Exodus 23:12
“Work six days only, and rest the
seventh; this is to give your oxen and donkeys a rest, as well as the
people of your household—your slaves and visitors."
The
Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by
permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois
60188. All rights reserved.
Recently I joined a water
aerobics class at our community’s Aquatic Center. The class met Monday,
Wednesday and Friday mornings at eight o’clock. Anyone who knows me
very well knows that especially in recent years, I am anything BUT a
morning person. 9:00 a.m. is EARLY for me! So making the commitment to
be “up and at ‘em” - and ready to get into a pool of chilly water at
8:00 a.m. - was really a stretch for me. But I did it - for a few
weeks. I’m also something of a “night owl”. Try as I might to get to
bed earlier, I found myself thinking, “I’ll try to fit in an afternoon
nap,” or “I’ll make up for lost sleep on Tuesdays and Thursday
mornings.” But my body began to adjust to the early morning wake-up
time, and I found myself unable to sleep an extra hour or two on those
“days off” from swimming!
I finally realized that this class
was just not working for me…for a number of reasons. I made a few trips
to the pool to work out on my own – at later daytime hours – and I
found that I was a much happier camper. So I opted to drop the class
and commit to an individual workout program at a more convenient time.
In doing so, I discovered just how tired I had become, when one evening
last week I could not hold my eyes open for very long past the 8:00
hour! I went to bed early – and slept LATE the next morning. Clearly, I
was in need of some rest! And that’s what this scripture in Exodus
seems to be reminding us today…that rest is important – for everyone!
Now
believe me, I know that there are extenuating circumstances. As the
sole employees of a small business, Greg and I used to work at least
several hours of EVERY single day…and we did this for eighteen years.
There was always work to be done, and we were the only ones who could do
much of it! So we worked through holidays, anniversaries, weekends and
much more. And yes, we grew weary. As much as this is often
unavoidable in many situations, I think we need to listen to God’s
admonition to rest when and where we can.
I’m not suggesting that
we all become slackers. There is a delicate balance to maintain. But
so many of us have filled every minute of our day with some kind of
activity, and we have made these far more important than just taking
time to sit, rest, relax, breathe in and out, maybe say a prayer or two,
and simply renew our minds and our souls. In other words, a lot of us
need to clear out the clutter! I’d say that if you cannot find a way to
rest every six days or so – at least for a part of the day – this
scripture applies to you! There may be a season of extenuating
circumstances. You may be caring for someone who is ill, or working on a
major project for several weeks. But over the long haul, everyone
needs to make sure that they get enough rest…and this is ordained by
GOD!
Today as I worked out at the pool, I watched two young
children who were playing in the shallow end…apparently a brother and
sister. Two women who I surmised to be their mother and grandmother
settled into chairs along the wall of windows. The younger woman took
out her phone and began to scroll through messages or something. The
older woman read a flyer. A man arrived who must have been the
children’s dad. He settled himself in the corner of the room farthest
from the pool, opened up a laptop, and got busy reading and typing. He
barely looked up from his computer screen. The children laughed and
giggled and did “tricks”…and kept looking toward the adults to see if
they had noticed. They had not. They would smile at me as if, “Wasn’t
that a neat trick?” and I would smile back. But it seemed like they
wanted the adults who were with them to pay attention and smile,
too…even though they never said, “Watch this!” or asked for their
notice.
I felt sad as I observed this…that these three adults
could not stop for an hour and just “rest” in the moment with their
kids. I had seen this same scenario play out a few days earlier as a
grandmother brought a little girl to swim. The little girl DID ask for
attention…and her grandmother finally put down her copy of The National
Enquirer. As I left the pool, the woman struck up a conversation with
me and volunteered that she has been keeping grandchildren for a few
weeks now, and she was tired. She told me that she had stopped and
picked up this tabloid (to the tune of $5) to read while her
granddaughter swam. I tried not to judge, but a voice in my head said, “Children and grandbabies
grow up overnight – and no longer want to be seen with parents and
grandparents...much less ask for their attention while they swim or
play.”
Parents and grandparents grow old and are gone, and we
wish we had spent a little more time with them…asked more
questions…shown more respect. Relationships fall apart when one person
or the other is too busy, too tired, or too caught up in trying to do
more than is humanly possible. Employees become disgruntled when we
work them to death. Friends and family members grow distant when we
expect too much of them. Ministries become ineffective when those who
are involved become overworked or burned out. Even Jesus and His
disciples took time to rest!
In short, God ordained rest because
He knows we need it! When was the last time you cleared out the clutter
in your life and truly “rested”? Is it time to evaluate your
priorities and make a few adjustments? Will this be the day that you
begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 30, 2014
Deuteronomy 33:12
Concerning the tribe of Benjamin, Moses said:
“He is beloved of God
And lives in safety beside him.
God surrounds him with his loving care,
And preserves him from every harm.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As with certain areas of Arkansas, the “oil boom” is alive and well in North Dakota, where countless people are involved in drilling for oil and natural gas. Because many parts of North Dakota are sparsely populated, makeshift communities, often referred to as “man camps”, have sprung up in recent years. Housing consists of pre-fabricated homes similar to military barracks. People also live in cars, trucks, tents and RVs. So when a rare, but potentially deadly tornado came barreling down the main “escape route” in Watford City on Memorial Day 2014, “residents” had nowhere to go. Many hunkered down in their trailers and “shelters” and rode out the 120-mile-per-hour winds that accompanied this EF-2 tornado.
Fifteen people were injured, including a 15-year-old girl who was visiting relatives and suffered critical wounds that required med-flight to a hospital in Minot. There was so much noise from the rain and hail that accompanied the storm that many were unable to heed any warning sirens that sounded. And even at that, there was pretty much nowhere to go.
In Arkansas, tornadoes occur every year. Many people place a high premium on living where storm shelters are readily available. In recent years, communities have banded together to create facilities, such as reinforced school buildings, that will house and shelter a large number of people in the event of a potentially deadly storm. I will tell you that I rest a little easier knowing that we have a “safe room” in our house where we can retreat from harm when necessary.
One of the residents of Watford City remarked that there…”ain’t no place to take cover.” Isn’t that how it is for some of us in our spiritual life? We live without the benefit of God’s safety and shelter…not because He doesn’t offer - but because we don’t accept it. Now surely there are those in North Dakota who feel they have no choice. They need employment, and the jobs and money are there for those who can do the work. But they are also accepting the accompanying risks. Granted, tornadoes are rare in this part of the country…reports are that there have been just 14 since 1950. But the potential and susceptibility to such peril does exist…as well as other consequences that can come from living in temporary group housing or an otherwise vulnerable structure.
In our spiritual lives, we are offered God’s shelter and protective arms. We are presented with the opportunity to rest and relax in the comfort and safety of His loving care. God is our omnipresent “safe room”. But some of us will choose to venture out on our own and live in a “spiritual trailer” in the middle of nowhere. We will risk the potential for peril in exchange for what we value – what we perceive as important. The din of our prospects for money, fame, fortune, prestige, personal relationships, acceptance, and personal success will drown out any warning signals that might be present. What we fail to recognize in doing this is that God offers us the possibility for all of these things that we desire – and more. He knows what we need…what will truly satisfy. His aspirations for us most likely are not a mirror image of our own…but they are far better in every regard.
As glad as I am to have a concrete “safe room” built into my house…as important as it is to me to always live where such shelter is readily available…it is even more important that I live in the shadow of God’s “safe room”. I don’t want to be away from the security and protection of His loving arms for even one minute. I’m all for being adventurous…but not with my soul and all Eternity…or that of my family and friends!
So what about you? Do you have a “safe room” – both physically, and in terms of your soul? When the storms of life come barreling down and you are directly in their path, you do have a secure place to take cover…if only you will recognize it? Is God providing you with around-the-clock safety and care? Is His “safe room” available to you always – in all ways? Are you fully resting in the protection He offers? Don’t you think it’s time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Concerning the tribe of Benjamin, Moses said:
“He is beloved of God
And lives in safety beside him.
God surrounds him with his loving care,
And preserves him from every harm.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As with certain areas of Arkansas, the “oil boom” is alive and well in North Dakota, where countless people are involved in drilling for oil and natural gas. Because many parts of North Dakota are sparsely populated, makeshift communities, often referred to as “man camps”, have sprung up in recent years. Housing consists of pre-fabricated homes similar to military barracks. People also live in cars, trucks, tents and RVs. So when a rare, but potentially deadly tornado came barreling down the main “escape route” in Watford City on Memorial Day 2014, “residents” had nowhere to go. Many hunkered down in their trailers and “shelters” and rode out the 120-mile-per-hour winds that accompanied this EF-2 tornado.
Fifteen people were injured, including a 15-year-old girl who was visiting relatives and suffered critical wounds that required med-flight to a hospital in Minot. There was so much noise from the rain and hail that accompanied the storm that many were unable to heed any warning sirens that sounded. And even at that, there was pretty much nowhere to go.
In Arkansas, tornadoes occur every year. Many people place a high premium on living where storm shelters are readily available. In recent years, communities have banded together to create facilities, such as reinforced school buildings, that will house and shelter a large number of people in the event of a potentially deadly storm. I will tell you that I rest a little easier knowing that we have a “safe room” in our house where we can retreat from harm when necessary.
One of the residents of Watford City remarked that there…”ain’t no place to take cover.” Isn’t that how it is for some of us in our spiritual life? We live without the benefit of God’s safety and shelter…not because He doesn’t offer - but because we don’t accept it. Now surely there are those in North Dakota who feel they have no choice. They need employment, and the jobs and money are there for those who can do the work. But they are also accepting the accompanying risks. Granted, tornadoes are rare in this part of the country…reports are that there have been just 14 since 1950. But the potential and susceptibility to such peril does exist…as well as other consequences that can come from living in temporary group housing or an otherwise vulnerable structure.
In our spiritual lives, we are offered God’s shelter and protective arms. We are presented with the opportunity to rest and relax in the comfort and safety of His loving care. God is our omnipresent “safe room”. But some of us will choose to venture out on our own and live in a “spiritual trailer” in the middle of nowhere. We will risk the potential for peril in exchange for what we value – what we perceive as important. The din of our prospects for money, fame, fortune, prestige, personal relationships, acceptance, and personal success will drown out any warning signals that might be present. What we fail to recognize in doing this is that God offers us the possibility for all of these things that we desire – and more. He knows what we need…what will truly satisfy. His aspirations for us most likely are not a mirror image of our own…but they are far better in every regard.
As glad as I am to have a concrete “safe room” built into my house…as important as it is to me to always live where such shelter is readily available…it is even more important that I live in the shadow of God’s “safe room”. I don’t want to be away from the security and protection of His loving arms for even one minute. I’m all for being adventurous…but not with my soul and all Eternity…or that of my family and friends!
So what about you? Do you have a “safe room” – both physically, and in terms of your soul? When the storms of life come barreling down and you are directly in their path, you do have a secure place to take cover…if only you will recognize it? Is God providing you with around-the-clock safety and care? Is His “safe room” available to you always – in all ways? Are you fully resting in the protection He offers? Don’t you think it’s time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 29, 2014
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On April 27, 2014, the Center Hill, Arkansas, home of David and Karla Stracener was destroyed by a killer tornado. The couple huddled in a master bedroom closet with Karla’s elderly parents. When the storm passed, rescue workers dug the family from beneath the rubble that had moments earlier been a home built in 1945 by David Stracener’s grandfather. The Straceners stayed with David’s mother in the nearby town of Searcy until recently, when they moved into a temporary camper on the site of their former home.
If the story ended here, we would shake our heads and say, “That’s terrible. What an awful and devastating experience for this family.” But 13 days after the tornado struck, something even more tragic happened to the Straceners. Their son, Ben, had left his job in South Carolina as a fire truck safety feature inspector to return to Arkansas and help his parents in their recovery efforts. He and his girlfriend, Samantha Fowler, met with a pastor to receive pre-marital counseling. After they left this meeting, both Ben and Samantha were killed in a motorcycle accident. The pastor said that the couple were celebrating their future…which seemed full of promise. They were buried in the same grave a few days later.
David and Karla Stracener are in the process of rebuilding their home – and their lives. They note that when you lose everything – your home, your possessions, your vehicles…and most especially, your child – it’s hard to get going again. But they are determined to do this. They know that God is striding ahead of them and paving the way. Like other families who lost loved ones in this horrific storm…and those who have had to go on after the loss of a loved one – whether due to a dreadful accident or a lengthy illness - they can rest in the knowledge that God will never leave them.
Many of us face challenges and “storms”...experiences with the potential for devastation and loss, pain and heartache, or simply a lot of blood, sweat and tears. But we can all take courage in the confidence that we are not tackling these things alone. God is with us…taking the lead and providing strength, courage, wisdom and comfort. He picks up the slack and carries the heavier load when we think we can’t take another step. When we are spent, He allows us to rest in Him.
I pray that you never face the difficulties that have befallen David and Karla Stracener. We will never know why God allowed so much to happen to one family. But we can be assured that He is with them…that He numbers their steps and gives them all that they need to make it through this trial and conquer all that lies before them. Whatever you encounter today, God is right there with you. Do you feel His presence? Are you able to let go and trust Him…to rest in His capable hands and allow Him to do the heavy lifting? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
“Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On April 27, 2014, the Center Hill, Arkansas, home of David and Karla Stracener was destroyed by a killer tornado. The couple huddled in a master bedroom closet with Karla’s elderly parents. When the storm passed, rescue workers dug the family from beneath the rubble that had moments earlier been a home built in 1945 by David Stracener’s grandfather. The Straceners stayed with David’s mother in the nearby town of Searcy until recently, when they moved into a temporary camper on the site of their former home.
If the story ended here, we would shake our heads and say, “That’s terrible. What an awful and devastating experience for this family.” But 13 days after the tornado struck, something even more tragic happened to the Straceners. Their son, Ben, had left his job in South Carolina as a fire truck safety feature inspector to return to Arkansas and help his parents in their recovery efforts. He and his girlfriend, Samantha Fowler, met with a pastor to receive pre-marital counseling. After they left this meeting, both Ben and Samantha were killed in a motorcycle accident. The pastor said that the couple were celebrating their future…which seemed full of promise. They were buried in the same grave a few days later.
David and Karla Stracener are in the process of rebuilding their home – and their lives. They note that when you lose everything – your home, your possessions, your vehicles…and most especially, your child – it’s hard to get going again. But they are determined to do this. They know that God is striding ahead of them and paving the way. Like other families who lost loved ones in this horrific storm…and those who have had to go on after the loss of a loved one – whether due to a dreadful accident or a lengthy illness - they can rest in the knowledge that God will never leave them.
Many of us face challenges and “storms”...experiences with the potential for devastation and loss, pain and heartache, or simply a lot of blood, sweat and tears. But we can all take courage in the confidence that we are not tackling these things alone. God is with us…taking the lead and providing strength, courage, wisdom and comfort. He picks up the slack and carries the heavier load when we think we can’t take another step. When we are spent, He allows us to rest in Him.
I pray that you never face the difficulties that have befallen David and Karla Stracener. We will never know why God allowed so much to happen to one family. But we can be assured that He is with them…that He numbers their steps and gives them all that they need to make it through this trial and conquer all that lies before them. Whatever you encounter today, God is right there with you. Do you feel His presence? Are you able to let go and trust Him…to rest in His capable hands and allow Him to do the heavy lifting? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 28, 2014
Acts 3:20-21
Then that time will come when the Lord will give you fresh strength. He will send you Jesus, his chosen Messiah. But Jesus must stay in heaven until God makes all things new, just as his holy prophets promised long ago.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There was a time when I cleaned our house every week…EVERY.WEEK. - from top to bottom. I dusted furniture, vacuumed floors, scrubbed bathrooms, and sometimes cleaned windows and did other “deep cleaning” jobs. At one house we lived in, we had an entry-way that I waxed and buffed to a high sheen. This wax had to be periodically stripped with ammonia and re-applied. What was I thinking?!
For starters, I was a good 20+ years younger and had more energy. These days, Greg laughs because I spend several days talking about cleaning before it ever gets done. I will say, “Today, I’m going to clean the house.” He smiles and says, “Yeah…okay.” Now, for the record, he doesn’t care if I clean the house or not. His take is, “If we’re not having company, why bother?!” And to some degree – okay, to a LARGE degree! – I’ve become comfortable with that philosophy!
But there comes a point where I cannot rest until my “house is in order” – quite literally. I honestly function better and have a more positive mood when the house is relatively clean and orderly. And if we are honest, we are this way with our spiritual relationship, too – or we should be!
We can rock along for a while and live in disorder. We can let our prayer life and regular Bible study (notice I didn’t say DAILY Bible study!) slide a bit. We can skip a few Sundays here and there at church and get involved in other activities on the weekends. Some of us take this even further and slide back into a few old, sinful habits. We let our “inner slob” take over, and I have to tell you…the devil thinks this is a hoot! Satan LOVES a “dirty house”!
Too many of us have postponed our “housecleaning” and set Jesus on the shelf. We know He will return for us someday – or that He will greet us in Heaven. So in the meantime, we just plug along, doing whatever we feel we can or that time will allow – or whatever feels best! We take Him for granted. And honestly, we grow more sluggish…more weary…and more run down, as outside forces work their way into our lives and vie for our time and attention.
Today, I am determined to get my house cleaned. More importantly, I am working on my heart – the “house” where Jesus lives in the form of His Holy Spirit. As I go about my scrubbing and dusting, I am talking to Him, reconnecting…letting His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and wisdom flood over me and refresh me like a Sunday-afternoon nap! I encourage you to do the same.
Company IS coming…His name is Jesus! Is your “house” in order? Are you rested and ready?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Then that time will come when the Lord will give you fresh strength. He will send you Jesus, his chosen Messiah. But Jesus must stay in heaven until God makes all things new, just as his holy prophets promised long ago.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There was a time when I cleaned our house every week…EVERY.WEEK. - from top to bottom. I dusted furniture, vacuumed floors, scrubbed bathrooms, and sometimes cleaned windows and did other “deep cleaning” jobs. At one house we lived in, we had an entry-way that I waxed and buffed to a high sheen. This wax had to be periodically stripped with ammonia and re-applied. What was I thinking?!
For starters, I was a good 20+ years younger and had more energy. These days, Greg laughs because I spend several days talking about cleaning before it ever gets done. I will say, “Today, I’m going to clean the house.” He smiles and says, “Yeah…okay.” Now, for the record, he doesn’t care if I clean the house or not. His take is, “If we’re not having company, why bother?!” And to some degree – okay, to a LARGE degree! – I’ve become comfortable with that philosophy!
But there comes a point where I cannot rest until my “house is in order” – quite literally. I honestly function better and have a more positive mood when the house is relatively clean and orderly. And if we are honest, we are this way with our spiritual relationship, too – or we should be!
We can rock along for a while and live in disorder. We can let our prayer life and regular Bible study (notice I didn’t say DAILY Bible study!) slide a bit. We can skip a few Sundays here and there at church and get involved in other activities on the weekends. Some of us take this even further and slide back into a few old, sinful habits. We let our “inner slob” take over, and I have to tell you…the devil thinks this is a hoot! Satan LOVES a “dirty house”!
Too many of us have postponed our “housecleaning” and set Jesus on the shelf. We know He will return for us someday – or that He will greet us in Heaven. So in the meantime, we just plug along, doing whatever we feel we can or that time will allow – or whatever feels best! We take Him for granted. And honestly, we grow more sluggish…more weary…and more run down, as outside forces work their way into our lives and vie for our time and attention.
Today, I am determined to get my house cleaned. More importantly, I am working on my heart – the “house” where Jesus lives in the form of His Holy Spirit. As I go about my scrubbing and dusting, I am talking to Him, reconnecting…letting His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and wisdom flood over me and refresh me like a Sunday-afternoon nap! I encourage you to do the same.
Company IS coming…His name is Jesus! Is your “house” in order? Are you rested and ready?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 27, 2014
2 Thessalonians 1:5-10
This is only one example of the fair, just way God does things, for he is using your sufferings to make you ready for his Kingdom, while at the same time he is preparing judgment and punishment for those who are hurting you.
And so I would say to you who are suffering, God will give you rest along with us when the Lord Jesus appears suddenly from heaven in flaming fire with his mighty angels, bringing judgment on those who do not wish to know God and who refuse to accept his plan to save them through our Lord Jesus Christ. They will be punished in everlasting hell, forever separated from the Lord, never to see the glory of his power when he comes to receive praise and admiration because of all he has done for his people, his saints. And you will be among those praising him because you have believed what we told you about him.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
"Living well is the best revenge."
"He/she will pay for this!"
"Don’t get mad – get even!"
You’ve no doubt heard these old adages…or maybe even spoken them yourself. We don’t like it when we are mistreated, and the first instinct is to retaliate – to get even…to seek revenge. If we are completely honest, this can become quite tiresome – even exhausting. Just the energy we expend on being hurt and upset over things others have said or done is enough to wear us out and drag down our spirit.
But there is GOOD NEWS! We can take a page from the popular theme song of a recent children’s movie and “Let It Go!” We can give God our burdens and our sufferings and say, “LORD, I know this isn’t right…but only You can change it.” God may very well use our sufferings in some manner to help us grow in our faith – or to further His Kingdom. He may punish the person who has “done us wrong” – or not! But at the end of the day, we can rest well - knowing that whatever needs to be done, God will handle it for us!
I don’t know about you, but this really helps me! I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired…of wasting time and energy on hurts and insults and disappointments of any kind. I’m ready to set aside negative talk and stop paying attention to bad attitudes on social media – and in the world at large. I’m ready to give all of these sufferings and burdens to God and truly REST and refresh in His presence. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
This is only one example of the fair, just way God does things, for he is using your sufferings to make you ready for his Kingdom, while at the same time he is preparing judgment and punishment for those who are hurting you.
And so I would say to you who are suffering, God will give you rest along with us when the Lord Jesus appears suddenly from heaven in flaming fire with his mighty angels, bringing judgment on those who do not wish to know God and who refuse to accept his plan to save them through our Lord Jesus Christ. They will be punished in everlasting hell, forever separated from the Lord, never to see the glory of his power when he comes to receive praise and admiration because of all he has done for his people, his saints. And you will be among those praising him because you have believed what we told you about him.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
"Living well is the best revenge."
"He/she will pay for this!"
"Don’t get mad – get even!"
You’ve no doubt heard these old adages…or maybe even spoken them yourself. We don’t like it when we are mistreated, and the first instinct is to retaliate – to get even…to seek revenge. If we are completely honest, this can become quite tiresome – even exhausting. Just the energy we expend on being hurt and upset over things others have said or done is enough to wear us out and drag down our spirit.
But there is GOOD NEWS! We can take a page from the popular theme song of a recent children’s movie and “Let It Go!” We can give God our burdens and our sufferings and say, “LORD, I know this isn’t right…but only You can change it.” God may very well use our sufferings in some manner to help us grow in our faith – or to further His Kingdom. He may punish the person who has “done us wrong” – or not! But at the end of the day, we can rest well - knowing that whatever needs to be done, God will handle it for us!
I don’t know about you, but this really helps me! I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired…of wasting time and energy on hurts and insults and disappointments of any kind. I’m ready to set aside negative talk and stop paying attention to bad attitudes on social media – and in the world at large. I’m ready to give all of these sufferings and burdens to God and truly REST and refresh in His presence. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 26, 2014
2 Samuel 7:18-29
David went into the tent he had set up for the sacred chest. Then he sat there and prayed:
Lord All-Powerful, my family and I don’t deserve what you have already done for us, and yet you have promised to do even more. Is this the way you usually treat people? I am your servant, and you know my thoughts, so there is nothing more that I need to say. You have done this wonderful thing, and you have let me know about it, because you wanted to keep your promise.
Lord All-Powerful, you are greater than all others. No one is like you, and you alone are God. Everything we have heard about you is true. And there is no other nation on earth like Israel, the nation you rescued from slavery in Egypt to be your own. You became famous by using great and wonderful miracles to force other nations and their gods out of your land, so your people could live here. You have chosen Israel to be your people forever, and you have become their God.
And now, Lord God, please do what you have promised me and my descendants. Then you will be famous forever, and everyone will say, “The Lord God All-Powerful rules Israel, and David’s descendants are his chosen kings.” After all, you really are Israel’s God, the Lord All-Powerful. You’ve told me that you will let my descendants be kings. That’s why I have the courage to pray to you like this, even though I am only your servant.
Lord All-Powerful, you are God. You have promised me some very good things, and you can be trusted to do what you promise. Please bless my descendants and let them always be your chosen kings. You have already promised, and I’m sure that you will bless my family forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“Don’t make a promise you can’t keep!” You have probably heard this adage or some form of it. And maybe you have heard this one…”You can tell a lot about a man by the promises he keeps – and breaks.” Both of these quotes have their basis in Ecclesiastes 5:4-5…”God doesn’t like fools. So don’t be slow to keep your promises to God. It’s better not to make a promise at all than to make one and not keep it.”
I bet if you are honest, you’ve probably forgotten a lot of promises that were made to you and never kept. But over the course of your life, there are probably at least one or two promises you were given that never happened. And you remember this like it happened yesterday. I try to be very careful about promises – especially to my little ones. They have memories like elephants! If I promise that the next time they visit, we will make s’mores, they remind me. If I promise Owen that I will make him a surprise, his first question is, “What did you bring me?” Sometimes, they add…”But you promised!” Sometimes it is implied. Either way, I feel like I let them down – if even in a small way.
See, the trouble with “small” broken promises is that they have a way of mushrooming into big ones. It’s sort of like “little white lies”. Once you get comfortable telling them, you find it exponentially easier to lie about more significant things. The next thing you know, your life is anything but peaceful, as you struggle to remember who you told or promised what…and you wrestle to figure out how to get out of the mess you’ve created!
Thankfully, God never breaks a promise. So we need look no further than His word for countless examples of promises made…and kept. I love the verses in this passage where David tells God that “even though I am only your servant, I have the courage to pray to you like this,” because he knows that God has promised to hear his prayers – and to bless him and his family. David can truly “rest in the LORD” because He knows that God will never fail him.
Do you know this sort of “rest”? Do you believe in the steadfastness of God’s promises…the surety that He will never say one thing and then do another? Are you a faithful model of this in your own life? Are you a person of your word, or are you restless and irritable as you scramble to “keep all of the balls – and stories – in the air” in your relationships with others? Isn’t it time to lay aside all of the excuses, doubts and fears – and truly operate in a restful relationship of kept promises with God? Wouldn’t this be the perfect day to start? You won’t regret it…I promise!
©2014 Debbie Robus
David went into the tent he had set up for the sacred chest. Then he sat there and prayed:
Lord All-Powerful, my family and I don’t deserve what you have already done for us, and yet you have promised to do even more. Is this the way you usually treat people? I am your servant, and you know my thoughts, so there is nothing more that I need to say. You have done this wonderful thing, and you have let me know about it, because you wanted to keep your promise.
Lord All-Powerful, you are greater than all others. No one is like you, and you alone are God. Everything we have heard about you is true. And there is no other nation on earth like Israel, the nation you rescued from slavery in Egypt to be your own. You became famous by using great and wonderful miracles to force other nations and their gods out of your land, so your people could live here. You have chosen Israel to be your people forever, and you have become their God.
And now, Lord God, please do what you have promised me and my descendants. Then you will be famous forever, and everyone will say, “The Lord God All-Powerful rules Israel, and David’s descendants are his chosen kings.” After all, you really are Israel’s God, the Lord All-Powerful. You’ve told me that you will let my descendants be kings. That’s why I have the courage to pray to you like this, even though I am only your servant.
Lord All-Powerful, you are God. You have promised me some very good things, and you can be trusted to do what you promise. Please bless my descendants and let them always be your chosen kings. You have already promised, and I’m sure that you will bless my family forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“Don’t make a promise you can’t keep!” You have probably heard this adage or some form of it. And maybe you have heard this one…”You can tell a lot about a man by the promises he keeps – and breaks.” Both of these quotes have their basis in Ecclesiastes 5:4-5…”God doesn’t like fools. So don’t be slow to keep your promises to God. It’s better not to make a promise at all than to make one and not keep it.”
I bet if you are honest, you’ve probably forgotten a lot of promises that were made to you and never kept. But over the course of your life, there are probably at least one or two promises you were given that never happened. And you remember this like it happened yesterday. I try to be very careful about promises – especially to my little ones. They have memories like elephants! If I promise that the next time they visit, we will make s’mores, they remind me. If I promise Owen that I will make him a surprise, his first question is, “What did you bring me?” Sometimes, they add…”But you promised!” Sometimes it is implied. Either way, I feel like I let them down – if even in a small way.
See, the trouble with “small” broken promises is that they have a way of mushrooming into big ones. It’s sort of like “little white lies”. Once you get comfortable telling them, you find it exponentially easier to lie about more significant things. The next thing you know, your life is anything but peaceful, as you struggle to remember who you told or promised what…and you wrestle to figure out how to get out of the mess you’ve created!
Thankfully, God never breaks a promise. So we need look no further than His word for countless examples of promises made…and kept. I love the verses in this passage where David tells God that “even though I am only your servant, I have the courage to pray to you like this,” because he knows that God has promised to hear his prayers – and to bless him and his family. David can truly “rest in the LORD” because He knows that God will never fail him.
Do you know this sort of “rest”? Do you believe in the steadfastness of God’s promises…the surety that He will never say one thing and then do another? Are you a faithful model of this in your own life? Are you a person of your word, or are you restless and irritable as you scramble to “keep all of the balls – and stories – in the air” in your relationships with others? Isn’t it time to lay aside all of the excuses, doubts and fears – and truly operate in a restful relationship of kept promises with God? Wouldn’t this be the perfect day to start? You won’t regret it…I promise!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 25, 2014
2 Corinthians 5:17
When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Yesterday, we added another member to the Robus family when Ellie Grace made her entrance into the world at 7:50 a.m. Weighing in at 8 pounds 9 ounces and measuring 20¾” long, this daughter of Leslie and John (who is Greg's nephew) is new and fresh…and “the world is her oyster”! Ellie Grace is a blank canvas…all of her life stretches before her. For the moment, she is pure and unblemished. As she grows and progresses, she will develop characteristics and personality traits - and find her place in the world. She will make her presence known…and at some point, she will form opinions and attitudes – from the first time she spits out a green veggie she doesn’t like to the day she goes off to college and makes countless choices all by herself.
But for now, she is flawless and unencumbered…without a care in the world! Her parents will handle everything…feeding, changing, bathing, cuddling and protecting her. All she has to do is snuggle against them and settle in for lots of naps and hugs - and goofy looks and coos from the adults who will adore her.
Each and every one of us has more than a few years “under our belts”. And with those years comes baggage…lessons we learned…mistakes we made…bad choices and poor decisions…guilt – and maybe even a heavy dose of shame in many cases. Don’t you ever wish you could just wipe the slate clean and start over? Maybe you have done this, so to speak. If you’ve given your heart to Jesus, this was essentially what He offered you - new life…a brand new start…a chance to pull out a fresh sheet of paper and let Him paint a new masterpiece that would represent your life in Him.
The problem is that many of us invited Jesus into our hearts…then pretty much went right back to our old lives. We didn’t embrace what God offered us through the blood of Jesus – for any number of reasons – and as a result, our lives are anything but restful and peaceful. Our old lives of sin bring with them a boat load of turmoil…and too many of us are wallowing in this needlessly!
It’s time to embrace our new life in Christ…to truly rest in the grace, mercy, and forgiveness of Salvation through the blood of Jesus…to snuggle against His chest and be soothed by His love and kindness. We must never become complacent. There is a difference between resting in the LORD and “resting on our laurels” or becoming smug and lazy. Christians are called to work and to serve…but we are also offered help with the burdens. Jesus offers to carry the brunt of the load and give us the rest and peace that we so desperately need.
We cannot literally return to the simplicity of that first year of life that awaits Ellie Grace…but we can enjoy all of the rest and peace that Jesus offers when we give our hearts to Him. Have you accepted His gift of Salvation and truly left your “old life” behind in exchange for the new one He offers? Regardless of when you initially surrendered to Christ, this can be the day that you start to truly live your “new life” in Him. Are you ready to begin the “first year of the rest of your life” in Christ - and fully rest in His blessings?
©2014 Debbie Robus
When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Yesterday, we added another member to the Robus family when Ellie Grace made her entrance into the world at 7:50 a.m. Weighing in at 8 pounds 9 ounces and measuring 20¾” long, this daughter of Leslie and John (who is Greg's nephew) is new and fresh…and “the world is her oyster”! Ellie Grace is a blank canvas…all of her life stretches before her. For the moment, she is pure and unblemished. As she grows and progresses, she will develop characteristics and personality traits - and find her place in the world. She will make her presence known…and at some point, she will form opinions and attitudes – from the first time she spits out a green veggie she doesn’t like to the day she goes off to college and makes countless choices all by herself.
But for now, she is flawless and unencumbered…without a care in the world! Her parents will handle everything…feeding, changing, bathing, cuddling and protecting her. All she has to do is snuggle against them and settle in for lots of naps and hugs - and goofy looks and coos from the adults who will adore her.
Each and every one of us has more than a few years “under our belts”. And with those years comes baggage…lessons we learned…mistakes we made…bad choices and poor decisions…guilt – and maybe even a heavy dose of shame in many cases. Don’t you ever wish you could just wipe the slate clean and start over? Maybe you have done this, so to speak. If you’ve given your heart to Jesus, this was essentially what He offered you - new life…a brand new start…a chance to pull out a fresh sheet of paper and let Him paint a new masterpiece that would represent your life in Him.
The problem is that many of us invited Jesus into our hearts…then pretty much went right back to our old lives. We didn’t embrace what God offered us through the blood of Jesus – for any number of reasons – and as a result, our lives are anything but restful and peaceful. Our old lives of sin bring with them a boat load of turmoil…and too many of us are wallowing in this needlessly!
It’s time to embrace our new life in Christ…to truly rest in the grace, mercy, and forgiveness of Salvation through the blood of Jesus…to snuggle against His chest and be soothed by His love and kindness. We must never become complacent. There is a difference between resting in the LORD and “resting on our laurels” or becoming smug and lazy. Christians are called to work and to serve…but we are also offered help with the burdens. Jesus offers to carry the brunt of the load and give us the rest and peace that we so desperately need.
We cannot literally return to the simplicity of that first year of life that awaits Ellie Grace…but we can enjoy all of the rest and peace that Jesus offers when we give our hearts to Him. Have you accepted His gift of Salvation and truly left your “old life” behind in exchange for the new one He offers? Regardless of when you initially surrendered to Christ, this can be the day that you start to truly live your “new life” in Him. Are you ready to begin the “first year of the rest of your life” in Christ - and fully rest in His blessings?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 24, 2014
2 Corinthians 2:14-15
But thanks be to God! For through what Christ has done, he has triumphed over us so that now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Gospel like a sweet perfume. As far as God is concerned there is a sweet, wholesome fragrance in our lives. It is the fragrance of Christ within us, an aroma to both the saved and the unsaved all around us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Yesterday, I made apple pies. I shared one with my cousins, and one of them said, “I bet your house smells amazing!” And yes, it did smell good as the aroma of freshly baked pie wafted through the rooms. We all associate certain thoughts and memories with smells – both good ones and those that are not so pleasant. If you have ever had a bad experience with a certain smell, unhappy memories will be triggered pretty much every time you encounter that aroma afterward…and you may be left feeling unsettled – or even agitated.
Perhaps you share fond memories associated with smells. For me, it is those little crumbly wafer-style ice cream cones. My grandmother kept them – along with ice cream (usually Neopolitan, so we could each choose our favorite flavor!) – and I think of her every time I smell those. Today, I keep them for our children, and each time we have an ice cream cone, I remember my grandmother.
I shared some baby clothes that Timothy had outgrown with my friend Melissa, and as she took them out of the sack, she asked her daughter Ada, “Do you know who gave us these clothes?” Ada replied, “Yes…Mrs. Devvie! They smell like her!” My cousin Natalie tells me that her little boy, Owen, has made the same comment – that the clothes I have made for him “smell like Aunt Debbie”. We think it must be the fabric softener I use. And speaking of fabric softener…I purchased dryer sheets last week while I was shopping. All the way home, my car smelled wonderful…the sweet, soothing fragrance from those boxes filled my vehicle and gave me a wonderful sense of calm and relaxation.
The Bible tells us that Christ’s presence within our hearts is a sweet fragrance…an aroma to savor. He gives us peace, calm, and rest as we let the cares of the world – and freedom from our sin – go by the wayside, and we simply bask in His love and care. His is not a palpable aroma in the physical sense – like that of dryer sheets, an apple pie or an ice cream cone. But the sweet perfume of Jesus is the most lasting fragrance…the most powerful and effective scent…the most peaceful and restful “aroma” we will ever experience.
Do you carry the sweet perfume of Jesus’ love and care with you? Is the aroma of His grace and mercy - and His sacrifice for your sins - filling your heart and soul today? Are you resting in the beautiful fragrance of Christ…relaxing in the bountiful and glorious aroma of His continual presence? Don’t you want to “smell like Jesus”? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
But thanks be to God! For through what Christ has done, he has triumphed over us so that now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Gospel like a sweet perfume. As far as God is concerned there is a sweet, wholesome fragrance in our lives. It is the fragrance of Christ within us, an aroma to both the saved and the unsaved all around us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Yesterday, I made apple pies. I shared one with my cousins, and one of them said, “I bet your house smells amazing!” And yes, it did smell good as the aroma of freshly baked pie wafted through the rooms. We all associate certain thoughts and memories with smells – both good ones and those that are not so pleasant. If you have ever had a bad experience with a certain smell, unhappy memories will be triggered pretty much every time you encounter that aroma afterward…and you may be left feeling unsettled – or even agitated.
Perhaps you share fond memories associated with smells. For me, it is those little crumbly wafer-style ice cream cones. My grandmother kept them – along with ice cream (usually Neopolitan, so we could each choose our favorite flavor!) – and I think of her every time I smell those. Today, I keep them for our children, and each time we have an ice cream cone, I remember my grandmother.
I shared some baby clothes that Timothy had outgrown with my friend Melissa, and as she took them out of the sack, she asked her daughter Ada, “Do you know who gave us these clothes?” Ada replied, “Yes…Mrs. Devvie! They smell like her!” My cousin Natalie tells me that her little boy, Owen, has made the same comment – that the clothes I have made for him “smell like Aunt Debbie”. We think it must be the fabric softener I use. And speaking of fabric softener…I purchased dryer sheets last week while I was shopping. All the way home, my car smelled wonderful…the sweet, soothing fragrance from those boxes filled my vehicle and gave me a wonderful sense of calm and relaxation.
The Bible tells us that Christ’s presence within our hearts is a sweet fragrance…an aroma to savor. He gives us peace, calm, and rest as we let the cares of the world – and freedom from our sin – go by the wayside, and we simply bask in His love and care. His is not a palpable aroma in the physical sense – like that of dryer sheets, an apple pie or an ice cream cone. But the sweet perfume of Jesus is the most lasting fragrance…the most powerful and effective scent…the most peaceful and restful “aroma” we will ever experience.
Do you carry the sweet perfume of Jesus’ love and care with you? Is the aroma of His grace and mercy - and His sacrifice for your sins - filling your heart and soul today? Are you resting in the beautiful fragrance of Christ…relaxing in the bountiful and glorious aroma of His continual presence? Don’t you want to “smell like Jesus”? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 23, 2014
1 Peter 1:3
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is so good, and by raising Jesus from death, he has given us new life and a hope that lives on.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My friend Marla was telling me how frazzled her daughter Molly is these days. Molly is the working, single mother of three children…and they are all going in different directions. She has been driving her oldest son to a night-time “band camp” this week to prepare for his entry into high school band next fall. The two younger children are involved in gymnastics classes. Marla said that when she visited recently, Molly’s kitchen table was littered with applications for a number of summer camps. She said, “It’s all about to drive Molly crazy!” And many of you can relate.
Even if you don’t have three children and a job, you may have a “to-do” list that seems insurmountable. I can remember days when I worked full-time and was so frazzled and exhausted by all that I had to accomplish that I woke up thinking, “If I can get through this day, in 10-12 hours, I can go back to bed!” Does this sound familiar?
What if our spiritual life was like this? In the Old Testament, we read about making blood sacrifices for our sins. If you think people in Biblical times had it easier, think again! They didn’t have cars, microwaves, smart phones, computers, or even running water (at least your average Joe didn’t!). So in addition to toting water…hunting and killing – or growing – their food…gathering fire wood…protecting their property and their physical body from the elements, predators and enemies… and even the logistics of getting from Point A to Point B…they had to select the purest lambs, carry them to the high priest, confess their sins, then kill the lamb with a knife and spill its blood in atonement! Whew! Makes me tired just to type all of this!
I’m thankful for all of our modern conveniences. But I am even more thankful for the blood of Jesus that bought and paid for my sins - once and for all. Now understand, this is not a “given”…we cannot just assume that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and go on with our merry lives. We must humbly confess before God that we are sinners. We must ask for His forgiveness. We must request the gift of eternal life by the blood of Jesus. THEN He will bestow it! And we’re not done…we still have obligations. We must be good stewards of our gift of Salvation in Jesus.
We have to live in a way that honors this gift and truly demonstrates our desire and efforts to enjoy a life free of sin. But “resting in the LORD” is so much more peaceful and soothing than constantly worrying and examining your life and rushing to a priest with a living sacrifice. Even more importantly, once we confess our sins and vow to follow Jesus, we are free of the “after-burden” of our sins. We don’t have to carry the added weight of picturing a precious lamb suffering, quite literally, under the knife of our transgressions…and the knowledge that we will have to repeat this act over and over and over throughout our lives.
Acceptance of Jesus’ gift of salvation allows us to rest in His love and to concentrate our time and energy on other things…like serving Him and loving others – and enjoying the new life that He has given us! Our new life in Christ won’t take all of the tasks off of our “to-do” list. We will still have jobs, spouses, kids, family obligations, civic duties, and ministries to tend. But we will not have the heavy burden of sin looming over our heads. I don’t know about you, but for me, this is HUGE!
Summer is a time when we often think of a slower, more relaxed pace…afternoons lounging in a porch swing or hammock…sunny days spent playing in the water…the fun and camaraderie of a baseball game…camps and vacations…and so much more. Let this summer be the one that you leave behind the burden of sin. Truly humble yourself and ask Jesus to forgive you…to wash you in the blood of His sacrifice…and be done with it, once and for all! Rest in His hope; relax in His peace. See if this doesn’t make your crazy “to-do” list just a little more tolerable. Aren’t you ready to “rest in the LORD”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is so good, and by raising Jesus from death, he has given us new life and a hope that lives on.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My friend Marla was telling me how frazzled her daughter Molly is these days. Molly is the working, single mother of three children…and they are all going in different directions. She has been driving her oldest son to a night-time “band camp” this week to prepare for his entry into high school band next fall. The two younger children are involved in gymnastics classes. Marla said that when she visited recently, Molly’s kitchen table was littered with applications for a number of summer camps. She said, “It’s all about to drive Molly crazy!” And many of you can relate.
Even if you don’t have three children and a job, you may have a “to-do” list that seems insurmountable. I can remember days when I worked full-time and was so frazzled and exhausted by all that I had to accomplish that I woke up thinking, “If I can get through this day, in 10-12 hours, I can go back to bed!” Does this sound familiar?
What if our spiritual life was like this? In the Old Testament, we read about making blood sacrifices for our sins. If you think people in Biblical times had it easier, think again! They didn’t have cars, microwaves, smart phones, computers, or even running water (at least your average Joe didn’t!). So in addition to toting water…hunting and killing – or growing – their food…gathering fire wood…protecting their property and their physical body from the elements, predators and enemies… and even the logistics of getting from Point A to Point B…they had to select the purest lambs, carry them to the high priest, confess their sins, then kill the lamb with a knife and spill its blood in atonement! Whew! Makes me tired just to type all of this!
I’m thankful for all of our modern conveniences. But I am even more thankful for the blood of Jesus that bought and paid for my sins - once and for all. Now understand, this is not a “given”…we cannot just assume that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and go on with our merry lives. We must humbly confess before God that we are sinners. We must ask for His forgiveness. We must request the gift of eternal life by the blood of Jesus. THEN He will bestow it! And we’re not done…we still have obligations. We must be good stewards of our gift of Salvation in Jesus.
We have to live in a way that honors this gift and truly demonstrates our desire and efforts to enjoy a life free of sin. But “resting in the LORD” is so much more peaceful and soothing than constantly worrying and examining your life and rushing to a priest with a living sacrifice. Even more importantly, once we confess our sins and vow to follow Jesus, we are free of the “after-burden” of our sins. We don’t have to carry the added weight of picturing a precious lamb suffering, quite literally, under the knife of our transgressions…and the knowledge that we will have to repeat this act over and over and over throughout our lives.
Acceptance of Jesus’ gift of salvation allows us to rest in His love and to concentrate our time and energy on other things…like serving Him and loving others – and enjoying the new life that He has given us! Our new life in Christ won’t take all of the tasks off of our “to-do” list. We will still have jobs, spouses, kids, family obligations, civic duties, and ministries to tend. But we will not have the heavy burden of sin looming over our heads. I don’t know about you, but for me, this is HUGE!
Summer is a time when we often think of a slower, more relaxed pace…afternoons lounging in a porch swing or hammock…sunny days spent playing in the water…the fun and camaraderie of a baseball game…camps and vacations…and so much more. Let this summer be the one that you leave behind the burden of sin. Truly humble yourself and ask Jesus to forgive you…to wash you in the blood of His sacrifice…and be done with it, once and for all! Rest in His hope; relax in His peace. See if this doesn’t make your crazy “to-do” list just a little more tolerable. Aren’t you ready to “rest in the LORD”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 22, 2014
Romans 12:4-5
Just as there are many parts to our bodies, so it is with Christ’s body. We are all parts of it, and it takes every one of us to make it complete, for we each have different work to do. So we belong to each other, and each needs all the others.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We have a Greater Roadrunner that lives in our yard – or close by – and I have to tell you…I love that funny bird! Not only is he entertaining to watch as he scurries across our yard or driveway…he’s a wonderful addition to our neighborhood. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website*, “… the Greater Roadrunner can outrace a human, kill a rattlesnake, and thrive in the harsh landscapes of the Desert Southwest.” Between the Greater Roadrunner and the large black rat snake we sometimes see in our yard, I feel relatively comfortable that poisonous snakes are being kept at bay around here!
I’ll be honest… I generally operate by the philosophy that “the only good snake is a dead snake”…but I have learned in recent years to let the harmless, non-poisonous variety be, as everyone insists that they keep the “bad” snakes away. I am still scared half out of my wits by them sometimes, but I’ve decided that they do serve a purpose. Now, Greater Roadrunners don’t scare me (we humans probably scare THEM!)…but I understand their importance to our ecosystem…so I am always glad to see our little “Speedy Gonzales”!
As I read this scripture passage, I wondered…what if we had no roadrunners or “good” snakes to control the “bad” ones? I’ve been reading about the decimation of our bee population and how detrimental this is to us in so many ways. I read a quote by Albert Einstein that said something to the effect of “When the bees are all gone, we humans have about four years left.” So many of God’s creations are vital to our daily survival…creatures we never even consider - like a honeybee or a Greater Roadrunner!
By the same token, each one of us is vital to God’s grand plan. And as Christians, we have critical roles in furthering God’s Kingdom and spreading the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ. When we sit on our hands or hang back in the shadows and fail to act, we’re at best making it hard on the others who have to pick up our slack …and we dishonor Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf - the precious gift of salvation. We are the “honeybee” in God’s plan who helps to sustain and develop new life in Christ! We are the “Great Roadrunner” or “King Snake” who keeps the devil’s “bad snakes” at bay. We were important to God already…but in terms of the body of Christ, we are even more significant!
Now don’t misunderstand me. God is all-powerful…all-knowing…perfectly capable of handling all of this on His own. But He has chosen us…Jesus rescued us…and in return, we are called to serve – and to “do our part”. Have you ever stubbed your toe…or maybe even broken it? If you have, you know that the pain of such a small body part can affect you profoundly. If you’ve ever injured an arm, leg, hand, foot, eye or ear and had to function without its use for a while, you understand that your whole lifestyle changes. You become focused in large part on what is missing…and how to accommodate getting along without it. In many cases, things probably don’t go so well as a result. It’s like this in the body of Christ, too!
We need to stop and thank God for our body and how well it works…to praise Him for orchestrating nature and how it functions so perfectly…and to glorify Him for giving us Jesus – and our new life in Him. We must pay close attention to our role as part of Christ’s body and make sure that we are pulling our share of the load…that we are functioning at peak performance…that everything we do honors and glorifies His name and shares in the proper functioning of the lives of fellow believers.
This is a good day to stop and look at a bumblebee or a roadrunner and remind ourselves that we all have a job to do…and to do ours to the best of our ability – and to the glory of God. How are you doing so far?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/greater_roadrunner/id
Just as there are many parts to our bodies, so it is with Christ’s body. We are all parts of it, and it takes every one of us to make it complete, for we each have different work to do. So we belong to each other, and each needs all the others.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We have a Greater Roadrunner that lives in our yard – or close by – and I have to tell you…I love that funny bird! Not only is he entertaining to watch as he scurries across our yard or driveway…he’s a wonderful addition to our neighborhood. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website*, “… the Greater Roadrunner can outrace a human, kill a rattlesnake, and thrive in the harsh landscapes of the Desert Southwest.” Between the Greater Roadrunner and the large black rat snake we sometimes see in our yard, I feel relatively comfortable that poisonous snakes are being kept at bay around here!
I’ll be honest… I generally operate by the philosophy that “the only good snake is a dead snake”…but I have learned in recent years to let the harmless, non-poisonous variety be, as everyone insists that they keep the “bad” snakes away. I am still scared half out of my wits by them sometimes, but I’ve decided that they do serve a purpose. Now, Greater Roadrunners don’t scare me (we humans probably scare THEM!)…but I understand their importance to our ecosystem…so I am always glad to see our little “Speedy Gonzales”!
As I read this scripture passage, I wondered…what if we had no roadrunners or “good” snakes to control the “bad” ones? I’ve been reading about the decimation of our bee population and how detrimental this is to us in so many ways. I read a quote by Albert Einstein that said something to the effect of “When the bees are all gone, we humans have about four years left.” So many of God’s creations are vital to our daily survival…creatures we never even consider - like a honeybee or a Greater Roadrunner!
By the same token, each one of us is vital to God’s grand plan. And as Christians, we have critical roles in furthering God’s Kingdom and spreading the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ. When we sit on our hands or hang back in the shadows and fail to act, we’re at best making it hard on the others who have to pick up our slack …and we dishonor Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf - the precious gift of salvation. We are the “honeybee” in God’s plan who helps to sustain and develop new life in Christ! We are the “Great Roadrunner” or “King Snake” who keeps the devil’s “bad snakes” at bay. We were important to God already…but in terms of the body of Christ, we are even more significant!
Now don’t misunderstand me. God is all-powerful…all-knowing…perfectly capable of handling all of this on His own. But He has chosen us…Jesus rescued us…and in return, we are called to serve – and to “do our part”. Have you ever stubbed your toe…or maybe even broken it? If you have, you know that the pain of such a small body part can affect you profoundly. If you’ve ever injured an arm, leg, hand, foot, eye or ear and had to function without its use for a while, you understand that your whole lifestyle changes. You become focused in large part on what is missing…and how to accommodate getting along without it. In many cases, things probably don’t go so well as a result. It’s like this in the body of Christ, too!
We need to stop and thank God for our body and how well it works…to praise Him for orchestrating nature and how it functions so perfectly…and to glorify Him for giving us Jesus – and our new life in Him. We must pay close attention to our role as part of Christ’s body and make sure that we are pulling our share of the load…that we are functioning at peak performance…that everything we do honors and glorifies His name and shares in the proper functioning of the lives of fellow believers.
This is a good day to stop and look at a bumblebee or a roadrunner and remind ourselves that we all have a job to do…and to do ours to the best of our ability – and to the glory of God. How are you doing so far?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/greater_roadrunner/id
Daily Devotional for May 21, 2014
Romans 10:14-17
How can people have faith in the Lord and ask him to save them, if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear, unless someone tells them? And how can anyone tell them without being sent by the Lord? The Scriptures say it is a beautiful sight to see even the feet of someone coming to preach the good news. Yet not everyone has believed the message. For example, the prophet Isaiah asked, “Lord, has anyone believed what we said?”
No one can have faith without hearing the message about Christ.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Earlier this spring, our local Chamber of Commerce held a weekend festival. As part of this event, the Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theatre presented a performance of “The Engine That Thought It Could” in our city park. A friend of mine felt that this would be a fun thing for Timothy to experience, so she personally sent me a message with all of the details about the date, time, and what the performance would entail. My mom and I took Timothy to see the production…and he loved it.
Sadly, this event was not well publicized. So a lot of families that would probably have enjoyed this performance did not attend. Some happened to walk through the park as the play took place on an outdoor stage, and a few stopped to watch for a few minutes. Many had bewildered, “what’s-going-on-here?” looks on their faces. It was really a shame that more people did not realize that this production was happening. But many of them simply “didn’t get the memo.”
In her book, Just Give Me Jesus, Anne Graham Lotz maintains that with today’s technology, there is scarcely a soul on the planet who has not had at least the opportunity to hear about Jesus. And maybe she is right. But has the message truly been delivered in a way that everyone can understand? I’d be willing to bet that almost all of the people who walked past this children’s play – or didn’t come to the park at all – have cell phones, Internet connections, televisions, radios and newspapers. They probably shop locally and pass by bulletin boards and storefronts where posters announcing other events are hung. Yet they did not realize that this event was scheduled.
It’s one thing to know who Jesus is…but quite another to truly know who He is! Many people might have seen a poster or notice that listed the children’s play “The Engine that Thought It Could” as part of the spring festival. But because this event was not “talked up” or highlighted more, a lot of them didn’t really pay attention. They may have thought it was something else entirely…relatively unimportant or not of interest…or they may have completely glossed over it and missed it in a list of scheduled activities.
This is what happens sometimes with the message of Jesus Christ. We grow complacent. Jesus becomes one more thing in a list of things that are part of our life…but we don’t “talk Him up” or highlight our relationship with Him – or His message. So a lot of people end up sort of knowing about Jesus…but not really knowing Him. I don’t know if you fall into that category. Perhaps you are one of those who mention your faith in passing – or assume that others will determine that you are a Christian by osmosis! Regardless of where you fit in this scenario, it’s time we all paid more attention and took a more proactive approach to finding God in our own lives…and sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others.
Never let it be said of us that we “didn’t get the memo” about Jesus…or that we failed to spread the word! No one can have faith without hearing the message about Christ. Who do you need to tell today?
©2014 Debbie Robus
How can people have faith in the Lord and ask him to save them, if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear, unless someone tells them? And how can anyone tell them without being sent by the Lord? The Scriptures say it is a beautiful sight to see even the feet of someone coming to preach the good news. Yet not everyone has believed the message. For example, the prophet Isaiah asked, “Lord, has anyone believed what we said?”
No one can have faith without hearing the message about Christ.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Earlier this spring, our local Chamber of Commerce held a weekend festival. As part of this event, the Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theatre presented a performance of “The Engine That Thought It Could” in our city park. A friend of mine felt that this would be a fun thing for Timothy to experience, so she personally sent me a message with all of the details about the date, time, and what the performance would entail. My mom and I took Timothy to see the production…and he loved it.
Sadly, this event was not well publicized. So a lot of families that would probably have enjoyed this performance did not attend. Some happened to walk through the park as the play took place on an outdoor stage, and a few stopped to watch for a few minutes. Many had bewildered, “what’s-going-on-here?” looks on their faces. It was really a shame that more people did not realize that this production was happening. But many of them simply “didn’t get the memo.”
In her book, Just Give Me Jesus, Anne Graham Lotz maintains that with today’s technology, there is scarcely a soul on the planet who has not had at least the opportunity to hear about Jesus. And maybe she is right. But has the message truly been delivered in a way that everyone can understand? I’d be willing to bet that almost all of the people who walked past this children’s play – or didn’t come to the park at all – have cell phones, Internet connections, televisions, radios and newspapers. They probably shop locally and pass by bulletin boards and storefronts where posters announcing other events are hung. Yet they did not realize that this event was scheduled.
It’s one thing to know who Jesus is…but quite another to truly know who He is! Many people might have seen a poster or notice that listed the children’s play “The Engine that Thought It Could” as part of the spring festival. But because this event was not “talked up” or highlighted more, a lot of them didn’t really pay attention. They may have thought it was something else entirely…relatively unimportant or not of interest…or they may have completely glossed over it and missed it in a list of scheduled activities.
This is what happens sometimes with the message of Jesus Christ. We grow complacent. Jesus becomes one more thing in a list of things that are part of our life…but we don’t “talk Him up” or highlight our relationship with Him – or His message. So a lot of people end up sort of knowing about Jesus…but not really knowing Him. I don’t know if you fall into that category. Perhaps you are one of those who mention your faith in passing – or assume that others will determine that you are a Christian by osmosis! Regardless of where you fit in this scenario, it’s time we all paid more attention and took a more proactive approach to finding God in our own lives…and sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others.
Never let it be said of us that we “didn’t get the memo” about Jesus…or that we failed to spread the word! No one can have faith without hearing the message about Christ. Who do you need to tell today?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 20, 2014
Romans 1:20
God’s eternal power and character cannot be seen. But from the beginning of creation, God has shown what these are like by all he has made. That’s why those people don’t have any excuse.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, our friend Pat posted a photo that he captured from his window of a beautiful sunrise over the lake that borders our community. Pat is recovering from surgery to remove a cancerous kidney. He will soon begin treatments at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas – 6 or 7 rounds of treatments that each last 6-7 days. Pat has a wife and three small children - and countless friends and family members who love him. We are all praying that his healing is swift and complete.
I know that Pat’s relationship with God was strong before his diagnosis, so it didn’t take a cancer scare to cause him to recognize God’s presence and power in an early morning sunset. But sadly, it does take a life-changing event to “wake up” many of us. We fail to notice God – much less acknowledge Him – in our everyday surroundings. When something tragic or frightening shakes us, we often become suddenly cognizant of even the smallest of details…and God’s hand in each of them.
As I write this devotional, Lucy - our “tuxedo” cat - is sitting on my lap…nudging me and “talking” to me. She is saying, “I’m right here! Notice me!!! Give me your attention!” I’ll be honest…I don’t always pick up on these signals. I often fail to realize that even sitting for a few minutes with my beloved pet can be a “God moment”. I bet you have similar situations in your own life.
Yes, Lucy has a way of standing at my feet and gently tapping my leg… or chirping at me rather loudly as if to say, “Hey YOU!” But there are plenty of times when I walk right past her and don’t stop to notice how sweetly she is sleeping…or how intricately God designed her fur patterns to create the “tuxedo” look she sports. I get so busy with the “things” of my day that I don’t acknowledge that she would like to spend just a few minutes with me…that she has been patiently waiting for me to feed her, rub her face, or sit down and let her snuggle in my lap. And often, she gives up and walks away…at least temporarily.
Do you ever feel like God has walked away from you…that He is “tucked away in a chair” - or even hiding from you? Does it ever seem like God just gave up and walked away? Did it occur to you that what might actually be happening is that you have ignored Him…that you have failed to recognize His presence or to acknowledge His handiwork? Do you take God for granted?
I’m making more of an point these days to pay attention to those who are so important to me - including our two little fur balls! I am making a concerted effort to take time to sit and stroke their faces and appreciate how intricately God creates even a small, domesticated cat. I am determined to stay more focused and aware of how important we must be to God…and to recognize His “signs and wonders” all around me. If God would spend so much time and energy on our pets and their design – or the artistry of a sunrise - surely He must really love US!
I pray that I would never get so caught up in my own doings that I fail to recognize God…that I would not have to experience a life-changing event in order to truly notice His presence and power in all things great and small. I pray that this never happens to you, either. Are YOU aware of God’s presence in even the ordinary things of your day…the wonder of a small pet, your children, how amazingly your body “works”…or the beauty of a sunrise? God has all the time in the world for each of us. Isn’t it time we made time for Him?
©2014 Debbie Robus
God’s eternal power and character cannot be seen. But from the beginning of creation, God has shown what these are like by all he has made. That’s why those people don’t have any excuse.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, our friend Pat posted a photo that he captured from his window of a beautiful sunrise over the lake that borders our community. Pat is recovering from surgery to remove a cancerous kidney. He will soon begin treatments at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas – 6 or 7 rounds of treatments that each last 6-7 days. Pat has a wife and three small children - and countless friends and family members who love him. We are all praying that his healing is swift and complete.
I know that Pat’s relationship with God was strong before his diagnosis, so it didn’t take a cancer scare to cause him to recognize God’s presence and power in an early morning sunset. But sadly, it does take a life-changing event to “wake up” many of us. We fail to notice God – much less acknowledge Him – in our everyday surroundings. When something tragic or frightening shakes us, we often become suddenly cognizant of even the smallest of details…and God’s hand in each of them.
As I write this devotional, Lucy - our “tuxedo” cat - is sitting on my lap…nudging me and “talking” to me. She is saying, “I’m right here! Notice me!!! Give me your attention!” I’ll be honest…I don’t always pick up on these signals. I often fail to realize that even sitting for a few minutes with my beloved pet can be a “God moment”. I bet you have similar situations in your own life.
Yes, Lucy has a way of standing at my feet and gently tapping my leg… or chirping at me rather loudly as if to say, “Hey YOU!” But there are plenty of times when I walk right past her and don’t stop to notice how sweetly she is sleeping…or how intricately God designed her fur patterns to create the “tuxedo” look she sports. I get so busy with the “things” of my day that I don’t acknowledge that she would like to spend just a few minutes with me…that she has been patiently waiting for me to feed her, rub her face, or sit down and let her snuggle in my lap. And often, she gives up and walks away…at least temporarily.
Do you ever feel like God has walked away from you…that He is “tucked away in a chair” - or even hiding from you? Does it ever seem like God just gave up and walked away? Did it occur to you that what might actually be happening is that you have ignored Him…that you have failed to recognize His presence or to acknowledge His handiwork? Do you take God for granted?
I’m making more of an point these days to pay attention to those who are so important to me - including our two little fur balls! I am making a concerted effort to take time to sit and stroke their faces and appreciate how intricately God creates even a small, domesticated cat. I am determined to stay more focused and aware of how important we must be to God…and to recognize His “signs and wonders” all around me. If God would spend so much time and energy on our pets and their design – or the artistry of a sunrise - surely He must really love US!
I pray that I would never get so caught up in my own doings that I fail to recognize God…that I would not have to experience a life-changing event in order to truly notice His presence and power in all things great and small. I pray that this never happens to you, either. Are YOU aware of God’s presence in even the ordinary things of your day…the wonder of a small pet, your children, how amazingly your body “works”…or the beauty of a sunrise? God has all the time in the world for each of us. Isn’t it time we made time for Him?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 19, 2014
Psalm 20:7
Some people trust the power
of chariots or horses,
but we trust you, Lord God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In November 2013, CBS aired a story on 60 Minutes titled the “Recycled Orchestra of Cateura”…about a ragtag “children’s orchestra” in Cateura, Paraguay, where children learn to play instruments made, quite literally, from trash. The creator of these instruments, Don Cola, lives alongside the landfill in Cateura. He has no background in classical music…much less instrument making. But he is apparently quite skilled as an artisan and craftsman, and he listens to the instructions of others and creates musical instruments from discarded items and wood. There was a violin made from an empty paint can and an oven tray…and cellos made from old oil barrels that sported tuning knobs fashioned from such discarded items as a hair brush handle, a wooden spoon, a woman’s shoe heel…and even a kitchen tool once used to make gnocchis.
Social worker and orchestra conductor Favio Chavez matches the students with a suitable “instrument” and teaches them to play…mostly classical music, but also some Latin tunes – and even a few Beatles songs. Chavez says that this “orchestra” has given these children an alternative to gang life in this Paraguayan community that was built on a landfill. There has been a documentary created… “landfillharmonic: The world sends us garbage. We send back music.”* The 60 Minutes story and the documentary have both served to bolster familiarity with the “landfillharmonic”…and now they are performing all over the world with well-known musicians from the U.S. and Europe. They are even set to open in a South American venue for Metallica!
When you watch this story, I will tell you that your first instinct is to pull out your checkbook or credit card and order a brand new instrument or two to send to Cateura. And people have done exactly that. Truckloads of instruments have arrived, and the reporters say that the reactions from the children when they see an actual guitar, violin, or cello are heartwarming.
But here’s the catch…as the children of Cateura get new instruments, do they lose their “appeal”? Aren’t they merely another “children’s orchestra”…albeit one from a South American slum? Does the power of what they are accomplishing in the orchestra lie in the group itself as they learn to play an instrument and function together as a musical group? Or is the real power in the lesson of taking objects from the trash and fashioning something that can make beautiful music? Which is more compelling…not-so-great music created on instruments constructed from landfill items…or mediocre performances performed on brand-new ones sent from anonymous donors around the world?
Chavez, Cola and others admit that this is a Catch-22. And the lesson for us in this is that we all tend to put our stock in the wrong power from time to time. We rely on our own skills and abilities, rather than God’s. We think we are “all that and a bag of chips” and forget Who literally “gave us the moon”...Who truly made us whatever it is that we think we are! We get so busy trying to do things our way…to “drive the car” and create a desired outcome…and we forget to stop and ask God what HE thinks – much less to ask for His help!
I challenge you to examine your life today and see where you have misplaced power. Where have you put your stock in something other than God’s authority and influence? Have you traded in His ability to create “beautiful music” with a “landfill instrument” in your life in favor of a brand new shiny apparatus or method of your own doing? Do you see that this is not where the real potential and capacity for joy, blessings, success and fulfillment lies? Will this be the day that you surrender control to God and operate in HIS power rather than what you perceive as your own?
With God, all things are possible. Is He the power in your life today? Don’t you think He should be?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://www.landfillharmonicmovie.com/
Some people trust the power
of chariots or horses,
but we trust you, Lord God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In November 2013, CBS aired a story on 60 Minutes titled the “Recycled Orchestra of Cateura”…about a ragtag “children’s orchestra” in Cateura, Paraguay, where children learn to play instruments made, quite literally, from trash. The creator of these instruments, Don Cola, lives alongside the landfill in Cateura. He has no background in classical music…much less instrument making. But he is apparently quite skilled as an artisan and craftsman, and he listens to the instructions of others and creates musical instruments from discarded items and wood. There was a violin made from an empty paint can and an oven tray…and cellos made from old oil barrels that sported tuning knobs fashioned from such discarded items as a hair brush handle, a wooden spoon, a woman’s shoe heel…and even a kitchen tool once used to make gnocchis.
Social worker and orchestra conductor Favio Chavez matches the students with a suitable “instrument” and teaches them to play…mostly classical music, but also some Latin tunes – and even a few Beatles songs. Chavez says that this “orchestra” has given these children an alternative to gang life in this Paraguayan community that was built on a landfill. There has been a documentary created… “landfillharmonic: The world sends us garbage. We send back music.”* The 60 Minutes story and the documentary have both served to bolster familiarity with the “landfillharmonic”…and now they are performing all over the world with well-known musicians from the U.S. and Europe. They are even set to open in a South American venue for Metallica!
When you watch this story, I will tell you that your first instinct is to pull out your checkbook or credit card and order a brand new instrument or two to send to Cateura. And people have done exactly that. Truckloads of instruments have arrived, and the reporters say that the reactions from the children when they see an actual guitar, violin, or cello are heartwarming.
But here’s the catch…as the children of Cateura get new instruments, do they lose their “appeal”? Aren’t they merely another “children’s orchestra”…albeit one from a South American slum? Does the power of what they are accomplishing in the orchestra lie in the group itself as they learn to play an instrument and function together as a musical group? Or is the real power in the lesson of taking objects from the trash and fashioning something that can make beautiful music? Which is more compelling…not-so-great music created on instruments constructed from landfill items…or mediocre performances performed on brand-new ones sent from anonymous donors around the world?
Chavez, Cola and others admit that this is a Catch-22. And the lesson for us in this is that we all tend to put our stock in the wrong power from time to time. We rely on our own skills and abilities, rather than God’s. We think we are “all that and a bag of chips” and forget Who literally “gave us the moon”...Who truly made us whatever it is that we think we are! We get so busy trying to do things our way…to “drive the car” and create a desired outcome…and we forget to stop and ask God what HE thinks – much less to ask for His help!
I challenge you to examine your life today and see where you have misplaced power. Where have you put your stock in something other than God’s authority and influence? Have you traded in His ability to create “beautiful music” with a “landfill instrument” in your life in favor of a brand new shiny apparatus or method of your own doing? Do you see that this is not where the real potential and capacity for joy, blessings, success and fulfillment lies? Will this be the day that you surrender control to God and operate in HIS power rather than what you perceive as your own?
With God, all things are possible. Is He the power in your life today? Don’t you think He should be?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://www.landfillharmonicmovie.com/
Daily Devotional for May 18, 2014
Psalm 19:1-4
The heavens are telling the glory of God; they are a marvelous display of his craftsmanship. Day and night they keep on telling about God. Without a sound or word, silent in the skies, their message reaches out to all the world. The sun lives in the heavens where God placed it…
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When I was a little girl, I remember how dark it was at my grandparents’ farm at night. They lived “out in the country”…with a dense woods bordering one side of their little house and across the dirt road…and pasture land on the other two sides. I think I may have been in college when the road in front of their house was paved…and it might have even happened later than that. The highway that lay behind their house was only a few acres away…but because of the thick woods that served as a buffer, it seemed like this road was miles to the north. The nights were not only incredibly dark…it was also very quiet, except for wildlife like whippoorwills, owls, and an occasional cow, dog, or rooster.
By the mid-nineties, Greg and I had owned the farm for several years, and the “farm” description now only referred to its former purpose. The barn and a couple of rusting implements were all that remained to indicate that cattle had once filled the pastures and barn lot…and that crops grew in the terraced fields. One lone pear tree was all that was left of the orchard in which I stood on my horse’s saddle as a young girl and picked apples. The hen house was gone, along with the “smoke house” where we stacked firewood to keep it dry for the winter – and most of the fencing had been removed.
Greg and I built a new house smack in the middle of the pasture, and we had virtually a 360-degree view of “wide open spaces”. We watched sunrises and full moon rises in the back yard and sunsets in the front yard. Even though much of the dense forest had been removed over time, and the roads had been paved (adding to the noise), there were still more stars in the sky on a clear night than anyone could count…and the views of “the heavens” were spectacular. I called it my “Montana Sky”.
We loved the farm and the 15+ years we lived there. But the time came when a move was necessary, so we made the difficult decision to sell and relocate. And we have lived in two other houses since then…each with their own beautiful surroundings. In our present home, we once again have views of the heavens. They are not as “wide-open” as the one we once enjoyed…but the vista is extensive, just the same. I’ll admit…I will always have a special place in my heart for the farm of my childhood…the place where we built our “dream home” and enjoyed many happy years.
But here’s the thing…the memories we created at the farm will always be with us. And whether we can physically see them or not, the “heavens” are forever in place, creating a canopy over us. We are encompassed by God’s craftsmanship and glory. I love the views from our windows. I never tire of it. I enjoy the continual reminder of God’s glory and handiwork. But I know that the heavens will never change or disappear…and God will always be with me, regardless of where I live.
When I grow melancholy for the farm and an earlier time in my life, I think of all of the wonderful days we enjoyed there. We will always have our memories. They have traveled with me in my heart from house to house! And God is always with me, too. There is evidence in every corner of my life – every instance and circumstance. I am so grateful for His continual presence…and the assurance that wherever I go, there He will be, also.
Do you feel the continual presence of God? Do you recognize His artisanship and the canopy of His protection over your own life…and in your surroundings? Is the God of the heavens the LORD of your life? Don’t you think it’s time He is?
©2014 Debbie Robus
The heavens are telling the glory of God; they are a marvelous display of his craftsmanship. Day and night they keep on telling about God. Without a sound or word, silent in the skies, their message reaches out to all the world. The sun lives in the heavens where God placed it…
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When I was a little girl, I remember how dark it was at my grandparents’ farm at night. They lived “out in the country”…with a dense woods bordering one side of their little house and across the dirt road…and pasture land on the other two sides. I think I may have been in college when the road in front of their house was paved…and it might have even happened later than that. The highway that lay behind their house was only a few acres away…but because of the thick woods that served as a buffer, it seemed like this road was miles to the north. The nights were not only incredibly dark…it was also very quiet, except for wildlife like whippoorwills, owls, and an occasional cow, dog, or rooster.
By the mid-nineties, Greg and I had owned the farm for several years, and the “farm” description now only referred to its former purpose. The barn and a couple of rusting implements were all that remained to indicate that cattle had once filled the pastures and barn lot…and that crops grew in the terraced fields. One lone pear tree was all that was left of the orchard in which I stood on my horse’s saddle as a young girl and picked apples. The hen house was gone, along with the “smoke house” where we stacked firewood to keep it dry for the winter – and most of the fencing had been removed.
Greg and I built a new house smack in the middle of the pasture, and we had virtually a 360-degree view of “wide open spaces”. We watched sunrises and full moon rises in the back yard and sunsets in the front yard. Even though much of the dense forest had been removed over time, and the roads had been paved (adding to the noise), there were still more stars in the sky on a clear night than anyone could count…and the views of “the heavens” were spectacular. I called it my “Montana Sky”.
We loved the farm and the 15+ years we lived there. But the time came when a move was necessary, so we made the difficult decision to sell and relocate. And we have lived in two other houses since then…each with their own beautiful surroundings. In our present home, we once again have views of the heavens. They are not as “wide-open” as the one we once enjoyed…but the vista is extensive, just the same. I’ll admit…I will always have a special place in my heart for the farm of my childhood…the place where we built our “dream home” and enjoyed many happy years.
But here’s the thing…the memories we created at the farm will always be with us. And whether we can physically see them or not, the “heavens” are forever in place, creating a canopy over us. We are encompassed by God’s craftsmanship and glory. I love the views from our windows. I never tire of it. I enjoy the continual reminder of God’s glory and handiwork. But I know that the heavens will never change or disappear…and God will always be with me, regardless of where I live.
When I grow melancholy for the farm and an earlier time in my life, I think of all of the wonderful days we enjoyed there. We will always have our memories. They have traveled with me in my heart from house to house! And God is always with me, too. There is evidence in every corner of my life – every instance and circumstance. I am so grateful for His continual presence…and the assurance that wherever I go, there He will be, also.
Do you feel the continual presence of God? Do you recognize His artisanship and the canopy of His protection over your own life…and in your surroundings? Is the God of the heavens the LORD of your life? Don’t you think it’s time He is?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 17, 2014
Psalm 148:1-6
Praise the Lord, O heavens! Praise him from the skies! Praise him, all his angels, all the armies of heaven. Praise him, sun and moon and all you twinkling stars. Praise him, skies above. Praise him, vapors high above the clouds.
Let everything he has made give praise to him. For he issued his command, and they came into being; he established them forever and forever. His orders will never be revoked.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I saw a Facebook link to a video* about Larissa and Ian Murphy, one of the most amazing married couples you will probably meet anytime soon. Ian and Larissa began dating in 2005 while attending college. Larissa says that she knew they were headed toward marriage – Ian had even been shopping for a ring. Then Ian suffered a brain injury in a serious car accident. Larissa moved in with Ian’s family and helped them with his therapies. Over time, Ian recovered to the point that the couple made plans to marry. Today, the Murphys have been husband and wife for three years. They have written a book about their journey… Eight Twenty Eight: When Love Didn't Give Up**, which will be available for purchase in August 2014.
The couple keeps a “board of gratefulness” on their living room wall, where they post daily notes that list what they are thankful for…and they encourage visitors to post a note, also. Larissa jots down simple things like “Saturday mornings”. She says more than half of Ian’s say, “my wifey”. Larissa says this is a way that they have found to practice gratefulness.
The Murphys agreed that they would consider marriage when Ian could once again talk to Larissa. His communication skills – and his physical abilities – have progressed tremendously, especially in the three years since their wedding. In the video, Larissa says that she knew if the roles were reversed, Ian would not have left her…and that they know that God will be faithful to their marriage. She asked Ian, “What about God enables you to have a happy marriage?” Ian responded…”He’s awesome.” This may sound like an oversimplification. But when you boil it all down…isn’t this the crux of our relationship with God?
Doesn’t an abiding, forever-and-ever relationship with God begin with acknowledging that He is awesome…magnificent…powerful…almighty…loving…caring…persistent and consistent? Would you ask someone who was NOT all of these things to mold and shape you…to meet your every need? Even if you did…could you depend on the outcome?
I’m not sure I could be as strong as Larissa Murphy. I cannot say with certainty that I would be as courageous…that I could take on the difficulties she added to the normal day-to-day demands and challenges that come with marriage. I am not sure that I would have the determination of Ian Murphy…that I would work as hard to come back from such a debilitating injury. But I know that without God in my life, none of it would be possible in the least…it simply would not happen!
Situations like this one humble me. They help me to see how blessed I am…that on my worst day, things are not nearly as bad as I think! And yet, I see that God is with me in my circumstances…and also in those of people who have so much more to address. If these folks can start their days with notes of gratitude and praise…surely so can I!
Finding God begins in large part with acknowledging His power and blessings. The first step in truly getting to know God is to recognize His hand in your life and the lives of those around you…to see His handiwork in places and things…and to give Him glory and praise for all of it! If you were able to post a note on the Murphy’s wall today expressing your gratefulness…what would you list? Are you fully cognizant and appreciative of God’s artistry? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://vimeo.com/88485530
**http://www.amazon.com/Eight-Twenty-When-Love-Didnt/dp/143368182X
Praise the Lord, O heavens! Praise him from the skies! Praise him, all his angels, all the armies of heaven. Praise him, sun and moon and all you twinkling stars. Praise him, skies above. Praise him, vapors high above the clouds.
Let everything he has made give praise to him. For he issued his command, and they came into being; he established them forever and forever. His orders will never be revoked.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I saw a Facebook link to a video* about Larissa and Ian Murphy, one of the most amazing married couples you will probably meet anytime soon. Ian and Larissa began dating in 2005 while attending college. Larissa says that she knew they were headed toward marriage – Ian had even been shopping for a ring. Then Ian suffered a brain injury in a serious car accident. Larissa moved in with Ian’s family and helped them with his therapies. Over time, Ian recovered to the point that the couple made plans to marry. Today, the Murphys have been husband and wife for three years. They have written a book about their journey… Eight Twenty Eight: When Love Didn't Give Up**, which will be available for purchase in August 2014.
The couple keeps a “board of gratefulness” on their living room wall, where they post daily notes that list what they are thankful for…and they encourage visitors to post a note, also. Larissa jots down simple things like “Saturday mornings”. She says more than half of Ian’s say, “my wifey”. Larissa says this is a way that they have found to practice gratefulness.
The Murphys agreed that they would consider marriage when Ian could once again talk to Larissa. His communication skills – and his physical abilities – have progressed tremendously, especially in the three years since their wedding. In the video, Larissa says that she knew if the roles were reversed, Ian would not have left her…and that they know that God will be faithful to their marriage. She asked Ian, “What about God enables you to have a happy marriage?” Ian responded…”He’s awesome.” This may sound like an oversimplification. But when you boil it all down…isn’t this the crux of our relationship with God?
Doesn’t an abiding, forever-and-ever relationship with God begin with acknowledging that He is awesome…magnificent…powerful…almighty…loving…caring…persistent and consistent? Would you ask someone who was NOT all of these things to mold and shape you…to meet your every need? Even if you did…could you depend on the outcome?
I’m not sure I could be as strong as Larissa Murphy. I cannot say with certainty that I would be as courageous…that I could take on the difficulties she added to the normal day-to-day demands and challenges that come with marriage. I am not sure that I would have the determination of Ian Murphy…that I would work as hard to come back from such a debilitating injury. But I know that without God in my life, none of it would be possible in the least…it simply would not happen!
Situations like this one humble me. They help me to see how blessed I am…that on my worst day, things are not nearly as bad as I think! And yet, I see that God is with me in my circumstances…and also in those of people who have so much more to address. If these folks can start their days with notes of gratitude and praise…surely so can I!
Finding God begins in large part with acknowledging His power and blessings. The first step in truly getting to know God is to recognize His hand in your life and the lives of those around you…to see His handiwork in places and things…and to give Him glory and praise for all of it! If you were able to post a note on the Murphy’s wall today expressing your gratefulness…what would you list? Are you fully cognizant and appreciative of God’s artistry? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://vimeo.com/88485530
**http://www.amazon.com/Eight-Twenty-When-Love-Didnt/dp/143368182X
Daily Devotional for May 16, 2014
Matthew 6:9
You should pray like this:
Our Father in heaven,
help us to honor your name.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The “LORD’s Prayer…we probably all know it by heart. Many of us recite it every Sunday during our weekly worship service. Yet most of us rarely stop to consider the words we are speaking…the meaning they impart…the intention of their phrasing. We might as well be reciting the “Pledge of Allegiance” or “Mary Had a Little Lamb”! Many of the prayers, hymns – and even scripture verses – we learned as children have become nothing more than rote recitations. We have gotten so complacent in our speaking of them that we no longer realize what we are saying!
Stop and read this scripture verse again. Truly think about the words of this sentence...”Our Father in heaven, help us to honor Your name.” What does this really imply? How do we honor God’s name?
The first step is to find God and genuinely get to know Him…to understand who He is and what He desires for us – and from us. We cannot do this by osmosis…merely sitting in a park and soaking up the sun and scenery won’t cut it. We can’t assume that just because our parents, grandparents, friends and acquaintances know God…we know Him, too. God cannot be the friend of a friend of a friend. We have to become truly familiar with Him…we must get to know Him intimately.
How do we do this? How do you get to know anyone? You spend time with them…you converse…you study their interests and behavior patterns and learn their likes and dislikes. It’s no different with God…it’s just more important! A relationship with God is the most critical bond you will ever cultivate.
Once you become familiar with God, you will better understand what is required to honor His name. You will know what words, thoughts and actions please Him…and which ones break His heart. You will understand what living for Him entails…you will discover how to recognize – and seize – opportunities to serve and minister on His behalf. When you truly find God and develop a connection with Him, you will find that your desire to honor His name increases exponentially. Hopefully this will eventually become second nature to you!
The “LORD’s Prayer” is rich with the message of Jesus…each line and phrase is important. But we must start with getting to know God and learning to honor His name. Once we have a good handle on this, the petitions that follow become even more profound and compelling.
Have YOU found God? Do you know Him intimately? Do you have a strong, interactive relationship with Him? Do you honor His name with the thoughts, words and actions of your daily living? When you pray the “LORD’s Prayer,” do the words express your genuine intentions with regard to your faith…or are you merely reciting a lesson of your youth? Isn’t it time to get to know God…and give power and meaning to your pledge to honor His name? Will this be the day you get started?
©2014 Debbie Robus
You should pray like this:
Our Father in heaven,
help us to honor your name.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The “LORD’s Prayer…we probably all know it by heart. Many of us recite it every Sunday during our weekly worship service. Yet most of us rarely stop to consider the words we are speaking…the meaning they impart…the intention of their phrasing. We might as well be reciting the “Pledge of Allegiance” or “Mary Had a Little Lamb”! Many of the prayers, hymns – and even scripture verses – we learned as children have become nothing more than rote recitations. We have gotten so complacent in our speaking of them that we no longer realize what we are saying!
Stop and read this scripture verse again. Truly think about the words of this sentence...”Our Father in heaven, help us to honor Your name.” What does this really imply? How do we honor God’s name?
The first step is to find God and genuinely get to know Him…to understand who He is and what He desires for us – and from us. We cannot do this by osmosis…merely sitting in a park and soaking up the sun and scenery won’t cut it. We can’t assume that just because our parents, grandparents, friends and acquaintances know God…we know Him, too. God cannot be the friend of a friend of a friend. We have to become truly familiar with Him…we must get to know Him intimately.
How do we do this? How do you get to know anyone? You spend time with them…you converse…you study their interests and behavior patterns and learn their likes and dislikes. It’s no different with God…it’s just more important! A relationship with God is the most critical bond you will ever cultivate.
Once you become familiar with God, you will better understand what is required to honor His name. You will know what words, thoughts and actions please Him…and which ones break His heart. You will understand what living for Him entails…you will discover how to recognize – and seize – opportunities to serve and minister on His behalf. When you truly find God and develop a connection with Him, you will find that your desire to honor His name increases exponentially. Hopefully this will eventually become second nature to you!
The “LORD’s Prayer” is rich with the message of Jesus…each line and phrase is important. But we must start with getting to know God and learning to honor His name. Once we have a good handle on this, the petitions that follow become even more profound and compelling.
Have YOU found God? Do you know Him intimately? Do you have a strong, interactive relationship with Him? Do you honor His name with the thoughts, words and actions of your daily living? When you pray the “LORD’s Prayer,” do the words express your genuine intentions with regard to your faith…or are you merely reciting a lesson of your youth? Isn’t it time to get to know God…and give power and meaning to your pledge to honor His name? Will this be the day you get started?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 15, 2014
Matthew 22:37-40
Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Today, the National September 11 Memorial Museum was dedicated at Ground Zero in New York City. I sat down with Greg to watch the televised ceremony, and it wasn’t long before tears filled my eyes as the stories of that horrific day began to unfold. In particular, the account of 24-year-old Welles Remy Crowther touched me deeply. Dubbed “the man in the red bandana,” Crowther’s story of heroism was shared by President Obama in his remarks to the attendees. He told how Welles, a former volunteer fireman who worked in finance in the south tower, covered his face with a red handkerchief/bandana and guided more than a dozen people to safety before he perished. Crowther’s body was found some six months later in the South Tower Lobby, alongside the bodies of firefighters and emergency workers.
Many of those Welles Crowther rescued knew him only as “the man with the red bandana”, but as his story was shared, Allison Crowther realized that this was her son. Welles had carried a red bandana with him ever since he was a young boy. She knew that this hero who showed such courage, love and compassion was her Welles. A red bandana is displayed in the “9/11 Museum” to remind others of Welles Crowther’s heroism.
Today, Allison Crowther spoke to the crowd in attendance at the memorial, along with Ling Young, one of the women who Welles rescued. In her brief remarks, Crowther noted…”This is life's most precious meaning. It is our greatest hope that when people come here and see Welles' red bandanna, they will remember how people helped each other that day, and we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
I don’t know much else about Welles Crowther. Aside from a mention on a Wikipedia* page that Welles’ penchant for handkerchiefs came from observing his father, Jefferson, dress for church, we really don’t have a clue about the Crowthers and their faith. But I have to believe that somewhere along the way, they found God…that He strengthened them and guided them through this horrific day and the ones to follow…that they embraced the teachings of Jesus and truly internalized His commands to love God AND to love others. And I believe that Allison and Jefferson Crowther instilled these teachings in their precious son, Welles.
Some will say, “People are innately good. It would be human nature for many of them to have done what this young man did, regardless of whether they knew God or not.” Maybe so. But a whole lot of people would also have rushed to save themselves and adopted the “every man for himself” mentality. The point I wish to emphasize is contained in Allison Crowther’s statement that we will remember how people rushed to help each other that day, and…”we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
God will not call all of us to save people from a crumbling, burning building. He will not make us heroes…at least not to this magnitude. Few if any of us will not be immortalized for our acts of love and compassion…or have a lasting tribute created on Wikipedia or in a national museum. But our acts of love and care for others…our demonstration of our devotion to God… are no less significant. Their impact is just as powerful and lasting. And the “recognition” we are afforded in the form of eternity at the feet of Almighty God will be the ultimate reward.
Those of us who have truly found God and keep His Holy Spirit in our hearts have the capacity to be “heroes” for Jesus in ways great and small each and every day…to demonstrate the powerful presence of His love, grace, mercy, compassion, healing and forgiveness. We can be the face of God to others. This is our privilege…and our purpose.
I am humbled today by the stories that were shared at the dedication of the National September 11 Memorial Museum. I am reminded of the tremendous sacrifices and sufferings of that day…the tests of faith that are beyond what I can comprehend. But I am also reminded of the power of God’s love for His children…and the effectiveness of believers who share that love with one another. I am challenged to harness God’s gifts of strength, power, love and courage in my own situations and circumstances…I am determined to trust Him and walk in His love and care more surely each day.
I am encouraged to know that in ways great and small, I can be one of God’s servants…a “rescuer” of sorts who faithfully “dons a red bandana” and rushes in to help others Jesus’ name. What about you? Will you join me in the mission? Will you answer Jesus’ call to love others as you love yourself…and God? Isn’t it time we focused more on service to Him and less on service of self? Is this the day that you will pry your “red bandana” of God’s love and care from your pocket and put it on as you serve others in Jesus’ name? Don’t you think you should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welles_Crowther
Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Today, the National September 11 Memorial Museum was dedicated at Ground Zero in New York City. I sat down with Greg to watch the televised ceremony, and it wasn’t long before tears filled my eyes as the stories of that horrific day began to unfold. In particular, the account of 24-year-old Welles Remy Crowther touched me deeply. Dubbed “the man in the red bandana,” Crowther’s story of heroism was shared by President Obama in his remarks to the attendees. He told how Welles, a former volunteer fireman who worked in finance in the south tower, covered his face with a red handkerchief/bandana and guided more than a dozen people to safety before he perished. Crowther’s body was found some six months later in the South Tower Lobby, alongside the bodies of firefighters and emergency workers.
Many of those Welles Crowther rescued knew him only as “the man with the red bandana”, but as his story was shared, Allison Crowther realized that this was her son. Welles had carried a red bandana with him ever since he was a young boy. She knew that this hero who showed such courage, love and compassion was her Welles. A red bandana is displayed in the “9/11 Museum” to remind others of Welles Crowther’s heroism.
Today, Allison Crowther spoke to the crowd in attendance at the memorial, along with Ling Young, one of the women who Welles rescued. In her brief remarks, Crowther noted…”This is life's most precious meaning. It is our greatest hope that when people come here and see Welles' red bandanna, they will remember how people helped each other that day, and we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
I don’t know much else about Welles Crowther. Aside from a mention on a Wikipedia* page that Welles’ penchant for handkerchiefs came from observing his father, Jefferson, dress for church, we really don’t have a clue about the Crowthers and their faith. But I have to believe that somewhere along the way, they found God…that He strengthened them and guided them through this horrific day and the ones to follow…that they embraced the teachings of Jesus and truly internalized His commands to love God AND to love others. And I believe that Allison and Jefferson Crowther instilled these teachings in their precious son, Welles.
Some will say, “People are innately good. It would be human nature for many of them to have done what this young man did, regardless of whether they knew God or not.” Maybe so. But a whole lot of people would also have rushed to save themselves and adopted the “every man for himself” mentality. The point I wish to emphasize is contained in Allison Crowther’s statement that we will remember how people rushed to help each other that day, and…”we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
God will not call all of us to save people from a crumbling, burning building. He will not make us heroes…at least not to this magnitude. Few if any of us will not be immortalized for our acts of love and compassion…or have a lasting tribute created on Wikipedia or in a national museum. But our acts of love and care for others…our demonstration of our devotion to God… are no less significant. Their impact is just as powerful and lasting. And the “recognition” we are afforded in the form of eternity at the feet of Almighty God will be the ultimate reward.
Those of us who have truly found God and keep His Holy Spirit in our hearts have the capacity to be “heroes” for Jesus in ways great and small each and every day…to demonstrate the powerful presence of His love, grace, mercy, compassion, healing and forgiveness. We can be the face of God to others. This is our privilege…and our purpose.
I am humbled today by the stories that were shared at the dedication of the National September 11 Memorial Museum. I am reminded of the tremendous sacrifices and sufferings of that day…the tests of faith that are beyond what I can comprehend. But I am also reminded of the power of God’s love for His children…and the effectiveness of believers who share that love with one another. I am challenged to harness God’s gifts of strength, power, love and courage in my own situations and circumstances…I am determined to trust Him and walk in His love and care more surely each day.
I am encouraged to know that in ways great and small, I can be one of God’s servants…a “rescuer” of sorts who faithfully “dons a red bandana” and rushes in to help others Jesus’ name. What about you? Will you join me in the mission? Will you answer Jesus’ call to love others as you love yourself…and God? Isn’t it time we focused more on service to Him and less on service of self? Is this the day that you will pry your “red bandana” of God’s love and care from your pocket and put it on as you serve others in Jesus’ name? Don’t you think you should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welles_Crowther
Daily Devotional for May 14, 2014
Matthew 10:32-33
If you tell others that you belong to me, I will tell my Father in heaven that you are my followers. But if you reject me, I will tell my Father in heaven that you don’t belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A couple of years ago, Greg and I went to a James Taylor concert. A friend of ours who is almost 30 asked, “Who is James Taylor?” Whoa, boy! That made us feel really old! James Taylor is such a musical icon that we assume that EVERYONE knows who he is! While his music was popular when we were in high school and college...his songs are still sung and played frequently today. James Taylor’s work has stood the test of time!
We joined the online James Taylor fan club…and when it came time to order concert tickets, we were given a two-day advance – and we receive preferential treatment...our seats were on the floor on the second row! We felt like we could reach right up and touch James Taylor and the band members. And at intermission, I was able to walk up to the edge of the stage, hand James Taylor my denim jacket and a marker, and get his autograph! Every time I wear that jacket, I think of him. I remember his songs and what they meant to my life…the times, people, places and things that the melodies and lyrics represent.
During the concert, we were enjoying a particularly lively song, and the percussionist looked directly at Greg…then he pointed, and acknowledged him and how much he was appreciating the music. I know that James Taylor and his entourage do not know us personally, but they certainly acted like they did at the concert. Taylor was cordial, friendly, and personable. He knows that those who attend his concerts and seek his autograph are fans…supporters…people who appreciate his work. I’m sure that anyone who approached James Taylor on the street would be greeted respectfully and cordially…but he wouldn’t truly know in that brief moment whether the person was a true fan or as an aficionado of his work, unless the person told him.
Here’s the thing…some of us “grew up on God”… like we “grew up on” James Taylor’s music. Many of us have spent a great portion of our lives going to church, singing hymns, learning Bible verses, and even praying. We were welcomed into the fellowship of the body of Christ when we professed our faith in Him. We are entitled to a “good seat” in Heaven for all of eternity. And when we step forward to meet Jesus face to face, He will know us by name! In fact, He knows us now…and recognizes our every breath. How wonderful it is to know that this will continue forever and ever!
But some of us have turned our back on God. We have said, “Yeah, I’ve heard of Him…but I don’t much care for His ways…His rules…His message. I find His teachings to be boring…constraining…more of a fairy tale…confusing… or simply not for me.” And some have even acknowledged that they have never even heard of Jesus…at least not enough to be interested in what He offers them. These folks are not assured a seat at all…much less a special assignment! Jesus knows them…the Heavenly Father created them! He knows their name and counts their breaths. He will always treat them with kindness and cordiality. But unless these persons become part of His “fan club”…unless they claim Him as their Savior and acknowledge Him in every way, He will not remember them to God in heaven. They won’t receive admission to the biggest “concert” of all…much less preferential seating!
In August, we will attend another James Taylor concert…fifth row seats on the floor this time around! We will enjoy every note, lyric, drum beat and strum of Taylor’s guitar. And maybe James and the band members will wave at us and acknowledge our presence. As much fun as that will be, it can’t hold a candle to what awaits us in heaven…or the relationship we have every day of our earthly lives with Jesus. The real acknowledgement I want is His. I want to think of Jesus every day…to be reminded of Him in people, places and things that fill my earthly life. I cannot wait to be recognized by Him at the great party that will take place when I arrive in heaven. Jesus’ “fan club” is the one that truly matters…HIS favor is what I desire…the privilege of a seat at HIS table is the one I’m after.
We’ll enjoy the concert in August…spending a night listening to James Taylor singing his hits will be fantastic. But spending every day with Jesus is better. We know a bigger, far superior celebration awaits us someday in Heaven. Will you be sitting next to us?
©2014 Debbie Robus
If you tell others that you belong to me, I will tell my Father in heaven that you are my followers. But if you reject me, I will tell my Father in heaven that you don’t belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A couple of years ago, Greg and I went to a James Taylor concert. A friend of ours who is almost 30 asked, “Who is James Taylor?” Whoa, boy! That made us feel really old! James Taylor is such a musical icon that we assume that EVERYONE knows who he is! While his music was popular when we were in high school and college...his songs are still sung and played frequently today. James Taylor’s work has stood the test of time!
We joined the online James Taylor fan club…and when it came time to order concert tickets, we were given a two-day advance – and we receive preferential treatment...our seats were on the floor on the second row! We felt like we could reach right up and touch James Taylor and the band members. And at intermission, I was able to walk up to the edge of the stage, hand James Taylor my denim jacket and a marker, and get his autograph! Every time I wear that jacket, I think of him. I remember his songs and what they meant to my life…the times, people, places and things that the melodies and lyrics represent.
During the concert, we were enjoying a particularly lively song, and the percussionist looked directly at Greg…then he pointed, and acknowledged him and how much he was appreciating the music. I know that James Taylor and his entourage do not know us personally, but they certainly acted like they did at the concert. Taylor was cordial, friendly, and personable. He knows that those who attend his concerts and seek his autograph are fans…supporters…people who appreciate his work. I’m sure that anyone who approached James Taylor on the street would be greeted respectfully and cordially…but he wouldn’t truly know in that brief moment whether the person was a true fan or as an aficionado of his work, unless the person told him.
Here’s the thing…some of us “grew up on God”… like we “grew up on” James Taylor’s music. Many of us have spent a great portion of our lives going to church, singing hymns, learning Bible verses, and even praying. We were welcomed into the fellowship of the body of Christ when we professed our faith in Him. We are entitled to a “good seat” in Heaven for all of eternity. And when we step forward to meet Jesus face to face, He will know us by name! In fact, He knows us now…and recognizes our every breath. How wonderful it is to know that this will continue forever and ever!
But some of us have turned our back on God. We have said, “Yeah, I’ve heard of Him…but I don’t much care for His ways…His rules…His message. I find His teachings to be boring…constraining…more of a fairy tale…confusing… or simply not for me.” And some have even acknowledged that they have never even heard of Jesus…at least not enough to be interested in what He offers them. These folks are not assured a seat at all…much less a special assignment! Jesus knows them…the Heavenly Father created them! He knows their name and counts their breaths. He will always treat them with kindness and cordiality. But unless these persons become part of His “fan club”…unless they claim Him as their Savior and acknowledge Him in every way, He will not remember them to God in heaven. They won’t receive admission to the biggest “concert” of all…much less preferential seating!
In August, we will attend another James Taylor concert…fifth row seats on the floor this time around! We will enjoy every note, lyric, drum beat and strum of Taylor’s guitar. And maybe James and the band members will wave at us and acknowledge our presence. As much fun as that will be, it can’t hold a candle to what awaits us in heaven…or the relationship we have every day of our earthly lives with Jesus. The real acknowledgement I want is His. I want to think of Jesus every day…to be reminded of Him in people, places and things that fill my earthly life. I cannot wait to be recognized by Him at the great party that will take place when I arrive in heaven. Jesus’ “fan club” is the one that truly matters…HIS favor is what I desire…the privilege of a seat at HIS table is the one I’m after.
We’ll enjoy the concert in August…spending a night listening to James Taylor singing his hits will be fantastic. But spending every day with Jesus is better. We know a bigger, far superior celebration awaits us someday in Heaven. Will you be sitting next to us?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 13, 2014
Matthew 7:7
“Ask, and you will be given what you ask for. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened."
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Five years ago today, my niece Jasmine gave birth to the first of her three children. Entering the world at a weight of 8 pounds, 5 ounces, with 20¾” of length, Timothy Michael was a bright-eyed bundle of delight from the very beginning. I’ve learned a lot of lessons from this little guy in the last five years. But the biggest lesson God has demonstrated to me through him is the power and truth of Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:7. In many situations, I have asked, sought, and knocked…and God has opened the door and answered my petitions.
I find it no small coincidence that just this morning, I read in Anne Graham-Lotz’s book, Just Give Me Jesus, about the night that Jesus took His disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. He begged the disciples to stay awake and pray with Him…Jesus pled with Peter to wake up and sit with Him. When the soldiers came, and Peter realized what was happening – and how dire the situation was – he panicked and cut off the ear of the soldier, Malchus.
Lotz maintains that the real reason that Peter reacted in this way was from his failure to pray. Had Peter stayed awake with Jesus and prayed, he would have possibly had a better understanding of the unfolding events. Had he sought God’s presence and wisdom, Peter might have essentially “knocked at the door”…and God would have answered and revealed many truths to him. This would not have prevented the crucifixion, but it might have given Peter a different perspective and changed his reaction.
I also opened another devotional book today – a recent gift from my mother titled Jesus Calling. Today’s “message” was to look for areas where we need to let go and leave things in the capable hands of Jesus. Boy, do I ever need to internalize this message! If we could learn to ask, seek, knock, and receive…then “let go and let God” have control, we would see such a difference in every aspect of our lives.
Clearly, God is sending me a message…one that is appropriate for all of us. We cannot find Him if we are “asleep” or inattentive. We won’t hear from God if we don’t ask, seek, and knock. If we will pray about everything, seek God’s will, and listen for His voice, He will open the door and answer…through a newborn baby, the daily events of our life, the anointed words of a devotional or inspirational book or song, and certainly through the fervent diligence of ongoing prayer.
When we stay awake and alert for God’s voice…when we petition Him with sincerity, humility, and persistence, He “answers the door”. Better still…He takes our requests and desires to heart…sifts and sorts them to find the perfect match with His will…and answers perfectly. It sounds like a simple formula…but I can tell you firsthand that it is not. We are stubborn know-it-alls who often think we should tell God how things ought to go! But if we will surrender control… if we will ask, seek, and knock…God will open the door and answer.
Where do you find yourself today…are you “asleep” in the garden…or are you poised at God’s door? Your answer could be life-changing. How will you respond?
©2014 Debbie Robus
“Ask, and you will be given what you ask for. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened."
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Five years ago today, my niece Jasmine gave birth to the first of her three children. Entering the world at a weight of 8 pounds, 5 ounces, with 20¾” of length, Timothy Michael was a bright-eyed bundle of delight from the very beginning. I’ve learned a lot of lessons from this little guy in the last five years. But the biggest lesson God has demonstrated to me through him is the power and truth of Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:7. In many situations, I have asked, sought, and knocked…and God has opened the door and answered my petitions.
I find it no small coincidence that just this morning, I read in Anne Graham-Lotz’s book, Just Give Me Jesus, about the night that Jesus took His disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. He begged the disciples to stay awake and pray with Him…Jesus pled with Peter to wake up and sit with Him. When the soldiers came, and Peter realized what was happening – and how dire the situation was – he panicked and cut off the ear of the soldier, Malchus.
Lotz maintains that the real reason that Peter reacted in this way was from his failure to pray. Had Peter stayed awake with Jesus and prayed, he would have possibly had a better understanding of the unfolding events. Had he sought God’s presence and wisdom, Peter might have essentially “knocked at the door”…and God would have answered and revealed many truths to him. This would not have prevented the crucifixion, but it might have given Peter a different perspective and changed his reaction.
I also opened another devotional book today – a recent gift from my mother titled Jesus Calling. Today’s “message” was to look for areas where we need to let go and leave things in the capable hands of Jesus. Boy, do I ever need to internalize this message! If we could learn to ask, seek, knock, and receive…then “let go and let God” have control, we would see such a difference in every aspect of our lives.
Clearly, God is sending me a message…one that is appropriate for all of us. We cannot find Him if we are “asleep” or inattentive. We won’t hear from God if we don’t ask, seek, and knock. If we will pray about everything, seek God’s will, and listen for His voice, He will open the door and answer…through a newborn baby, the daily events of our life, the anointed words of a devotional or inspirational book or song, and certainly through the fervent diligence of ongoing prayer.
When we stay awake and alert for God’s voice…when we petition Him with sincerity, humility, and persistence, He “answers the door”. Better still…He takes our requests and desires to heart…sifts and sorts them to find the perfect match with His will…and answers perfectly. It sounds like a simple formula…but I can tell you firsthand that it is not. We are stubborn know-it-alls who often think we should tell God how things ought to go! But if we will surrender control… if we will ask, seek, and knock…God will open the door and answer.
Where do you find yourself today…are you “asleep” in the garden…or are you poised at God’s door? Your answer could be life-changing. How will you respond?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 12, 2014
Luke 15:24
This son of mine was dead, but has now come back to life. He was lost and has now been found.” And they began to celebrate.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Forty-six-year-old Lacey Wildd has undergone 35 plastic surgeries, including 12 breast augmentations that have enlarged her to a size LLL. Despite protests from her six children, she recently underwent surgery to remove fat from various places on her body – including her eyelids - and to inject four pounds of it into her backside. She will now have to sleep on a specially designed mattress with a “cut-out” to accommodate her enlargements. She also got a “nose job”. Wildd makes public appearances for a living and said she hopes to become an “extreme adult Barbie”.
After surgery, Wild’s daughter Tori, a college sophomore, tearfully said, “I just hope she can open her eyes.” Her 26-year-old son, Silas, stroked her hair and said, “You’ve really done it this time, Mom.” He told an interviewer, “We kinda have to suffer through the consequences with her.” Tori put her “battle” aside while her mom recuperates…but this woman’s antics are clearly taking a toll on the family. One wonders how many times her children will go with her to the surgeries (because she does plan to have even more!)…and how long they will continue to welcome her back into their lives as she persists to make herself look even more extreme and cartoon-like.
Do you ever have a day when you truly want to give up? Your friendship or relationship is in the pits, and you feel like it would be easier to throw up your hands, walk away and start over with new friends or another partner. Maybe someone in your life keeps doing things you feel are really crazy (like Lacey Wildd), and you wonder how much longer you can support them. Your kids/parents/grandparents are driving you nuts with their comments and antics, and you feel like you just can’t take it any longer. Perhaps you are like the man in this scripture passage whose brother wandered away and wasted his money (and potentially his very life) on “wild living”… you are fed up and disgusted – and maybe even done!
If you go back and start reading at Luke 15:11, you will see that the son realized his mistake and decided to go to his father and ask forgiveness. And when the father saw this long lost son coming toward him, he dropped everything and ran to him with open arms. He ordered the best calf to be killed for a feast, and he gave him new, clean clothes to wear. He told everyone that his son had returned…that it was time for a celebration.
Could you do this? If someone stole from you, hurt you deeply, or just went nuts and did things that were embarrassing and ridiculous – then came to you and humbly asked forgiveness - could you allow them back into your life? Could you forgive so readily and even throw them a party? Now let me ask this in a different way. Think about your own life and the mistakes you have made. What if you humbled yourself before God and asked for His forgiveness…and He refused you? What if God ignored your sincere apologies and vows to turn over a new leaf and do better? Can you even imagine it?
We take God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness for granted. We assume that God will always be there for us, no matter what! And honestly, as born-again believers in Jesus Christ, this is true. It doesn’t mean we should “test the waters” or take advantage of God’s love and kindness…but we do have the assurance that He will do this for us. So we have the confidence that nothing can separate us from God’s love.
But do we offer this same level of love, forgiveness, grace and mercy to others…and in doing so, do we demonstrate God’s unconditional love and care to others? Do we extend a welcoming hand…do we greet someone who is truly repentant with a hug and a kiss and celebrate their new beginning? Are we willing to put the past in the past and move forward? In this parable from Luke 15, you see that the older son actually protested all of the festivities. He pointed out to his father how he had done everything right…how he had been obedient and trustworthy…and no party had ever been given on his behalf.
Here’s my take on the point of his father’s response…God doesn’t give up on us, so we should not be so quick to give up on others. God doesn’t love those who are obedient and faithful any more…or any less. He does not take your loyalty and devotion for granted. He loves you and relishes His relationship with you. But God wants this same kind of relationship with your “brother” or “sister”, too. Each one of us is incredibly important to God. So when one of us “stinkers” comes back to Him, God is ready to open His arms, greet us with a hug, kiss and new beginning – and truly throw a party.
Let’s be real here…this is great news! On any given day, you or I could be the wild and crazy person… or the “stinker”. Let’s hope none of us goes off the deep end with plastic surgeries! The children of this woman will have a big challenge ahead of them as they figure out how to live with their mother’s appearance - and how to love and accept her in spite of it. But God can help them figure this out. And He can help us persevere and walk in love, grace, mercy and forgiveness toward others.
God can use us to reveal Himself to others…and even throw a party in their honor. Are you at a point in your relationship with Him where this is possible? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
This son of mine was dead, but has now come back to life. He was lost and has now been found.” And they began to celebrate.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Forty-six-year-old Lacey Wildd has undergone 35 plastic surgeries, including 12 breast augmentations that have enlarged her to a size LLL. Despite protests from her six children, she recently underwent surgery to remove fat from various places on her body – including her eyelids - and to inject four pounds of it into her backside. She will now have to sleep on a specially designed mattress with a “cut-out” to accommodate her enlargements. She also got a “nose job”. Wildd makes public appearances for a living and said she hopes to become an “extreme adult Barbie”.
After surgery, Wild’s daughter Tori, a college sophomore, tearfully said, “I just hope she can open her eyes.” Her 26-year-old son, Silas, stroked her hair and said, “You’ve really done it this time, Mom.” He told an interviewer, “We kinda have to suffer through the consequences with her.” Tori put her “battle” aside while her mom recuperates…but this woman’s antics are clearly taking a toll on the family. One wonders how many times her children will go with her to the surgeries (because she does plan to have even more!)…and how long they will continue to welcome her back into their lives as she persists to make herself look even more extreme and cartoon-like.
Do you ever have a day when you truly want to give up? Your friendship or relationship is in the pits, and you feel like it would be easier to throw up your hands, walk away and start over with new friends or another partner. Maybe someone in your life keeps doing things you feel are really crazy (like Lacey Wildd), and you wonder how much longer you can support them. Your kids/parents/grandparents are driving you nuts with their comments and antics, and you feel like you just can’t take it any longer. Perhaps you are like the man in this scripture passage whose brother wandered away and wasted his money (and potentially his very life) on “wild living”… you are fed up and disgusted – and maybe even done!
If you go back and start reading at Luke 15:11, you will see that the son realized his mistake and decided to go to his father and ask forgiveness. And when the father saw this long lost son coming toward him, he dropped everything and ran to him with open arms. He ordered the best calf to be killed for a feast, and he gave him new, clean clothes to wear. He told everyone that his son had returned…that it was time for a celebration.
Could you do this? If someone stole from you, hurt you deeply, or just went nuts and did things that were embarrassing and ridiculous – then came to you and humbly asked forgiveness - could you allow them back into your life? Could you forgive so readily and even throw them a party? Now let me ask this in a different way. Think about your own life and the mistakes you have made. What if you humbled yourself before God and asked for His forgiveness…and He refused you? What if God ignored your sincere apologies and vows to turn over a new leaf and do better? Can you even imagine it?
We take God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness for granted. We assume that God will always be there for us, no matter what! And honestly, as born-again believers in Jesus Christ, this is true. It doesn’t mean we should “test the waters” or take advantage of God’s love and kindness…but we do have the assurance that He will do this for us. So we have the confidence that nothing can separate us from God’s love.
But do we offer this same level of love, forgiveness, grace and mercy to others…and in doing so, do we demonstrate God’s unconditional love and care to others? Do we extend a welcoming hand…do we greet someone who is truly repentant with a hug and a kiss and celebrate their new beginning? Are we willing to put the past in the past and move forward? In this parable from Luke 15, you see that the older son actually protested all of the festivities. He pointed out to his father how he had done everything right…how he had been obedient and trustworthy…and no party had ever been given on his behalf.
Here’s my take on the point of his father’s response…God doesn’t give up on us, so we should not be so quick to give up on others. God doesn’t love those who are obedient and faithful any more…or any less. He does not take your loyalty and devotion for granted. He loves you and relishes His relationship with you. But God wants this same kind of relationship with your “brother” or “sister”, too. Each one of us is incredibly important to God. So when one of us “stinkers” comes back to Him, God is ready to open His arms, greet us with a hug, kiss and new beginning – and truly throw a party.
Let’s be real here…this is great news! On any given day, you or I could be the wild and crazy person… or the “stinker”. Let’s hope none of us goes off the deep end with plastic surgeries! The children of this woman will have a big challenge ahead of them as they figure out how to live with their mother’s appearance - and how to love and accept her in spite of it. But God can help them figure this out. And He can help us persevere and walk in love, grace, mercy and forgiveness toward others.
God can use us to reveal Himself to others…and even throw a party in their honor. Are you at a point in your relationship with Him where this is possible? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 11, 2014
Luke 14:33
“Simply put, if you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can’t be my disciple.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In her book Just Give Me Jesus, author Anne Graham Lotz describes Jesus’ presence at the tomb of his dear friend Lazarus. She notes that Jesus wept in grief…a reminder of how deeply He cares about all that we are experiencing and weeps with us when we are hurting. She also recalls that Jesus had the stone rolled away. She makes the point that Jesus did not do this personally - although He surely could have commanded the stone to be moved, and it would have been so! Jesus had this done by others - many of whom protested. Even Lazarus’ sister Martha objected, saying that after four days in the tomb, the body would smell to high heavens! Still, Jesus had the stone rolled away, and He called for Lazarus to come forth. And Lazarus did exactly that!
Graham-Lotz makes the point that often, we are like Martha…so “worried about the smell”, or what someone will think...concerned over what we might have to “give up”…busy holding onto old grudges or past mistakes…unwilling to compromise or concede…and we miss the bigger picture. And the end result is catastrophic, because we miss Jesus!
We have to be willing to literally “lose everything in order to gain the world”…because without Jesus, nothing else really matters. I know that is hard for us to imagine. We hold many people, places, things and plans so very dear. But the hard reality is that none of these can save us from sin…without Jesus, none of us is destined for an eternity in heaven. You can have all of the earthly love and affection, material wealth, popularity and success, and what feels like pure joy that you can possibly muster. But if you don’t have Jesus, it’s all worthless.
Graham-Lotz asks the question, “What ‘stone’ do you need to roll back today?” And this is my question for us. What have we made more important than Jesus? What would we part with for Him…how far are we willing to go to have Him in our lives? Isn’t it time we figured this out? Will this be the day that you “roll away the stones” in your life and truly find God? Don’t you think it should be?
©2014 Debbie Robus
“Simply put, if you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can’t be my disciple.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In her book Just Give Me Jesus, author Anne Graham Lotz describes Jesus’ presence at the tomb of his dear friend Lazarus. She notes that Jesus wept in grief…a reminder of how deeply He cares about all that we are experiencing and weeps with us when we are hurting. She also recalls that Jesus had the stone rolled away. She makes the point that Jesus did not do this personally - although He surely could have commanded the stone to be moved, and it would have been so! Jesus had this done by others - many of whom protested. Even Lazarus’ sister Martha objected, saying that after four days in the tomb, the body would smell to high heavens! Still, Jesus had the stone rolled away, and He called for Lazarus to come forth. And Lazarus did exactly that!
Graham-Lotz makes the point that often, we are like Martha…so “worried about the smell”, or what someone will think...concerned over what we might have to “give up”…busy holding onto old grudges or past mistakes…unwilling to compromise or concede…and we miss the bigger picture. And the end result is catastrophic, because we miss Jesus!
We have to be willing to literally “lose everything in order to gain the world”…because without Jesus, nothing else really matters. I know that is hard for us to imagine. We hold many people, places, things and plans so very dear. But the hard reality is that none of these can save us from sin…without Jesus, none of us is destined for an eternity in heaven. You can have all of the earthly love and affection, material wealth, popularity and success, and what feels like pure joy that you can possibly muster. But if you don’t have Jesus, it’s all worthless.
Graham-Lotz asks the question, “What ‘stone’ do you need to roll back today?” And this is my question for us. What have we made more important than Jesus? What would we part with for Him…how far are we willing to go to have Him in our lives? Isn’t it time we figured this out? Will this be the day that you “roll away the stones” in your life and truly find God? Don’t you think it should be?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 10, 2014
John 5:19
Jesus replied, “The Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing, and in the same way."
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As we approach Mother’s Day, some people are switching their Facebook profile picture to one of their Mom. In some cases, the resemblance of the woman in the old photo to the child in present day is uncanny. I have several photos of my niece Jasmine – and especially of Timothy – in which their “smirky” smile is that of my dad. The crazy thing about this is that my dad died when Jasmine was 9, and Timothy never knew my dad, so he has absolutely no reference for this gesture. My niece Zola points to things with her middle finger. I don’t recall this, but my sister says that Daddy did the same thing…and so did Jasmine.
My cousin Olivia is witty and bright…engaging and funny. She “comes by these traits honestly”…her mom is the same way, as were her Grand-dad and great-grandmother. But the interesting part is that Olivia was two when both of these dear ones passed. She really never knew either of them…certainly not enough to talk like them or develop many of their personality traits. And how does my cousin Owen walk like his Grand-dad, who died three years before he was even born? There is only one answer to these questions…the “father” lives within us.
Do you see where I am going with this? We are often so innately connected to our ancestors that we carry much more than their DNA. We are like them in subtle gestures and faint hints of personality characteristics, mannerism and more. They are a part of us and who we are. And our relationship with God contains the opportunities for conveying His “gestures and mannerisms”… and the potential for far greater reflections of His glory, power, love, grace and mercy.
Apart from God, we might be able to sustain kindness and generosity – or to accomplish many things on our own. But for the really significant stuff, we need His presence. There have been countless times in my life when I experienced or accomplished something that I knew was far beyond my capabilities or “wheel-house”. The only way these things happened was under God’s power…His work in and through me. I am not God, and I know it! But without His hand in my life, I am powerless and utterly incapable in many instances.
Here’s the really cool thing. The closer we grow to God…the more frequently He shows up, and the more readily recognizable these experiences become as His handiwork. I find God more often in the makeup of my life - from subtle nuances to the truly large events. The more I grow in my relationship with Him…the more I acknowledge His power, wisdom, and presence…the more I truly find Him.
I may not have God’s “smirky smile” (although, who knows?!)…and I know that there are many instances where I fail to represent Him well - much less give others a glimpse of Him in my words, thoughts and actions. But I’m working on this and striving to do better and be better every single day. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Jesus replied, “The Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing, and in the same way."
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As we approach Mother’s Day, some people are switching their Facebook profile picture to one of their Mom. In some cases, the resemblance of the woman in the old photo to the child in present day is uncanny. I have several photos of my niece Jasmine – and especially of Timothy – in which their “smirky” smile is that of my dad. The crazy thing about this is that my dad died when Jasmine was 9, and Timothy never knew my dad, so he has absolutely no reference for this gesture. My niece Zola points to things with her middle finger. I don’t recall this, but my sister says that Daddy did the same thing…and so did Jasmine.
My cousin Olivia is witty and bright…engaging and funny. She “comes by these traits honestly”…her mom is the same way, as were her Grand-dad and great-grandmother. But the interesting part is that Olivia was two when both of these dear ones passed. She really never knew either of them…certainly not enough to talk like them or develop many of their personality traits. And how does my cousin Owen walk like his Grand-dad, who died three years before he was even born? There is only one answer to these questions…the “father” lives within us.
Do you see where I am going with this? We are often so innately connected to our ancestors that we carry much more than their DNA. We are like them in subtle gestures and faint hints of personality characteristics, mannerism and more. They are a part of us and who we are. And our relationship with God contains the opportunities for conveying His “gestures and mannerisms”… and the potential for far greater reflections of His glory, power, love, grace and mercy.
Apart from God, we might be able to sustain kindness and generosity – or to accomplish many things on our own. But for the really significant stuff, we need His presence. There have been countless times in my life when I experienced or accomplished something that I knew was far beyond my capabilities or “wheel-house”. The only way these things happened was under God’s power…His work in and through me. I am not God, and I know it! But without His hand in my life, I am powerless and utterly incapable in many instances.
Here’s the really cool thing. The closer we grow to God…the more frequently He shows up, and the more readily recognizable these experiences become as His handiwork. I find God more often in the makeup of my life - from subtle nuances to the truly large events. The more I grow in my relationship with Him…the more I acknowledge His power, wisdom, and presence…the more I truly find Him.
I may not have God’s “smirky smile” (although, who knows?!)…and I know that there are many instances where I fail to represent Him well - much less give others a glimpse of Him in my words, thoughts and actions. But I’m working on this and striving to do better and be better every single day. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 9, 2014
John 3:16-18
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This time of year makes me think of strawberries. They are now in season in our neck of the woods…and stands with fresh Arkansas strawberries for sale are starting to pop up in our area. Nearly 40 years ago, the mother of one of my kindergarten students showed up one Friday afternoon and presented me with a homemade fresh strawberry pie. It happened to be Mother’s Day weekend, and she said, “You are momma to our kids all week…I thought you needed a Mother’s Day present.” Every time I think of strawberries – and Mother’s Day – I think of her and that delicious pie.
This morning, my cousin Natalie sent me an e-mail with the subject line: Surprise. The message said, “Olivia and Owen left you a surprise on your bench. Happy Mother's Day! We love you!!!” I looked out the window, and there on my front porch bench sat a glass vase holding a dozen beautiful, deep red roses. This was indeed a surprise…the best kind! I could almost hear the children giggle and see their faces as their mother drove her vehicle into our driveway early this morning. I could picture them as they stealthily placed the vase on our porch bench and quietly crept back out of our neighborhood and headed for school. And the love in that gesture was palpable.
This afternoon, I read the post of an acquaintance on Facebook who said that his mother has been celebrating Mother’s Day in heaven for 28 years now. He noted how much he misses her…but he also thanked the “divinely-inspired mothers” who have been there for him over the years – and still are to this day.
I like the verse that reminds us that God didn’t send Jesus to point his finger and accuse us of being evil. Yes, we’ve all sinned…and Jesus died to absolve us. But His dying words were not, “Do you see how despicable you are and what I’ve had to endure for you?” Jesus NEVER EVER pointed a finger at us. He never said, “This is all your fault!” This scripture passage tells us that God could have found another way to show us how much He loved us. But He sent Jesus to walk among us…to quietly teach us…to show us about love, grace, mercy, forgiveness…and obedience.
God is using ordinary people in our lives today to show us how much we are loved. He is recognizing “mothers” who never birthed a baby. He is providing us with teachers, guardians, caregivers, and friends who continually nurture us, encourage us, and show us kindnesses out of love and care. They do not do this with an accusatory demeanor or a scolding…but with a quiet demonstration of God’s abiding care and affection. We have two choices…we can recognize His presence in this form and accept this love – or we can ignore it.
When we pay attention and find God in the people, places and things that constitute our life as a whole, we are richly blessed in ways both tangible and indefinable. When we recognize and accept His love and care…and take it at face value without attaching “strings” or our own interpretations and conditions…we are assured a place in His presence for all eternity. But if we wander through life in our own little world…skeptical of everything and everyone who reaches out to us…cynical about most everything – and fail to recognize God’s presence in our lives, we miss out on His amazing blessings. And we pretty well ruin everything – in this life and beyond.
I find God in some amazing places these days. Just this morning, He shared His love with me through the surprise gift from three of my favorite people! Every time I look at those roses, I think of my precious cousins…and of Him. I hope that I never miss a visit from God…that I am never too busy…too preoccupied…too suspicious of others’ motives or too distrustful to truly recognize His presence. When we come to a place where we can find God in the small details…where we see His love instead of reprimands and indictments…we have truly begun to grasp the depths of His passion and tender heart for us.
Are you truly seeing God today – even in something as obscure as a strawberry pie or a vase of flowers? Is He using you to reveal Himself to others? Do you know God in a way that has secured your place in heaven someday? Aren’t these questions that need to be settled in your life? Wouldn’t today be the perfect time to do exactly that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This time of year makes me think of strawberries. They are now in season in our neck of the woods…and stands with fresh Arkansas strawberries for sale are starting to pop up in our area. Nearly 40 years ago, the mother of one of my kindergarten students showed up one Friday afternoon and presented me with a homemade fresh strawberry pie. It happened to be Mother’s Day weekend, and she said, “You are momma to our kids all week…I thought you needed a Mother’s Day present.” Every time I think of strawberries – and Mother’s Day – I think of her and that delicious pie.
This morning, my cousin Natalie sent me an e-mail with the subject line: Surprise. The message said, “Olivia and Owen left you a surprise on your bench. Happy Mother's Day! We love you!!!” I looked out the window, and there on my front porch bench sat a glass vase holding a dozen beautiful, deep red roses. This was indeed a surprise…the best kind! I could almost hear the children giggle and see their faces as their mother drove her vehicle into our driveway early this morning. I could picture them as they stealthily placed the vase on our porch bench and quietly crept back out of our neighborhood and headed for school. And the love in that gesture was palpable.
This afternoon, I read the post of an acquaintance on Facebook who said that his mother has been celebrating Mother’s Day in heaven for 28 years now. He noted how much he misses her…but he also thanked the “divinely-inspired mothers” who have been there for him over the years – and still are to this day.
I like the verse that reminds us that God didn’t send Jesus to point his finger and accuse us of being evil. Yes, we’ve all sinned…and Jesus died to absolve us. But His dying words were not, “Do you see how despicable you are and what I’ve had to endure for you?” Jesus NEVER EVER pointed a finger at us. He never said, “This is all your fault!” This scripture passage tells us that God could have found another way to show us how much He loved us. But He sent Jesus to walk among us…to quietly teach us…to show us about love, grace, mercy, forgiveness…and obedience.
God is using ordinary people in our lives today to show us how much we are loved. He is recognizing “mothers” who never birthed a baby. He is providing us with teachers, guardians, caregivers, and friends who continually nurture us, encourage us, and show us kindnesses out of love and care. They do not do this with an accusatory demeanor or a scolding…but with a quiet demonstration of God’s abiding care and affection. We have two choices…we can recognize His presence in this form and accept this love – or we can ignore it.
When we pay attention and find God in the people, places and things that constitute our life as a whole, we are richly blessed in ways both tangible and indefinable. When we recognize and accept His love and care…and take it at face value without attaching “strings” or our own interpretations and conditions…we are assured a place in His presence for all eternity. But if we wander through life in our own little world…skeptical of everything and everyone who reaches out to us…cynical about most everything – and fail to recognize God’s presence in our lives, we miss out on His amazing blessings. And we pretty well ruin everything – in this life and beyond.
I find God in some amazing places these days. Just this morning, He shared His love with me through the surprise gift from three of my favorite people! Every time I look at those roses, I think of my precious cousins…and of Him. I hope that I never miss a visit from God…that I am never too busy…too preoccupied…too suspicious of others’ motives or too distrustful to truly recognize His presence. When we come to a place where we can find God in the small details…where we see His love instead of reprimands and indictments…we have truly begun to grasp the depths of His passion and tender heart for us.
Are you truly seeing God today – even in something as obscure as a strawberry pie or a vase of flowers? Is He using you to reveal Himself to others? Do you know God in a way that has secured your place in heaven someday? Aren’t these questions that need to be settled in your life? Wouldn’t today be the perfect time to do exactly that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
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