayer back into schools.” (When did it leave? You can pray silently anywhere - anytime!) These are my opinions – and not the heart of today’s message.
The point I wish to make from this scripture passage is that we all come to Jesus with our own “suitcase-full” of baggage and history. We have the opinions that have been ingrained in us since childhood by our parents, friends and peers. We recall our own personal experiences. We lay this all at the feet of Jesus… but it may take some of us a while to leave it there.
So those who have been convinced that things are one way or another may need time to come around to a new manner of thinking. Most likely, you have ideas and opinions that have been modified with time, experience, and influence from outside sources. If you have not changed your mind about something, you probably are not being very honest! But I can almost guarantee that if fellow Christians start to tell you repeatedly that you are wrong… that your thinking is off-base or un-Biblical, you will dig in your heels and hold onto these opinions!
I will never forget an experience I had almost 15 years ago. The teenage son of our dear friends was killed in a car wreck. I was talking on the phone with my cousin’s wife – one of the most faith-filled Christian women I ever knew – and I said, “This was God’s will.” Very kindly, but firmly, she said, “This was NOT God’s will! God did not make this happen! He may have allowed it… and He will use this for His purposes… but I will never believe that this was the will of God.”
When tragedy struck, I had always heard Christian family members and friends say, “It’s God’s will.” And I readily believed this! So when my cousin’s wife spoke to me with such conviction – yet so kindly – I began to investigate this for myself… to see what the Bible says about God’s will and human suffering. And a few months later, this dear woman was called to heaven after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. Her words replayed in my head as I thought about her outcome. I have seen the evidence of how God used her illness and death for His purposes – and rewarded her with a beautiful, healthy body in heaven. I know that God desires only the best for us… but sometimes He allows trials and tragedies. If nothing else, God uses these circumstances to say, “Lean on Me and let Me help you through this. Let Me show you how I can give you the courage, comfort and peace to overcome anything this world throws your way.”
My point is that we cannot cram our opinions – or the word of God – down anyone’s throat and expect them to come around to our way of thinking! We cannot criticize or chastise another person for his/her beliefs… even if they seem wacky and downright absurd! Remember, we came to Jesus with some pretty ridiculous ideas of our own… yet, He welcomed us with open arms. Should we do any less for others?
Ask God to show you how and where to approach those who are strong on opinions but weak in faith. You know the ones… the guy who says he is a believer and trusts God, yet falls apart when the tiniest “crisis” arises. You can name the person who has decided that God is on his/her side… and the rest of us are all wrong and headed for hell in a hand basket! You have met the people who accepted Christ, then went right back to their old ways of living. How will you treat them? How does Jesus treat you? Shouldn’t you offer fellow believers the same?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don't see things the way you do. And don't jump all over them every time they do or say something you don't agree with—even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.
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 have to admit… this is sometimes a hard one for me. It’s not that I think I have all the answers. I certainly do not think I know more about scripture and Christian faith than anyone else! But I really have a hard time being gentle with people who feel that natural disasters or world events are “God’s punishment” for our disobedience. I don’t feel all that welcoming toward those who insist that our country is doomed if we don’t “put prayer back into schools.” (When did it leave? You can pray silently anywhere - anytime!) These are my opinions – and not the heart of today’s message.
The point I wish to make from this scripture passage is that we all come to Jesus with our own “suitcase-full” of baggage and history. We have the opinions that have been ingrained in us since childhood by our parents, friends and peers. We recall our own personal experiences. We lay this all at the feet of Jesus… but it may take some of us a while to leave it there.
So those who have been convinced that things are one way or another may need time to come around to a new manner of thinking. Most likely, you have ideas and opinions that have been modified with time, experience, and influence from outside sources. If you have not changed your mind about something, you probably are not being very honest! But I can almost guarantee that if fellow Christians start to tell you repeatedly that you are wrong… that your thinking is off-base or un-Biblical, you will dig in your heels and hold onto these opinions!
I will never forget an experience I had almost 15 years ago. The teenage son of our dear friends was killed in a car wreck. I was talking on the phone with my cousin’s wife – one of the most faith-filled Christian women I ever knew – and I said, “This was God’s will.” Very kindly, but firmly, she said, “This was NOT God’s will! God did not make this happen! He may have allowed it… and He will use this for His purposes… but I will never believe that this was the will of God.”
When tragedy struck, I had always heard Christian family members and friends say, “It’s God’s will.” And I readily believed this! So when my cousin’s wife spoke to me with such conviction – yet so kindly – I began to investigate this for myself… to see what the Bible says about God’s will and human suffering. And a few months later, this dear woman was called to heaven after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. Her words replayed in my head as I thought about her outcome. I have seen the evidence of how God used her illness and death for His purposes – and rewarded her with a beautiful, healthy body in heaven. I know that God desires only the best for us… but sometimes He allows trials and tragedies. If nothing else, God uses these circumstances to say, “Lean on Me and let Me help you through this. Let Me show you how I can give you the courage, comfort and peace to overcome anything this world throws your way.”
My point is that we cannot cram our opinions – or the word of God – down anyone’s throat and expect them to come around to our way of thinking! We cannot criticize or chastise another person for his/her beliefs… even if they seem wacky and downright absurd! Remember, we came to Jesus with some pretty ridiculous ideas of our own… yet, He welcomed us with open arms. Should we do any less for others?
Ask God to show you how and where to approach those who are strong on opinions but weak in faith. You know the ones… the guy who says he is a believer and trusts God, yet falls apart when the tiniest “crisis” arises. You can name the person who has decided that God is on his/her side… and the rest of us are all wrong and headed for hell in a hand basket! You have met the people who accepted Christ, then went right back to their old ways of living. How will you treat them? How does Jesus treat you? Shouldn’t you offer fellow believers the same?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 13, 2012
Romans 15:1-2
If our faith is strong, we should be patient with the Lord’s followers whose faith is weak. We should try to please them instead of ourselves. We should think of their good and try to help them by doing what pleases them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My grandmother was a great dancer in her day. She and her sisters grew up dancing while their dad and uncle played the fiddle and other musical instruments and sang. I find this funny – and ironic – because we grew up in a denomination that did not approve of dancing. Yet my grandmother and her dancing sisters were some of the Godliest women I have ever known! Still, we were taught that dancing was wrong – if we danced in public, something bad was bound to happen! We feared for the souls of our Methodist friends up the street who held dances… and enjoyed themselves!
I’m joking just a little… but not totally. Dancing was serious – and sinful -business when I was a teenager! I’m happy to say that attitudes seem to have relaxed a bit… although there will probably not be any dances held at the church of my childhood anytime soon! But my point is this… when people get an idea in their heads, it takes time – and often tenderness and patience – to try and persuade them to change. When someone tells you that all churches are filled with hypocrites who don’t practice what they preach, you will have to lovingly – and patiently – show him/her that you are different… that not all church members fit this description.
When a person is convinced that a loving God can’t exist, or bad things would never happen, you will not change their mind overnight. It will take time… and strong examples of living in faith. You will have to show this person how God uses bad situations for positive outcomes…how the people who go through them can experience His presence and blessings - even in the midst of some pretty nasty conditions.
Bad habits, long-held beliefs, and a history of skepticism cannot be changed overnight. We must exercise tolerance, endurance, and complete unflappability as we share the love of Christ – and His grace, mercy, peace and forgiveness – with others. We may never see a visible change. Evidence of making any inroad may elude us. But when we walk in faith and perseverance – operate in serenity and confidence that God can make a difference – He will do just that. And isn’t this the very essence of Christian faith?
We must learn to be the picture of kindness and sensitivity toward others. We must be the hands and feet of Jesus and reflect His love, grace and mercy to others. We must patiently trust God to change what we cannot… and rely on His perfect timing in these matters. We exhibit faith in God by exercising our own. Are you living by example? How strong is your faith?
©2012 Debbie Robus
If our faith is strong, we should be patient with the Lord’s followers whose faith is weak. We should try to please them instead of ourselves. We should think of their good and try to help them by doing what pleases them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My grandmother was a great dancer in her day. She and her sisters grew up dancing while their dad and uncle played the fiddle and other musical instruments and sang. I find this funny – and ironic – because we grew up in a denomination that did not approve of dancing. Yet my grandmother and her dancing sisters were some of the Godliest women I have ever known! Still, we were taught that dancing was wrong – if we danced in public, something bad was bound to happen! We feared for the souls of our Methodist friends up the street who held dances… and enjoyed themselves!
I’m joking just a little… but not totally. Dancing was serious – and sinful -business when I was a teenager! I’m happy to say that attitudes seem to have relaxed a bit… although there will probably not be any dances held at the church of my childhood anytime soon! But my point is this… when people get an idea in their heads, it takes time – and often tenderness and patience – to try and persuade them to change. When someone tells you that all churches are filled with hypocrites who don’t practice what they preach, you will have to lovingly – and patiently – show him/her that you are different… that not all church members fit this description.
When a person is convinced that a loving God can’t exist, or bad things would never happen, you will not change their mind overnight. It will take time… and strong examples of living in faith. You will have to show this person how God uses bad situations for positive outcomes…how the people who go through them can experience His presence and blessings - even in the midst of some pretty nasty conditions.
Bad habits, long-held beliefs, and a history of skepticism cannot be changed overnight. We must exercise tolerance, endurance, and complete unflappability as we share the love of Christ – and His grace, mercy, peace and forgiveness – with others. We may never see a visible change. Evidence of making any inroad may elude us. But when we walk in faith and perseverance – operate in serenity and confidence that God can make a difference – He will do just that. And isn’t this the very essence of Christian faith?
We must learn to be the picture of kindness and sensitivity toward others. We must be the hands and feet of Jesus and reflect His love, grace and mercy to others. We must patiently trust God to change what we cannot… and rely on His perfect timing in these matters. We exhibit faith in God by exercising our own. Are you living by example? How strong is your faith?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 12, 2012
1 Corinthians 13:4-10
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
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 the movie Jerry McGuire, Jerry (played by Tom Cruise) tells Dorothy (portrayed by Renee Zellweger)… “You complete me.” The truth is… no matter how much we love someone, we can never complete them. The only One who can complete us is God Almighty! When Jesus returns for us and all mysteries and wonders are revealed… when we finally have all the answers… we will be complete in Him.
Meanwhile, we must work toward the moment when we are reunited with Christ by striving to operate in His love each and every day. And the first seven verses of this passage tell us exactly how to do this. Read over them several times – carefully. Examine how you are doing in your quest to operate in the love of Jesus.
The verse that really gets me is – “put up with anything!” Does this truly describe your behavior? The King James Version translates this verse as “endureth all things.” The Apostle Paul is not telling us to tolerate injustice, cruelty, immorality or anything illegal. What he is saying is that we must trust God to get help us cope with these things… and we must continue operate in His love toward the offender – even as we seek justice or mete out consequences. This is hard. We are wired to seek revenge… and the devil works diligently to remind us of how good this would feel… and how “entitled” we are to do so!
In truth, the love of Christ is all we need. When we operate in His love, Jesus handles the rest. His blood was poured out on the cross for us and covers our sins… and His blood can also cover “the other guy.” We must pray for this… we must love others so that they will desire redemption through the unending love of Jesus. We must not fly off the handle, strut our stuff, or keep score. We must trust God, always look for the best, and never give up!
I am excited about the day when I become truly complete. But I know that I have a lot to do beforehand… and so do you. We are works in progress! I learn more about operating in the love of Christ each and every day… and I pray that the same is happening in your life. Where are you lacking today? What characteristics of operating in Christ’s love elude you? Will this be the day you start to work on them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
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 the movie Jerry McGuire, Jerry (played by Tom Cruise) tells Dorothy (portrayed by Renee Zellweger)… “You complete me.” The truth is… no matter how much we love someone, we can never complete them. The only One who can complete us is God Almighty! When Jesus returns for us and all mysteries and wonders are revealed… when we finally have all the answers… we will be complete in Him.
Meanwhile, we must work toward the moment when we are reunited with Christ by striving to operate in His love each and every day. And the first seven verses of this passage tell us exactly how to do this. Read over them several times – carefully. Examine how you are doing in your quest to operate in the love of Jesus.
The verse that really gets me is – “put up with anything!” Does this truly describe your behavior? The King James Version translates this verse as “endureth all things.” The Apostle Paul is not telling us to tolerate injustice, cruelty, immorality or anything illegal. What he is saying is that we must trust God to get help us cope with these things… and we must continue operate in His love toward the offender – even as we seek justice or mete out consequences. This is hard. We are wired to seek revenge… and the devil works diligently to remind us of how good this would feel… and how “entitled” we are to do so!
In truth, the love of Christ is all we need. When we operate in His love, Jesus handles the rest. His blood was poured out on the cross for us and covers our sins… and His blood can also cover “the other guy.” We must pray for this… we must love others so that they will desire redemption through the unending love of Jesus. We must not fly off the handle, strut our stuff, or keep score. We must trust God, always look for the best, and never give up!
I am excited about the day when I become truly complete. But I know that I have a lot to do beforehand… and so do you. We are works in progress! I learn more about operating in the love of Christ each and every day… and I pray that the same is happening in your life. Where are you lacking today? What characteristics of operating in Christ’s love elude you? Will this be the day you start to work on them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 11, 2012
2 Corinthians 2:6-7
Most of you have already pointed out the wrong that person did, and that is punishment enough for what was done.
When people sin, you should forgive and comfort them, so they won’t give up in despair.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Imagine if God hung onto your every sin. What if all of your friends and family remembered EVERY SINGLE THING you ever did that they felt was offensive, irritating, or immoral… and reminded you of these actions continually? What if people treated you with an “I-know-what-you-did-and-you-disgust-me” attitude? Would you feel loved and accepted? If you felt that others held a grudge, would you desire more of their form of “grace and mercy?” Would this reflect the love of Christ for you… would you feel His presence and tender care?
There have been times when I have had to remove children from an activity and place them in “time out.” When a child disobeyed, he/she had to suffer the consequences for the action. But at the end of the “punishment,” I tried to offer them a hug and an “I-still-love-you.” And then I made every effort to put the incident behind us and move forward. This is fairly easy to do with small children. It’s harder when you are dealing with teenagers and adults. We often find that we are far less forgiving… we have learned to carry a grudge.
Don’t misunderstand me. There are times when we are right to step away from someone… to distance ourselves from toxic situations. If you know someone who is using illegal drugs, you are smart not to hang around him/her. If someone you know is involved in something illegal or immoral… or this person has hurt your feelings or harmed your reputation… you may need to take a step back and love from afar for a little while. But withdrawing love and concern for this person is never appropriate. We never want to leave the other person asking “What’s the point of caring/trying?”
I am so glad God does not do this with His children. I am grateful beyond measure that when I fail Him and fall short, He picks me up and says, “I’m still here. I still love you.” I may have to suffer consequences for my action. There may be a period of time where God steps back and lets me wallow in my mistakes and learn a hard lesson. But He NEVER deserts me or stops loving me… and we must never do this to anyone we encounter.
Think over your circle of influence – friends, family members, acquaintances, fellow students of co-workers, church members and those in your community? Where have you exhibited an attitude of un-forgiveness? Where are you holding a grudge – and holding a past offense over someone’s head? Who have you given the impression that there is no hope… that there is nothing he/she can do to make amends? Is this how you would want to be treated by others? How would you feel if God treated you this way?
In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul tells us, “But I forget what is behind, and I struggle for what is ahead. I run toward the goal, so that I can win the prize of being called to heaven. This is the prize that God offers because of what Christ Jesus has done.” This “prize” is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ. Does your treatment of others reflect the hope of this reward… or the despair of unforgotten grudges? Who needs your offering of forgiveness and comfort in Jesus today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Most of you have already pointed out the wrong that person did, and that is punishment enough for what was done.
When people sin, you should forgive and comfort them, so they won’t give up in despair.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Imagine if God hung onto your every sin. What if all of your friends and family remembered EVERY SINGLE THING you ever did that they felt was offensive, irritating, or immoral… and reminded you of these actions continually? What if people treated you with an “I-know-what-you-did-and-you-disgust-me” attitude? Would you feel loved and accepted? If you felt that others held a grudge, would you desire more of their form of “grace and mercy?” Would this reflect the love of Christ for you… would you feel His presence and tender care?
There have been times when I have had to remove children from an activity and place them in “time out.” When a child disobeyed, he/she had to suffer the consequences for the action. But at the end of the “punishment,” I tried to offer them a hug and an “I-still-love-you.” And then I made every effort to put the incident behind us and move forward. This is fairly easy to do with small children. It’s harder when you are dealing with teenagers and adults. We often find that we are far less forgiving… we have learned to carry a grudge.
Don’t misunderstand me. There are times when we are right to step away from someone… to distance ourselves from toxic situations. If you know someone who is using illegal drugs, you are smart not to hang around him/her. If someone you know is involved in something illegal or immoral… or this person has hurt your feelings or harmed your reputation… you may need to take a step back and love from afar for a little while. But withdrawing love and concern for this person is never appropriate. We never want to leave the other person asking “What’s the point of caring/trying?”
I am so glad God does not do this with His children. I am grateful beyond measure that when I fail Him and fall short, He picks me up and says, “I’m still here. I still love you.” I may have to suffer consequences for my action. There may be a period of time where God steps back and lets me wallow in my mistakes and learn a hard lesson. But He NEVER deserts me or stops loving me… and we must never do this to anyone we encounter.
Think over your circle of influence – friends, family members, acquaintances, fellow students of co-workers, church members and those in your community? Where have you exhibited an attitude of un-forgiveness? Where are you holding a grudge – and holding a past offense over someone’s head? Who have you given the impression that there is no hope… that there is nothing he/she can do to make amends? Is this how you would want to be treated by others? How would you feel if God treated you this way?
In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul tells us, “But I forget what is behind, and I struggle for what is ahead. I run toward the goal, so that I can win the prize of being called to heaven. This is the prize that God offers because of what Christ Jesus has done.” This “prize” is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ. Does your treatment of others reflect the hope of this reward… or the despair of unforgotten grudges? Who needs your offering of forgiveness and comfort in Jesus today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 10, 2012
Galatians 6:1-3
Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
All I could think about as I read this passage was church and government leaders who have criticized this behavior or that lifestyle… only to be found guilty of the same thing at a later date. From mismanagement of funds to sexual infidelity, drug and alcohol abuse, physical or sexual abuse and more…these leaders often find themselves needing forgiveness for the very things they have condemned others for doing. And frankly, you and I are no better much of the time!
Do not misunderstand me… I am not making excuses for anyone. I’m merely saying that we are all human beings… all capable of sin… and equally in need of grace and mercy on any given day. To look down upon another person – or be critical of him/her with no offer of genuine compassion – runs counter to Christ’s law to love your neighbor as yourself.
If we are truly Christ’s disciples… if we really want His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness for OUR sins… we must offer this same kindness and consideration to others. How do we love someone who molests children or abuses animals? How can we forgive the drunk driver who killed our loved one or the significant other or spouse who cheats? How can we not be disgusted by the person who gambles away everything and endangers the welfare of his/her family – or the person who cannot shake a drug habit and ruins not only his/her life but the lives of countless others?
The answer is that we must look at each of these people as Jesus does… through His eyes. We don’t condone their behaviors. We do not excuse their sins. But we love the person God created and say inwardly – if not aloud – “I will pray for this person. I will offer kindness and fair treatment. I will remember that on any given day, others might be repulsed by me if they knew my sins and shortcomings. I will leave punishment to those in authority, where necessary… and the ultimate judgment to God.”
Too many of us act as if we are incapable of offering compassion to those we deem to have failed in some way. In truth, we have decided we are too good for other sinners… failing to recognize that we are right there in the boat with them! The time has come for us to remove our blinders and see clearly… to recognize that we are called to love others as God loves us. And that means we don’t get to pick and choose for whom – or when – we do this!
We all need to examine our hearts. I’m pretty sure each one of us has operated in criticism and judgment of others – at least to some degree. It’s time to ask ourselves how we would feel knowing others do this toward us… and then adjust our attitudes accordingly. We can’t have it both ways. We’re either walking in the protective shadow of the cross… or wandering in the desert with the devil.
Who do you need to restore today with your prayers and compassion? Who is God calling you to forgive? Are you living creatively in the love of Christ?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
All I could think about as I read this passage was church and government leaders who have criticized this behavior or that lifestyle… only to be found guilty of the same thing at a later date. From mismanagement of funds to sexual infidelity, drug and alcohol abuse, physical or sexual abuse and more…these leaders often find themselves needing forgiveness for the very things they have condemned others for doing. And frankly, you and I are no better much of the time!
Do not misunderstand me… I am not making excuses for anyone. I’m merely saying that we are all human beings… all capable of sin… and equally in need of grace and mercy on any given day. To look down upon another person – or be critical of him/her with no offer of genuine compassion – runs counter to Christ’s law to love your neighbor as yourself.
If we are truly Christ’s disciples… if we really want His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness for OUR sins… we must offer this same kindness and consideration to others. How do we love someone who molests children or abuses animals? How can we forgive the drunk driver who killed our loved one or the significant other or spouse who cheats? How can we not be disgusted by the person who gambles away everything and endangers the welfare of his/her family – or the person who cannot shake a drug habit and ruins not only his/her life but the lives of countless others?
The answer is that we must look at each of these people as Jesus does… through His eyes. We don’t condone their behaviors. We do not excuse their sins. But we love the person God created and say inwardly – if not aloud – “I will pray for this person. I will offer kindness and fair treatment. I will remember that on any given day, others might be repulsed by me if they knew my sins and shortcomings. I will leave punishment to those in authority, where necessary… and the ultimate judgment to God.”
Too many of us act as if we are incapable of offering compassion to those we deem to have failed in some way. In truth, we have decided we are too good for other sinners… failing to recognize that we are right there in the boat with them! The time has come for us to remove our blinders and see clearly… to recognize that we are called to love others as God loves us. And that means we don’t get to pick and choose for whom – or when – we do this!
We all need to examine our hearts. I’m pretty sure each one of us has operated in criticism and judgment of others – at least to some degree. It’s time to ask ourselves how we would feel knowing others do this toward us… and then adjust our attitudes accordingly. We can’t have it both ways. We’re either walking in the protective shadow of the cross… or wandering in the desert with the devil.
Who do you need to restore today with your prayers and compassion? Who is God calling you to forgive? Are you living creatively in the love of Christ?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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