Psalm 41:11-13
I know you are pleased with me,
for you have not let my enemies triumph over me.
You have preserved my life because I am innocent;
you have brought me into your presence forever.
Praise the Lord, the God of Israel,
who lives from everlasting to everlasting.
Amen and amen!
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, we took Timothy and Zola to an Easter egg hunt at our church campus… held after morning services on the grounds surrounding the sanctuary. There were people everywhere, and the grass was thoroughly covered in plastic eggs filled with candy. Timothy, Zola and several of the younger ones really didn’t know what to do with the whole situation…but they figured it out pretty quickly. After all the eggs were gathered, the children did what children like to do… they ran willy-nilly as far and as fast as they could!
When it was time to leave, my husband and I herded our two toward the car… but Timothy pulled loose and began to run. As we approached the street, I reminded him that he had to hold his Uncle Greg’s hand, because cars could be coming, and the drivers might not be watching for little ones. Sure enough, a car came up the street, and the man driving it headed directly for Zola and me. I am not sure if he saw Timothy, and he never really got that close to him, but my husband scooted over quickly to shield Timothy and protect him.
The man was intent on asking directions to another church in town, and I honestly don’t think it even registered with him that we had small children in our charge as he pulled up beside us. And certainly, my husband and I would both move heaven and earth to protect our little ones, so neither he nor any other driver was about to cause them any harm. But I said a quick, “Thank You, LORD!” anyway, as my husband scooped up Timothy and put him into our car!
Small children are indeed innocent. They have not yet learned about the perils of “enemies” such as fast-moving cars on a busy street… crowds of people at an outdoor event… and even the ramifications of eating too much candy or biting into something that is rock hard, like an all-day sucker that can crack a baby tooth! They have not yet learned the impropriety of announcing to the world that they don’t want to do something, or screaming at the top of their lungs in public just because it feels good. They don’t know how to be nice and polite to others… to speak when spoken to… or to come immediately when summoned. So we adults have to protect them, teach them, and nurture them… just as God has done for us.
In 1 Corinthians 13:11, Paul says, “When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.” The time has come for us to put away childish things and operate with integrity and honor. We can live with the assurance that God will protect us - not because of our innocence or immaturity… but rather, because we have put away the childish things and now walk in His truths – and demonstrate them in our daily existence.
Today of all days, as we think of Jesus and how He rose from the grave and conquered death, we should stop and thank Him for the tremendous work and sacrifices He has done on our behalf. We should praise Him for protecting us from our enemies – often when we totally do not deserve His help. We should humbly glorify Him for loving us enough to suffer for our sins… and we should make every effort to live each day in a way that shows how truly appreciative we are. Will you do this? Will you put aside childish behaviors and begin to operate with integrity and honor? Has God brought you into His presence? Do you live in a way that says that you belong there? Isn’t it time that you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 30, 2013
Psalm 26:8-12
I love your sanctuary, Lord,
the place where your glorious presence dwells.
Don’t let me suffer the fate of sinners.
Don’t condemn me along with murderers.
Their hands are dirty with evil schemes,
and they constantly take bribes.
But I am not like that; I live with integrity.
So redeem me and show me mercy.
Now I stand on solid ground,
and I will publicly praise the Lord.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My husband and I have spent much of this week sorting through old photographs – ours and my grandmothers, mostly. We’ve looked at each one and compared this one and that… “Aren’t they almost identical? Is this one more blurry than the next? Why are we saving a picture of someone we don’t even know?” We’ve “culled” the ones that we did not deem worthy of keeping for some reason. Some went to the shredder… others were sent to those featured in the picture for their albums – or trash cans!
Our qualifying criteria for keeping a picture were that it had to have some sort of value – or integrity – or it had to be something we could scan and improve the quality. More than once, one of us would be ready to toss a picture, and the other would say, “I know that’s not a great photo… but I like the way So-and-so is smiling…” or “Yes, that’s a little blurry, but that is good of XYZ…you never saw him/her without that object!” So we were merciful and returned more than a few less-than-stellar specimens to the “save” pile.
I’d like to think that I have more redeeming qualities than poor ones. I strive to live with integrity… to please God with my thoughts, words and actions. But on any given day, He could easily toss me to the “cull” stack if He chose… and I know this. So I make a concerted effort to live in a way that honors God each day. I try not to murder… even with sharp words or gossip. I try very hard not to be manipulated or bribed into doing or saying something I shouldn’t. Even when I feel that others won’t like my comments or actions, I work hard at standing on solid ground and operating in God’s truth – and I hope I do so with kindness and grace.
I do love God’s sanctuary… the place where His glorious presence dwells. I am forever indebted to Him for His gift of Jesus Christ… and for the sacrifice that He made for you and me on the cross. I am forever grateful that Jesus rose from the grave and ascended into heaven… that He waits for me there. Ultimately, I praise God for taking a second look at me… for putting me back in the “keep” pile to live for Him another day… and I’m doing everything I can to stay there. What about you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
I love your sanctuary, Lord,
the place where your glorious presence dwells.
Don’t let me suffer the fate of sinners.
Don’t condemn me along with murderers.
Their hands are dirty with evil schemes,
and they constantly take bribes.
But I am not like that; I live with integrity.
So redeem me and show me mercy.
Now I stand on solid ground,
and I will publicly praise the Lord.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My husband and I have spent much of this week sorting through old photographs – ours and my grandmothers, mostly. We’ve looked at each one and compared this one and that… “Aren’t they almost identical? Is this one more blurry than the next? Why are we saving a picture of someone we don’t even know?” We’ve “culled” the ones that we did not deem worthy of keeping for some reason. Some went to the shredder… others were sent to those featured in the picture for their albums – or trash cans!
Our qualifying criteria for keeping a picture were that it had to have some sort of value – or integrity – or it had to be something we could scan and improve the quality. More than once, one of us would be ready to toss a picture, and the other would say, “I know that’s not a great photo… but I like the way So-and-so is smiling…” or “Yes, that’s a little blurry, but that is good of XYZ…you never saw him/her without that object!” So we were merciful and returned more than a few less-than-stellar specimens to the “save” pile.
I’d like to think that I have more redeeming qualities than poor ones. I strive to live with integrity… to please God with my thoughts, words and actions. But on any given day, He could easily toss me to the “cull” stack if He chose… and I know this. So I make a concerted effort to live in a way that honors God each day. I try not to murder… even with sharp words or gossip. I try very hard not to be manipulated or bribed into doing or saying something I shouldn’t. Even when I feel that others won’t like my comments or actions, I work hard at standing on solid ground and operating in God’s truth – and I hope I do so with kindness and grace.
I do love God’s sanctuary… the place where His glorious presence dwells. I am forever indebted to Him for His gift of Jesus Christ… and for the sacrifice that He made for you and me on the cross. I am forever grateful that Jesus rose from the grave and ascended into heaven… that He waits for me there. Ultimately, I praise God for taking a second look at me… for putting me back in the “keep” pile to live for Him another day… and I’m doing everything I can to stay there. What about you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 29, 2013
March 29 ~ Psalm 26:1-3
Show that I am right, Lord! I stay true to myself, and I have trusted you without doubting.
Test my thoughts and find out what I am like.
I never forget your kindness, and I am always faithful to you.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Years ago, I was called for jury duty. I sat with fellow citizens, awaiting my turn before the judge. He asked each of us questions to determine whether we would be suitable jury members. Those of us who felt we could not serve were given a chance to plead our case. For my part, I stood before the bench and explained that my husband and I were the sole employees in our business, and it would be an extraordinary hardship for me to be away for a week or more to serve on a jury. I’ll admit… I was a little bit nervous as I stood before the bench. But the judge was very nice and excused me right away.
This has been my only experience in court. But I’ve seen and heard enough to know that standing before a judge to plead your case can be daunting at best… even if you know you are right! And I have no doubt that when I stand before God Almighty on my ultimate Judgment Day, I should have every reason to be nervous. But I will have nothing to fear… because I belong to Jesus!
The blood of Christ and His sacrifices on my behalf give me assurance that I will have nothing to fear. All of my sins have been washed clean. They have been erased from the Lamb’s Book of Life… forgiven completely and scattered “as far as East is from West!” And while I remain on earth, I can come before God with confidence and ask Him to support me and meet my needs… as long as I am confident that I live faithfully - that I trust without doubting, and I stay true to myself.
When we know that we are doing the right thing, we have no trepidations… nothing to hide. We can boldly come before the throne of God…not worthy to be there, but fully entitled because of Jesus. What about you? Are you living with integrity? Do you have confidence that you are right and true… that God can test your thoughts and find you blameless? Are you “washed in the blood” of Jesus Christ, and thereby forgiven for all eternity? Are your present thoughts, words and actions pleasing to God? Does the image of having to stand before Him today and ask for His love and care make you nervous? It shouldn’t!
Search your heart. Look for areas where you may not be fully operating with honor and integrity, and get a handle on them. Live in a way that you can say on any given day – at any time – “Test my thoughts and find out what I am like. Show that I am right, Lord!” Make living with integrity as fundamental in your life as breathing… and stand before the LORD with full faith and confidence - now and for all eternity.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Show that I am right, Lord! I stay true to myself, and I have trusted you without doubting.
Test my thoughts and find out what I am like.
I never forget your kindness, and I am always faithful to you.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Years ago, I was called for jury duty. I sat with fellow citizens, awaiting my turn before the judge. He asked each of us questions to determine whether we would be suitable jury members. Those of us who felt we could not serve were given a chance to plead our case. For my part, I stood before the bench and explained that my husband and I were the sole employees in our business, and it would be an extraordinary hardship for me to be away for a week or more to serve on a jury. I’ll admit… I was a little bit nervous as I stood before the bench. But the judge was very nice and excused me right away.
This has been my only experience in court. But I’ve seen and heard enough to know that standing before a judge to plead your case can be daunting at best… even if you know you are right! And I have no doubt that when I stand before God Almighty on my ultimate Judgment Day, I should have every reason to be nervous. But I will have nothing to fear… because I belong to Jesus!
The blood of Christ and His sacrifices on my behalf give me assurance that I will have nothing to fear. All of my sins have been washed clean. They have been erased from the Lamb’s Book of Life… forgiven completely and scattered “as far as East is from West!” And while I remain on earth, I can come before God with confidence and ask Him to support me and meet my needs… as long as I am confident that I live faithfully - that I trust without doubting, and I stay true to myself.
When we know that we are doing the right thing, we have no trepidations… nothing to hide. We can boldly come before the throne of God…not worthy to be there, but fully entitled because of Jesus. What about you? Are you living with integrity? Do you have confidence that you are right and true… that God can test your thoughts and find you blameless? Are you “washed in the blood” of Jesus Christ, and thereby forgiven for all eternity? Are your present thoughts, words and actions pleasing to God? Does the image of having to stand before Him today and ask for His love and care make you nervous? It shouldn’t!
Search your heart. Look for areas where you may not be fully operating with honor and integrity, and get a handle on them. Live in a way that you can say on any given day – at any time – “Test my thoughts and find out what I am like. Show that I am right, Lord!” Make living with integrity as fundamental in your life as breathing… and stand before the LORD with full faith and confidence - now and for all eternity.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 28, 2013
March 28 ~ Psalm 25:19-21
Do you see how many people
Have it in for me?
How viciously they hate me?
Keep watch over me and keep me out of trouble;
Don’t let me down when I run to you.
Use all your skill to put me together;
I wait to see your finished product.
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.
Nearly all of us have written a term paper at some point. If you were taught as I was, you began with an outline. You thought of the things you wanted to include… and you made notes and lists of the points you planned to cover. Honestly, for a while, the whole thing may have looked like quite a jumble of confusion. You might have even said, “The devil is having fun here… this paper is a mess!” But over time, things came together, and what seemed unconquerable at the outset became something you were proud to present to your instructor… or at least relieved to have finished!
A couple of months ago, I was not paying close attention as I cut the sleeves off a ladies knit shirt to make pants for my niece, Zola. I realized that I had cut the fabric in a way that I had two right legs – or was it two left legs?! At any rate, the outcome was not going to be a wearable pair of pants! I was in trouble. I felt I had wasted a really cute shirt, and naturally I blamed the devil for distracting me and causing me to cut the material incorrectly! But I was determined not to let him win. You can call me silly, but I began to pray… “LORD, what can I do with this? How can I take these pieces and create something useful – and cute – from them?” (I really do pray over mundane things like how to salvage a thrift-store shirt!)
I began to move the pieces of fabric around. “What if I used this piece this way?” I would ask myself. “Suppose I turned those mismatched ‘pant legs’ into sleeves?” And soon, everything was coming together to create a darling dress and matching accessories… all of which looked adorable on Zola and was one of her mother’s favorite outfits to date! God used all of His skill to help me use my skills to pull together a wonderful finished product.
So often, we throw up our hands and say, “So-and-so is out to get me,” or “I can’t win for losing… the odds are just not in my favor.” What we fail to recognize is how God has our back... if only we will keep our chin up and do what He expects. If we will continue to take the high road… if we will stay focused and maintain a positive attitude… if we will trust Him for an outcome… God will put us together into an incredible finished product!
I firmly believe this. I have full confidence that God can make lemonade from “lemons” like us! I am quite certain that operating with integrity brings about positive results…and amazing finished products! You can let the devil and his agents have their way in your life… or you can choose to live for God - and trust His outcomes. It’s totally your call… what do you say?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Do you see how many people
Have it in for me?
How viciously they hate me?
Keep watch over me and keep me out of trouble;
Don’t let me down when I run to you.
Use all your skill to put me together;
I wait to see your finished product.
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.
Nearly all of us have written a term paper at some point. If you were taught as I was, you began with an outline. You thought of the things you wanted to include… and you made notes and lists of the points you planned to cover. Honestly, for a while, the whole thing may have looked like quite a jumble of confusion. You might have even said, “The devil is having fun here… this paper is a mess!” But over time, things came together, and what seemed unconquerable at the outset became something you were proud to present to your instructor… or at least relieved to have finished!
A couple of months ago, I was not paying close attention as I cut the sleeves off a ladies knit shirt to make pants for my niece, Zola. I realized that I had cut the fabric in a way that I had two right legs – or was it two left legs?! At any rate, the outcome was not going to be a wearable pair of pants! I was in trouble. I felt I had wasted a really cute shirt, and naturally I blamed the devil for distracting me and causing me to cut the material incorrectly! But I was determined not to let him win. You can call me silly, but I began to pray… “LORD, what can I do with this? How can I take these pieces and create something useful – and cute – from them?” (I really do pray over mundane things like how to salvage a thrift-store shirt!)
I began to move the pieces of fabric around. “What if I used this piece this way?” I would ask myself. “Suppose I turned those mismatched ‘pant legs’ into sleeves?” And soon, everything was coming together to create a darling dress and matching accessories… all of which looked adorable on Zola and was one of her mother’s favorite outfits to date! God used all of His skill to help me use my skills to pull together a wonderful finished product.
So often, we throw up our hands and say, “So-and-so is out to get me,” or “I can’t win for losing… the odds are just not in my favor.” What we fail to recognize is how God has our back... if only we will keep our chin up and do what He expects. If we will continue to take the high road… if we will stay focused and maintain a positive attitude… if we will trust Him for an outcome… God will put us together into an incredible finished product!
I firmly believe this. I have full confidence that God can make lemonade from “lemons” like us! I am quite certain that operating with integrity brings about positive results…and amazing finished products! You can let the devil and his agents have their way in your life… or you can choose to live for God - and trust His outcomes. It’s totally your call… what do you say?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 27, 2013
March 27 ~ Psalm 15:1-5
Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord, and keep their promises even when it hurts. Those who lend money without charging interest, and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Suppose you wanted to throw a dinner party in your home. Who would be on your guest list? Would you include someone you do not like… or someone whose company you don’t enjoy? Would you invite people who have a reputation for gossip or those who speak evil of their friends? Would your list include some who you know to be dishonest and deceitful? Would bigots and those who are brazen and foul-mouthed be allowed? Would you ask known thieves to attend?
If some of these people showed up uninvited, how would you treat them? Would you usher them out and tell them never to visit your home again… or would you treat them kindly and gently – but with guarded hospitality? Would you make sure that they were sufficiently humiliated in front of the other guests… or would you be gracious toward them?
This is what God does for us. He prefers that His “house” be filled with those who operate with integrity. But God is gracious and will not embarrass those of us who behave inappropriately. God does not appreciate our disrespect and dishonor... but He will not stoop to our level. Instead, God blesses and rewards those who lead blameless lives and do what is right. He bestows incredible favor on those who speak the truth from sincere hearts. He promises perpetual love and care to those who keep their promises even when it hurts… the honest and upright who cannot be bribed or persuaded to disobey.
I know it may seem like some people skirt through life doing as they please and getting by with it. You may be able to name a few people who appear to live a charmed life and “have it made” even though they have a penchant for impropriety and ill-gotten gain. But I can assure you, they do not have God’s favor… and their assurances of His blessings and care will not be everlasting and secure. I don’t know about you, but I’m in it with God for the long haul. I want all He offers… and I plan to do everything possible to live in a way that ensures that He is pleased with me!
Lest you think that this is about what God can do for me… I assure you, it is not! The truth is that God has done far and above anything I could ever hope to deserve for me already… He sent His only Son to die on a cross for my sins. He sacrificed everything for someone who can give Him little to nothing in return… who certainly can never repay this tremendous gift. And that person is me! It is also you… and the next guy… and the next! We cannot earn God’s favor or blessings. But we can honor and respect Him by living with integrity… by leading blameless lives, operating with sincerity and authenticity… and a having genuine heart. Even when we are ridiculed and mistreated, we can continue to show love, grace, mercy and forgiveness… and in doing so, we can say, “I’m striving to imitate you as closely as possible, LORD!”
THESE are the kinds of people who find sanctuary in the LORD. These are the ones whom He desires to invite to His table… the ones who will find blessings and favor… who will stand firm forever. I want to be among them… don’t you? Are you a worthy dinner guest? Aren’t you ready to become one?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord, and keep their promises even when it hurts. Those who lend money without charging interest, and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Suppose you wanted to throw a dinner party in your home. Who would be on your guest list? Would you include someone you do not like… or someone whose company you don’t enjoy? Would you invite people who have a reputation for gossip or those who speak evil of their friends? Would your list include some who you know to be dishonest and deceitful? Would bigots and those who are brazen and foul-mouthed be allowed? Would you ask known thieves to attend?
If some of these people showed up uninvited, how would you treat them? Would you usher them out and tell them never to visit your home again… or would you treat them kindly and gently – but with guarded hospitality? Would you make sure that they were sufficiently humiliated in front of the other guests… or would you be gracious toward them?
This is what God does for us. He prefers that His “house” be filled with those who operate with integrity. But God is gracious and will not embarrass those of us who behave inappropriately. God does not appreciate our disrespect and dishonor... but He will not stoop to our level. Instead, God blesses and rewards those who lead blameless lives and do what is right. He bestows incredible favor on those who speak the truth from sincere hearts. He promises perpetual love and care to those who keep their promises even when it hurts… the honest and upright who cannot be bribed or persuaded to disobey.
I know it may seem like some people skirt through life doing as they please and getting by with it. You may be able to name a few people who appear to live a charmed life and “have it made” even though they have a penchant for impropriety and ill-gotten gain. But I can assure you, they do not have God’s favor… and their assurances of His blessings and care will not be everlasting and secure. I don’t know about you, but I’m in it with God for the long haul. I want all He offers… and I plan to do everything possible to live in a way that ensures that He is pleased with me!
Lest you think that this is about what God can do for me… I assure you, it is not! The truth is that God has done far and above anything I could ever hope to deserve for me already… He sent His only Son to die on a cross for my sins. He sacrificed everything for someone who can give Him little to nothing in return… who certainly can never repay this tremendous gift. And that person is me! It is also you… and the next guy… and the next! We cannot earn God’s favor or blessings. But we can honor and respect Him by living with integrity… by leading blameless lives, operating with sincerity and authenticity… and a having genuine heart. Even when we are ridiculed and mistreated, we can continue to show love, grace, mercy and forgiveness… and in doing so, we can say, “I’m striving to imitate you as closely as possible, LORD!”
THESE are the kinds of people who find sanctuary in the LORD. These are the ones whom He desires to invite to His table… the ones who will find blessings and favor… who will stand firm forever. I want to be among them… don’t you? Are you a worthy dinner guest? Aren’t you ready to become one?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 26, 2013
March 26 ~ Proverbs 20:7, 11
The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them.
Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I recently heard a discussion about child rearing – and more specifically, methods of discipline. An “expert” was asked how she felt about spanking, and she stated that she did not feel it was appropriate. Others in the group noted that they were spanked as children, and this did not harm them in the long run. The “expert” explained her position by saying that things are different for today’s children. She said, “The world is teaching our children – through television, movies, the Internet and other outside influences. We need to give them wisdom and show them what is right.” She contended that now – more than ever – we need to teach our children how to live and behave with words and examples… not with physical discipline.
This example is not meant to stir a discussion on the pros and cons of spanking. But as I listened to this woman speak… and I read these verses from Proverbs… I was struck by the importance of our example to children in all things – especially in terms of today’s world. My cousin told me recently that she cannot allow her children to watch “regular TV,” because it is such a poor influence on them. We have become so numb to foul language, violence and inappropriate sexual situations on prime time and daytime television that we don’t even notice what our children are seeing and hearing… until we get into a public situation and the little ones spout some expletive (in correct context) or bring up a situation that we are appalled to realize is even on their radar screen! We have gotten so used to commercials for adult health and hygiene products during our nightly news that we don’t even notice them… until our kids come to us and want to know why we need XYZ product!
I’m afraid that there are far too many situations where we tell our children – and those who are not-so-young – to “do as I say, not as I do.” When I was teaching, I had a rule that “I won’t believe everything I hear from your child, if you don’t believe everything they come home and tell you.” And I stand by this statement, because I know that children have vivid imaginations and a propensity for embellishment. But at the same time, we must pay attention to the words and actions of children, because they tell us a lot about the purity of their upbringing and the integrity of their home.
I know I say this a lot, but people are watching! They notice what you say and do, and they assess your moral character – your integrity – according to your words and actions. They also gauge uprightness by how your children and those with whom you associate conduct themselves. If you accept the inappropriate or immoral behaviors of others, it speaks to your own values and integrity. We must walk away from inappropriate conversations… we must not share off-color jokes or bigoted comments – we must guard what our children see and hear and make a concerted effort to teach them to live with honesty and decency. We must mean what we say and do… and guard against hypocrisy.
When others look at your children… or your friends and associates… what do they see? What do their behaviors and attitudes say about you as their friend, parent, or mentor? Do you walk with integrity that extends to others in your “circle” of influence? Shouldn’t you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them.
Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I recently heard a discussion about child rearing – and more specifically, methods of discipline. An “expert” was asked how she felt about spanking, and she stated that she did not feel it was appropriate. Others in the group noted that they were spanked as children, and this did not harm them in the long run. The “expert” explained her position by saying that things are different for today’s children. She said, “The world is teaching our children – through television, movies, the Internet and other outside influences. We need to give them wisdom and show them what is right.” She contended that now – more than ever – we need to teach our children how to live and behave with words and examples… not with physical discipline.
This example is not meant to stir a discussion on the pros and cons of spanking. But as I listened to this woman speak… and I read these verses from Proverbs… I was struck by the importance of our example to children in all things – especially in terms of today’s world. My cousin told me recently that she cannot allow her children to watch “regular TV,” because it is such a poor influence on them. We have become so numb to foul language, violence and inappropriate sexual situations on prime time and daytime television that we don’t even notice what our children are seeing and hearing… until we get into a public situation and the little ones spout some expletive (in correct context) or bring up a situation that we are appalled to realize is even on their radar screen! We have gotten so used to commercials for adult health and hygiene products during our nightly news that we don’t even notice them… until our kids come to us and want to know why we need XYZ product!
I’m afraid that there are far too many situations where we tell our children – and those who are not-so-young – to “do as I say, not as I do.” When I was teaching, I had a rule that “I won’t believe everything I hear from your child, if you don’t believe everything they come home and tell you.” And I stand by this statement, because I know that children have vivid imaginations and a propensity for embellishment. But at the same time, we must pay attention to the words and actions of children, because they tell us a lot about the purity of their upbringing and the integrity of their home.
I know I say this a lot, but people are watching! They notice what you say and do, and they assess your moral character – your integrity – according to your words and actions. They also gauge uprightness by how your children and those with whom you associate conduct themselves. If you accept the inappropriate or immoral behaviors of others, it speaks to your own values and integrity. We must walk away from inappropriate conversations… we must not share off-color jokes or bigoted comments – we must guard what our children see and hear and make a concerted effort to teach them to live with honesty and decency. We must mean what we say and do… and guard against hypocrisy.
When others look at your children… or your friends and associates… what do they see? What do their behaviors and attitudes say about you as their friend, parent, or mentor? Do you walk with integrity that extends to others in your “circle” of influence? Shouldn’t you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 25, 2013
Proverbs 2:6-8
For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, I found a Facebook post from my friend Mich that said… “Had an amazing weekend of class at OU. The moment I'll remember... I hung my bumper on the curb outside Cheddars, and when I backed up I tore the darned thing off! It was hanging by a corner. I tried to reattach it, but it just wouldn't cooperate. So I walked away to the Target next door to buy some duct tape. Did I mention it was freezing and the North wind was strong? I had abandoned all dignity and was determined to just tape the darned thing to my car and drive it. When I got back to my car I discovered someone had reattached my bumper! I only needed to put on a little tape and it was OK to drive. I continue to give thanks for Good Samaritans and Invisible Angels who act when we need them.”
I know that Mich is a man of integrity, and his path was definitely guarded. He was certainly protected this weekend. Would Mich have had the same experience if he didn’t walk in the wisdom and understanding of the LORD? It’s possible… I’m not saying that God will not look after those who lack common sense and honesty. I do believe that God extends love and care to all who need it, whether they realize this or not. But in what measure? Does God allow us to experience a certain level of discomfort and insecurity in order to persuade us to trust Him more and to seek His wisdom?
Yesterday, our Sunday school leader posed the question, “Why did Jesus ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday for you? We each shared our thoughts on this… and many mentioned that they did not feel they would be where they are today without Jesus and the sacrifices He made on that original “Holy Week.” Others said that knowing the sacrifices Jesus made for them gave them confidence that He loved them and cared for them in all situations… that He was guiding their steps and protecting them and the outcomes of all circumstances… that He offered the promise of heaven and an eternity spent in His presence. Still another response was that we might be blessed with a wonderful spouse, a beautiful family and many incredible things and experiences in life… but Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem fills us with hope and confidence in His promises.”
So what does this mean for us with regard to Proverbs 2:6-8? Does the wisdom and understanding we receive from a relationship with God really matter? Would Good Samaritans and Invisible Angels minister to us even if we didn’t operate with integrity? Would we be where we are today without the guidance and protection of God? Perhaps… but wouldn’t you rather know for sure? Without Jesus’ sacrifices, we surely would not have hope and the confidence of His promises to return for us… to be with us forever and in all things. Wouldn’t you rather live with confidence that God cares for your every situation and circumstance?
Duct tape is an amazing product… and no doubt, my friend Mich could have patched his bumper enough to get home. But I have every confidence that God took a look at his predicament and said, “Here, buddy… let Me give you a hand. I’ve got this one!” What God does for those who honor Him and walk with integrity, He will surely do for you. All you have to do is trust Him… to surrender to His will and operate in His common sense and wisdom. Don’t you want to live with the confidence that God always has your back? Why did Jesus ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday for you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 24, 2013
March 24 ~ Psalm 101:1-2
I will sing of your love and justice, Lord. I will praise you with songs. I will be careful to live a blameless life—when will you come to help me? I will lead a life of integrity in my own home.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In 1973, country music artist Charlie Rich recorded a song called “Behind Closed Doors.” Essentially, this song tells of a woman who behaves one way in public – and another at home “behind closed doors.” The tag line to the chorus is, “…no one knows what goes on behind closed doors.” Sadly, I’m afraid this could be the tag line for a lot of us. We “play nice” in public and project the persona of someone who is polite, kind, morally upright, fair… and honest to a fault. Then we go home, and “the gloves come off” so to speak… along with our sense of propriety and decorum.
We treat our family members poorly… we use foul language and deride others. We gossip… we connive… we lie to others – and to ourselves. We think nobody else will find out how we really are, as long as we go to church on Sundays and act nicely at work, school, among our friends and/or when we are in public. But David tells us in this Psalm that integrity begins at home… where we think no one is looking. The truth is that GOD is always watching. And whether we want to believe it or not, others are watching, too.
You may think you are doing pretty well. You don’t curse… you try never to gossip… and you are kind and loving at all times. But let me ask you this… do you claim to trust Jesus in all things, then go home and wring your hands, worry and wrestle over challenges and concerns? Are you all about telling others how “the LORD will provide” as you question the very circumstances of your own life? Do you attend worship services and Bible studies and then blow up and get upset over the least of things that don’t go your way?
As human beings, there is no way we can sustain a “split personality” forever. We will slip up at some point, and the four-letter words we let fly at home will pepper our language in public. We’ll find it easy to say something we shouldn’t have or lash out at someone in the heat of the moment. If we mistreat our siblings, our spouse, our children or our pets, this behavior will carry over into our “public” lives… or someone will realize our secret. Others will discover what we really think about them… how we truly talk and act… or how weak our faith in God to meet our needs truly is…and our “Christian” witness will be tarnished.
God wants to equip us to operate with integrity at all times… in all places. He wants to help us control our thoughts and actions on every front. Through His love and justice, we are each able to come before Him and receive the help we need. Because of the blood of Jesus on the cross, our sins can be forgiven. We can ask God to enable us to live a more blameless life… and to trust Him more fully.
Jesus stands at the door and knocks, fully aware of what goes on inside your home… and your heart. Does what is on the inside match the outside? Have you entrusted Him to help you live with integrity? Have you given Him glory and praise for His love and justice? Isn’t this Holy Week a great time to renew your commitment to living a more blameless life in Christ and sharing His amazing love with others? Operating with complete integrity seems like such a small gesture of respect for the One who sacrificed so much. Will you praise the LORD in song and action - and glorify Him in your daily living… regardless of who is looking?
©2013 Debbie Robus
I will sing of your love and justice, Lord. I will praise you with songs. I will be careful to live a blameless life—when will you come to help me? I will lead a life of integrity in my own home.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In 1973, country music artist Charlie Rich recorded a song called “Behind Closed Doors.” Essentially, this song tells of a woman who behaves one way in public – and another at home “behind closed doors.” The tag line to the chorus is, “…no one knows what goes on behind closed doors.” Sadly, I’m afraid this could be the tag line for a lot of us. We “play nice” in public and project the persona of someone who is polite, kind, morally upright, fair… and honest to a fault. Then we go home, and “the gloves come off” so to speak… along with our sense of propriety and decorum.
We treat our family members poorly… we use foul language and deride others. We gossip… we connive… we lie to others – and to ourselves. We think nobody else will find out how we really are, as long as we go to church on Sundays and act nicely at work, school, among our friends and/or when we are in public. But David tells us in this Psalm that integrity begins at home… where we think no one is looking. The truth is that GOD is always watching. And whether we want to believe it or not, others are watching, too.
You may think you are doing pretty well. You don’t curse… you try never to gossip… and you are kind and loving at all times. But let me ask you this… do you claim to trust Jesus in all things, then go home and wring your hands, worry and wrestle over challenges and concerns? Are you all about telling others how “the LORD will provide” as you question the very circumstances of your own life? Do you attend worship services and Bible studies and then blow up and get upset over the least of things that don’t go your way?
As human beings, there is no way we can sustain a “split personality” forever. We will slip up at some point, and the four-letter words we let fly at home will pepper our language in public. We’ll find it easy to say something we shouldn’t have or lash out at someone in the heat of the moment. If we mistreat our siblings, our spouse, our children or our pets, this behavior will carry over into our “public” lives… or someone will realize our secret. Others will discover what we really think about them… how we truly talk and act… or how weak our faith in God to meet our needs truly is…and our “Christian” witness will be tarnished.
God wants to equip us to operate with integrity at all times… in all places. He wants to help us control our thoughts and actions on every front. Through His love and justice, we are each able to come before Him and receive the help we need. Because of the blood of Jesus on the cross, our sins can be forgiven. We can ask God to enable us to live a more blameless life… and to trust Him more fully.
Jesus stands at the door and knocks, fully aware of what goes on inside your home… and your heart. Does what is on the inside match the outside? Have you entrusted Him to help you live with integrity? Have you given Him glory and praise for His love and justice? Isn’t this Holy Week a great time to renew your commitment to living a more blameless life in Christ and sharing His amazing love with others? Operating with complete integrity seems like such a small gesture of respect for the One who sacrificed so much. Will you praise the LORD in song and action - and glorify Him in your daily living… regardless of who is looking?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 23, 2013
March 23 – Proverbs 2:20-22
So—join the company of good men and women, keep your feet on the tried-and-true paths. It’s the men who walk straight who will settle this land, the women with integrity who will last here. The corrupt will lose their lives; the dishonest will be gone for 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.
This morning, I read “The Three Little Bears” to my almost-two-year-old niece, Zola. You know the story… Momma Bear makes porridge for herself, Poppa Bear and Baby Bear, and while it cools, they take a walk. A little girl named Goldilocks comes along while out for a walk in the woods. She knocks on the door, and when no one answers… she goes right in and helps herself to food, seating, and a bed for a nap! She even breaks Baby Bear’s chair when she sits in it.
When the bears return, they discover the intruder. Goldilocks wakes up, sees the bears, lets out a yell and runs out of the house… and the story says she was gone for good, because she never went for a walk in the woods again.
Clearly, nobody explained integrity to Goldilocks! She thought nothing of entering someone else’s home, eating their food, sitting in their chairs, or sleeping in their beds. And a lot of us are very much like her! We do what we please… when we please… and take whatever we want as if we are entitled. We say things we shouldn’t. We step off the “straight-and-narrow path” and dance to the beat of our own drummer… or that of the devil himself. And ultimately, our dishonesty and brazenness catch up with us, and we are “gone for good.” Nobody wants anything to do with us… and who could blame them?!
Too many of us have our sights fixed on instant gratification… a “what’s-in-it-for-me-now” mentality. We need to focus on the things of God… His will for our lives and what He wants us to accomplish in His name for the long haul. We need to think more about eternity and how we get there than on a temporary gratification… a warm bowl of porridge, a chair and a comfortable bed, so to speak!
What about you? Are you sticking to a path that leads to lasting rewards and eternity with Jesus… or are you living as if you are on a walk through the woods – hoping to find momentary pleasure in the things of this world? Are you treating others with respect and dignity… do you value their property and their feelings? Have you asked God to show you the path you should take in order to fulfill His purpose for your life? Have you prayed for moral character and integrity… have you asked God to reveal His plan for your life? Isn’t today a great day to do all of this?
Even if you started down another path, there is still time to turn back and regroup. You don’t have to be like Goldilocks and never take a walk in the woods again. You just have to stay on the right trail and let God lead the way. Who is guiding your steps these days? Whose path are you following… and where are you ultimately headed?
©2013 Debbie Robus
So—join the company of good men and women, keep your feet on the tried-and-true paths. It’s the men who walk straight who will settle this land, the women with integrity who will last here. The corrupt will lose their lives; the dishonest will be gone for 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.
This morning, I read “The Three Little Bears” to my almost-two-year-old niece, Zola. You know the story… Momma Bear makes porridge for herself, Poppa Bear and Baby Bear, and while it cools, they take a walk. A little girl named Goldilocks comes along while out for a walk in the woods. She knocks on the door, and when no one answers… she goes right in and helps herself to food, seating, and a bed for a nap! She even breaks Baby Bear’s chair when she sits in it.
When the bears return, they discover the intruder. Goldilocks wakes up, sees the bears, lets out a yell and runs out of the house… and the story says she was gone for good, because she never went for a walk in the woods again.
Clearly, nobody explained integrity to Goldilocks! She thought nothing of entering someone else’s home, eating their food, sitting in their chairs, or sleeping in their beds. And a lot of us are very much like her! We do what we please… when we please… and take whatever we want as if we are entitled. We say things we shouldn’t. We step off the “straight-and-narrow path” and dance to the beat of our own drummer… or that of the devil himself. And ultimately, our dishonesty and brazenness catch up with us, and we are “gone for good.” Nobody wants anything to do with us… and who could blame them?!
Too many of us have our sights fixed on instant gratification… a “what’s-in-it-for-me-now” mentality. We need to focus on the things of God… His will for our lives and what He wants us to accomplish in His name for the long haul. We need to think more about eternity and how we get there than on a temporary gratification… a warm bowl of porridge, a chair and a comfortable bed, so to speak!
What about you? Are you sticking to a path that leads to lasting rewards and eternity with Jesus… or are you living as if you are on a walk through the woods – hoping to find momentary pleasure in the things of this world? Are you treating others with respect and dignity… do you value their property and their feelings? Have you asked God to show you the path you should take in order to fulfill His purpose for your life? Have you prayed for moral character and integrity… have you asked God to reveal His plan for your life? Isn’t today a great day to do all of this?
Even if you started down another path, there is still time to turn back and regroup. You don’t have to be like Goldilocks and never take a walk in the woods again. You just have to stay on the right trail and let God lead the way. Who is guiding your steps these days? Whose path are you following… and where are you ultimately headed?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 22, 2013
March 22 ~ Proverbs 19:1
Better to be poor and honest than a rich person no one can trust.
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.
Suppose someone offered you a million dollars, and all you had to do in return was deliver a package for them. You didn’t know what was in the package, and you didn’t ask. But you were pretty sure that what was happening was illegal… or at best, shady in some way. Would you do it? Now suppose your boss told you, “If you don’t lie for me about XYZ, you’re fired.” What would you do? After all, you have a family counting on your income… you have bills to pay…and all that you’re being asked to do is issue one simple, false statement or perform a single dishonest act. Maybe you’re being asked to say you saw a vehicular accident happen in a certain way – to place the blame on another driver. Or perhaps you are being asked to provide an alibi… “He was with me the whole time.” What could it hurt?
What if you could cheat on a test and score high enough for a scholarship… or you could shift one number and pocket some extra dollars that no one else would ever miss? If being honest about something meant you might actually suffer some sort of material loss… would you tell the truth? Let’s say you know there is something shifty going on with your friends or family members… or in the business in which you work… and reporting this could get a lot of people in trouble and/or cost you friendships and your job. How would you react? Suppose you were encouraged to pass off shoddy work… to cut corners in order to increase profits or speed up production. Could you keep quiet?
Let’s face it… life is not totally “black and white.” But too many of us are more concerned with “What’s in it for me?” than doing the right thing. Do you really want to work for a dishonest boss? Do you truly value friends who lie, cheat and steal? Are you doing family members a favor by keeping their secrets and allowing harm to come to them – and others? How would you feel if you were treated this way? Are you totally honest in all things? Are you willing to compromise your principles for personal gain? Are you more worried about how these things will affect you than in operating with integrity?
Being completely honest often requires a leap of faith and a heavy dose of courage. God will supply you with both. You may not always be the most popular person in some circles… or the wealthiest in terms of money and “stuff.” But you will be rich beyond measure in the things that truly matter… the blessings of God and His favor. Does this mean that all “rich” people are dishonest? Absolutely not! But in our culture, we have become so jaded by material wealth and “things,” that many of us often gauge our credibility and success in terms money and possessions instead of how well we love and serve others… and God.
Take a good hard look at your life and see where you have lost focus. Figure out what really matters to you and see where you have been willing to compromise your values in favor of a quick fix or something that seems to have value…but might actually be rather hollow. Fix your attention on God and the things that matter to Him. Make these the center of your life, and allow Him to determine your course. Let God show you how to do great things with less “stuff” and more integrity. Learn to value the things that He prizes. You may find that you are richer than you ever dreamed possible… in ways that truly matter.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Better to be poor and honest than a rich person no one can trust.
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.
Suppose someone offered you a million dollars, and all you had to do in return was deliver a package for them. You didn’t know what was in the package, and you didn’t ask. But you were pretty sure that what was happening was illegal… or at best, shady in some way. Would you do it? Now suppose your boss told you, “If you don’t lie for me about XYZ, you’re fired.” What would you do? After all, you have a family counting on your income… you have bills to pay…and all that you’re being asked to do is issue one simple, false statement or perform a single dishonest act. Maybe you’re being asked to say you saw a vehicular accident happen in a certain way – to place the blame on another driver. Or perhaps you are being asked to provide an alibi… “He was with me the whole time.” What could it hurt?
What if you could cheat on a test and score high enough for a scholarship… or you could shift one number and pocket some extra dollars that no one else would ever miss? If being honest about something meant you might actually suffer some sort of material loss… would you tell the truth? Let’s say you know there is something shifty going on with your friends or family members… or in the business in which you work… and reporting this could get a lot of people in trouble and/or cost you friendships and your job. How would you react? Suppose you were encouraged to pass off shoddy work… to cut corners in order to increase profits or speed up production. Could you keep quiet?
Let’s face it… life is not totally “black and white.” But too many of us are more concerned with “What’s in it for me?” than doing the right thing. Do you really want to work for a dishonest boss? Do you truly value friends who lie, cheat and steal? Are you doing family members a favor by keeping their secrets and allowing harm to come to them – and others? How would you feel if you were treated this way? Are you totally honest in all things? Are you willing to compromise your principles for personal gain? Are you more worried about how these things will affect you than in operating with integrity?
Being completely honest often requires a leap of faith and a heavy dose of courage. God will supply you with both. You may not always be the most popular person in some circles… or the wealthiest in terms of money and “stuff.” But you will be rich beyond measure in the things that truly matter… the blessings of God and His favor. Does this mean that all “rich” people are dishonest? Absolutely not! But in our culture, we have become so jaded by material wealth and “things,” that many of us often gauge our credibility and success in terms money and possessions instead of how well we love and serve others… and God.
Take a good hard look at your life and see where you have lost focus. Figure out what really matters to you and see where you have been willing to compromise your values in favor of a quick fix or something that seems to have value…but might actually be rather hollow. Fix your attention on God and the things that matter to Him. Make these the center of your life, and allow Him to determine your course. Let God show you how to do great things with less “stuff” and more integrity. Learn to value the things that He prizes. You may find that you are richer than you ever dreamed possible… in ways that truly matter.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 21, 2013
Proverbs 11:3
The integrity of the honest keeps them on track; the deviousness of crooks brings them to ruin.
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.
Believe it or not, there is an organization called the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention. According to information found at www.shoplifters.org, approximately 1 in 11 persons in our country today is a shoplifter. The reasons for shoplifting are varied, but many do not need the items and/or can afford to purchase them outright. These people get a “lift” from getting “something for nothing.” This “high” is more important to the shoplifter than the merchandise being stolen. Others steal to make up for a “loss” in their life…illness, job loss, the death of someone significant in their lives, a relationship breakup or dissolution, and more. Shoplifting may often make the person feel temporarily more in control.
Still others shoplift to relieve tension, anxiety, sadness or boredom, while others consider shoplifting a justifiable compensation for something lacking in their lives… payback for all they have given to others, how they feel they have been mistreated, or a specific experience. While many shoplifters fully expect to get caught at some point, they are often appalled to be placed in jail with “hardened criminals” for such a “petty crime.”
I used shoplifting as an example of dishonesty, but there are parallels for many areas of our life. You may be patting yourself on the back and saying, “Thank goodness this isn’t me!” But I ask you to take a good hard look at yourself. Are there other areas where you “shoplift?” Do you engage in other dishonest or deceptive behaviors in order to temporarily give yourself a “lift” or to compensate for some wrong you feel has been done against you? Do you embellish the truth to make yourself look better to others? Do you brag about how fast you drove to XYZ and didn’t get caught? Do you participate in illegal activities like underage drinking… or drug abuse? Do you cheat on your taxes… or even take extra condiments from the fast-food place “because they are ‘free’?”
Do you put on a good front in public to make everyone think that your life is hunky-dory, then conduct yourself in a totally different manner at home in front of your family and close friends? Do you pretty well thumb your nose at the world because some things have happened in your life and you feel entitled to do so? Are you one of those people who fumbles in his/her pocket for money when it comes time to pay the bill - then lets someone else pay… or “borrows” from others and never gives the items back…or pretends to be busy and lets someone else do all the work – then shares in the credit? Have you become comfortable with gossip, “white lies” and other “harmless petty crimes?"
There are countless ways in which we are all capable of dishonesty, if we are not careful and on constant guard. The adage that you can “give him enough rope and he’ll hang himself” often applies and our sins are discovered… and we have to “come clean” – at least temporarily. But it really shouldn’t matter whether we are ever caught in a lie or not. GOD knows! He sees how incorrigible we often are, and this breaks His heart. There really is no excuse… not the circumstances of our life, our childhood or upbringing, or our “innocence.” We all must strive to operate with more integrity if we want to be like Jesus.
Stop what you are doing today and talk to God. Tell Him that you know there may be areas of your life where even YOU are not aware that you are dishonest or lack integrity. Ask God to shine a bright light on your heart and reveal the places where you need to improve. Don’t risk even the slightest opportunity for ruin. Humbly call upon God to help you with this… and make every effort to stay on track and operate with honesty and integrity - in all things… and at all times.
©2013 Debbie Robus
The integrity of the honest keeps them on track; the deviousness of crooks brings them to ruin.
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.
Believe it or not, there is an organization called the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention. According to information found at www.shoplifters.org, approximately 1 in 11 persons in our country today is a shoplifter. The reasons for shoplifting are varied, but many do not need the items and/or can afford to purchase them outright. These people get a “lift” from getting “something for nothing.” This “high” is more important to the shoplifter than the merchandise being stolen. Others steal to make up for a “loss” in their life…illness, job loss, the death of someone significant in their lives, a relationship breakup or dissolution, and more. Shoplifting may often make the person feel temporarily more in control.
Still others shoplift to relieve tension, anxiety, sadness or boredom, while others consider shoplifting a justifiable compensation for something lacking in their lives… payback for all they have given to others, how they feel they have been mistreated, or a specific experience. While many shoplifters fully expect to get caught at some point, they are often appalled to be placed in jail with “hardened criminals” for such a “petty crime.”
I used shoplifting as an example of dishonesty, but there are parallels for many areas of our life. You may be patting yourself on the back and saying, “Thank goodness this isn’t me!” But I ask you to take a good hard look at yourself. Are there other areas where you “shoplift?” Do you engage in other dishonest or deceptive behaviors in order to temporarily give yourself a “lift” or to compensate for some wrong you feel has been done against you? Do you embellish the truth to make yourself look better to others? Do you brag about how fast you drove to XYZ and didn’t get caught? Do you participate in illegal activities like underage drinking… or drug abuse? Do you cheat on your taxes… or even take extra condiments from the fast-food place “because they are ‘free’?”
Do you put on a good front in public to make everyone think that your life is hunky-dory, then conduct yourself in a totally different manner at home in front of your family and close friends? Do you pretty well thumb your nose at the world because some things have happened in your life and you feel entitled to do so? Are you one of those people who fumbles in his/her pocket for money when it comes time to pay the bill - then lets someone else pay… or “borrows” from others and never gives the items back…or pretends to be busy and lets someone else do all the work – then shares in the credit? Have you become comfortable with gossip, “white lies” and other “harmless petty crimes?"
There are countless ways in which we are all capable of dishonesty, if we are not careful and on constant guard. The adage that you can “give him enough rope and he’ll hang himself” often applies and our sins are discovered… and we have to “come clean” – at least temporarily. But it really shouldn’t matter whether we are ever caught in a lie or not. GOD knows! He sees how incorrigible we often are, and this breaks His heart. There really is no excuse… not the circumstances of our life, our childhood or upbringing, or our “innocence.” We all must strive to operate with more integrity if we want to be like Jesus.
Stop what you are doing today and talk to God. Tell Him that you know there may be areas of your life where even YOU are not aware that you are dishonest or lack integrity. Ask God to shine a bright light on your heart and reveal the places where you need to improve. Don’t risk even the slightest opportunity for ruin. Humbly call upon God to help you with this… and make every effort to stay on track and operate with honesty and integrity - in all things… and at all times.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 20, 2013
Proverbs 10:9
People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will slip and fall.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In the beautiful Arkansas Ozarks where we live, there are dozens of hiking trails, scenic vistas, and breathtaking landscapes. And the only way to enjoy many of them involves a hike! In the immediate area surrounding my community, there are at least three designated hiking areas that lead to some incredible scenery… much of it along bluffs and steep trails. As long as you stay on the designated - and well-worn - pathways, you should have no problem. But more than one person has decided to make his/her own way… and more than a few accidents have resulted.
At one particular landmark, there is a crevice in a steep rock formation commonly known as “Fat Man’s Squeeze.” The rocks have been worn slick by the thousands of climbers who have traversed them over time. Still, this is the recognized path to the top of “Sugarloaf Mountain.” But there will be those who decide to find another route to the top. This may be the result of arrogance, a sense of daring and adventure, or ignorance. But more than one person has fallen… there have been broken bones, and no doubt more than few bumps, scrapes and/or harrowing experiences.
I grew up visiting many of these local landmarks. People who were older and wiser than I showed me the safest paths to take… and how to navigate them successfully. As I visit these places now, I often wonder how those unfamiliar with this area manage to visit safely. Who shows them the ropes? Who tells them which crevice is “Fat Man’s Squeeze” (because there is more than one crevice!) and who reminds them to stay on the worn footpaths to avoid slipping and sliding? How do they know that there are potential dangers and pitfalls along the less-worn trails that lead to nowhere?
In our daily living, we need the same sort of guidance. There are designated pathways… but there are also potential dangers and pitfalls. Who shows us the ropes? And who will show others? Are we people of integrity who walk safely… or are we on crooked paths that leave us subject to a fall? Are we paying attention to the signs and operating in honesty, morality and faithfulness? Are we treating others as we would like to be treated? Are we setting the best example possible in our daily living? Or are we on a collision course with disaster… wandering willy-nilly through life doing as we please and hoping for the best?
God put these beautiful vistas and scenic landmarks in our midst for us to enjoy…just as He wants us to enjoy our life in general. But He also gave us clear pathways to follow… a moral compass… Biblical guidelines and Jesus’ example of how to conduct our lives and walk safely. It is up to us to pay attention and stay on course. How are you doing? Are you safely walking on the path to integrity… or are you headed up a crooked trail toward destruction? Now is the time to turn around… to alter your course and get back on track. Don’t risk your neck – physically, emotionally, or spiritually – for a thrill, a whim, or an attempt to exercise your independence! Stay on the pathway…walk safely in all matters… and see what amazing vistas God shows you!
©2013 Debbie Robus
People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will slip and fall.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In the beautiful Arkansas Ozarks where we live, there are dozens of hiking trails, scenic vistas, and breathtaking landscapes. And the only way to enjoy many of them involves a hike! In the immediate area surrounding my community, there are at least three designated hiking areas that lead to some incredible scenery… much of it along bluffs and steep trails. As long as you stay on the designated - and well-worn - pathways, you should have no problem. But more than one person has decided to make his/her own way… and more than a few accidents have resulted.
At one particular landmark, there is a crevice in a steep rock formation commonly known as “Fat Man’s Squeeze.” The rocks have been worn slick by the thousands of climbers who have traversed them over time. Still, this is the recognized path to the top of “Sugarloaf Mountain.” But there will be those who decide to find another route to the top. This may be the result of arrogance, a sense of daring and adventure, or ignorance. But more than one person has fallen… there have been broken bones, and no doubt more than few bumps, scrapes and/or harrowing experiences.
I grew up visiting many of these local landmarks. People who were older and wiser than I showed me the safest paths to take… and how to navigate them successfully. As I visit these places now, I often wonder how those unfamiliar with this area manage to visit safely. Who shows them the ropes? Who tells them which crevice is “Fat Man’s Squeeze” (because there is more than one crevice!) and who reminds them to stay on the worn footpaths to avoid slipping and sliding? How do they know that there are potential dangers and pitfalls along the less-worn trails that lead to nowhere?
In our daily living, we need the same sort of guidance. There are designated pathways… but there are also potential dangers and pitfalls. Who shows us the ropes? And who will show others? Are we people of integrity who walk safely… or are we on crooked paths that leave us subject to a fall? Are we paying attention to the signs and operating in honesty, morality and faithfulness? Are we treating others as we would like to be treated? Are we setting the best example possible in our daily living? Or are we on a collision course with disaster… wandering willy-nilly through life doing as we please and hoping for the best?
God put these beautiful vistas and scenic landmarks in our midst for us to enjoy…just as He wants us to enjoy our life in general. But He also gave us clear pathways to follow… a moral compass… Biblical guidelines and Jesus’ example of how to conduct our lives and walk safely. It is up to us to pay attention and stay on course. How are you doing? Are you safely walking on the path to integrity… or are you headed up a crooked trail toward destruction? Now is the time to turn around… to alter your course and get back on track. Don’t risk your neck – physically, emotionally, or spiritually – for a thrill, a whim, or an attempt to exercise your independence! Stay on the pathway…walk safely in all matters… and see what amazing vistas God shows you!
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 19, 2013
March 19 ~ Luke 16:10-13
For unless you are honest in small matters, you won’t be in large ones. If you cheat even a little, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? And if you are not faithful with other people’s money, why should you be entrusted with money of your own? “For neither you nor anyone else can serve two masters. You will hate one and show loyalty to the other, or else the other way around – you will be enthusiastic about one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When you get your credit card or utility bills… or your bank statement… you probably go over every line with a fine-toothed comb – or you should! I often hear people talk about hidden charges they discovered – and had removed. Or maybe you have discovered a charge on your bill that you did not authorize. Sometimes, we simply didn’t read the “fine print.” But there are times when I have to wonder whether some corporations figure you will never notice that little surcharge buried in the details. Over time, these amounts add up! Let’s say you or I had a small business where we tucked in little “incidental” charges that we did not disclose to our clients. Do you think we would have repeat customers if this were discovered? Could our reputation for honesty, fairness and integrity be compromised?
I think we understand the ramifications of cheating on a large scale. Most of us get it that we cannot borrow money from a bank, or even a friend or relative – and fail to repay the loan, without some serious consequences. But we fail to recognize that the impact of our failures to follow through on the smaller things in life can be just as critical. A local news station has been sponsoring a multi-week fitness program for a group of out-of-shape moms. Each week, a news report charts their progress. This week, the headline was a report that several of the moms are not showing up for the workouts. They are not honoring their commitment to the program. Not only are they failing to reach their goals and achieve the desired level of fitness, but their lack of commitment has been “outed” to their families, friends and co-workers on state-wide television! One has to wonder how these women treat other commitments if they fail to meet one with such a public view!
Do you see where I am headed with this? Jesus tells us in this passage that we “cannot serve two masters.” I would suggest that those of us who are unable to keep our word… or to be honest and honorable in seemingly small and insignificant things… are probably not capable of doing any better with big matters. If you lie (even to yourself) and say, “Nobody else will know if I eat this extra piece of cake”… or “Sue will forget that I owe her that $50”…how likely are you lie to your spouse about the new pair of shoes you bought, where you really went when you said you were having dinner with a friend, or how committed you are to your marriage?”
If you can pick up pens and paper clips at work and carry them home for personal use… or “borrow” a friend’s t-shirt and keep it to wear as your own… how will others ever believe that you can be trusted not to help yourself to their personal property - as an employee, or even as a friend or acquaintance? If you say one thing and do another, how will anyone ever believe you when you profess to be a faith-filled disciple of Christ?
This passage is about so much more than money. Jesus used this as His example, because so many of us do seem to worship the almighty dollar, so He knew we would easily relate to this analogy. But we all have moments each and every day to make a choice about whether to be honorable and trustworthy with seemingly insignificant issues and situations that have substantial and widespread ramifications… and speak directly to our moral and spiritual character.
What about you? Are you faithful in the small stuff? Are you honest and aboveboard in all things… are you truly honest with yourself? Do you understand how important integrity is in the life of a Christian? How authentic are you? Which “Master” will you serve today?
©2013 Debbie Robus
For unless you are honest in small matters, you won’t be in large ones. If you cheat even a little, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? And if you are not faithful with other people’s money, why should you be entrusted with money of your own? “For neither you nor anyone else can serve two masters. You will hate one and show loyalty to the other, or else the other way around – you will be enthusiastic about one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When you get your credit card or utility bills… or your bank statement… you probably go over every line with a fine-toothed comb – or you should! I often hear people talk about hidden charges they discovered – and had removed. Or maybe you have discovered a charge on your bill that you did not authorize. Sometimes, we simply didn’t read the “fine print.” But there are times when I have to wonder whether some corporations figure you will never notice that little surcharge buried in the details. Over time, these amounts add up! Let’s say you or I had a small business where we tucked in little “incidental” charges that we did not disclose to our clients. Do you think we would have repeat customers if this were discovered? Could our reputation for honesty, fairness and integrity be compromised?
I think we understand the ramifications of cheating on a large scale. Most of us get it that we cannot borrow money from a bank, or even a friend or relative – and fail to repay the loan, without some serious consequences. But we fail to recognize that the impact of our failures to follow through on the smaller things in life can be just as critical. A local news station has been sponsoring a multi-week fitness program for a group of out-of-shape moms. Each week, a news report charts their progress. This week, the headline was a report that several of the moms are not showing up for the workouts. They are not honoring their commitment to the program. Not only are they failing to reach their goals and achieve the desired level of fitness, but their lack of commitment has been “outed” to their families, friends and co-workers on state-wide television! One has to wonder how these women treat other commitments if they fail to meet one with such a public view!
Do you see where I am headed with this? Jesus tells us in this passage that we “cannot serve two masters.” I would suggest that those of us who are unable to keep our word… or to be honest and honorable in seemingly small and insignificant things… are probably not capable of doing any better with big matters. If you lie (even to yourself) and say, “Nobody else will know if I eat this extra piece of cake”… or “Sue will forget that I owe her that $50”…how likely are you lie to your spouse about the new pair of shoes you bought, where you really went when you said you were having dinner with a friend, or how committed you are to your marriage?”
If you can pick up pens and paper clips at work and carry them home for personal use… or “borrow” a friend’s t-shirt and keep it to wear as your own… how will others ever believe that you can be trusted not to help yourself to their personal property - as an employee, or even as a friend or acquaintance? If you say one thing and do another, how will anyone ever believe you when you profess to be a faith-filled disciple of Christ?
This passage is about so much more than money. Jesus used this as His example, because so many of us do seem to worship the almighty dollar, so He knew we would easily relate to this analogy. But we all have moments each and every day to make a choice about whether to be honorable and trustworthy with seemingly insignificant issues and situations that have substantial and widespread ramifications… and speak directly to our moral and spiritual character.
What about you? Are you faithful in the small stuff? Are you honest and aboveboard in all things… are you truly honest with yourself? Do you understand how important integrity is in the life of a Christian? How authentic are you? Which “Master” will you serve today?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 18, 2013
March 18 ~ Job 31:4-8
Doesn’t he see everything I do and every step I take? “Have I lied to anyone or deceived anyone? Let God weigh me on the scales of justice, for he knows my integrity. If I have strayed from his pathway, or if my heart has lusted for what my eyes have seen, or if I am guilty of any other sin, then let someone else eat the crops I have planted. Let all that I have planted be uprooted.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
It is a well-documented fact in the world of caregiving that the person receiving care often “bites the hand that feeds them.” In other words, the primary caregiver bears the brunt of this person’s frustrations, unkind comments and gestures, and more. It’s not that the person receiving care is necessarily ungrateful. Experts say this happens because he/she knows that the primary caregiver probably cannot – or will not – desert them…so they feel safe to “vent” or treat them however they please. I’ve heard more than one caregiver say, “I can do nothing right… but let XYZ come to visit, and the heavens seem to open!” Or a distant relative will show up for a day or two and get the royal treatment… and maybe the family heirlooms… then be gone like a vapor!
All of this is enough to make caregivers throw up their hands and say, I’m done! I’m no longer going to care as much, visit as often, or be as nice! In your world, this may translate to, “Why should I work so hard in school when Jim never has to do anything, and he seems to get by?” Or maybe you feel like it doesn’t matter how much work you do in your job or your church, someone else is going to receive the accolades or be the “favorite.” Maybe you have been diligent to work hard, pay your bills on time, and follow the letter of the law, and you know someone who skirts the edge of all of these things and seems to breeze through life driving a nicer car, wearing better clothes, and living in a bigger house… seemingly living “the good life.” You may wonder, “What’s the point?” I know there have been times when I have observed others and said, “If I did what they were doing, I would have been bankrupt and in the ‘pokey’ years ago!”
I get it… this is enough to make us crazy at times…to frustrate us that we try so hard to do all we are supposed to do, and those who snub their nose at convention sometimes seem to get a free pass. But here’s the deal… it’s all about integrity. We can sum up the reason to “keep on keepin’ on” in the first line of this scripture passage… “Doesn’t He see everything I do and every step I take?” The professor may not ever know you cheated on a test… the police officer may not catch you speeding… the bill collectors may write off your debt… your friends may never know you lied to them or betrayed them to others… but God will know all of this – and more.
The question becomes… “Who do you serve?” Are you concerned with getting away with things or doing just enough to get by? Are you proud of the fact that you duped the system, your friends or family members and “they didn’t even know what hit them?” Or are you willing to say, “I have done what God asked of me… I have lived in a way that honors Him and my commitment to serve as a disciple of Christ. I have worked hard and earned everything I have received ‘the old fashioned way.’ If God can find fault with how I did this, He is welcome to give all I have to someone else!”?
At the end of the day, our goal should be to walk in the confidence that we have served faithfully, honestly, and earnestly. It should not matter what the other guy is doing or how he/she is or isn’t behaving. Integrity is a hallmark in the life of a committed, faith-filled Christian. God will give us the strength and courage to conduct our lives with honor, if we will only ask Him and trust His lead. You are not accountable to God for anyone else…and accountability to God is really all that matters. How are you doing? When God sees everything you do and every step you take, is He pleased? Are you a person of true integrity? Shouldn’t you be?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Doesn’t he see everything I do and every step I take? “Have I lied to anyone or deceived anyone? Let God weigh me on the scales of justice, for he knows my integrity. If I have strayed from his pathway, or if my heart has lusted for what my eyes have seen, or if I am guilty of any other sin, then let someone else eat the crops I have planted. Let all that I have planted be uprooted.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
It is a well-documented fact in the world of caregiving that the person receiving care often “bites the hand that feeds them.” In other words, the primary caregiver bears the brunt of this person’s frustrations, unkind comments and gestures, and more. It’s not that the person receiving care is necessarily ungrateful. Experts say this happens because he/she knows that the primary caregiver probably cannot – or will not – desert them…so they feel safe to “vent” or treat them however they please. I’ve heard more than one caregiver say, “I can do nothing right… but let XYZ come to visit, and the heavens seem to open!” Or a distant relative will show up for a day or two and get the royal treatment… and maybe the family heirlooms… then be gone like a vapor!
All of this is enough to make caregivers throw up their hands and say, I’m done! I’m no longer going to care as much, visit as often, or be as nice! In your world, this may translate to, “Why should I work so hard in school when Jim never has to do anything, and he seems to get by?” Or maybe you feel like it doesn’t matter how much work you do in your job or your church, someone else is going to receive the accolades or be the “favorite.” Maybe you have been diligent to work hard, pay your bills on time, and follow the letter of the law, and you know someone who skirts the edge of all of these things and seems to breeze through life driving a nicer car, wearing better clothes, and living in a bigger house… seemingly living “the good life.” You may wonder, “What’s the point?” I know there have been times when I have observed others and said, “If I did what they were doing, I would have been bankrupt and in the ‘pokey’ years ago!”
I get it… this is enough to make us crazy at times…to frustrate us that we try so hard to do all we are supposed to do, and those who snub their nose at convention sometimes seem to get a free pass. But here’s the deal… it’s all about integrity. We can sum up the reason to “keep on keepin’ on” in the first line of this scripture passage… “Doesn’t He see everything I do and every step I take?” The professor may not ever know you cheated on a test… the police officer may not catch you speeding… the bill collectors may write off your debt… your friends may never know you lied to them or betrayed them to others… but God will know all of this – and more.
The question becomes… “Who do you serve?” Are you concerned with getting away with things or doing just enough to get by? Are you proud of the fact that you duped the system, your friends or family members and “they didn’t even know what hit them?” Or are you willing to say, “I have done what God asked of me… I have lived in a way that honors Him and my commitment to serve as a disciple of Christ. I have worked hard and earned everything I have received ‘the old fashioned way.’ If God can find fault with how I did this, He is welcome to give all I have to someone else!”?
At the end of the day, our goal should be to walk in the confidence that we have served faithfully, honestly, and earnestly. It should not matter what the other guy is doing or how he/she is or isn’t behaving. Integrity is a hallmark in the life of a committed, faith-filled Christian. God will give us the strength and courage to conduct our lives with honor, if we will only ask Him and trust His lead. You are not accountable to God for anyone else…and accountability to God is really all that matters. How are you doing? When God sees everything you do and every step you take, is He pleased? Are you a person of true integrity? Shouldn’t you be?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 17, 2013
March 17 ~ Job 27:1-5
Job said: I am desperate because God All-Powerful refuses to do what is right. As surely as God lives, and while he gives me breath, I will tell only the truth. Until the day I die, I will refuse to do wrong by saying you are right…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As I flipped through my prayer journal this morning, I found several instances where I have made the same requests to God… day after day, week after week. I asked Him many times, “Aren’t you ready for my Mam-ma Polly yet?” because I saw how miserable she was. I asked Him to intervene in other situations, and it seemed things never really got any better. I prayed for healing for a precious friend with breast cancer… and it came all right – when God suddenly called her home to heaven.
I have repeatedly brought the same requests before God, even though it appeared He was refusing to answer me. But the one thing I have not done is to blame God or to give up on believing for an outcome. If anything, I have learned to trust Him more than ever. Even as I would write, “Can’t Mam-ma come Home yet?” I knew he was gently laughing and shaking His head at me in a fatherly way. He was saying, “Oh, sweetie… I hear you… but we’re on MY time – not yours.” So I refused to say (even to myself), “God is so mean for leaving my grandmother here in a failing body without the ability to speak and communicate.” I would not let the devil have the pleasure of knowing that even for one minute I questioned God. Yes, I asked for mercy for her… but I trusted God’s impeccable timing and outcome. And even this week as I looked at how the last days, weeks and hours of my grandmother’s life unfolded, I see God’s hand in the minute details - as well as the big picture.
As I pray for other people and situations, I learn more every day how important it is for me to step aside and let God work. He wants us to bring our petitions before Him. He doesn’t mind that I make the same requests virtually every day for certain persons and circumstances. But God expects me to lift my concerns to Him… then trust Him to handle them. Believe me, on some fronts it would be incredibly easy to throw up my hands and say, “Go ahead, devil! Take this (or them)… I’m done, and it looks like maybe God is, too!” But this is not my call. Throwing in the towel and living as we please because we didn’t exactly get our way with God is not the mark of integrity… or of a faith-filled Christian!
Yes, there are days when we feel a little desperate. But Christians do not abide by the tenet that “desperate times call for desperate measures.” To the contrary, desperate times call for a renewed resolve to trust in God and maintain our faith… and our integrity. If you feel a little desperate today, stop and think about Job and how he was tested. Consider all that Jesus endured on the cross for your sins… and the promise of eternity with Him in heaven. Then ask yourself whether giving up – or giving in – are really viable options.
God is still God. He still sits on the throne and is still very much in charge. Will you recognize this? Will you behave as if it were so? Will others always see in you a person of integrity… at all times and in all situations? Will you allow God complete control of your life and all outcomes? Will you demonstrate to others God’s power in your life to reject the devil’s advances…to refuse to concede defeat? How principled are you? Whose camp are you really in… and is it apparent to others?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Job said: I am desperate because God All-Powerful refuses to do what is right. As surely as God lives, and while he gives me breath, I will tell only the truth. Until the day I die, I will refuse to do wrong by saying you are right…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As I flipped through my prayer journal this morning, I found several instances where I have made the same requests to God… day after day, week after week. I asked Him many times, “Aren’t you ready for my Mam-ma Polly yet?” because I saw how miserable she was. I asked Him to intervene in other situations, and it seemed things never really got any better. I prayed for healing for a precious friend with breast cancer… and it came all right – when God suddenly called her home to heaven.
I have repeatedly brought the same requests before God, even though it appeared He was refusing to answer me. But the one thing I have not done is to blame God or to give up on believing for an outcome. If anything, I have learned to trust Him more than ever. Even as I would write, “Can’t Mam-ma come Home yet?” I knew he was gently laughing and shaking His head at me in a fatherly way. He was saying, “Oh, sweetie… I hear you… but we’re on MY time – not yours.” So I refused to say (even to myself), “God is so mean for leaving my grandmother here in a failing body without the ability to speak and communicate.” I would not let the devil have the pleasure of knowing that even for one minute I questioned God. Yes, I asked for mercy for her… but I trusted God’s impeccable timing and outcome. And even this week as I looked at how the last days, weeks and hours of my grandmother’s life unfolded, I see God’s hand in the minute details - as well as the big picture.
As I pray for other people and situations, I learn more every day how important it is for me to step aside and let God work. He wants us to bring our petitions before Him. He doesn’t mind that I make the same requests virtually every day for certain persons and circumstances. But God expects me to lift my concerns to Him… then trust Him to handle them. Believe me, on some fronts it would be incredibly easy to throw up my hands and say, “Go ahead, devil! Take this (or them)… I’m done, and it looks like maybe God is, too!” But this is not my call. Throwing in the towel and living as we please because we didn’t exactly get our way with God is not the mark of integrity… or of a faith-filled Christian!
Yes, there are days when we feel a little desperate. But Christians do not abide by the tenet that “desperate times call for desperate measures.” To the contrary, desperate times call for a renewed resolve to trust in God and maintain our faith… and our integrity. If you feel a little desperate today, stop and think about Job and how he was tested. Consider all that Jesus endured on the cross for your sins… and the promise of eternity with Him in heaven. Then ask yourself whether giving up – or giving in – are really viable options.
God is still God. He still sits on the throne and is still very much in charge. Will you recognize this? Will you behave as if it were so? Will others always see in you a person of integrity… at all times and in all situations? Will you allow God complete control of your life and all outcomes? Will you demonstrate to others God’s power in your life to reject the devil’s advances…to refuse to concede defeat? How principled are you? Whose camp are you really in… and is it apparent to others?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 16, 2013
March 16 ~ Job 2:9
His wife said to him, “Are you still trying to maintain your integrity? Curse God and die.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In his book When Bad Things Happen to Good People, author Harold S. Kushner tells the story of Martin Gray, who survived the horrors of the Warsaw Ghetto and the Holocaust. He married, built a successful life, and raised a family. One day his wife and children were killed in a forest fire that destroyed their home in the south of France. Some demanded an inquiry as to whether there was negligence or someone was at fault. But Gray refused. He said that accusing others for your misery only makes you lonelier. He maintained that life has to be lived for something, not against it.
An awful lot of us are living our lives against something. We are seeking blame or making excuses. Basically, we are ready to “curse God and die.” I once knew someone who turned her back on God after her father’s death. In her words, “What kind of God would allow my daddy to suffer like that?!” Indeed, it does often seem hard to comprehend the hardships some face. But giving situations a purpose and meaning often makes them more bearable Kushner points out that soldiers who lose a limb fighting for something have a better outlook than those who suffered the same in jury in a car or boating accident.
It often seems that in order to maintain our integrity, we must find the purpose for everything… and it had better be a good one! In other words, when troubles come, we give up on God and take whatever means necessary to survive and/or feel good. We are easily persuaded to “curse God and die” – inwardly, at least, if not literally.
My prayer for each of us today is that we would not sit back and wait on God to show us His purpose for our lives in each situation… but that we would endeavor to find it and to create good outcomes out of even seemingly bad situations. THIS is the mark of integrity… to consistently maintain our values, principles, and expectations… to never waiver in our faith - even when things are crumbling around us. The person of integrity doesn’t ask, “Why me, LORD?” He/she asks, “Where do I go from here? What are You showing me?”
These are the questions for today… “What is God showing you? And what are you doing with it?” Will you give meaning to the things that happen in your life - with God’s help - or are you ready to curse Him and die? Are you living your life for something… or against it? The choice is yours. Our reactions to people, situations and circumstances gives them meaning – either positive or negative. What are yours saying about you… and your faith in God to handle all things?
©2013 Debbie Robus
His wife said to him, “Are you still trying to maintain your integrity? Curse God and die.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In his book When Bad Things Happen to Good People, author Harold S. Kushner tells the story of Martin Gray, who survived the horrors of the Warsaw Ghetto and the Holocaust. He married, built a successful life, and raised a family. One day his wife and children were killed in a forest fire that destroyed their home in the south of France. Some demanded an inquiry as to whether there was negligence or someone was at fault. But Gray refused. He said that accusing others for your misery only makes you lonelier. He maintained that life has to be lived for something, not against it.
An awful lot of us are living our lives against something. We are seeking blame or making excuses. Basically, we are ready to “curse God and die.” I once knew someone who turned her back on God after her father’s death. In her words, “What kind of God would allow my daddy to suffer like that?!” Indeed, it does often seem hard to comprehend the hardships some face. But giving situations a purpose and meaning often makes them more bearable Kushner points out that soldiers who lose a limb fighting for something have a better outlook than those who suffered the same in jury in a car or boating accident.
It often seems that in order to maintain our integrity, we must find the purpose for everything… and it had better be a good one! In other words, when troubles come, we give up on God and take whatever means necessary to survive and/or feel good. We are easily persuaded to “curse God and die” – inwardly, at least, if not literally.
My prayer for each of us today is that we would not sit back and wait on God to show us His purpose for our lives in each situation… but that we would endeavor to find it and to create good outcomes out of even seemingly bad situations. THIS is the mark of integrity… to consistently maintain our values, principles, and expectations… to never waiver in our faith - even when things are crumbling around us. The person of integrity doesn’t ask, “Why me, LORD?” He/she asks, “Where do I go from here? What are You showing me?”
These are the questions for today… “What is God showing you? And what are you doing with it?” Will you give meaning to the things that happen in your life - with God’s help - or are you ready to curse Him and die? Are you living your life for something… or against it? The choice is yours. Our reactions to people, situations and circumstances gives them meaning – either positive or negative. What are yours saying about you… and your faith in God to handle all things?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 15, 2013
March 15 ~ Job 2:1-5
One day when the angels came to report to God, Satan also showed up. God singled out Satan, saying, “And what have you been up to?” Satan answered God, “Oh, going here and there, checking things out.” Then God said to Satan, “Have you noticed my friend Job? There’s no one quite like him, is there—honest and true to his word, totally devoted to God and hating evil? He still has a firm grip on his integrity! You tried to trick me into destroying him, but it didn’t work.”
Satan answered, “A human would do anything to save his life. But what do you think would happen if you reached down and took away his health? He’d curse you to your face, that’s what.”
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 teaching kindergarten, one of my five-year-olds fell out in the hallway as our “lunch line” of students snaked its way to the cafeteria one morning. A severe diabetic, this child’s sugar level plummeted, and she collapsed. I heard the loud clank of her metal lunchbox, looked back, and saw her limp body… and I knew she was in trouble. I rushed her to the nearby nurse’s station, and we called an ambulance. Several suggested we give her something to eat or drink, but I was afraid she would choke. Her mother had said, “If anything happens, call an ambulance.” So that’s what we did. I rode with the child to medical clinic where her pediatrician practiced… located across town. There, she was given saltine crackers and a Coke. The sugar level rose, and thankfully, all was well. After that, we began checking her urine each day before lunch to make sure her sugar levels were within acceptable range.
After this episode, my then-assistant principal drove to the clinic to retrieve me. We were both shaken by the incident, and as she drove away from the clinic, she said, “What do you need, besides a good stiff drink?” We both laughed. But for many, this… or a cigarette…a pint of rich delicious ice cream… an extravagant shopping spree…a wild, reckless drive in a motorized vehicle of some sort…or some other “balm” would be the answer. See, when the going gets tough, a lot of us fold up or surrender to temptation. We find solace in things like food, nicotine, alcohol, drugs, overspending, and irresponsible behaviors. After all, we deserve to be a little crazy for all of our trouble… right?
When trouble comes… when tragedy strikes… when “bad things happen to good people,” the devil takes great delight in the fact that a lot of us turn from God – or at least turn toward the things that displease Him. Unlike Job, we turn away from the God who has supplied all of our needs and claim that “we’re entitled to go a little crazy.” Integrity, schmegrity! It’s time for us to have a pity party and/or get a little wild! We’ve had a lot of hardship in our life… we deserve to shirk our responsibilities for a change. Things have not gone well for us in any way/shape/form… it’s time we spat on the world! And this is exactly what many of us do.
We blame our illness, our employer, our teachers and coaches – or our parents – our church our past disappointments, or our childhood for all of the things that have happened to us. And we essentially say to God…”You let these things happen to us, and we’re not going to tolerate it!” In truth, all we are doing is saying, “I’d rather dance with the devil than trust God to help me through whatever struggles and challenges I’m facing.” It’s not easy to “keep your cool.” And often, doing the right thing is the hardest choice in the world. But I believe many of us know what we choices we should make… we just choose poorly.
So my challenge to each of us today is to take courage… to stay faithful… and to kick the devil to the curb. No matter what comes your way, say, “I’m not budging. God will see me through. It may be messy – even ugly at times – but He will never desert me.” I promise, you cannot say the same for the devil… a stiff drink, that shopping spree, or even a pint of ice cream (although it may stick around a little longer than you’d like!). The one constant… the only sure thing… is God Almighty. Stick with Him…choose to keep your integrity and behave in a way that pleases God. Live with the confidence that He is in charge and will never give you more than you can handle. Tell the devil to “Bring it! I’m serving a God who is big enough to help me handle all that you’ve got!” Then claim this for yourself… take it to heart…and make it so.
Never give up – or in – to the devil. Stick with God, preserve your integrity, and steer clear of any potential for destruction.
©2013 Debbie Robus
One day when the angels came to report to God, Satan also showed up. God singled out Satan, saying, “And what have you been up to?” Satan answered God, “Oh, going here and there, checking things out.” Then God said to Satan, “Have you noticed my friend Job? There’s no one quite like him, is there—honest and true to his word, totally devoted to God and hating evil? He still has a firm grip on his integrity! You tried to trick me into destroying him, but it didn’t work.”
Satan answered, “A human would do anything to save his life. But what do you think would happen if you reached down and took away his health? He’d curse you to your face, that’s what.”
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 teaching kindergarten, one of my five-year-olds fell out in the hallway as our “lunch line” of students snaked its way to the cafeteria one morning. A severe diabetic, this child’s sugar level plummeted, and she collapsed. I heard the loud clank of her metal lunchbox, looked back, and saw her limp body… and I knew she was in trouble. I rushed her to the nearby nurse’s station, and we called an ambulance. Several suggested we give her something to eat or drink, but I was afraid she would choke. Her mother had said, “If anything happens, call an ambulance.” So that’s what we did. I rode with the child to medical clinic where her pediatrician practiced… located across town. There, she was given saltine crackers and a Coke. The sugar level rose, and thankfully, all was well. After that, we began checking her urine each day before lunch to make sure her sugar levels were within acceptable range.
After this episode, my then-assistant principal drove to the clinic to retrieve me. We were both shaken by the incident, and as she drove away from the clinic, she said, “What do you need, besides a good stiff drink?” We both laughed. But for many, this… or a cigarette…a pint of rich delicious ice cream… an extravagant shopping spree…a wild, reckless drive in a motorized vehicle of some sort…or some other “balm” would be the answer. See, when the going gets tough, a lot of us fold up or surrender to temptation. We find solace in things like food, nicotine, alcohol, drugs, overspending, and irresponsible behaviors. After all, we deserve to be a little crazy for all of our trouble… right?
When trouble comes… when tragedy strikes… when “bad things happen to good people,” the devil takes great delight in the fact that a lot of us turn from God – or at least turn toward the things that displease Him. Unlike Job, we turn away from the God who has supplied all of our needs and claim that “we’re entitled to go a little crazy.” Integrity, schmegrity! It’s time for us to have a pity party and/or get a little wild! We’ve had a lot of hardship in our life… we deserve to shirk our responsibilities for a change. Things have not gone well for us in any way/shape/form… it’s time we spat on the world! And this is exactly what many of us do.
We blame our illness, our employer, our teachers and coaches – or our parents – our church our past disappointments, or our childhood for all of the things that have happened to us. And we essentially say to God…”You let these things happen to us, and we’re not going to tolerate it!” In truth, all we are doing is saying, “I’d rather dance with the devil than trust God to help me through whatever struggles and challenges I’m facing.” It’s not easy to “keep your cool.” And often, doing the right thing is the hardest choice in the world. But I believe many of us know what we choices we should make… we just choose poorly.
So my challenge to each of us today is to take courage… to stay faithful… and to kick the devil to the curb. No matter what comes your way, say, “I’m not budging. God will see me through. It may be messy – even ugly at times – but He will never desert me.” I promise, you cannot say the same for the devil… a stiff drink, that shopping spree, or even a pint of ice cream (although it may stick around a little longer than you’d like!). The one constant… the only sure thing… is God Almighty. Stick with Him…choose to keep your integrity and behave in a way that pleases God. Live with the confidence that He is in charge and will never give you more than you can handle. Tell the devil to “Bring it! I’m serving a God who is big enough to help me handle all that you’ve got!” Then claim this for yourself… take it to heart…and make it so.
Never give up – or in – to the devil. Stick with God, preserve your integrity, and steer clear of any potential for destruction.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 14, 2013
Ephesians 4:1-3
In light of all this, here’s what I want you to do. While I’m locked up here, a prisoner for the Master, I want you to get out there and walk—better yet, run!—on the road God called you to travel. I don’t want any of you sitting around on your hands. I don’t want anyone strolling off, down some path that goes nowhere. And mark that you do this with humility and discipline—not in fits and starts, but steadily, pouring yourselves out for each other in acts of love, alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences.
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.
Yesterday, we celebrated the life of my grandmother, Willie Dove “Polly” Chandler… all 100 years, 123 days of it. My grandmother was by no means perfect, but if you could have heard all of the wonderful things said about her and how she served others, you would be tempted to argue this point! She was described by one speaker as a “Proverbs 31” woman (go look it up!)… and by many who passed by her casket as “such a loving, giving person who always had a smile and a word of encouragement for others.” She didn’t just walk down the road God called her to travel… she ran!
I learned so much from my grandmother… and emulating her will be no small challenge! Of all the things she taught me, the most important were summed up in one of her favorite mantras… “The LORD will take care of me” …and He did. Was her life easy? Absolutely not! I can’t begin to tell you everything she saw and did in more than a century, but I know the LORD took care of her through the abandonment by her father at around age 12… the loss of her first baby, who died at birth…the loss of her older brother in a car accident when he was about 18…the death of her mother and all of her other siblings, her husband, her only living son, and her grandson, as well as countless friends and relatives… the loss of virtually all of her earthly belongings in a house fire when she was in her early 70s… numerous surgeries, illnesses and physical challenges – including a wreck when she was driving the school bus that left her with whiplash and put her in a cervical collar and traction for months. Still… the LORD took care of her through each of these things… and many more.
My grandmother grew up with virtually nothing, and for most of her adult life, she lived meagerly on the modest earnings she and my grandfather were able to produce from working more than one job and growing almost all of their own food (and selling the excess). Still, the LORD took care of her, and she faithfully presented a regular tithe to her church. When I took over managing her affairs, I marveled at how her dollars could stretch… and I made sure to make her tithe the first check I wrote each month!
Yes, the LORD took good care of her. And my grandmother quickly gave Him all the credit. When she met someone new, she would ask, “Can you stay for dinner (lunch) or supper?” …followed quickly by “Where do y’all go to church?” If the answer was not satisfactory, she would invite them to join her – at her table… and for services the following Sunday. Hers was a life rich in the things of the LORD… not necessarily material objects or monetary wealth. Her focus was firmly fixed on a heavenly home, where I know she is dancing and shouting today… and feasting at the LORD’s table. You see…He is still taking good care of her!
What about us? What is our focus? Which road are we traveling, and at what speed? Are we quick to serve the LORD… and to trust Him to take care of us? Do we depend upon Him even when things get rough… or tragedy strikes? Or do we fold up and turn to take another path? What is our ultimate focus… where are we headed?
I’ll be honest…the “glue” that held my family together - our matriarch - has gone to be with Jesus, and we’re all just a little lost. But I can already hear my grandmother saying, “Dry it up (the tears) and get up from there! You’ve got work to do and there’s no sense wasting time. The LORD will take care of you… you just need to let Him. Get on, now! They’s lots worse things than dying.” And she is right. So c’mon… we’ve got work to do… let’s work on this together and stay on the right path until the LORD calls us to heaven. I’m in… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
In light of all this, here’s what I want you to do. While I’m locked up here, a prisoner for the Master, I want you to get out there and walk—better yet, run!—on the road God called you to travel. I don’t want any of you sitting around on your hands. I don’t want anyone strolling off, down some path that goes nowhere. And mark that you do this with humility and discipline—not in fits and starts, but steadily, pouring yourselves out for each other in acts of love, alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences.
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 learned so much from my grandmother… and emulating her will be no small challenge! Of all the things she taught me, the most important were summed up in one of her favorite mantras… “The LORD will take care of me” …and He did. Was her life easy? Absolutely not! I can’t begin to tell you everything she saw and did in more than a century, but I know the LORD took care of her through the abandonment by her father at around age 12… the loss of her first baby, who died at birth…the loss of her older brother in a car accident when he was about 18…the death of her mother and all of her other siblings, her husband, her only living son, and her grandson, as well as countless friends and relatives… the loss of virtually all of her earthly belongings in a house fire when she was in her early 70s… numerous surgeries, illnesses and physical challenges – including a wreck when she was driving the school bus that left her with whiplash and put her in a cervical collar and traction for months. Still… the LORD took care of her through each of these things… and many more.
My grandmother grew up with virtually nothing, and for most of her adult life, she lived meagerly on the modest earnings she and my grandfather were able to produce from working more than one job and growing almost all of their own food (and selling the excess). Still, the LORD took care of her, and she faithfully presented a regular tithe to her church. When I took over managing her affairs, I marveled at how her dollars could stretch… and I made sure to make her tithe the first check I wrote each month!
Yes, the LORD took good care of her. And my grandmother quickly gave Him all the credit. When she met someone new, she would ask, “Can you stay for dinner (lunch) or supper?” …followed quickly by “Where do y’all go to church?” If the answer was not satisfactory, she would invite them to join her – at her table… and for services the following Sunday. Hers was a life rich in the things of the LORD… not necessarily material objects or monetary wealth. Her focus was firmly fixed on a heavenly home, where I know she is dancing and shouting today… and feasting at the LORD’s table. You see…He is still taking good care of her!
What about us? What is our focus? Which road are we traveling, and at what speed? Are we quick to serve the LORD… and to trust Him to take care of us? Do we depend upon Him even when things get rough… or tragedy strikes? Or do we fold up and turn to take another path? What is our ultimate focus… where are we headed?
I’ll be honest…the “glue” that held my family together - our matriarch - has gone to be with Jesus, and we’re all just a little lost. But I can already hear my grandmother saying, “Dry it up (the tears) and get up from there! You’ve got work to do and there’s no sense wasting time. The LORD will take care of you… you just need to let Him. Get on, now! They’s lots worse things than dying.” And she is right. So c’mon… we’ve got work to do… let’s work on this together and stay on the right path until the LORD calls us to heaven. I’m in… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 10, 2013
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Thursday morning (March 8th) at 7:00, our phone rang. The nurse at my grandmother’s Assisted Living Facility told my husband that the aides went in to wake Mam-ma Polly for breakfast and found her unresponsive. We quickly dressed and rush to the facility, where she lay with her eyes shut…breathing heavily. I had suspected for a few days she might be developing pneumonia, but upon examination, the Hospice nurse felt certain that she had suffered a stroke. It did not look good.
We sat all day Thursday and through the night… into Friday morning. Many came and went, and all told her how much she was loved. Some told her “Good-bye” … that her heavenly home would be ready soon. Indeed, a group of men and women came to play gospel music for the residents, and they dedicated “Heaven Is My Home” to Mrs. Polly… then followed it with “I’ll Fly Away.”
The Hospice nurses encouraged me to talk to Mam-ma, to gently encourage her to let go and “fly away” to Jesus. During the day on Thursday, I read scripture passages to her from her own Bible… many she had marked in some way, underlined, or noted in the margins. One of the passages I read to her from the King James Version – her personal favorite – was John 14:1-4…
- Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
I told Mam-ma over and again, “We’ll be along after you soon. We’ll see you again. We’re coming, too… just not yet.” I believe that completely. I look forward to the day when my mansion is ready and I can truly see the face of Jesus. Meanwhile, I know I have work to do here. My grandmother gave me an incredible example in 100 years, 123 days of how it’s done…how to live for Jesus and put Him first… how to serve others and love them with grace, mercy and forgiveness… and how to never stop living and fulfilling God’s purpose for your life. As I have prepared for her funeral and read countless messages and memories from those who knew and loved her, I am sure that she found God’s will and purpose for her life and fulfilled it. I pray that I can be a good servant and model her faith. I pray that you are working on your mansion, as well.
I know it’s been a couple of days since I posted a devotional… and now you know why. I pray that God will bless and keep you… and that He will give me strength, courage and wisdom as I resume these writings in the next few days. Love others more than yourself… figure out God’s purpose for your life – and fulfill it… and live well on this earth in preparation for your Heavenly mansion. God bless and keep you…until you fly away Home.
©2013 Debbie Robus
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