Daily Devotional for January 31, 2015

1 John 4:6-7
But we belong to God, and those who know God listen to us. If they do not belong to God, they do not listen to us. That is how we know if someone has the Spirit of truth or the spirit of deception.
 
Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God.
 
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
 
Each January, countless people resolve to lose weight, get in shape, and improve their health.  By the last day of this month, a good number of them have succumbed to all sorts of outside persuasions and temptations…and those good intentions have gone out the window.
 
Every day, we are bombarded with thoughts and ideas from a myriad of sources.  Some of these are “healthy” views…but many are not.  Try as we might to stay focused and headed in the right direction, the surrounding arguments and temptations often get the best of us. Just as there are no quick and permanent “fixes” for our health and fitness, our Spirit-filled fellowship with God requires continual “maintenance” as well.  We will be bothered on all sides by those who wish to tempt or sway us toward their way of thinking…both unbelievers and those who believe in Jesus but do not listen to the whispers of the Holy Spirit.  And honestly, it can often be hard to discern who is Who!
 
I know this is a confusing passage.  I’ve read it and studied more than a dozen commentaries just to try and get a handle on it for myself.  And the conclusion I have drawn is that we are to continually seek God…through prayer, Bible study, fellowship with Spirit-filled believers, and genuine efforts to emulate the teachings of Jesus.  We are to constantly strive to abide in God…to feel His presence and to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  This will help to insulate us from deceptive voices.
 
I find it amazing that we are already one month into this New Year!  The time surely flew by for me!  But there is still time to get on track…physically, mentally - and most assuredly – in a Spiritual sense.  We can redouble our efforts to abide in Jesus and listen for His voice each and every minute of the day.  We can tune out the noise and chatter of deceptive spirits…and strive to truly understand that we are children of God and belong to Him!  He is with us…His love surrounds us!  Our job is to embrace it.  Are you ready to do exactly that?  Will this be the day that you begin?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 30, 2015

1 John 2:13
I am writing to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning.
 
I am writing to you who are young in the faith because you have won your battle with the evil one.
 
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
 
A neighbor knocked on our door one recent morning and offered me a book on “end times”.  He insisted that this was the definitive explanation of everything.  I thanked him, but I explained that I do not get caught up in all of the fuss about “end times”…I don’t plan to be here for them!  I also have more unread books on my shelves than I could get to in a year, so I am really don’t want/need more reading material!
 
I don’t mean to be flippant about the second coming of Christ.  But so many people – including those who claim to be Spirit-filled Christians – are pretty well consumed by these studies.  Their talk has an edge of fear to it.  Yes, the Bible tells us that after the Rapture, there will be years of unthinkable horrors…and no, we do NOT want to be “left behind”.
 
But the solution is easy…give your heart to Jesus and live for Him now.  Enjoy a deep and abiding fellowship with our Heavenly Father now…and forever...and get on with living in His blessings and promises every single day.
 
How does this relate to the scripture passage for today?  I believe that John is telling us that God is available to all who call on Him…whether you are an “old”, seasoned Christian who has walked with Him for decades…or a new Christian who just surrendered your heart and asked for His forgiveness.  A good case in point would be a 98-year-old lady in our community who passed away recently.  This little lady gave her heart to Jesus on her deathbed…and I am confident that she was welcomed into His arms at Heaven’s gate.
 
John’s message is that God is here with us…His love and care is available for all of us – young and old in Christ.  All who believe and receive Him will miss the Rapture – one way or another!  This is GOOD NEWS!  We need to embrace this amazing gift and get busy basking in the love of Christ – and sharing Him with others as He leads us.  If the Rapture comes in our lifetime…I’ll see you on the other side!  Meanwhile, I plan to be busy living for Jesus…what about you?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 29, 2015

1 John 1:6-7
If we say that we share in life with God and keep on living in the dark, we are lying and are not living by the truth. But if we live in the light, as God does, we share in life with each other. And the blood of his Son Jesus washes all our sins away.
 
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
 
In the last few days, a series of events have occurred that – even more than usual – have demonstrated God’s perfect timing. As I talked to God about these events, I thanked Him for opening my eyes and ears, so that I see more clearly than ever how His hand is in even the smallest details of my life.  To me, this represents tremendous growth in my faith - and fellowship - with God…and I am truly grateful.
 
I turned to Google to search for more clear interpretations and insights on these verses from 1 John 1…and I discovered an interesting commentary from pastor and expositor Ray Stedman.* Stedman details the difference between a “relationship” with God…and a “fellowship”.  He maintains that there are a lot of Christians who have a “relationship” – and they ARE Christians. But they “live in the dark” because they have not cultivated a “fellowship” with God, in which “He warms, fills, and fulfills us and unveils reality to us by showing up the false” as we walk in His light.
 
In other words, many of us treat our Christian faith like electricity.  Just because you have electrical power does not mean you necessarily have “light”…until you flip the switch!  In the same way, many Christians have failed to “turn on the light” of God.  They have salvation through the blood of Jesus.  They belong to God and are promised Eternal Life in His presence.  But they are still walking in the dark.
 
So a “Christian in the dark” may have a sour, cynical outlook on life.  He/she may be negative, delight in gossip and the downfall of others, be easily depressed and discouraged, view Christian faith as a drudgery or chore, and generally “see the glass as half empty”.  A Christian who “lives in the light” with God can function in exactly the same set of circumstances with a completely different outcome.  The difference, Stedman suggests, is “fellowship.”
 
Fellowship with God can be cultivated through prayer, Bible study, and interaction with faith-filled Christians who already enjoy living in “the light” with Him.  We must genuinely hunger after God’s wisdom and be open to His guidance and instruction – in all of the forms in which He will send it.  We cannot become smug and assume that we “have it all together”.  God is continually teaching us.  If we wish to live in His light…we must be open to His messages…and remember to “flip on the switch”!
 
Too many Christians are fumbling in the dark…wondering where God has gone.  It’s time to find Him again.  It’s time to reconnect – or maybe to really connect for the first time – and to cultivate a true “fellowship” with Him.  Will this be the day that you “turn on the light” and make the connection?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus
 
*http://www.raystedman.org/new-testament/1-john/the-man-who-ignores-light

Daily Devotional for January 28, 2015

Romans 2:4
Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?
 
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 much younger, I worked with someone who was not very nice to me.  A co-worker told me one day, “Kill him with kindness.”  This was a new concept for me…and I can tell you, it wasn’t easy to implement!  But this phrase has stuck with me for decades…and served me well in the process.
 
No doubt, you have encountered someone who required a lot of patience, kindness and tolerance.  Perhaps YOU have been the “stinker” who got bigger and better doses of acceptance and generous treatment than you probably deserved.  The questions many ask are…”Why do others put up with this behavior?” and “Why should *I* tolerate a ‘stinker’ in my own life?”  And the answer is…”Because it might make a difference in that person’s life…and/or your own.”
 
God sees potential in all of us.  As long as we draw a breath, it’s never too late for us to change and turn from our sins…and the use of unpleasant words and actions.  If God is loving, kind, tolerant and patient with us, we might actually begin to appreciate His efforts - and desire to try and live up to them.  And the same can be said for those we encounter in our own lives.
 
We need to seriously examine all that God does for us and see where we have failed to live in a manner that demonstrates our appreciation and gratitude.  And we need to make a concerted effort to emulate Him in our treatment of others. Whether they ever change toward us or not, God will be pleased with our actions toward them.  And that really is all that should matter.
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 27, 2015

Romans 16:17
And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them.
 
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
 
Several years ago, Greg worked with a man who would say, “If you lie, you fry!...Hezekiah 3:5”.  Sounds good, right?  And truly, there are a lot of scripture verses about honesty…but this is not one of them!  Let me know if you find the Book of Hezekiah in your Bible!
 
The October 2010 issue of Tails magazine carried a photo of celebrity chef Rachael Ray and her dog, with this headline…” Rachael Ray finds inspiration in cooking her family and her dog”.  Oh, what a difference punctuation can make!
 
I share these two examples to illustrate that it is easy to get the wrong idea and/or misinterpret what we read and hear.  And nowhere is this more prevalent than in the understanding of Scripture.  Many times while writing these devotionals, I must back up and read the surrounding verses – or even surrounding chapters – to determine what was really being said and intended in a particular passage.  Yet many wish to take one or two verses – or even a portion of a verse – and make it fit a specific agenda.  And this is where we get into trouble.
 
Paul is challenging the Romans to carefully consider what we read and hear…and this is good advice in all arenas – not just the scriptures.  Study the Bible and discern what God is really telling you in each verse.  Dig deeply and make sure you understand the nuances and “where the commas have been removed” by some.  Don’t take everything people tell you – or that you see in print – as the Gospel.  Ask questions…use your head…proceed with caution.
 
If you lie, you very well might “fry”…but not because “Hezekiah” said so.  And I know with a fair amount of certainty that Rachael Ray is not inspired by cooking her family and her dog.  Where have you drawn wrong conclusions based on a snippet of information?  Isn’t this a great day to start gathering all the facts and letting them guide your steps instead?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 26, 2015

Romans 14:6-9
What’s important in all this is that if you keep a holy day, keep it for God’s sake; if you eat meat, eat it to the glory of God and thank God for prime rib; if you’re a vegetarian, eat vegetables to the glory of God and thank God for broccoli. None of us are permitted to insist on our own way in these matters. It’s God we are answerable to—all the way from life to death and everything in between—not each other. That’s why Jesus lived and died and then lived again: so that he could be our Master across the entire range of life and death, and free us from the petty tyrannies of each other.



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


When I was very young, there was a “shouting match” at our church service one evening.  At least one man sitting in our congregation began to try to “shout down” the pastor as he spoke while standing at the pulpit.


I was too little to understand why they were arguing, but my mother said it centered partly on comments the pastor had made to choir members who did not attend the Wednesday night prayer meetings.  This man told the choir members that when they came into the sanctuary on Sunday morning, and he saw the faces of those who had not attended prayer meeting, they were an “affront” to him.


Do you see a problem here?  Christian people who honored God by devoting their time and energy to participate in a church choir on Sundays were berated because they weren’t attending a prayer service on Wednesdays!  This offended the pastor – and obviously he judged their Christian faith and witness accordingly.


I’ll be the first to tell you that there is a LOT about the Bible that I do not know or understand.  But I honestly don’t know of any scripture that says you have to attend every service that your church holds each week.  Just because you have a lovely voice doesn’t mean you have to sing in the choir. We are supposed to read God’s word, but I’m not familiar with any scriptures that say, “You must go to Sunday school and attend organized Bible studies.”  I don’t recall Jesus sharing His last supper with the disciples and saying, “You can only do this in remembrance of Me at certain churches or in specific settings.”


We humans have created a plethora of rules about our Christian faith…and nothing could be more of a paradox.  A holy Christian relationship that encompasses grace, mercy, acceptance and love is often used as a justification for some of the worst judgments and persecutions of others. And I have to believe that God hangs His head in heartache and disappointment.


But we can change this…and it starts with you and me.  We can dig deeply into God’s word and spend some serious time in conversation with Him.  We can genuinely ask Him, “Where – and how – do you wish for me to serve and witness?”…and DO IT!  We can leave judgment and intolerance of others - and how THEY worship - out of our lives…and let every person work out his/her discipleship as God directs them.


As Paul explained to the Romans…Jesus died to release us from such “petty tyrannies”.  Isn’t it time we let them go once and for all?


©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 25, 2015

Revelation 2:2-5
I know everything you have done, including your hard work and how you have endured. I know you won’t put up with anyone who is evil. When some people pretended to be apostles, you tested them and found out that they were liars. You have endured and gone through hard times because of me, and you have not given up.
 
But I do have something against you! And it is this: You don’t have as much love as you used to. Think about where you have fallen from, and then turn back and do as you did at first. If you don’t turn back, I will come and take away your lampstand.
 
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
 
I’ve owned a guitar almost continuously since I was about 8 years old…but at best, I’ve always been a mediocre guitarist.  I can strum a few tunes enough to get by…but I never fully developed the knack to play really well.  So when Timothy’s kindergarten teacher asked me to bring my guitar to the classroom and sing Christmas carols, I set in to practice enough that I would not embarrass myself – or Timothy.  After a few days, I felt I was ready…but my fingers were so sore.
 
Here’s the thing about guitar strings…they are thin wires that dig into your fingers as you press them against the fretboard to create the pitches.  Until you build up calluses, it can really hurt after you play for several minutes or longer.  By the time I worked on the Christmas songs for the kindergartners over several days, my sore fingers were beginning to toughen, and it didn’t hurt as badly. I could play for longer periods of time.
 
Then Christmas came, and I got busy with holiday dinners and other things, and I stopped playing every day…and soon, my fingers lost their calluses.  The next time I picked up the guitar, it hurt again.  And the longer I go between “sessions”…the more “rusty” I get.  I feel certain that were I to stop altogether for a long period of time, I would probably be unable to even fake a few Christmas tunes for five-year-olds.
 
This is essentially what the message to the church at Ephesus conveys…you’ve worked hard – for awhile and to a point.  But you’ve lost your love and passion for Christ…and your relationship with Him is not as “callused”.  You’ve grown “rusty” in your faith.  And if you don’t start “practicing” again soon, your relationship will be taken from you.
 
Christian faith is something we have to work at.  Yes, the gift of Salvation through the blood of Jesus is freely given.  But to deepen our relationship with Christ…to be strong enough to stand up to sin and the evils that Satan hurls our way…to be effective in our witness and confident in our relationship with Him…we have to practice!  We have to stay connected and work at digging deeply into God’s word and what it means for our lives.  We have to talk to God and share the message of Jesus Christ with others…and speak with a firsthand knowledge of these teachings and how they have applied in our own lives.  We have to live our faith each and every day.
 
I could kick myself for not picking up guitar and playing at least every few days, to keep those calluses.  But here’s the thing…I CAN start again and rebuild them – and I can vow to keep them this time around.  And so it is with Jesus…it’s not too late to start again…too renew and strengthen our relationship with Him…and to keep it that way.  Are you ready to do this in your own “faith walk”?  Isn’t today a great day to get started?!
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 24, 2015

Revelation 2:14-16
“But why do you indulge that Balaam crowd? Don’t you remember that Balaam was an enemy agent, seducing Balak and sabotaging Israel’s holy pilgrimage by throwing unholy parties? And why do you put up with the Nicolaitans, who do the same thing?
 
“Enough! Don’t give in to them; I’ll be with you soon. I’m fed up and about to cut them to pieces with my sword-sharp words.
 
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.
 
Most of us have heard stories about – or actually know of - a teenager who attended a party where there was under-age drinking and other activities that should not have been happening.  When this activity was discovered, the teen said, “But I wasn’t doing it!”  While the kid felt this exonerated his/her presence…it really was no excuse.  Or maybe you know of a child who broke a window because he/she was throwing rocks…or started a fire when a pack of matches was discovered…or had some sort of accident because friends dared him/her to do something crazy…but they were just “in the wrong place at the wrong time”.  It really wasn’t their fault.
 
There is a fine line between tolerance and poor judgment.  I would guess that virtually every single one of us has been in a situation or circumstance where we said, “I shouldn’t be here.”  Or maybe we sensed that something did not feel “right”…yet we couldn’t seem to drag ourselves away.  Some would argue that they were there to “help a buddy” – or even to “witness” to those in the wrong.  But these lines of reasoning won’t hold up very well in most cases.
 
In this passage, God is using John to tell the people of Smyrna that they have been hanging out with the wrong crowd…and He has just about had enough of it.  They have been dabbling in things they know they shouldn’t…and teetering on the brink of disaster.  And this message applies to many of us today just as well.  We’re dancing on the edge…testing the waters…trying to “have our cake and eat it, too”…and God is not amused.
 
I honestly don’t think man people grasp how terribly we grieve God on many occasions.  We don’t often stop to consider that the One who loves us beyond description has feelings, too. And we break His heart over and again on a regular basis– if not every single day.  But we can change…and don’t you want to?!  Don’t you want to honor God for all that He has done for you?  Don’t you want to live in a manner that says, “I am so very grateful for your love, grace, mercy and patience.”?
 
Isn’t it time we started living with more purpose…with deliberate thought and consideration for our words and actions?  If we really love God, shouldn’t we stop and consider what HE would think before we say and do many of the things we do without any consideration?  Will this be the day that you begin to “let go and let God” in EVERY area of your life?  Or will you continue to hope that your “excuses” are good enough to merit a “pass”?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 23, 2015

Psalm 133:1
How wonderful, how beautiful,
    when brothers and sisters get along!

 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
I just read a book called 1-2-3 Magic*, written by Thomas W. Phelan, Ph.D.  This book is subtitled “Effective Discipline for Children 2-12”.  Phelan has an interesting approach to parenting effectively – and with joy – and he discusses sibling rivalry in several sections of his book.  Some of Phelan’s statistics were quite interesting.  He notes that all siblings will fight, and those ages 3-7 fight about three or four times per hour, while some younger children fight as much as 6 times an hour.  Phelan claims that kids ages 10-15 have the highest rate of sibling rivalry!
 
I won’t detail how Phelan recommends handling sibling rivalry…but he admits that there are times that a separation – or “time out” – is necessary for all parties. He advocates a “1-2-3” approach of “3 counts” and then a “time out”.  I couldn’t help but think of counting to Timothy one day, and when I got to “2”, he said, “Don’t make me count to THREE!”
 
All you have to do is read the book of Genesis to see that sibling rivalry is nothing new! But here’s where I think this verse in Psalms applies to us as Christians.  In too many areas of our life, we have stopped trying to get along.  We’ve adopted the philosophy that “It’s my way or the highway”…and everyone else is just plain wrong if they disagree with us!
 
I believe that Psalm 133:1 is about getting along with ALL of our brothers and sisters…not just those with whom we share parents.  God delights when His creations live in harmony…are patient, kind, tolerant and loving toward one another.  Jesus demonstrated grace, mercy, and forgiveness…and He called on us to share these “fruits of the Spirit” with others…to honor God and all that He has bestowed upon us.  And this means that we must hold our tongue (more often than most of us would like!)…and sometimes walk away and/or take a physical break from a “sibling” who is upsetting us in some way.
 
Ask God to show you how to operate more in love rather than “sibling rivalry”.  Don’t take the “count” to three…learn to call on the power of the Holy Spirit and stop with the first hint of animosity or disagreement. Honor your relationship with God by developing love and tolerance for others…even if they make you “count to three”!
 
©2015 Debbie Robus
 
* http://www.amazon.com/1-2-3-Magic-Effective-Discipline-Children/dp/1889140708/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1422029621&sr=1-1&keywords=123+magic&pebp=1422029624302&peasin=1889140708

Daily Devotional for January 22, 2015

Proverbs 16:24
Kind words are like honey—
    they cheer you up
    and make you feel strong.

 
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
 
There is really not much I can add to this! Speak kind words to others today…particularly those people to whom you may not feel so loving or tolerant, for whatever reason.  Let your “kindness” serve as a balm for their souls...and let them see the love of Jesus in your words and body language.  You might catch a few people off guard…but it will all be good in the end.  And as you lift another person, you will feel stronger, more lighthearted, and confident in your relationship with Jesus.  You will be blessed to be a blessing!
 
So get going!  Who will be the first to feel the love of Jesus in your kind words this day?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 21, 2015

Philippians 1:17-18
But the ones who are jealous of us are not sincere. They just want to cause trouble for me while I am in jail. But that doesn’t matter. All that matters is that people are telling about Christ, whether they are sincere or not. That is what makes me glad.
 
I will keep on being glad...
 
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
 
Greg recently helped his mother purchase a new computer.  I was visiting her one day, and she asked me to help her find something on the Internet.  I am not familiar with this new machine, but I fumbled around and found what she was seeking.  She turned to me and said, “You and Greg do things differently on the computer, don’t you?!”  I agreed with her that, aside from my unfamiliarity with this particular computer, our “methods” probably differ a little…but we achieve the same end result.
 
These words of the Apostle Paul have great relevance for us today.  It has become common in certain situations for a person to have a “platform”…a cause that he/she champions – often with great passion.  Some people have missions that are near and dear to their hearts…and yes, some people simply have personal agendas.  But many folks from all of these “camps” have a common denominator…they truly love Jesus and desire to live for Him and serve others in His name.
 
Many people want to share the love of Christ with others…but their “methods” of doing so can vary greatly.  This doesn’t make them bad or wrong.  As Paul points out…all that matters is that they share the message of Jesus Christ.  Instead of criticizing our friends and neighbors because they don’t mirror our politics, lifestyle choices, skin color or ethnicity, economic level, preferences in style and physical appearance – or they root for a different sports team! – let’s look at their heart.
 
Consider whether they love Jesus – and it shows!  Do they minister to others in His name?  Do they demonstrate His teachings and operate in grace, mercy, forgiveness, tolerance, compassion, and unconditional love?  If the answer is yes, then be glad.  The rest is all just immaterial “fluff” that doesn’t truly matter in the quest to love and serve God and further His Kingdom.  This is the real mission!
 
Are you focused on what really matters…or are you bogged down by the extraneous distractions that the devil wishes to flood into our lives?  Isn’t it time we dropped all of the judgments and looked at the heart of others?  Will this be the day that you get started?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 20, 2015

Matthew 7:6
“Don’t be flip with the sacred. Banter and silliness give no honor to God. Don’t reduce holy mysteries to slogans. In trying to be relevant, you’re only being cute and inviting sacrilege."
 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
I saw this video on Facebook recently that was some guy doing dances that were supposed to depict stories in the Bible.  This was promoted as a good five-minute “opener” for a church service, because so many churches run a video now as a “warm-up” to get people in a “worshipful” mood.  And I’ve never had a problem with this concept.
 
But when I read today’s scripture, I did have to stop and think about some of the things we do - in the name of Jesus - and some of the slogans we wear on our clothing and accessories. It did cause me to ask…”Are we being respectful and reverent toward our sacred, holy relationship with God?  Or are there times when we truly are rather flip and silly?  Do we stop to consider what our appearance and actions says to others about an intimate relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?”
 
John 13:35 says…”This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples—when they see the love you have for each other.”  It’s okay to wear a (What Would Jesus Do?) WWJD bracelet or a t-shirt that says, “Got Jesus?”  There is nothing wrong with a cute or thought-provoking video to signal that worship is about to begin.  But make sure that you are treating your faith with the reverence and respect that your relationship with God deserves – and that when you wear something professing your relationship with Jesus, your actions line up with the slogan.
 
Demonstrate a deep and sincere love and concern for one another.  Smile, and offer others a welcoming spirit.  Let your love for Jesus shine through everything you do and engulf those whom you encounter like a warm hug.  Take your relationship with Him seriously…and make sure that your actions reinforce this.
 
We find it so easy to get caught up in flash and dazzle.  Everything these days has a tag line or a catch phrase.  If things don’t sparkle and shine and perform a zillion operations, we tend to ignore them.  Don’t reduce your relationship with Jesus in this manner. Christian faith is not always pretty…sometimes it can be downright messy.  But the simplicity of inviting Jesus to be LORD of your life and receiving His amazing gift of salvation needs no “bells and whistles”.  This holy relationship doesn’t need a t-shirt or a song and dance. All that is required is mutual love, respect and reverence.
 
What do your words and actions tell others about you?  Can they recognize you as Christ’s disciple?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 19, 2015

Matthew 7:12
“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.”
 
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, we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a well-known and respected civil rights activist, pastor, and humanitarian who led the fight for justice and fair treatment of all people – but especially African-Americans – in the 1960s.  In many cities across the country, there will be parades, speeches, rallies, and other gatherings to remember Dr. King and his efforts…where we’ve been…and how far we still have to go.
 
This morning, I watched an interview with Eric Braeden - a soap opera star from CBS’s The Young and the Restless, of all things – who was the keynote speaker at a Martin Luther King, Jr. celebratory breakfast in Little Rock, Arkansas.  Braeden, who is white, explained that he emigrated to the United States from Germany in 1959, with empty pockets and a heart filled with hope.  He remembers firsthand the famous “I Have a Dream” speech delivered by Dr. King at the Lincoln Memorial.  He recalls all of the challenges and struggles that were meted toward him as a post-WWII German trying to “make it” in America.  And he noted that his discriminations and difficulties paled in comparison to those of African-Americans.
 
When asked how he would address the group on this day, Braeden said that he would…“reflect on the process of blacks, whites, Christians, Jews, Protestants, Catholics, and Muslims all getting along with each other.  We are all one, you know…all children of God.  And as such, we should behave kindly toward each other.”
 
The interviewer asked Braeden why he accepted the invitation to make this speech, and he explained that it appealed to him as someone who had seen discrimination firsthand – and also growth and improvement in the area of human relations.  But he pointed out that there is still much work to be done.  And indeed, this is the case.  God is calling us to “grab the initiative”…to be the first in line to “behave kindly toward each other”…to obey God’s law and treat ALL others as we wish to be treated.
 
Dr. King was shot and killed on March 29, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee.  While speaking at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, on February 4th of that year, he was asked how he would like to be remembered.  In part, King answered…” I'd like somebody to mention that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to give his life serving others. I'd like for somebody to say that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to love somebody.”
 
A component of many celebrations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., will be some form of service activity to honor his legacy – and God’s call on our lives as Christians.  I cannot think of a better day for all of us to begin to serve others and “love somebody” in Jesus’ name…can you?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 18, 2014

Matthew 7:1-5
“Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It’s easy to see a smudge on your neighbor’s face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, ‘Let me wash your face for you,’ when your own face is distorted by contempt? It’s this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
We took Timothy and Zola to the park to play after church and lunch today.  While we were there, both children had “boomerang” experiences.  Timothy was pushing a teeter-totter up and down, and it caught him on the upswing and hit his ear, knocking him to the ground.  Zola was pushing a tire swing, and as the tire returned, it smacked her in the forehead, and she fell over, too.  Both children were okay, but they both got the  point that when you push, sometimes things push back!
 
We have all been hypocrites in one way or another.  We criticize when we should keep our mouths shut.  We readily see others’ faults…but turn a blind eye to our own.  And sometimes, this comes back to knock us off our feet!
 
Here’s the good news…Jesus loves us…warts and all.  And He loves that person you have criticized, too.  We should be mindful of this as we formulate our thoughts and opinions…and grateful that God is so merciful toward us!
 
If we want to be like Jesus, we have to learn to be more inclusive…more tolerant…more accepting and less critical.  If we want others to treat us in this manner, we have to first demonstrate these traits to them.  No one will ever want to hear what we have to say about Jesus until we demonstrate His love and non-judgmental stance…and who could blame them?!
 
This scripture passage says it all pretty well.  Just as Timothy and Zola must learn that pushing on these things will cause a direct – and uncomfortable – return “push”…we must learn that our critical and intolerant spirit has consequences, as well.  The last thing we should want is to dishonor our relationship with Jesus – or to misrepresent His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion for all who trust in Him.  Yet this is what we do any time we are critical and overbearing toward someone else.
 
But we can change this…and we can start today.  Will you join me?  Will you examine your heart and see where you could operate with a more loving, tolerant spirit?  It’s time to kick nitpicking and fault-finding to the curb and operate in the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ.  What do you say…are you with me?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 17, 2015

Luke 9:51-56
When it came close to the time for his Ascension, he gathered up his courage and steeled himself for the journey to Jerusalem. He sent messengers on ahead. They came to a Samaritan village to make arrangements for his hospitality. But when the Samaritans learned that his destination was Jerusalem, they refused hospitality. When the disciples James and John learned of it, they said, “Master, do you want us to call a bolt of lightning down out of the sky and incinerate them?”

Jesus turned on them: “Of  course not!” And they traveled on to another village.

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 passage reminds me of the classic “Want me to beat him/her up for you?” scenario of a zealous friend or big brother/sister from our childhood!  The notes surrounding these verses indicate that the Jews had referred to the Samaritans as “half-breeds”, which obviously did not go over well. 

Information found at Catholic Answers* explains…“Because of their imperfect adherence to Judaism and their partly pagan ancestry, the Samaritans were despised by ordinary Jews. Rather than contaminate themselves by passing through Samaritan territory, Jews who were traveling from Judea to Galilee or vice versa would cross over the river Jordan, bypass Samaria by going through Transjordan, and cross over the river again as they neared their destination.”

Everyone is entitled to their opinion…even the Samaritans who didn’t approve of Jesus visiting Jerusalem.  But this doesn’t give us reason to make a scene…and actually, to do so tarnishes our Christian witness.  We saw a good example of this recently in Ferguson, Missouri.  People felt strongly on both sides of this issue…and there were proper channels for expressing disapproval and outrage.  But the rioting and burning of buildings and businesses…some of which were in no way involved in this whole debacle…was just plain wrong.  And anyone who participated in these acts while claiming to be a Christian dishonored their faith and discipleship.

Like the reactions of our childhood, sometimes we want to lash out.  It’s a natural, human tendency.  But we are called to be better than this…and we have the Perfect Example of how and why it’s a bad idea.  If anyone ever had reason for retaliation, it was Jesus…and yet, He never lost His cool.  So what makes us think this should ever be okay for us?

©2015 Debbie Robus

 *http://www.catholic.com/quickquestions/who-were-the-samaritans-and-why-were-they-important

Daily Devotional for January 16, 2015

Luke 9:49-50
John spoke up, “Master, we saw a man using your name to expel demons and we stopped him because he wasn’t of our group.”
 
Jesus said, “Don’t stop him. If he’s not an enemy, he’s an ally.”
 
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.
 
What if you were sick or injured and a person rushed to your aide and said, “I am a doctor (or a nurse).”  This person was of a different race or ethnicity – or you knew from local “talk” that he/she practiced an alternative lifestyle or was a member of a different political party than yours.  What if you had heard that this person was an atheist or practiced some religion other than Christianity?  Would you wave him/her away and say, “No thanks, I’ll wait for a Christian who is the same race as me, has a husband/wife and 2.5 kids, and belongs to my political affiliation”?   I don’t think so!
 
It seems to me that Jesus’ point in these verses is that we need to stop making “enemies” of everyone.  We need to stop judging others based on whatever criteria we establish – and leave such conclusions to God. We must stop being so fearful of differences.
 
Few among us would even consider turning our back on a child – regardless of his/her size, shape, skin color, or even if the kid was having a royal outburst or temper tantrum.  And the truth is that we are ALL God’s creations…and potentially His “Kingdom Kids” forever.  I challenge you to start looking at others and picturing them as small children.  Remind yourself that these people were once loved, hugged and nurtured by someone.
 
Timothy asks me often, “Am I still your baby?”  I assure him that no matter how large he grows, he will ALWAYS be my “baby”.  The person you fear is also someone’s “baby”.  The terrorist with a gun is someone’s baby…the gay/transgender person whose lifestyle choices you cannot understand is someone’s baby…the person who claims that God does not exist – or the person who prays to a statue – is someone’s baby.  Drug addicts, prostitutes, alcoholics, child molesters, thieves, rapists, liars, cheaters, the poor and needy, the homeless, and the affluent snobs are all someone’s baby.  Jesus died for every one of them, and each has as much right to receive His salvation as you and I do.
 
We have made enemies where we should have been seeking allies.  And today is a good day to start doing more of the latter.  Where will you begin?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 15, 2015

Luke 9:46-48
They started arguing over which of them would be most famous. When Jesus realized how much this mattered to them, he brought a child to his side. “Whoever accepts this child as if the child were me, accepts me,” he said. “And whoever accepts me, accepts the One who sent me. You become great by accepting, not asserting. Your spirit, not your size, makes the difference.”
 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
I learn so much from Timothy, Zola and Nathan.  And one of the biggest “examples” they have given me so far is tolerance and acceptance.  They don’t see size, color, ethnicity, economics and more.  Don’t get me wrong…they notice others.  But they notice in a way that we adults usually don’t. More than once, Timothy has remarked about someone’s beauty or attractiveness…or told the person, “I like your hairstyle or clothing (or some other physical accessory or attribute).”  They wave and greet total strangers when we are in public.  They have huge “spirits” in little bodies.
 
Whether I am “dressed to the nines” or in my pajamas with “bed hair” and no makeup…these children have never said one critical or unkind word about my appearance.  They notice that I am present in their lives.  They don’t care what I look like in a bathing suit…as long as we are swimming.  They readily accept all of the children in their classrooms and play circles.  They do not recognize differences in physical talent and ability.
 
Many years ago, I lay in a hospital bed awaiting surgery the next morning.  In the bed beside me was a woman who was awaiting the same surgery.  From our conversation, I gathered that she was neither well-educated…or financially stable.  And she was frightened, so we talked quite a bit to try and pass the time and ease her anxiety.  Lying in those beds in hospital-issued gowns, we were no different.  We were two women preparing for the same surgery.  I was struck by a profound sense of just how “equal” we were…and reminded that God didn’t care more about my outcome than hers – or vice versa.  We were both important to Him, and I knew that He would guide our care in the same way.
 
My prayer for each of us would be that we strip away whatever causes us to discriminate…that we would see others as God sees them. When you see someone who looks, speaks or acts differently, remind yourself how much God loves them.  When you start to get irritated because someone doesn’t see an issue in the same light as you, remember that Jesus died for their sins and offers them the same opportunity for salvation as He offers you.  When you start to judge someone for their size, shape, appearance in any manner, lifestyle preference, economics, politics, opinions…ANYTHING…remember Jesus’ words…”You become great by accepting, not asserting. Your spirit, not your size, makes the difference.” 
 
We need to “revert to our childhood”…and develop large, accepting hearts for Jesus and His children. I ask you…”How big is your spirit these days?”
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 14, 2015

Luke 8:15-17
People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off. Jesus called them back. “Let these children alone. Don’t get between them and me. These children are the kingdom’s pride and joy. Mark this: Unless you accept God’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.”
 
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.
 
One of Timothy’s first books was called Inside Noah’s Ark* by Charles Reasoner.  My mom bought this “board book” for him, and it didn’t take long for Timothy to learn the rhyming phrases on each page.  “Load the animals, two by two – here on Noah’s floating zoo”, the first lines say…and we “loaded” the ark countless times. I read other “God books” to Timothy…simple prayers for children, Bible stories, and a particularly special book that explored the question, “Where is God?”
 
I have always marveled at Timothy’s acceptance of God.  He has asked a few insightful questions about why we cannot see God…and where is He, really?...but he readily accepts that God is everywhere – that He lives in our hearts and is with us at all times.  I believe he truly loves God as much as any five-year-old can.  He is learning about the importance of living in a way that pleases God…and it appears to be important to him to do this.  We’ve read stories about Jonah and others who did not obey God and suffered the consequences.  I feel like Timothy and his siblings are developing a very good grasp of just how much God loves them…and they are developing a desire to honor and obey Him.
 
The question seems to be…when do we lose this innocence and purity of heart?  At what age/life stage do we start to really question God’s authenticity…and His presence?  More importantly, WHY do we do this? There are dozens of answers, ranging from the development of an intellect that causes us to question everything to peer pressure to a heightened sense of ego and self-sufficiency that can often lead to rebellion…or some catastrophic event that kicks us in the gut and leaves us feeling “punished” or abandoned by God.
 
Regardless of the causes, the bottom line is that we need to return to “child-like faith” and trust God more readily.  It’s okay to have questions…God welcomes them, and He will provide the answers if/when we are willing to seek His guidance.  It’s okay to be confident and believe in yourself – to a point.  But rather than criticize or demean those who seem to rely on God and follow His lead with something akin to “wild abandon,” we would do well to “let go and let God” a little more and adapt their approach.
 
Sometimes, reverting to your childhood can be a good thing…and when it comes to your faith in God and the attitudes of your heart, it’s most definitely good to be a kid again.  Are you ready to trust God with the simplicity of a child?  Will this be the day that you begin?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus
 
*http://www.amazon.com/dp/0843148853/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=ICIIN9FURNLT&coliid=I1AX4856YA4WRD

Daily Devotional for January 13, 2015

John 8:6-8
Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger in the dirt. They kept at him, badgering him. He straightened up and said, “The sinless one among you, go first: Throw the stone.” Bending down again, he wrote some more in the dirt.
 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
The first year I taught, I had 31 first-grade students…and a year-long supply budget of $50.  This was supposed to furnish me with everything from chalk to “magic markers” to paper for arts and crafts.  So I made a list of things that I thought I might need to supplement this tiny budget…and I asked each child to bring one item on the list.  One child brought potting soil…another brought tissues…another brought some construction paper, and so on. One little girl was asked to bring plastic cups.  I planned to use these for things like planting beans as a science experiment (hence the potting soil I had requested!).
 
One morning, this child arrived with a big brown paper sack and a smile that covered her face.  “Here are the cups,” she said proudly.  “My mom got married, and they were left over from her wedding.”  Inside were more than two dozen plastic wine glasses with snap-on “stems”.  You can’t make this stuff up!  I thanked her for the contribution and put them on the shelf with the other supplies.  Some almost-40 years later, I cannot recall what we did with the cups, but I know we used them for something.  We had to…it meant too much to this little girl.
 
Never mind that a lot of the other parents would be less than thrilled for their child to bring home a bean growing out of a stemmed wine “goblet”…forget that this was not really a suitable “planter” for the science project.  To have tossed these aside as less than acceptable would have been the same as telling this darling little brown-eyed girl that she was not worthy – that her contribution was no good.  And yet, we do this to people every single day in some form or another.
 
We make snap judgments and criticize…we blame others for things that there is no way they could have controlled…we lift ourselves by trying to make other people look small…we “cast stones” and pretend that we are sinless.  We know better…but somehow, we cannot seem to do better!
 
I wonder just how long Jesus will continue to draw and dig in the sand and be patient with us.  He’s already shown us more mercy and tolerance than any of us could ever deserve.  Isn’t it time we started checking ourselves a little more closely? Shouldn’t we be asking that proverbial question, “What would Jesus do?” a little more often…and then making our thoughts, words and actions line up with His?  Aren’t you ready to drop the stones…and have others drop the ones they have lined up for you?  Wouldn’t this be a good day to begin?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 12, 2015

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.
 
Pretty much every one of us learned John 3:16 as a child, and we can recite the words “by heart”.  But here’s how most of us hear the verse…”For God so loved ME that He gave His only Son, so that if I believe in Him, I will be saved for all eternity and go to heaven when I die.”
 
Here’s what we do NOT hear…”God so loved the WORLD…terrorists…murderers…rapists…child molesters…people of all races, genders, sexual orientations, socio-economic and intellectual levels and political parties…drug addicts and alcoholics…abusers...that He sacrificed the blood of His only Son to redeem EVERYONE who repents of their sins and invites Jesus to be their LORD and Savior!
 
This is a hard pill to swallow sometimes.  We don’t want to think that we might see some of these people on the streets of heaven…that people who did horrible, terrible, unthinkable things at some point in their lives might be there right alongside each of us.  But this is because we do not fully understand God’s love.  I know I don’t.
 
I love my husband, my mom, my sister, nieces and nephews and extended family.  I love my pets in a way that makes some people snicker and roll their eyes.  I love my friends.  I like to think that I love completely, unconditionally, and without any reservation…but I know better. I am not sure that I love deeply enough.  And I’m pretty certain that my brand of love would not allow me to sacrifice anyone for the sins of the WORLD, especially these terrible, horrible, incorrigible people who have existed since the days of Cain and Abel!  But God does.  HE loves each of us that much.  And He offers forgiveness, acceptance, and redemption through the blood of Jesus Christ to ANYONE who will ask for it.
 
If we want to be more like Jesus, we have to learn to love like He does…to offer tolerance, grace, mercy, forgiveness, compassion, and genuine care and concern to each of God’s creatures.  We never know when our example might be the very thing that causes someone to say, “LORD…I want to be included…I want what he/she has.  Will you have accept me into your Kingdom?”
 
The stakes are high…God so loved the WORLD…isn’t it time that we did, too?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 11, 2015

John 14:6
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
 
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
 
It’s an icy day in Arkansas.  Freezing rain has spread across much of the state, and many local churches canceled services to keep people off of slick roadways, sidewalks and parking lots. Better safe than sorry…I don’t think God takes any pleasure in one of his children suffering an injury – or worse – while trying to get to a Sunday church service!
 
A friend of mine whose church services were canceled for today posted this comment on Facebook…”Since we didn't have church this morning.....thought for the day: John 17 tells of Jesus's prayer for His disciples as He's about to leave them. What three things would you pray for your children if you knew you would die in 24 hours?”
 
I had already formulated some thoughts in my head, but they were confirmed when I read John 14:6.  My first prayer would be that my “children” – and other loved ones – know Jesus.  I mean, really KNOW Him!  My second prayer would be that their every word, thought, deed and action would be guided by God…that they would be so in tune with Him through prayer, Bible study and Christian fellowship that He directs their every breath.  My third prayer would be that they always love others as Jesus loves them…that they would be tolerant, accepting, gracious, merciful, compassionate, and forgiving…without exception.
 
I do not fear death – nor leaving others behind.  I anticipate that they will join me in heaven someday.  But if I knew that these three prayers would be accomplished in those I hold near and dear, I would have full confidence and peace in my departure.  With this thought in mind, I am making it my goal to demonstrate these prayers in my own life…to model this Christian faithfulness and discipleship to those in my midst – whether I am here for one more minute or dozens of years.  What about you?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 15, 2015

Habakkuk 1:12-13
God, you’re from eternity, aren’t you? Holy God, we aren’t going to die, are we? God, you chose Babylonians for your judgment work? Rock-Solid God, you gave them the job of discipline? But you can’t be serious! You can’t condone evil! So why don’t you do something about this? Why are you silent now? This outrage! Evil men swallow up the righteous and you stand around and watch!
 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
If ever there were a scripture passage that seemed timely, this is it.  I listened to the latest “worldwide caution” issued by the State Department earlier today…as well as warnings from several “experts” on terrorism who say we should all be expecting an attack at some point…that there will be more confrontations and acts of violence committed against innocent people...that we need to be careful, and stay alert for anything amiss.
 
Does this mean we should adopt an attitude of fear and suspicion of every person or situation we encounter that seems a little “off” or different?  I don’t think so.  These alerts are not meant to make us leery of anyone who doesn’t look like us – or worship as we do.  It is not a license to discriminate and operate in rigidity and intolerance toward any person or group – all in the name of “safety”.
 
The bigger question many may be asking is, “Why, God…WHY?”  Many may be wondering why God is allowing evil men to do evil things…and to hurt innocent people in the bargain.  It’s a logical question…and the answer is not that this fulfills some Biblical prophecy!  Please…let’s NOT go THERE!
 
I believe that God wants us pay careful attention to the details of our lives.  I don’t think that He intends for us to deliberately put ourselves in harmful situations.  Yet, some of us do this by the very words we use when posting social media comments and talking amongst our “friends” about other people - using derogatory terms and suggesting that those who are not like us in some manner should all be locked up, tortured, or even killed.
 
God calls us to mind our words and our actions.  Should we encounter an evil situation, this will be our “Daniel moment"…our opportunity to stand up for what we believe – and for WHOM we serve.  If we are injured or killed in the process, the “bad guys” have not truly won.
 
We need to get a grip…to put this into perspective…to pray for the families and friends of those slain in Paris - and around the world – by the evil factions who wish to do us harm.  And we need to prepare in the most important way – by making sure that we have a right relationship with Jesus Christ…that we are ready to meet Him face-to-face at a moment’s notice.
 
God will deal with evil – in His time and in His manner.  This is not our worry.  His heart breaks over their deeds, and He will attend to their punishment in due time.  Meanwhile, we believers in Jesus Christ truly are safe…in His powerful and loving arms.  Nothing and no one can harm us there.  And this should be our primary focus. Are you truly prepared in the way that matters most?  Isn’t it time you were?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 9, 2015

Galatians 2:4
While we were in conference we were infiltrated by spies pretending to be Christians, who slipped in to find out just how free true Christians are. Their ulterior motive was to reduce us to their brand of servitude. We didn’t give them the time of day. We were determined to preserve the truth of the Message for you.
 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
Someone shared a link on Facebook to an article titled “Dear Church, Here's Why People Are Really Leaving You”* Of course, this title grabbed my attention…and I have to say, the article is filled with valid points.  As I read this scripture passage from Galatians, I was reminded of one particular comment made in “Point #5”…
I let you know how judged and ridiculed I feel when I'm with you, how much like a hopeless, failing outsider I feel on the periphery of your inward, judgmental communities, and you proceeded to tell me how "lost" I am, how hopelessly "in love with my sin" I must be to leave you, reminding me that I never really belonged with you anyway. Maybe you're right, Church.  Maybe I am the problem.
We always have to guard our heart – against discrimination and intolerance of others, AND against those who wish to judge us and make our relationship with God look just like theirs or fit their personal agenda. You do not have to “drink the Kool-Aid” for every single idea your fellow church members have. You should not be pressured with guilt or shamed into participating in missions or practices that you know in your heart are not what God has ordained for you.  You don’t have to agree with the pervading positions on politics, economics, lifestyle choices, cultural differences, and more.  Just because “everyone else is doing it” doesn’t make it right for you…even in the church!
 
I encourage you to spend some time in prayer and Bible study and determine “the truth of the Message”…then do everything you can to preserve it.  Honor your relationship with God – and your commitment to Him - by turning a deaf ear to the noise of those who have ulterior motives and/or a personal agenda.  Appreciate that your fellow believer’s “path” may not be exactly like yours…that his/her missions and ministries may not exactly line up with yours – and that’s okay.
 
As long as we are serving God with an obedient, faithful heart, we belong to Him…and God is bigger than any “church”.  If we are the problem – from either side of the equation – it’s time that we made some changes.  This is a good day to begin…wouldn’t you agree?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus
 
*http://www.faithit.com/dear-church-heres-why-people-are-really-leaving-you/.VK7OXdDwj30.facebook