1 Corinthians 3:16-17
You realize, don’t you, that
you are the temple of God, and God himself is present in you? No one
will get by with vandalizing God’s temple, you can be sure of that.
God’s temple is sacred—and you, remember, are the temple.
Scripture
quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002
by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs,
CO. All rights reserved.
Everywhere we turn, someone
is telling us how to treat our bodies. Eat this…don’t eat that…use this
workout program to lose the most weight in the shortest amount of
time…stop smoking…drink responsibly…just say no to drugs…take this
drug/supplement…beware of XYZ medication if you suffer from any of a
litany of conditions, and anticipate even worse side effects than what
you took the drug to treat in the first place…YOU may be a candidate for
lapband or the latest curative surgery…visit ABC cosmetic center and
get lifted, tucked, lipo’d and restructured! It’s all a bit mind
boggling!
Not to be outdone, we can work on our hearts and
minds, as well. We can read books, watch videos, and attend seminars to
get ahead in our careers, better parent our children, rescue any
relationship, and improve our abilities to be all that we can be!
When
we read this passage from Paul to the people of Corinth, we generally
tend to think in terms of things like overeating, smoking, drinking and
drug abuse. But if we stop and consider His words carefully…that our
body is God’s sacred temple…we come to realize that most of us vandalize
this “temple” every single day in one way or another. I keep being
reminded of the phrase, “Garbage in…garbage out!”
I am guilty of
eating the wrong things – and too much in general. I spend excess time
in front of a TV or computer screen rather than exercising my body. I am
also prone to watch more reality TV than I should, spend too much time
viewing one more cute cat video that I found on Facebook or “liking”
other friends’ posts…and giving far too much energy and consideration to
“mindless drivel” and “piddling”. And I am not all that different from
you or anyone else.
Not a single one of us would seriously
consider vandalizing property – our own or that of another person. Most
certainly, we would never even think about doing harm to a church or
temple. So why do we treat our own “temples” so cavalierly?
We
talk about doing all the right things…but we often do exactly the
opposite. Why is this? Why do we “vandalize” our “temples?” I know it
sounds cliché, but I believe it comes down to a matter of willpower -
ours (fueled by encouragement from the devil) vs. that of God Almighty.
This is why Paul tells us in Romans 7:14-16 that “Yes. I’m full of
myself—after all, I’ve spent a long time in sin’s prison. What I don’t
understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act
another, doing things I absolutely despise. So if I can’t be trusted to
figure out what is best for myself and then do it, it becomes obvious
that God’s command is necessary.”
This is our answer, also.
God’s command IS necessary. We must spend more time with Him, learning
His ways, listening for His voice…and putting His will for our lives
into action. It may be challenging at first – maybe even a little bit
difficult as we surrender to God and allow Him to have control. But we
will be healthier in every way because of it. We will be stronger – and
ultimately more confident and complete - because of WHO is powering our
efforts. Our “temples” will glorify God and represent a place that He
is proud to inhabit. This should be our ultimate goal! Is it yours?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 30, 2015
1 Corinthians 10:30-31
If I can thank God for the food and enjoy it, why let someone spoil everything just because he thinks I am wrong? Well, I’ll tell you why. It is because you must do everything for the glory of God, even your eating and drinking.
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 our nephew John was about three or four, he went to visit Greg’s parents. During one of the meals, Grandma “E” served corn on the cob. When she put John’s plate in front of him, he came unhinged. There were no “things”! Grandma “E” could not figure out at first what he was talking about…but she quickly realized that he needed “handles” for his corn…namely, those yellow skewers that look like miniature ears of corn – the ones that you get in the kitchen section at a department store! These were what his mother had…didn’t everyone have them? Well, Grandma “E” did not have those (she did shortly thereafter!), and in what I thought was a stroke of genius, she stuck toothpicks into either end of Johnny’s ear of corn, and he reluctantly used those for handles!
The absence of those yellow “corn” skewers did not alter the ear of corn. It didn’t change how it was grown – or how it tasted! But in the mind of a 3-year-old, it changed everything and was not up for negotiation! I wish I had a nickel for every time a child has looked at a food that has been presented to him/her and retorted, “Blech!” without so much as even a single taste.
We can somewhat forgive children for this, because after all, they ARE children who are still learning the art of polite behavior. But I have seen adults turn up their noses and refuse to sample something with embarrassing fanfare. I have seen grown men and women refuse to eat a casserole because “different foods were touching!” I saw beauty, fashion and home design editors for some of the country’s top magazines turn up their noses at beautiful trays of bite-sized pieces of catfish, carefully prepared by a wonderful New York City chef. People who would not give a second thought to spearing a snail from its shell in a fancy French restaurant waved the tray away, and with an air of superiority, uttered… “No, thank you!” For the record, those who actually dared to sample the fried tidbits LOVED them and were immediate converts!
What Paul is telling the Corinthians here is about more than just food or our dining customs. Paul is telling us that we need to get over ourselves. Just because this is not necessarily how WE have always done things does not mean that the other person is wrong – or less of a Christian...or even less of a human being, for that matter. We must not look down on the poor…or those who are less fortunate, for how they manage from day to day. We must not be judgmental and critical of those who have a different way of doing things, and we most certainly must not do this to people of other cultures and ethnicities. We must remember that God made them, just as He created us…and how we treat them must glorify and honor Him at every turn. We must also not criticize others for their worship style or how they demonstrate their faith.
We all get too caught up in the “that’s-not-how-it’s-done” way of thinking. From even the littlest things like “my roommate or spouse doesn’t fold the towels like I do” to “what kind of mother lets her kids go out looking like that” to “we never did it like that at my other church/school/team/club/place of work”…our words and actions are often not the kind that glorify God and honor all that He has done for us. They do not say to others, “God loves us and wants ALL of us to belong to Him…not just the chosen few who ‘do everything my way’.”
Change is never easy…and some of us have been stuck in our ways for a long, long time! But if we want to glorify God and honor Him, we have to be willing to make the effort to set aside our own egos and see the bigger picture. Let's face it...you may still like to eat your corn on the cob with those little yellow skewers, but at least you’ll know that it tastes the same, either way. We must learn that there is often a difference between compromising your Christian values and doing things in another manner than the one you prefer. As long as God is exalted and respected, considering and accommodating another person’s feelings may be best for all concerned.
©2015 Debbie Robus
If I can thank God for the food and enjoy it, why let someone spoil everything just because he thinks I am wrong? Well, I’ll tell you why. It is because you must do everything for the glory of God, even your eating and drinking.
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 our nephew John was about three or four, he went to visit Greg’s parents. During one of the meals, Grandma “E” served corn on the cob. When she put John’s plate in front of him, he came unhinged. There were no “things”! Grandma “E” could not figure out at first what he was talking about…but she quickly realized that he needed “handles” for his corn…namely, those yellow skewers that look like miniature ears of corn – the ones that you get in the kitchen section at a department store! These were what his mother had…didn’t everyone have them? Well, Grandma “E” did not have those (she did shortly thereafter!), and in what I thought was a stroke of genius, she stuck toothpicks into either end of Johnny’s ear of corn, and he reluctantly used those for handles!
The absence of those yellow “corn” skewers did not alter the ear of corn. It didn’t change how it was grown – or how it tasted! But in the mind of a 3-year-old, it changed everything and was not up for negotiation! I wish I had a nickel for every time a child has looked at a food that has been presented to him/her and retorted, “Blech!” without so much as even a single taste.
We can somewhat forgive children for this, because after all, they ARE children who are still learning the art of polite behavior. But I have seen adults turn up their noses and refuse to sample something with embarrassing fanfare. I have seen grown men and women refuse to eat a casserole because “different foods were touching!” I saw beauty, fashion and home design editors for some of the country’s top magazines turn up their noses at beautiful trays of bite-sized pieces of catfish, carefully prepared by a wonderful New York City chef. People who would not give a second thought to spearing a snail from its shell in a fancy French restaurant waved the tray away, and with an air of superiority, uttered… “No, thank you!” For the record, those who actually dared to sample the fried tidbits LOVED them and were immediate converts!
What Paul is telling the Corinthians here is about more than just food or our dining customs. Paul is telling us that we need to get over ourselves. Just because this is not necessarily how WE have always done things does not mean that the other person is wrong – or less of a Christian...or even less of a human being, for that matter. We must not look down on the poor…or those who are less fortunate, for how they manage from day to day. We must not be judgmental and critical of those who have a different way of doing things, and we most certainly must not do this to people of other cultures and ethnicities. We must remember that God made them, just as He created us…and how we treat them must glorify and honor Him at every turn. We must also not criticize others for their worship style or how they demonstrate their faith.
We all get too caught up in the “that’s-not-how-it’s-done” way of thinking. From even the littlest things like “my roommate or spouse doesn’t fold the towels like I do” to “what kind of mother lets her kids go out looking like that” to “we never did it like that at my other church/school/team/club/place of work”…our words and actions are often not the kind that glorify God and honor all that He has done for us. They do not say to others, “God loves us and wants ALL of us to belong to Him…not just the chosen few who ‘do everything my way’.”
Change is never easy…and some of us have been stuck in our ways for a long, long time! But if we want to glorify God and honor Him, we have to be willing to make the effort to set aside our own egos and see the bigger picture. Let's face it...you may still like to eat your corn on the cob with those little yellow skewers, but at least you’ll know that it tastes the same, either way. We must learn that there is often a difference between compromising your Christian values and doing things in another manner than the one you prefer. As long as God is exalted and respected, considering and accommodating another person’s feelings may be best for all concerned.
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 29, 2015
Acts 14:21-22
Paul and Barnabas preached the good news in Derbe and won some people to the Lord. Then they went back to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch in Pisidia. They encouraged the followers and begged them to remain faithful. They told them, “We have to suffer a lot before we can get into God’s kingdom.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Yesterday a childhood friend let me know that one our mutual friends had passed away. Joel died in his sleep as his body succumbed to Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). On May 17th, Joel posted on Facebook recently that the chemo treatments he was receiving were no longer working and could actually kill him. His blood count was low, and his bone marrow was full of cancer. The doctors had advised Joel to seek Hospice care…and he admitted that he was “scared and worried about things and what may happen to me.”
Joel was a year younger than I am…and a classmate of my sister. I am pretty sure that he was autistic and/or had Asperger’s Syndrome. When we were kids, people were unkind to Joel and did not consider him to be very bright. But he had them all fooled. Joel grew to be a very concerned – and active – advocate for people with disabilities, and he helped start ArkansasPeopleFirst.org and was its state president. Joel’s Facebook wall is filled with posts about advocacy for people with disabilities...is faith in God…and his love for his family.
In a few days, Joel’s mother, Irene, will have buried all three of her children. Thankfully, this is a grief for which I have no personal reference point. And yet, on Joel’s Facebook page, a niece reports that Mrs. Irene is relieved that she outlived her youngest son…that her biggest fear was that she would die before he did. I would say Mrs. Irene has had to suffer a lot before she enters into God’s kingdom.
But I do not mean to make the point of this passage about how Christians must suffer grief and the death of loved ones…at least not entirely. This scripture passage has a far broader intent…meaning that we may be ridiculed for our faith – or even persecuted. Paul and Barnabas are warning that troubles of ALL KINDS will befall us, and just because we are Christians does not ensure us an easy go of things. Certainly my friend Joel suffered the mistreatment and misunderstanding of many…and yet, his faith was strong. His witness was great, and his fight for the rights of others was fervent and steadfast.
What about us? How dedicated are we, especially when the chips are down? Do we fold up at the first sign of criticism, disaster or disappointment? Do we turn away from God…or at the very least, grow quiet and withdrawn? Do we allow others to do the hard work, while we coast along and give God the bare minimum of our time and attention? Do we truly rest in the LORD when troubles come? Are we prepared to suffer a lot before we can get into God’s kingdom?
These are not easy questions…but then, as I’ve said before, not much about being an “all-in” Christian is easy much of the time. How faithful are you in all things and at all times? Does your example come close to that of a middle-aged autistic man who fought for others’ rights and admitted in his last days that he was frightened about his future…or that of his elderly mother who has outlived all three of her children?
In a telephone conversation, Mrs. Irene told my friend that Joel planned his funeral, down to the last song and scripture. He knew where he was headed…and now he rests in the arms of Jesus…his suffering has ended forever. Someday, his mother will join the rest of the family there. But we will long remember how they lived. Joel did more than make a point…he made a difference! He served God and others well. Can you say the same?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Paul and Barnabas preached the good news in Derbe and won some people to the Lord. Then they went back to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch in Pisidia. They encouraged the followers and begged them to remain faithful. They told them, “We have to suffer a lot before we can get into God’s kingdom.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Yesterday a childhood friend let me know that one our mutual friends had passed away. Joel died in his sleep as his body succumbed to Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). On May 17th, Joel posted on Facebook recently that the chemo treatments he was receiving were no longer working and could actually kill him. His blood count was low, and his bone marrow was full of cancer. The doctors had advised Joel to seek Hospice care…and he admitted that he was “scared and worried about things and what may happen to me.”
Joel was a year younger than I am…and a classmate of my sister. I am pretty sure that he was autistic and/or had Asperger’s Syndrome. When we were kids, people were unkind to Joel and did not consider him to be very bright. But he had them all fooled. Joel grew to be a very concerned – and active – advocate for people with disabilities, and he helped start ArkansasPeopleFirst.org and was its state president. Joel’s Facebook wall is filled with posts about advocacy for people with disabilities...is faith in God…and his love for his family.
In a few days, Joel’s mother, Irene, will have buried all three of her children. Thankfully, this is a grief for which I have no personal reference point. And yet, on Joel’s Facebook page, a niece reports that Mrs. Irene is relieved that she outlived her youngest son…that her biggest fear was that she would die before he did. I would say Mrs. Irene has had to suffer a lot before she enters into God’s kingdom.
But I do not mean to make the point of this passage about how Christians must suffer grief and the death of loved ones…at least not entirely. This scripture passage has a far broader intent…meaning that we may be ridiculed for our faith – or even persecuted. Paul and Barnabas are warning that troubles of ALL KINDS will befall us, and just because we are Christians does not ensure us an easy go of things. Certainly my friend Joel suffered the mistreatment and misunderstanding of many…and yet, his faith was strong. His witness was great, and his fight for the rights of others was fervent and steadfast.
What about us? How dedicated are we, especially when the chips are down? Do we fold up at the first sign of criticism, disaster or disappointment? Do we turn away from God…or at the very least, grow quiet and withdrawn? Do we allow others to do the hard work, while we coast along and give God the bare minimum of our time and attention? Do we truly rest in the LORD when troubles come? Are we prepared to suffer a lot before we can get into God’s kingdom?
These are not easy questions…but then, as I’ve said before, not much about being an “all-in” Christian is easy much of the time. How faithful are you in all things and at all times? Does your example come close to that of a middle-aged autistic man who fought for others’ rights and admitted in his last days that he was frightened about his future…or that of his elderly mother who has outlived all three of her children?
In a telephone conversation, Mrs. Irene told my friend that Joel planned his funeral, down to the last song and scripture. He knew where he was headed…and now he rests in the arms of Jesus…his suffering has ended forever. Someday, his mother will join the rest of the family there. But we will long remember how they lived. Joel did more than make a point…he made a difference! He served God and others well. Can you say the same?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 28, 2015
John 14:6-7
Jesus said, “I am the Road, also the Truth, also the Life. No one gets to the Father apart from me. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him. You’ve even seen 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.
A large portion of the South is currently experiencing historic flooding. One hour, roadways and fields are dry and open…and the next hour, they are submerged in water. The surges have often come quickly and swiftly - and drastically changed the landscape significantly in a dangerous manner. I saw a photo this week of some cattle stranded on a small area of pasture land that is now surrounded by rising floodwaters, creating an island of sorts. This was an aerial photo that had been taken by a drone.
There is no way to reach the cattle by car or truck…but I suppose they COULD be rescued by pontoon boat…although it would probably be an arduous project that would have to be accomplished one cow at a time! Wouldn’t it be great if we could magically create a bridge to span the gap between that patch of dry land and another and walk the cows to safety?! But that’s a pipe dream. In truth, some sort of boat or large raft probably represents the only way to rescue the cattle. So the farmer has two choices…try to perform this rescue – or leave the cows there and hope that the waters don’t rise so much that they drown.
In many ways, we are like the cattle on the island. We are completely surrounded with only one way to safety…and that is salvation through Jesus Christ. He stands in the gap between the island of sin on which we are standing and the safety of His grace, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love. We have two choices – stay where we are and hope for the best…or allow Jesus to rescue us. And in choosing Jesus, we choose God, because as we are told in this passage, Jesus is God in flesh on this earth. If we believe in Him and “see” Him…we “see” God, also.
I know this can be confusing, and I don’t mean to muddy the water here (pardon the corny flood reference!). What you really need to understand is that you have two choices – to remain stuck on the island of sin, or to ask Jesus to rescue you and live in the safety and blessings of His love and protection. Don’t be stubborn or foolish! That island is NOT where you want to be! Let go and let God have control…and enjoy the freedom and safety of “dry land” once and for all. And pray for all whose lives have been turned upside down by these spring flood waters. God knows their needs…but it doesn’t ever hurt to remind Him of them!
©2015 Debbie Robus
NOTE: If you wish to help those who have been affected by the recent flooding, go to https://www.redcross.org/combined-donate.
Jesus said, “I am the Road, also the Truth, also the Life. No one gets to the Father apart from me. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him. You’ve even seen 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.
A large portion of the South is currently experiencing historic flooding. One hour, roadways and fields are dry and open…and the next hour, they are submerged in water. The surges have often come quickly and swiftly - and drastically changed the landscape significantly in a dangerous manner. I saw a photo this week of some cattle stranded on a small area of pasture land that is now surrounded by rising floodwaters, creating an island of sorts. This was an aerial photo that had been taken by a drone.
There is no way to reach the cattle by car or truck…but I suppose they COULD be rescued by pontoon boat…although it would probably be an arduous project that would have to be accomplished one cow at a time! Wouldn’t it be great if we could magically create a bridge to span the gap between that patch of dry land and another and walk the cows to safety?! But that’s a pipe dream. In truth, some sort of boat or large raft probably represents the only way to rescue the cattle. So the farmer has two choices…try to perform this rescue – or leave the cows there and hope that the waters don’t rise so much that they drown.
In many ways, we are like the cattle on the island. We are completely surrounded with only one way to safety…and that is salvation through Jesus Christ. He stands in the gap between the island of sin on which we are standing and the safety of His grace, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love. We have two choices – stay where we are and hope for the best…or allow Jesus to rescue us. And in choosing Jesus, we choose God, because as we are told in this passage, Jesus is God in flesh on this earth. If we believe in Him and “see” Him…we “see” God, also.
I know this can be confusing, and I don’t mean to muddy the water here (pardon the corny flood reference!). What you really need to understand is that you have two choices – to remain stuck on the island of sin, or to ask Jesus to rescue you and live in the safety and blessings of His love and protection. Don’t be stubborn or foolish! That island is NOT where you want to be! Let go and let God have control…and enjoy the freedom and safety of “dry land” once and for all. And pray for all whose lives have been turned upside down by these spring flood waters. God knows their needs…but it doesn’t ever hurt to remind Him of them!
©2015 Debbie Robus
NOTE: If you wish to help those who have been affected by the recent flooding, go to https://www.redcross.org/combined-donate.
Daily Devotional for May 27, 2015
Matthew 6:13-14
“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention."
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 single one of us would love to be able to snap our fingers and drop a few pounds – forever! And “the world” stands ready to help us do just that! From pre-packaged food programs to magic drinks to liposuction and “lap-band” procedures…there are hundreds of formulas for shortcuts to help us lose weight and have the body of our dreams.
The trouble is that for the most part, even these formulas are not easy. Time and hard work are involved…and ultimately, the only sure way to lose weight and keep it off is to control your diet (how much and what you eat) and to exercise. I have watched several of those “My 600-Lb. Life” shows, and on each one, the surgeon asks the patient to lose as much as 50 pounds or more using this method before he will approve them for gastric bypass surgery or some other weight-loss inducing procedure. It is his opinion that if the patient is not willing to do the work and make some lifestyle changes, nothing will really change after surgery…and the procedure will have been a waste of time.
Jesus tells us in this passage from Matthew that there are no shortcuts to a true and lasting relationship with God. Too many of us have claimed a short-term victory in Jesus…then returned to our old, sinful (and often what seems more comfortable) ways of living. Nobody ever said the life of a Christian would be easy…and if you’ve been told this, someone lied to you! Just because you give your heart to Jesus and promise to love Him and serve Him and share His gospel with others doesn’t mean that your life will be free of troubles, you will never get sick, and all of your bills will always be paid.
Being a Christian does not guarantee you harmonious relationships, a perfect family, a high-paying job, or that you will have the body of an athlete or model! It does not ensure that your children will all become Christians and impeccable citizens…that natural disasters will never befall you or your loved ones…or that all of your troubles are over – in any way, shape or form! Being a Christian does NOT mean that you will never sin again.
But when we do the work and make the effort to be the best Christian disciple we can, Jesus stands in the gap and makes the difference. When we stay focused and give God our full attention, He guides us every step of the way…even when the paths are rocky and confusing…or even upsetting. Quite honestly, THIS is when we grow in our faith the most! When we “work out” hard with God and monitor our “life diet,” we see the best, most consistent and lasting results. We are blessed with a body, mind, and soul that are fit in all the right ways…and God is glorified.
The time has come for us to toss aside all of the shortcuts and knuckle down for the hard work of following Jesus. This is the moment to recommit yourself to making this effort…and reaping the tremendous benefits that He has in store for you. Are you ready to go “all in” with Christ? Will this be the day that you get started?
©2015 Debbie Robus
“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention."
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 single one of us would love to be able to snap our fingers and drop a few pounds – forever! And “the world” stands ready to help us do just that! From pre-packaged food programs to magic drinks to liposuction and “lap-band” procedures…there are hundreds of formulas for shortcuts to help us lose weight and have the body of our dreams.
The trouble is that for the most part, even these formulas are not easy. Time and hard work are involved…and ultimately, the only sure way to lose weight and keep it off is to control your diet (how much and what you eat) and to exercise. I have watched several of those “My 600-Lb. Life” shows, and on each one, the surgeon asks the patient to lose as much as 50 pounds or more using this method before he will approve them for gastric bypass surgery or some other weight-loss inducing procedure. It is his opinion that if the patient is not willing to do the work and make some lifestyle changes, nothing will really change after surgery…and the procedure will have been a waste of time.
Jesus tells us in this passage from Matthew that there are no shortcuts to a true and lasting relationship with God. Too many of us have claimed a short-term victory in Jesus…then returned to our old, sinful (and often what seems more comfortable) ways of living. Nobody ever said the life of a Christian would be easy…and if you’ve been told this, someone lied to you! Just because you give your heart to Jesus and promise to love Him and serve Him and share His gospel with others doesn’t mean that your life will be free of troubles, you will never get sick, and all of your bills will always be paid.
Being a Christian does not guarantee you harmonious relationships, a perfect family, a high-paying job, or that you will have the body of an athlete or model! It does not ensure that your children will all become Christians and impeccable citizens…that natural disasters will never befall you or your loved ones…or that all of your troubles are over – in any way, shape or form! Being a Christian does NOT mean that you will never sin again.
But when we do the work and make the effort to be the best Christian disciple we can, Jesus stands in the gap and makes the difference. When we stay focused and give God our full attention, He guides us every step of the way…even when the paths are rocky and confusing…or even upsetting. Quite honestly, THIS is when we grow in our faith the most! When we “work out” hard with God and monitor our “life diet,” we see the best, most consistent and lasting results. We are blessed with a body, mind, and soul that are fit in all the right ways…and God is glorified.
The time has come for us to toss aside all of the shortcuts and knuckle down for the hard work of following Jesus. This is the moment to recommit yourself to making this effort…and reaping the tremendous benefits that He has in store for you. Are you ready to go “all in” with Christ? Will this be the day that you get started?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 26, 2015
James 2:19-20
Do I hear you professing to believe in the one and only God, but then observe you complacently sitting back as if you had done something wonderful? That’s just great. Demons do that, but what good does it do them? Use your heads! Do you suppose for a minute that you can cut faith and works in two and not end up with a corpse on your hands?
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 Timothy was in pre-K, his class presented a Christmas program for parents, family members and friends in the sanctuary of the church campus where his “school” was held. We were not sure what Timothy would do – or if he would even perform. But as his class took its turn on the stage, he sang sweetly, did all of the choreography, and beamed with pride. And when his group finished their numbers, he bowed to the audience’s applause. He gave us the “thumbs up” and grinned from ear to ear…obviously proud of how he had performed.
After this performance, everyone had two choices…1) to celebrate the children’s performance and encourage them to continue learning new “material” and sharing it with others; or 2) to say, “Good job!” and go on our merry way and forget about what happened…and leave those children to their own devices. We have these same choices with new Christians, and I’m afraid that the latter is what happens quite often.
As James points out in this passage, it is one thing to decide to accept Jesus Christ…and totally another to truly live for Him. A lot of us seem to be playing a “numbers game” in our churches. Let’s add new members, put them to work and encourage them to “give of their time, talents and money.” We’re all about bringing someone to know Jesus and/or join our church body. But what happens then? Do we nurture these people in their faith? Do we check up on them to see how they are doing…encourage them to get to know God through scriptures and time spent in prayer and fellowship with other believers…offer them support and uplift them in their newfound faith or church home? Or do we record their name on a membership roll and move on to the next “target”?
What about your own Christian relationship? Have you invited Jesus to be your Lord and Savior…accepted His gift of salvation and the promise of Eternal Life in Paradise…then gone right back to your old way of living? As I have asked before, are you “in it” for the “get-out-of-hell ticket”…or do you really want a relationship with Jesus? Do you truly want to live in the light of His grace, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love…or did you accept Him out of a sense of guilt, desperation, fear - or even peer pressure?
Are you really ready to study, learn and grow in your faith…and to become all that Jesus is calling you to be as His disciple? Or are you just one more mark in the Lamb’s Book of Life who took a bow, gave the thumbs up, and then went on your merry way? Are you making a point as a Christian…or is Jesus really making a difference in your life? ANYONE can say that they love Jesus and accept His gift of salvation…but this is only the beginning – or at least it should be!
What will your next move be? Will you move forward with Jesus…or remain stuck in the mud and muck of your old, sinful life? Will this be the day that you start to figure out where to go from here? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
On a "housekeeping" note...I should have included these "homemade cleaner" recipes yesterday...so here goes...
Basic Cleaner...2 parts hydrogen peroxide to 1 part Dawn® dishwashing liquid. Great for pre-soaking clothing! If you are cleaning something like a rug stain and need less suds, use less Dawn®!
Heavy Cleaner (tile grout, etc.)...add 2-3 teaspoons of baking soda to the peroxide and Dawn® mixture. Do this in smaller quantities to get the full benefit of the "fizz" that the soda creates...similar to Oxy-clean.
Hardwood Floor Cleaner - 1 cup water, 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup alcohol, 2-3 drops Dawn® dish soap. This works GREAT, cleans the floors AND smells wonderful!
Do I hear you professing to believe in the one and only God, but then observe you complacently sitting back as if you had done something wonderful? That’s just great. Demons do that, but what good does it do them? Use your heads! Do you suppose for a minute that you can cut faith and works in two and not end up with a corpse on your hands?
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 Timothy was in pre-K, his class presented a Christmas program for parents, family members and friends in the sanctuary of the church campus where his “school” was held. We were not sure what Timothy would do – or if he would even perform. But as his class took its turn on the stage, he sang sweetly, did all of the choreography, and beamed with pride. And when his group finished their numbers, he bowed to the audience’s applause. He gave us the “thumbs up” and grinned from ear to ear…obviously proud of how he had performed.
After this performance, everyone had two choices…1) to celebrate the children’s performance and encourage them to continue learning new “material” and sharing it with others; or 2) to say, “Good job!” and go on our merry way and forget about what happened…and leave those children to their own devices. We have these same choices with new Christians, and I’m afraid that the latter is what happens quite often.
As James points out in this passage, it is one thing to decide to accept Jesus Christ…and totally another to truly live for Him. A lot of us seem to be playing a “numbers game” in our churches. Let’s add new members, put them to work and encourage them to “give of their time, talents and money.” We’re all about bringing someone to know Jesus and/or join our church body. But what happens then? Do we nurture these people in their faith? Do we check up on them to see how they are doing…encourage them to get to know God through scriptures and time spent in prayer and fellowship with other believers…offer them support and uplift them in their newfound faith or church home? Or do we record their name on a membership roll and move on to the next “target”?
What about your own Christian relationship? Have you invited Jesus to be your Lord and Savior…accepted His gift of salvation and the promise of Eternal Life in Paradise…then gone right back to your old way of living? As I have asked before, are you “in it” for the “get-out-of-hell ticket”…or do you really want a relationship with Jesus? Do you truly want to live in the light of His grace, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love…or did you accept Him out of a sense of guilt, desperation, fear - or even peer pressure?
Are you really ready to study, learn and grow in your faith…and to become all that Jesus is calling you to be as His disciple? Or are you just one more mark in the Lamb’s Book of Life who took a bow, gave the thumbs up, and then went on your merry way? Are you making a point as a Christian…or is Jesus really making a difference in your life? ANYONE can say that they love Jesus and accept His gift of salvation…but this is only the beginning – or at least it should be!
What will your next move be? Will you move forward with Jesus…or remain stuck in the mud and muck of your old, sinful life? Will this be the day that you start to figure out where to go from here? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
On a "housekeeping" note...I should have included these "homemade cleaner" recipes yesterday...so here goes...
Basic Cleaner...2 parts hydrogen peroxide to 1 part Dawn® dishwashing liquid. Great for pre-soaking clothing! If you are cleaning something like a rug stain and need less suds, use less Dawn®!
Heavy Cleaner (tile grout, etc.)...add 2-3 teaspoons of baking soda to the peroxide and Dawn® mixture. Do this in smaller quantities to get the full benefit of the "fizz" that the soda creates...similar to Oxy-clean.
Hardwood Floor Cleaner - 1 cup water, 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup alcohol, 2-3 drops Dawn® dish soap. This works GREAT, cleans the floors AND smells wonderful!
Daily Devotional for May 25, 2015
Isaiah 1:18
Come, let’s talk this over, says the Lord; no matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can take it out and make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make you white as wool!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Thanks to Pinterest and posts on Facebook, I have a new favorite stain remover. It’s a concoction of 3% hydrogen peroxide, water, and a few drops of Dawn® dish soap! For things like shower grout and other tough stains, I found a recipe that also adds baking soda. I mixed all of these ingredients in a spray bottle that I purchased at Dollar Tree®. A few hours later, I heard this little hissing sound in my laundry room. The “power” of this mixture caused the plastic to swell and spring a tiny hole…and the cleaner was spraying out onto the counter!
I moved the cleaning solution to a sturdier container, and I made a mental note that this was obviously strong stuff! I love to spray the shower tile and watch the grout brighten – with little to no scrubbing. When Zola spilled ketchup down the front of her dress, I sprayed the peroxide/Dawn mixture on the stain, dabbed at it with a damp cloth, and all traces of ketchup totally disappeared. It feels good to know that I am able to clean even the deepest of stains and not harm the soiled surface – or the environment. And this solution smells fantastic!
I am amazed that a combination of ingredients that will clean shower grout, remove ketchup stains and more, and disinfect in the process is also incredibly gentle. I feel safe using it around children and pets…and confident that things are really clean. If you stop and think about it, you could apply this to Jesus. He is the most gentle, loving, kind and caring Friend we will ever know…and yet, He can make all of our sins disappear with a whisper. He can literally wash us as white as freshly fallen snow or lamb’s wool. It doesn’t matter how old or deep the stain is…or how huge and ugly the blemish appears…Jesus can erase it all with His powerful yet gentle touch.
It doesn’t matter who you are or how hard you try…I’m willing to bet you have at least one stained garment in your closet or drawer…and a stain or two of sin on your heart. We are human, imperfect…in need of a good washing from Jesus Christ. And He is the ultimate “Stain Remover.”
There is no need for us to be martyrs…to carry our sins and blemishes around like some sort of “badge of shame.” Jesus is ready, willing and able to remove them all. He’s waiting…with arms wide open…saying, “C’mon…let’s talk this over. I can fix things.” Aren’t you ready to let Him? Will this be the day that you truly “come clean?”
©2015 Debbie Robus
Come, let’s talk this over, says the Lord; no matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can take it out and make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make you white as wool!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Thanks to Pinterest and posts on Facebook, I have a new favorite stain remover. It’s a concoction of 3% hydrogen peroxide, water, and a few drops of Dawn® dish soap! For things like shower grout and other tough stains, I found a recipe that also adds baking soda. I mixed all of these ingredients in a spray bottle that I purchased at Dollar Tree®. A few hours later, I heard this little hissing sound in my laundry room. The “power” of this mixture caused the plastic to swell and spring a tiny hole…and the cleaner was spraying out onto the counter!
I moved the cleaning solution to a sturdier container, and I made a mental note that this was obviously strong stuff! I love to spray the shower tile and watch the grout brighten – with little to no scrubbing. When Zola spilled ketchup down the front of her dress, I sprayed the peroxide/Dawn mixture on the stain, dabbed at it with a damp cloth, and all traces of ketchup totally disappeared. It feels good to know that I am able to clean even the deepest of stains and not harm the soiled surface – or the environment. And this solution smells fantastic!
I am amazed that a combination of ingredients that will clean shower grout, remove ketchup stains and more, and disinfect in the process is also incredibly gentle. I feel safe using it around children and pets…and confident that things are really clean. If you stop and think about it, you could apply this to Jesus. He is the most gentle, loving, kind and caring Friend we will ever know…and yet, He can make all of our sins disappear with a whisper. He can literally wash us as white as freshly fallen snow or lamb’s wool. It doesn’t matter how old or deep the stain is…or how huge and ugly the blemish appears…Jesus can erase it all with His powerful yet gentle touch.
It doesn’t matter who you are or how hard you try…I’m willing to bet you have at least one stained garment in your closet or drawer…and a stain or two of sin on your heart. We are human, imperfect…in need of a good washing from Jesus Christ. And He is the ultimate “Stain Remover.”
There is no need for us to be martyrs…to carry our sins and blemishes around like some sort of “badge of shame.” Jesus is ready, willing and able to remove them all. He’s waiting…with arms wide open…saying, “C’mon…let’s talk this over. I can fix things.” Aren’t you ready to let Him? Will this be the day that you truly “come clean?”
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 24, 2015
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to those whose hearts are breaking; he rescues those who are humbly sorry for their sins.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
According to information found at GoodReads.com* about Kathryn Stockett’s book, The Help…“Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.” You may have read The Help and/or seen the subsequent movie version.
At one point in the story, Aibileen tells the child, named Mae Mobley…”You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” Little Mae Mobley is chubby, has a bald spot and her mother ignores her. Even Aibileen - who adores the little girl - admits that Mae Mobley is not the cutest child in the world! But she does all she can to encourage her…and to soothe her broken heart.
We all need a champion…someone who will lift us up and encourage us – even when we aren’t so cute. And as Christians who have been rescued, we need to “pay it forward” and encourage others who are struggling. We need to know that when we mess up – and we all will at some point – we can be forgiven…redeemed…and restored. This is what Jesus does for us – not because He has to, but because He wants to do so. He suffered, bled and died for our sins, and when we humbly ask Him to forgive us…He does so.
Here’s the thing…you cannot merely say, “I’m sorry” and expect forgiveness. You have to mean it. You cannot offer lip service… to others - and especially to Jesus…and go on your merry way. You would not want to hang out with people who treated you this way. Jesus did not die for us so that we could abuse His grace and mock His generosity! In His eyes, “we is kind…we is smart…we is important”…and so much more. And it’s time we acted like it!
Jesus’ loving, forgiving, all-redeeming arms are open to all who humbly seek them. Are you ready for a Champion’s welcome, forgiveness and encouragement? When a friend or neighbor humbly seeks your mercy, will you pay forward Jesus’ gift and offer this as His disciple? Will this be the day that Jesus heals your broken places and rescues you? Don’t you want it to be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4667024-the-help
The Lord is close to those whose hearts are breaking; he rescues those who are humbly sorry for their sins.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
According to information found at GoodReads.com* about Kathryn Stockett’s book, The Help…“Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.” You may have read The Help and/or seen the subsequent movie version.
At one point in the story, Aibileen tells the child, named Mae Mobley…”You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” Little Mae Mobley is chubby, has a bald spot and her mother ignores her. Even Aibileen - who adores the little girl - admits that Mae Mobley is not the cutest child in the world! But she does all she can to encourage her…and to soothe her broken heart.
We all need a champion…someone who will lift us up and encourage us – even when we aren’t so cute. And as Christians who have been rescued, we need to “pay it forward” and encourage others who are struggling. We need to know that when we mess up – and we all will at some point – we can be forgiven…redeemed…and restored. This is what Jesus does for us – not because He has to, but because He wants to do so. He suffered, bled and died for our sins, and when we humbly ask Him to forgive us…He does so.
Here’s the thing…you cannot merely say, “I’m sorry” and expect forgiveness. You have to mean it. You cannot offer lip service… to others - and especially to Jesus…and go on your merry way. You would not want to hang out with people who treated you this way. Jesus did not die for us so that we could abuse His grace and mock His generosity! In His eyes, “we is kind…we is smart…we is important”…and so much more. And it’s time we acted like it!
Jesus’ loving, forgiving, all-redeeming arms are open to all who humbly seek them. Are you ready for a Champion’s welcome, forgiveness and encouragement? When a friend or neighbor humbly seeks your mercy, will you pay forward Jesus’ gift and offer this as His disciple? Will this be the day that Jesus heals your broken places and rescues you? Don’t you want it to be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4667024-the-help
Daily Devotional for May 23, 2015
Luke 22:19-20
Taking bread, he blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, given for you. Eat it in my memory.”
He did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant written in my blood, blood poured out 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.
Covenants are a part of our everyday life…from the loan agreement you signed with the bank for your car and/or house, to marriage vows, to enrolling in college or accepting a job. While some are more formal than others, we are constantly entering into “covenant” agreements to fulfill a commitment.
When we make a covenant, there are certain expectations on both sides. Your spouse expects you to be there “for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health” – for the rest of your life – and you expect the same in return! Your boss expects you to show up for work every day and do what is required of you…and you anticipate fair treatment and a paycheck. When you enroll in college, you count on learning something that will help you to grow and develop in certain areas of expertise…and the school of higher learning assumes that you will pay your tuition and attend the classes!
There are traditional covenants, like marriage agreements, the Hippocratic Oath taken by physicians, and the “swearing in” of public officials, law enforcement and military personnel. Even elected officials and religious leaders take an “Oath of Office” and promise to uphold the tenets or bylaws of the group that they serve. But there are less formal covenants that are in many ways just as binding. If I join an organization, the group anticipates my support and participation in its activities – whether it is a club, a church, or a local softball team, exercise class, or Bible study!
Even more importantly, when we accept Salvation through Jesus Christ and invite Him to dwell in our heart, we have created a covenant - a “blood covenant” if you will. Jesus shed His blood to pay for our sins…and when we accept His gift of Salvation, we commit to honor Him…to love Him above all others…to serve Him with our whole heart, according to His will.
A lot of people seem to gloss over this part of the “covenant.” They willingly accept Jesus’ redemption…they are more than happy to claim to be a Christian and a pardon that assures reprieve from the fires of hell and promises eternal Paradise. But they give no consideration to holding up their end of the agreement.
When we default on a loan, break a covenant with our spouse, or fail to attend classes and pay tuition…or even when we don’t attend the meetings and actively participate in an organization to which we belong…there are consequences. We might even be removed from the group…”exiled” in some way. Thankfully, Jesus does not go this far…but He does hang His head in shame and disappointment. We can’t just SAY we are Christians and then go about our old, sinful, uncommitted lives…or we shouldn’t. This does not reflect the “blood covenant”…nor does it honor our Savior.
It’s not a matter of worrying about whether we will go to Heaven or Hell…this is about commitment to Jesus…honor and respect…love and appreciation for the One who has given us EVERYTHING. Have you truly made a “blood covenant” with Christ? Are you making a point…or making a difference? Did you just want the “get out of Hell” ticket…or are you all in with Jesus? There a huge difference between these two options…which one have you chosen?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Taking bread, he blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, given for you. Eat it in my memory.”
He did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant written in my blood, blood poured out 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.
Covenants are a part of our everyday life…from the loan agreement you signed with the bank for your car and/or house, to marriage vows, to enrolling in college or accepting a job. While some are more formal than others, we are constantly entering into “covenant” agreements to fulfill a commitment.
When we make a covenant, there are certain expectations on both sides. Your spouse expects you to be there “for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health” – for the rest of your life – and you expect the same in return! Your boss expects you to show up for work every day and do what is required of you…and you anticipate fair treatment and a paycheck. When you enroll in college, you count on learning something that will help you to grow and develop in certain areas of expertise…and the school of higher learning assumes that you will pay your tuition and attend the classes!
There are traditional covenants, like marriage agreements, the Hippocratic Oath taken by physicians, and the “swearing in” of public officials, law enforcement and military personnel. Even elected officials and religious leaders take an “Oath of Office” and promise to uphold the tenets or bylaws of the group that they serve. But there are less formal covenants that are in many ways just as binding. If I join an organization, the group anticipates my support and participation in its activities – whether it is a club, a church, or a local softball team, exercise class, or Bible study!
Even more importantly, when we accept Salvation through Jesus Christ and invite Him to dwell in our heart, we have created a covenant - a “blood covenant” if you will. Jesus shed His blood to pay for our sins…and when we accept His gift of Salvation, we commit to honor Him…to love Him above all others…to serve Him with our whole heart, according to His will.
A lot of people seem to gloss over this part of the “covenant.” They willingly accept Jesus’ redemption…they are more than happy to claim to be a Christian and a pardon that assures reprieve from the fires of hell and promises eternal Paradise. But they give no consideration to holding up their end of the agreement.
When we default on a loan, break a covenant with our spouse, or fail to attend classes and pay tuition…or even when we don’t attend the meetings and actively participate in an organization to which we belong…there are consequences. We might even be removed from the group…”exiled” in some way. Thankfully, Jesus does not go this far…but He does hang His head in shame and disappointment. We can’t just SAY we are Christians and then go about our old, sinful, uncommitted lives…or we shouldn’t. This does not reflect the “blood covenant”…nor does it honor our Savior.
It’s not a matter of worrying about whether we will go to Heaven or Hell…this is about commitment to Jesus…honor and respect…love and appreciation for the One who has given us EVERYTHING. Have you truly made a “blood covenant” with Christ? Are you making a point…or making a difference? Did you just want the “get out of Hell” ticket…or are you all in with Jesus? There a huge difference between these two options…which one have you chosen?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 22, 2015
John 6:53-58
But Jesus didn’t give an inch. “Only insofar as you eat and drink flesh and blood, the flesh and blood of the Son of Man, do you have life within you. The one who brings a hearty appetite to this eating and drinking has eternal life and will be fit and ready for the Final Day. My flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. By eating my flesh and drinking my blood you enter into me and I into you. In the same way that the fully alive Father sent me here and I live because of him, so the one who makes a meal of me lives because of me. This is the Bread from heaven. Your ancestors ate bread and later died. Whoever eats this Bread will live always.”
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.
Several years ago, friends invited us to join several other couples for the sharing of a potluck meal in their home…and a visit afterward. We had all read a book called So You Don’t Want to Go to Church Any More*…and the hosts suggested that we discuss our thoughts on this book after dinner. We went around the living room, discussing the parts of the book that spoke to us the most…and sharing experiences and opinions. We also shared our “faith” – how we got from “Point A” to “Point B” in our journey with Christ…questions and concerns we still have…and how God works in and through us each day. It was a wonderful evening. At times, the feelings and expressions were raw, as we spoke openly and from the heart…but generally, it was a sweet time that bonded us as friends – and brothers and sisters in Christ.
At the end of the evening, the hosts produced a bottle of wine and some bread, and we shared in Holy Communion. This might sound sacrilegious or disrespectful to you, but I assure you, it was incredibly holy. We had shared such an amazing time of worship and reflection. We prayed…we held hands…we shed more than a few tears. And we felt the presence of Jesus. It was only natural that we would “eat and drink flesh and blood”…that we would “die to ourselves” and live in Jesus.
The service of Holy Communion is a profoundly humbling and meaningful time…or at least, it should be. Whether you kneel at the altar rail in a church sanctuary, are presented with bread and “wine” at your bedside or on a church pew, or even partake in the sacraments in a friend’s living room…this commitment to surrender your sin to the body and blood of Jesus is incredibly powerful.
Don’t just go through the motions of Holy Communion. The next time you are offered the “bread and wine,” really think about what you are doing. Remind yourself that the bread does indeed represent Jesus’ body…broken for you. When you eat the bread, you surrender your heart – and your sins – to Him. When you drink the “wine,” you are allowing Jesus’ blood to wash over you and remove every trace and blemish of your transgressions. You are committing to a New Life in Christ…and you are reminded of this covenant. This is a precious, sacred moment.
When you participate in Holy Communion, think about the piece of bread you are handed…and the “cup” you drink. Thank Jesus for His amazing sacrifice, and vow to honor Him with your daily living. We who share in the flesh and blood of the Son of Man with a heart of genuine commitment to serve Him are promised a life that never ends. The “exchange” is more than we could ever expect or deserve…but everything about the love of Christ is “too much.” And aren’t we glad and grateful for His gifts?!
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://www.amazon.com/You-Dont-Want-Church-Anymore/dp/0964729229
But Jesus didn’t give an inch. “Only insofar as you eat and drink flesh and blood, the flesh and blood of the Son of Man, do you have life within you. The one who brings a hearty appetite to this eating and drinking has eternal life and will be fit and ready for the Final Day. My flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. By eating my flesh and drinking my blood you enter into me and I into you. In the same way that the fully alive Father sent me here and I live because of him, so the one who makes a meal of me lives because of me. This is the Bread from heaven. Your ancestors ate bread and later died. Whoever eats this Bread will live always.”
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.
Several years ago, friends invited us to join several other couples for the sharing of a potluck meal in their home…and a visit afterward. We had all read a book called So You Don’t Want to Go to Church Any More*…and the hosts suggested that we discuss our thoughts on this book after dinner. We went around the living room, discussing the parts of the book that spoke to us the most…and sharing experiences and opinions. We also shared our “faith” – how we got from “Point A” to “Point B” in our journey with Christ…questions and concerns we still have…and how God works in and through us each day. It was a wonderful evening. At times, the feelings and expressions were raw, as we spoke openly and from the heart…but generally, it was a sweet time that bonded us as friends – and brothers and sisters in Christ.
At the end of the evening, the hosts produced a bottle of wine and some bread, and we shared in Holy Communion. This might sound sacrilegious or disrespectful to you, but I assure you, it was incredibly holy. We had shared such an amazing time of worship and reflection. We prayed…we held hands…we shed more than a few tears. And we felt the presence of Jesus. It was only natural that we would “eat and drink flesh and blood”…that we would “die to ourselves” and live in Jesus.
The service of Holy Communion is a profoundly humbling and meaningful time…or at least, it should be. Whether you kneel at the altar rail in a church sanctuary, are presented with bread and “wine” at your bedside or on a church pew, or even partake in the sacraments in a friend’s living room…this commitment to surrender your sin to the body and blood of Jesus is incredibly powerful.
Don’t just go through the motions of Holy Communion. The next time you are offered the “bread and wine,” really think about what you are doing. Remind yourself that the bread does indeed represent Jesus’ body…broken for you. When you eat the bread, you surrender your heart – and your sins – to Him. When you drink the “wine,” you are allowing Jesus’ blood to wash over you and remove every trace and blemish of your transgressions. You are committing to a New Life in Christ…and you are reminded of this covenant. This is a precious, sacred moment.
When you participate in Holy Communion, think about the piece of bread you are handed…and the “cup” you drink. Thank Jesus for His amazing sacrifice, and vow to honor Him with your daily living. We who share in the flesh and blood of the Son of Man with a heart of genuine commitment to serve Him are promised a life that never ends. The “exchange” is more than we could ever expect or deserve…but everything about the love of Christ is “too much.” And aren’t we glad and grateful for His gifts?!
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://www.amazon.com/You-Dont-Want-Church-Anymore/dp/0964729229
Daily Devotional for May 21, 2015
John 6:47-51
“I’m telling you the most solemn and sober truth now: Whoever believes in me has real life, eternal life. I am the Bread of Life. Your ancestors ate the manna bread in the desert and died. But now here is Bread that truly comes down out of heaven. Anyone eating this Bread will not die, ever. I am the Bread—living Bread!—who came down out of heaven. Anyone who eats this Bread will live—and forever! The Bread that I present to the world so that it can eat and live is myself, this flesh-and-blood self.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I am a “GRITS”…a Girl Raised In The South, and we “GRITS” love our cornbread! I have a little plaque that says, “Lord, thank you for letting me be born in the South – and for the cornbread and turnip greens in my mouth!” But here’s the thing…I have developed an allergy to corn…so the very “bread” I love could potentially kill me! Some of you may be gluten intolerant…or you’re diabetic…and bread is somewhat your “enemy.” I get it. We think of bread as life-sustaining…but that is not always the case – at least not in a physical sense!
But Bread – the Bread of Life that represents Jesus’ body given on the cross for you and me – is EVERYTHING! I love how this passage explains that when we believe in Jesus and commit our hearts to Him, we receive Bread that will sustain us FOREVER. I particularly like the sentence that says, “Anyone eating this Bread will not die, ever.”
I don’t know about you, but these words really encourage me. Because of Jesus and the Bread of Life that I have in Him, nothing can ever truly harm me. Because of Jesus’ Bread of Life, I am “safe and secure from all alarms,” as it says in the old hymn.* The Bread of Life fills me, nurtures me, sustains me…and never ends!
Because of the Bread of Life, I am leaning on the everlasting arms of Jesus in all things. I am not only a “GRITS”…I am also a “BOLCOG” (Bread of Life Child of God)! I get to enjoy this “Bread” every single day - as much as I want/need! But when I get to heaven, I’ll take mine with a slice of cornbread, please…and a big ole mess of turnip greens with a tall glass of sweet tea on the side! Will I see you there?
©2015 Debbie Robus
*Leaning on the Everlasting Arms (public domain)
What a fellowship, what a joy divine,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
What a blessedness, what a peace is mine,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Oh, how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
Oh, how bright the path grows from day to day,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
What have I to dread, what have I to fear,
Leaning on the everlasting arms?
I have blessed peace with my Lord so near,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Refrain:
Leaning, leaning,
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
“I’m telling you the most solemn and sober truth now: Whoever believes in me has real life, eternal life. I am the Bread of Life. Your ancestors ate the manna bread in the desert and died. But now here is Bread that truly comes down out of heaven. Anyone eating this Bread will not die, ever. I am the Bread—living Bread!—who came down out of heaven. Anyone who eats this Bread will live—and forever! The Bread that I present to the world so that it can eat and live is myself, this flesh-and-blood self.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I am a “GRITS”…a Girl Raised In The South, and we “GRITS” love our cornbread! I have a little plaque that says, “Lord, thank you for letting me be born in the South – and for the cornbread and turnip greens in my mouth!” But here’s the thing…I have developed an allergy to corn…so the very “bread” I love could potentially kill me! Some of you may be gluten intolerant…or you’re diabetic…and bread is somewhat your “enemy.” I get it. We think of bread as life-sustaining…but that is not always the case – at least not in a physical sense!
But Bread – the Bread of Life that represents Jesus’ body given on the cross for you and me – is EVERYTHING! I love how this passage explains that when we believe in Jesus and commit our hearts to Him, we receive Bread that will sustain us FOREVER. I particularly like the sentence that says, “Anyone eating this Bread will not die, ever.”
I don’t know about you, but these words really encourage me. Because of Jesus and the Bread of Life that I have in Him, nothing can ever truly harm me. Because of Jesus’ Bread of Life, I am “safe and secure from all alarms,” as it says in the old hymn.* The Bread of Life fills me, nurtures me, sustains me…and never ends!
Because of the Bread of Life, I am leaning on the everlasting arms of Jesus in all things. I am not only a “GRITS”…I am also a “BOLCOG” (Bread of Life Child of God)! I get to enjoy this “Bread” every single day - as much as I want/need! But when I get to heaven, I’ll take mine with a slice of cornbread, please…and a big ole mess of turnip greens with a tall glass of sweet tea on the side! Will I see you there?
©2015 Debbie Robus
*Leaning on the Everlasting Arms (public domain)
What a fellowship, what a joy divine,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
What a blessedness, what a peace is mine,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Oh, how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
Oh, how bright the path grows from day to day,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
What have I to dread, what have I to fear,
Leaning on the everlasting arms?
I have blessed peace with my Lord so near,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Refrain:
Leaning, leaning,
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Daily Devotional for May 20, 2015
Acts 2:41-42
That day about three thousand took him at his word, were baptized and were signed up. They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My young cousins, nieces and nephews, and countless young friends are all members of organized activities/groups like soccer, t-ball, swimming, scouting, and dance troops. They have made the commitment to attend practices and games/performances…to participate in events associated with the team/group…to offer support and be an active participant…and to encourage their fellow members. They are representatives of these groups, and people form opinions about the organization as a whole on the basis of how individual members behave.
In any organization, there will be people who go “all in” and give their very best. They make almost all of the meetings, participate in group activities and invite others to join them. They support the members and do all that they can to conduct themselves in a manner that honors the group and its purpose/tenets. There will be a few who sign on and then fail to show up…literally and figuratively. When this happens, they are often dismissed from the group…either by quitting and forfeiting membership and the right to participate - or by removal from the roster by the group leaders.
When we give our lives to Christ and become Christians, we are automatically a member of “Team Jesus.” Just as there are members of any club or organization who claim to be associated, then hang out on the fringes – or drop out altogether - there are Christians who assert that they belong to Jesus and then go back to their old ways. They don’t support others, much less minister to anyone – especially unbelievers. Sadly, there are quite a few “fringe Christians.” Many of them go through the motions…attend worship services, contribute to a church and missions/ministries, participate in Holy Communion, and sport a t-shirt or bumper sticker that proclaims their allegiance. But it’s all essentially a show…there is no real “heart” and commitment behind these actions. Others claim to be Christians and don’t even make a half-hearted effort to go through the motions of discipleship.
Unlike most organizations, you can’t get kicked off “Team Jesus” for this. But it does sadden Jesus…and it should sadden us as believers. Jesus suffered, bled and died for our sins. He loves us unconditionally…meets all of our needs…feeds and heals us – body, mind and soul…and prepares a Heavenly mansion for us to enjoy for all Eternity. And all that He asks of us in return is that we love and honor Him.
Jesus asks that we live in a way that demonstrates our devotion to Him and encourages others to make Him their personal Savior. Whether we go “all in” or not does not change our status on the “team”…or make us better than the next believer. But it’s a matter of personal and spiritual integrity. This is the most important affiliation we will ever have. We ought to do more than merely act like it matters.
Stop and spend some time today in prayer and reflection on all that Jesus has done for you…all that He does for you each and every day. Count your blessings and consider what sort of “team member” you really are these days. Search for ways to step up your “game/performance”…to honor and glorify the amazing gift of Salvation and inclusion that Jesus has given you. Make this the day that you move off the sidelines and into the thick of things with Jesus. It’s what you signed up for…the time has come to make good on your commitment!
©2015 Debbie Robus
That day about three thousand took him at his word, were baptized and were signed up. They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My young cousins, nieces and nephews, and countless young friends are all members of organized activities/groups like soccer, t-ball, swimming, scouting, and dance troops. They have made the commitment to attend practices and games/performances…to participate in events associated with the team/group…to offer support and be an active participant…and to encourage their fellow members. They are representatives of these groups, and people form opinions about the organization as a whole on the basis of how individual members behave.
In any organization, there will be people who go “all in” and give their very best. They make almost all of the meetings, participate in group activities and invite others to join them. They support the members and do all that they can to conduct themselves in a manner that honors the group and its purpose/tenets. There will be a few who sign on and then fail to show up…literally and figuratively. When this happens, they are often dismissed from the group…either by quitting and forfeiting membership and the right to participate - or by removal from the roster by the group leaders.
When we give our lives to Christ and become Christians, we are automatically a member of “Team Jesus.” Just as there are members of any club or organization who claim to be associated, then hang out on the fringes – or drop out altogether - there are Christians who assert that they belong to Jesus and then go back to their old ways. They don’t support others, much less minister to anyone – especially unbelievers. Sadly, there are quite a few “fringe Christians.” Many of them go through the motions…attend worship services, contribute to a church and missions/ministries, participate in Holy Communion, and sport a t-shirt or bumper sticker that proclaims their allegiance. But it’s all essentially a show…there is no real “heart” and commitment behind these actions. Others claim to be Christians and don’t even make a half-hearted effort to go through the motions of discipleship.
Unlike most organizations, you can’t get kicked off “Team Jesus” for this. But it does sadden Jesus…and it should sadden us as believers. Jesus suffered, bled and died for our sins. He loves us unconditionally…meets all of our needs…feeds and heals us – body, mind and soul…and prepares a Heavenly mansion for us to enjoy for all Eternity. And all that He asks of us in return is that we love and honor Him.
Jesus asks that we live in a way that demonstrates our devotion to Him and encourages others to make Him their personal Savior. Whether we go “all in” or not does not change our status on the “team”…or make us better than the next believer. But it’s a matter of personal and spiritual integrity. This is the most important affiliation we will ever have. We ought to do more than merely act like it matters.
Stop and spend some time today in prayer and reflection on all that Jesus has done for you…all that He does for you each and every day. Count your blessings and consider what sort of “team member” you really are these days. Search for ways to step up your “game/performance”…to honor and glorify the amazing gift of Salvation and inclusion that Jesus has given you. Make this the day that you move off the sidelines and into the thick of things with Jesus. It’s what you signed up for…the time has come to make good on your commitment!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 19, 2015
Titus 3:10-11
Warn troublemakers once or twice. Then don’t have anything else to do with them. You know that their minds are twisted, and their own sins show how guilty they are.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Who knew that “Assertive Discipline” was biblical?! Ever since I was a kindergarten teacher in the 1980s, I have favored this method of reinforcing good behavior…but having clear and distinct boundaries and consequences for improper actions. Today, I use the “1-2-3” counting system with our little ones, and they totally “get” that they do not want to hear me say “THREE!” This will result in a “time out,” missed activities and fun, or the loss of a privilege or treat.
In Timothy’s kindergarten classroom, the teacher uses a “color system” that marks whether behaviors are acceptable, outstanding…or unacceptable. There is even a “warning” color. Timothy has told us that he and his classmates are sometimes given a chance to “turn things around” and “clip up” to a higher/more acceptable color. And a string of days with good “colors” results in a trip to the “treasure chest” to select a prize.
We try to be careful to recognize GOOD behavior often - with plenty of praise to reinforce it. The children have “earned” all kinds of prizes for accruing consistent stretches of time where they followed the rules and made good choices. Some insist that this amounts to bribery. But let’s be honest – in every area of life, good choices and actions bring rewards, while troublemakers who make bad decisions will suffer consequences!
So as we apply these principles to our “grown-up” relationships with others, we see that there are times when we must distance ourselves from “friends” and fellow believers. If someone will not stop making derogatory remarks on social media, despite gentle reminders to “keep it clean and kind,” it is okay to “unfriend” or block them – or at the very least, to “unfollow” their posts. More than once, I have had to message someone who repeatedly included me in e-mail messages that perpetuated false rumors and viewpoints -and suggest (or warn) that I did not endorse this. If these persons continued to include me in their missives, I blocked them.
Is it hard to do this? You bet! It’s also hard to put our little ones in “time out” or “clip them down” to a “bad” color…not just because they sometimes go “kicking and screaming,” but because it’s human nature to say, “Okay…I’ll give you one more chance.” This often leads to another…and another…and nothing gets resolved in the end. Sometimes, Christians have to do the hard things in the spirit of obedience and faithfulness. And choosing to distance ourselves from someone who persists in sin and troublemaking is often necessary.
Don’t misunderstand me…this does not mean that you stop caring. We must pray for these persons…love them as Jesus loves us…wish them well and show genuine concern for their well-being. But we must do so from a distance…believing that Jesus will stand in the gap and make the difference. And just as we “reward” small children and recognize their positive words and actions, we must be sure to do this with our “grown-up” friends and acquaintances, also.
Notice the positives…be kind and approachable (within reason)…and share the unconditional love of Jesus. There is truth to the adage…”love the sinner, hate the sin.” This is a truly difficult thing to do sometimes…but God will strengthen you. Jesus has told us to love our “enemies” and pray for them. But we don’t have to make them our BFFs!
People are watching…and our demonstration of faithfulness in this manner will be duly noted. Ask God to show you how – and when – to administer a “time out” to troublemakers. And ask Him to show these folks how to correct their mistakes and “clip up” to a better version of themselves. With God, all things really ARE possible!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Warn troublemakers once or twice. Then don’t have anything else to do with them. You know that their minds are twisted, and their own sins show how guilty they are.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Who knew that “Assertive Discipline” was biblical?! Ever since I was a kindergarten teacher in the 1980s, I have favored this method of reinforcing good behavior…but having clear and distinct boundaries and consequences for improper actions. Today, I use the “1-2-3” counting system with our little ones, and they totally “get” that they do not want to hear me say “THREE!” This will result in a “time out,” missed activities and fun, or the loss of a privilege or treat.
In Timothy’s kindergarten classroom, the teacher uses a “color system” that marks whether behaviors are acceptable, outstanding…or unacceptable. There is even a “warning” color. Timothy has told us that he and his classmates are sometimes given a chance to “turn things around” and “clip up” to a higher/more acceptable color. And a string of days with good “colors” results in a trip to the “treasure chest” to select a prize.
We try to be careful to recognize GOOD behavior often - with plenty of praise to reinforce it. The children have “earned” all kinds of prizes for accruing consistent stretches of time where they followed the rules and made good choices. Some insist that this amounts to bribery. But let’s be honest – in every area of life, good choices and actions bring rewards, while troublemakers who make bad decisions will suffer consequences!
So as we apply these principles to our “grown-up” relationships with others, we see that there are times when we must distance ourselves from “friends” and fellow believers. If someone will not stop making derogatory remarks on social media, despite gentle reminders to “keep it clean and kind,” it is okay to “unfriend” or block them – or at the very least, to “unfollow” their posts. More than once, I have had to message someone who repeatedly included me in e-mail messages that perpetuated false rumors and viewpoints -and suggest (or warn) that I did not endorse this. If these persons continued to include me in their missives, I blocked them.
Is it hard to do this? You bet! It’s also hard to put our little ones in “time out” or “clip them down” to a “bad” color…not just because they sometimes go “kicking and screaming,” but because it’s human nature to say, “Okay…I’ll give you one more chance.” This often leads to another…and another…and nothing gets resolved in the end. Sometimes, Christians have to do the hard things in the spirit of obedience and faithfulness. And choosing to distance ourselves from someone who persists in sin and troublemaking is often necessary.
Don’t misunderstand me…this does not mean that you stop caring. We must pray for these persons…love them as Jesus loves us…wish them well and show genuine concern for their well-being. But we must do so from a distance…believing that Jesus will stand in the gap and make the difference. And just as we “reward” small children and recognize their positive words and actions, we must be sure to do this with our “grown-up” friends and acquaintances, also.
Notice the positives…be kind and approachable (within reason)…and share the unconditional love of Jesus. There is truth to the adage…”love the sinner, hate the sin.” This is a truly difficult thing to do sometimes…but God will strengthen you. Jesus has told us to love our “enemies” and pray for them. But we don’t have to make them our BFFs!
People are watching…and our demonstration of faithfulness in this manner will be duly noted. Ask God to show you how – and when – to administer a “time out” to troublemakers. And ask Him to show these folks how to correct their mistakes and “clip up” to a better version of themselves. With God, all things really ARE possible!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 18, 2015
Galatians 1:6-9
I can’t believe your fickleness—how easily you have turned traitor to him who called you by the grace of Christ by embracing a variant message! It is not a minor variation, you know; it is completely other, an alien message, a no-message, a lie about God. Those who are provoking this agitation among you are turning the Message of Christ on its head. Let me be blunt: If one of us—even if an angel from heaven!—were to preach something other than what we preached originally, let him be cursed. I said it once; I’ll say it again: If anyone, regardless of reputation or credentials, preaches something other than what you received originally, let him be cursed.
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 read an amazing story in the newspaper about a man in Ogden, Utah, who brought home some oversized cardboard boxes from his work at a florist and created an elaborate castle-like “fort” in the front yard for his two toddler children to enjoy. The fort had molded walls - and two towers tall enough for adults to stand up in them…and Jeremy Trentelman added a slide to one side. This was not your childhood “refrigerator-box house” project…this was an architectural marvel!
Impressive structure or not, this cardboard playhouse violated city code for “waste material or junk” in the yard, and Trentelman was presented with a notice to remove it within a set number of days – or pay a $125 fine to the city! This father took his story to Facebook and pled his case, questioning why a “totally awesome fun zone” was deemed such an affront to the city.
What resulted was anything but what Trentelman expected. His post was shared more than 1,000 times in 24 hours and went viral. BUT…along the way, it got distorted…and soon, the “story” was that police showed up at the house with guns blazing, the city tore down the fort, and a judge ordered the structure to be demolished. This was the whole “what-is-this-world-coming-to?” mentality with a hefty dose of “let’s-blame-the-government” thrown in for good measure.
Trentelman was contacted – and interviewed - by all of the major media outlets, and his home city of Ogden and its officials were made out to be a hot spot for “yahoos”. This was not at all what Trentelman intended, and try as he might to stop this “crazy train”, the story steamrolled into a larger-than-life saga of civil obedience and mistreatment of the common man.
Ultimately, Trentelman and his wife and children accepted the invitation of Fox News to travel to New York City to construct another “fort” on the streets of Manhattan. HIS hope was to be able to tell the REAL story and squelch all of the rumors and hysteria. While the family was in New York, a torrential rain reduced their Utah “castle” to pulp, and it was hauled away by friends.
As soon as I read today’s scripture passage, I was reminded of this story. We do this almost every single day with the message of Jesus Christ. From blaming God for natural disasters and epidemic outbreaks…to claiming that the government is taking prayer out of school... to a virtual firestorm over Pepsi® removing the words “under God” from the printing of America’s Pledge of Allegiance on their beverage cans…we have collectively provoked agitation and totally turned the message of Jesus Christ on its head!
We have made “Christian faith” completely about US and OUR agenda…and totally taken Jesus out of it. The Savior who taught us how to pray never said we had to make this a public spectacle in order to be His children and gain entrance into Heaven. I seriously doubt God cares one whit about being mentioned in our pledge of allegiance to a country…much less whether He gets a “plug” on a soft drink can. I have to think that God hangs His head in shame at the suggestion that He would cause innocent people to suffer horrendous tragedies because the sin of a single person. If this is the case, why did Jesus die on the cross for us?
Again, we have made this all about our agenda…and God can’t possibly be pleased – much less honored and glorified. It’s time to take a unified breath and chill out! We’ve put so many “city ordinances” and restrictions on our faith and Jesus’ message that we cannot find the pure joy of a “corrugated cardboard castle” suitable for toddlers of all ages! We must get back in God’s word and figure out what He wants us to say and do as Jesus’ disciples. It’s really pretty simple…love God with all our heart, mind and soul…and love one another. Minister to each other in the name of Jesus – and with His unconditional love…and leave room for Him to do the heavy lifting and the complicated work of miracles, healing, and salvation.
It’s time for us to run like the wind from those who would dare to suggest that WE need to say and do more…that in some way WE have any real power or control in matters of faith. Someone IS out to get us…but it’s not the government! If we stay in the word and will of Jesus and follow HIS message, we have nothing to fear. He is building us the ultimate “castle” in Heaven. Our job is to make sure we - and others - get there!
©2015 Debbie Robus
I can’t believe your fickleness—how easily you have turned traitor to him who called you by the grace of Christ by embracing a variant message! It is not a minor variation, you know; it is completely other, an alien message, a no-message, a lie about God. Those who are provoking this agitation among you are turning the Message of Christ on its head. Let me be blunt: If one of us—even if an angel from heaven!—were to preach something other than what we preached originally, let him be cursed. I said it once; I’ll say it again: If anyone, regardless of reputation or credentials, preaches something other than what you received originally, let him be cursed.
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 read an amazing story in the newspaper about a man in Ogden, Utah, who brought home some oversized cardboard boxes from his work at a florist and created an elaborate castle-like “fort” in the front yard for his two toddler children to enjoy. The fort had molded walls - and two towers tall enough for adults to stand up in them…and Jeremy Trentelman added a slide to one side. This was not your childhood “refrigerator-box house” project…this was an architectural marvel!
Impressive structure or not, this cardboard playhouse violated city code for “waste material or junk” in the yard, and Trentelman was presented with a notice to remove it within a set number of days – or pay a $125 fine to the city! This father took his story to Facebook and pled his case, questioning why a “totally awesome fun zone” was deemed such an affront to the city.
What resulted was anything but what Trentelman expected. His post was shared more than 1,000 times in 24 hours and went viral. BUT…along the way, it got distorted…and soon, the “story” was that police showed up at the house with guns blazing, the city tore down the fort, and a judge ordered the structure to be demolished. This was the whole “what-is-this-world-coming-to?” mentality with a hefty dose of “let’s-blame-the-government” thrown in for good measure.
Trentelman was contacted – and interviewed - by all of the major media outlets, and his home city of Ogden and its officials were made out to be a hot spot for “yahoos”. This was not at all what Trentelman intended, and try as he might to stop this “crazy train”, the story steamrolled into a larger-than-life saga of civil obedience and mistreatment of the common man.
Ultimately, Trentelman and his wife and children accepted the invitation of Fox News to travel to New York City to construct another “fort” on the streets of Manhattan. HIS hope was to be able to tell the REAL story and squelch all of the rumors and hysteria. While the family was in New York, a torrential rain reduced their Utah “castle” to pulp, and it was hauled away by friends.
As soon as I read today’s scripture passage, I was reminded of this story. We do this almost every single day with the message of Jesus Christ. From blaming God for natural disasters and epidemic outbreaks…to claiming that the government is taking prayer out of school... to a virtual firestorm over Pepsi® removing the words “under God” from the printing of America’s Pledge of Allegiance on their beverage cans…we have collectively provoked agitation and totally turned the message of Jesus Christ on its head!
We have made “Christian faith” completely about US and OUR agenda…and totally taken Jesus out of it. The Savior who taught us how to pray never said we had to make this a public spectacle in order to be His children and gain entrance into Heaven. I seriously doubt God cares one whit about being mentioned in our pledge of allegiance to a country…much less whether He gets a “plug” on a soft drink can. I have to think that God hangs His head in shame at the suggestion that He would cause innocent people to suffer horrendous tragedies because the sin of a single person. If this is the case, why did Jesus die on the cross for us?
Again, we have made this all about our agenda…and God can’t possibly be pleased – much less honored and glorified. It’s time to take a unified breath and chill out! We’ve put so many “city ordinances” and restrictions on our faith and Jesus’ message that we cannot find the pure joy of a “corrugated cardboard castle” suitable for toddlers of all ages! We must get back in God’s word and figure out what He wants us to say and do as Jesus’ disciples. It’s really pretty simple…love God with all our heart, mind and soul…and love one another. Minister to each other in the name of Jesus – and with His unconditional love…and leave room for Him to do the heavy lifting and the complicated work of miracles, healing, and salvation.
It’s time for us to run like the wind from those who would dare to suggest that WE need to say and do more…that in some way WE have any real power or control in matters of faith. Someone IS out to get us…but it’s not the government! If we stay in the word and will of Jesus and follow HIS message, we have nothing to fear. He is building us the ultimate “castle” in Heaven. Our job is to make sure we - and others - get there!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 17, 2015
Deuteronomy 18:20
But any prophet who falsely claims that his message is from me shall die. And any prophet who claims to give a message from other gods must die.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
One of my new “favorite” TV shows is ABC’s Shark Tank. Maybe it’s because Greg and I were entrepreneurs who started our own business “from scratch”…and I see a lot of “us” in the contestants. I hear the “sharks” give advice that rings familiar and true…and I understand the passion of those who are pitching what they feel is the “next big thing” - and hoping that these business moguls will sign on to invest!
Kevin O’Leary is one of the “sharks” who appears regularly on this program. This mega-millionaire has several businesses, including a mutual funds company and his own wine label. Show producers have cultivated his persona as a hard-nosed grump. One of O’Leary’s favorite phrases is, “You’re dead to me.” If he doesn’t like what a contestant says or how he/she presents the “spiel”, he will say this. Worse yet, if a person contradicts him, their presentation time with him is over…they may as well pack up their wares and go home. At least for the sake of this TV program, if you mess with “Mr. Wonderful” (O’Leary’s on-air nickname), “You’re dead to me.”
Yes, this is harsh talk…and no, Kevin O’Leary is not my favorite “shark”. He is not nearly as wonderful as he is made out to be…and I am sure that there is a healthy mix of truth and “showbiz” going on there. But Kevin O’Leary is not God - or anyone worthy of worship. So we can take his “act” with a grain of salt and move on. But we dare not do this with our Heavenly Father!
We have to be very careful about believing everything we hear. A message is circulating on social media that says that Muslims are going to somehow be exempt from certain charges under the Affordable Care Act…that the specifics of this are buried in the language of this health care legislation. It’s totally untrue, but well-meaning believers are sharing this post…and muddying the water. Perhaps you have passed this along, thinking if XYZ shared it, there must be some truth to it. This is but one example of countless falsehoods and half truths that get passed on and fuel the fires of fear and mistrust…and make the devil jump up and down for joy.
We must thoroughly investigate everything we read and hear. We must dig deeply into God’s word to find HIS truth…and we must act responsibly on His behalf and make sure we have all of the facts and are hearing a truthful message before we react and respond…in all situations and circumstances. Do not be an agent for false prophets…do not buy into their ploys to sway you and pull you away from God. Do not listen to those who distort God’s message…or hide behind His name to serve their own agendas.
No one wants to be told, “You’re dead to me.” But when a TV personality utters this phrase, we have the luxury of dismissing it as a gimmick – or ratings hype. Hearing this from God would ultimately be the worst thing ever. Be careful…there are “sharks” among us, and some are nicer than others. Know who you are dealing with, and when they are feeding you a line. Make sure you never confuse the words and actions of imposters with those of God. Check your sources…and make sure that in everything you say and do, you represent God…and no one else!
©2015 Debbie Robus
But any prophet who falsely claims that his message is from me shall die. And any prophet who claims to give a message from other gods must die.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
One of my new “favorite” TV shows is ABC’s Shark Tank. Maybe it’s because Greg and I were entrepreneurs who started our own business “from scratch”…and I see a lot of “us” in the contestants. I hear the “sharks” give advice that rings familiar and true…and I understand the passion of those who are pitching what they feel is the “next big thing” - and hoping that these business moguls will sign on to invest!
Kevin O’Leary is one of the “sharks” who appears regularly on this program. This mega-millionaire has several businesses, including a mutual funds company and his own wine label. Show producers have cultivated his persona as a hard-nosed grump. One of O’Leary’s favorite phrases is, “You’re dead to me.” If he doesn’t like what a contestant says or how he/she presents the “spiel”, he will say this. Worse yet, if a person contradicts him, their presentation time with him is over…they may as well pack up their wares and go home. At least for the sake of this TV program, if you mess with “Mr. Wonderful” (O’Leary’s on-air nickname), “You’re dead to me.”
Yes, this is harsh talk…and no, Kevin O’Leary is not my favorite “shark”. He is not nearly as wonderful as he is made out to be…and I am sure that there is a healthy mix of truth and “showbiz” going on there. But Kevin O’Leary is not God - or anyone worthy of worship. So we can take his “act” with a grain of salt and move on. But we dare not do this with our Heavenly Father!
We have to be very careful about believing everything we hear. A message is circulating on social media that says that Muslims are going to somehow be exempt from certain charges under the Affordable Care Act…that the specifics of this are buried in the language of this health care legislation. It’s totally untrue, but well-meaning believers are sharing this post…and muddying the water. Perhaps you have passed this along, thinking if XYZ shared it, there must be some truth to it. This is but one example of countless falsehoods and half truths that get passed on and fuel the fires of fear and mistrust…and make the devil jump up and down for joy.
We must thoroughly investigate everything we read and hear. We must dig deeply into God’s word to find HIS truth…and we must act responsibly on His behalf and make sure we have all of the facts and are hearing a truthful message before we react and respond…in all situations and circumstances. Do not be an agent for false prophets…do not buy into their ploys to sway you and pull you away from God. Do not listen to those who distort God’s message…or hide behind His name to serve their own agendas.
No one wants to be told, “You’re dead to me.” But when a TV personality utters this phrase, we have the luxury of dismissing it as a gimmick – or ratings hype. Hearing this from God would ultimately be the worst thing ever. Be careful…there are “sharks” among us, and some are nicer than others. Know who you are dealing with, and when they are feeding you a line. Make sure you never confuse the words and actions of imposters with those of God. Check your sources…and make sure that in everything you say and do, you represent God…and no one else!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 16, 2015
Romans 16:17-18
One final word of counsel, friends. Keep a sharp eye out for those who take bits and pieces of the teaching that you learned and then use them to make trouble. Give these people a wide berth. They have no intention of living for our Master Christ. They’re only in this for what they can get out of it, and aren’t above using pious sweet talk to dupe unsuspecting innocents.
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.
As Paul points out to the Romans, people have been taking bits and pieces of scripture and twisting them to meet a particular agenda – for centuries! If you go back and take some of the Old Testament books in part and parcel, you can make up all kinds of crazy “Biblical” rules and standards. Leviticus 11:7-8 tells us not to eat pigs…while Deuteronomy 14:8 says not to even touch a dead one! But you can eat locusts, crickets and grasshoppers! Sounds like the beginnings of a new diet craze to me!
I don’t mean to be flippant, but this is just about how ridiculous it gets sometimes. Someone will find a little snippet of scripture and use it to start a whole “thing”…from discrimination against certain groups of people or ideologies to a new fashion mandate or diet fad to the latest method of child-rearing or corporate worship! And the scary thing is that some of these “philosophies” have wormed their way into our psyche and become “gospel!”
So what are we to do? First and foremost, we are to make this as simple as we possibly can…Jesus loves us…He died on the cross for our sins…He wants us to love Him – and to love others as He taught us. Beyond this, we must dig deeply into God’s word and consider it all…in total…not in bits and pieces. We must understand that the laws and rituals of the Old Testament were all changed when Jesus came to live among us. This is why we call it a “New Life” in Christ!
We must appreciate the Old Testament as an illustration of how we as a people have “been there, done that”…how Jesus wiped away all of that insecurity and rigmarole and simplified our faith. “In the same way I loved you, you love one another.” (John 13:34) Notice I did not say that He simplified our discipleship…but unraveling the distortions and misinterpretations - and getting back to the basics of God’s word - is a great first start. “Do your best to win God’s approval as a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed and who teaches only the true message.” (2 Timothy 2:15, CEV) This is pretty well all we need to know…and do. God will handle the rest of the details. Are you ready to let Him?
©2015 Debbie Robus
One final word of counsel, friends. Keep a sharp eye out for those who take bits and pieces of the teaching that you learned and then use them to make trouble. Give these people a wide berth. They have no intention of living for our Master Christ. They’re only in this for what they can get out of it, and aren’t above using pious sweet talk to dupe unsuspecting innocents.
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 LORD helps those who help themselves.”
- “If you lie, you fry.” – Hezekiah 3:5
- “Spare the rod, spoil the child.”
- “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.”
- “God works in mysterious ways.”
- “Pride comes before the fall.”
- “To thine on self be true.”
As Paul points out to the Romans, people have been taking bits and pieces of scripture and twisting them to meet a particular agenda – for centuries! If you go back and take some of the Old Testament books in part and parcel, you can make up all kinds of crazy “Biblical” rules and standards. Leviticus 11:7-8 tells us not to eat pigs…while Deuteronomy 14:8 says not to even touch a dead one! But you can eat locusts, crickets and grasshoppers! Sounds like the beginnings of a new diet craze to me!
I don’t mean to be flippant, but this is just about how ridiculous it gets sometimes. Someone will find a little snippet of scripture and use it to start a whole “thing”…from discrimination against certain groups of people or ideologies to a new fashion mandate or diet fad to the latest method of child-rearing or corporate worship! And the scary thing is that some of these “philosophies” have wormed their way into our psyche and become “gospel!”
So what are we to do? First and foremost, we are to make this as simple as we possibly can…Jesus loves us…He died on the cross for our sins…He wants us to love Him – and to love others as He taught us. Beyond this, we must dig deeply into God’s word and consider it all…in total…not in bits and pieces. We must understand that the laws and rituals of the Old Testament were all changed when Jesus came to live among us. This is why we call it a “New Life” in Christ!
We must appreciate the Old Testament as an illustration of how we as a people have “been there, done that”…how Jesus wiped away all of that insecurity and rigmarole and simplified our faith. “In the same way I loved you, you love one another.” (John 13:34) Notice I did not say that He simplified our discipleship…but unraveling the distortions and misinterpretations - and getting back to the basics of God’s word - is a great first start. “Do your best to win God’s approval as a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed and who teaches only the true message.” (2 Timothy 2:15, CEV) This is pretty well all we need to know…and do. God will handle the rest of the details. Are you ready to let Him?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 15, 2015
1 Corinthians 14:33
God is not one who likes things to be disorderly and upset. He likes harmony, and he finds it in all the other churches.
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 few months ago, I got serious about cleaning closets and drawers in our house. In particular, I spent about THREE DAYS working on my laundry/sewing room. Yes, it was THAT bad! I organized drawers, labeled containers and sorted the things to put in them. I cleared counter space and cleaned everything thoroughly. I had come to the point where I said, “I cannot sew another garment – or make another card – until I get this room in order.” There was no harmony in that room, and I could not function properly in such chaos and clutter.
The room isn’t perfect, but I am making a concerted effort to maintain some semblance of order there. I try to leave a few minutes at the end of the day/evening to clean up and put things away. I find that I am more productive in this space now…that my entire spirit has lifted, because for the most part, there is harmony and order there.
In our relationship with God, a lot of us need to spend some time giving things a good cleaning. We have become scattered and jumped on one bandwagon too many! Are the “old ways” of worship outdated and no longer relevant? Do we sell everything and give to the poor and humble ourselves…or does God want us to be rich and dripping in furs, diamonds and new cars/houses? Do we need to take to the streets and “meet people where they are”…or do we need to build a big new sanctuary as a literal “temple to God” that shows others how much we love Him?
Do we need to raise our hands and play the music louder…or do we need to “be still and know” His voice? Is God over and done with worship on wooden pews with traditional hymns and rituals? Does He now require that our services include a coffee bar, light show and a full stage of musicians? Are choirs and organs passé…does God now insist we praise Him with a full orchestra? Is loving others…visiting the sick, helping the poor and needy, and simply sharing your personal time and attention with others no longer a valid way to minister in Jesus’ name? Does He now expect us to have “programs” for such things?
I have prayed about all of these questions…and many more…in recent weeks/months, and the answer I keep getting is this…”Just go…be…do. Operate with order and harmony. Study My word and see what has worked for centuries. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel…you just have to do what I ask – to minister in My name. I will show you how, where and when to do these things. Clear away the clutter and focus on Me. Fix your eyes on the cross and Jesus…and give Me space to work!”
I am constantly re-assessing my craft/sewing/laundry area…checking to see where I might be getting a little lax or letting some disorder creep back into the space. And we must do this in our Spiritual lives, also. Every day, we must take a few minutes to asses our relationship with God…how we are serving Him and worshiping Him…whether we are truly hearing from Him and following His lead. God enjoys harmony and order. When we strive to give Him these things in our own lives, we will be amazed at what He can do in and through us. I’m ready to get things in order and find out…what about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
God is not one who likes things to be disorderly and upset. He likes harmony, and he finds it in all the other churches.
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 few months ago, I got serious about cleaning closets and drawers in our house. In particular, I spent about THREE DAYS working on my laundry/sewing room. Yes, it was THAT bad! I organized drawers, labeled containers and sorted the things to put in them. I cleared counter space and cleaned everything thoroughly. I had come to the point where I said, “I cannot sew another garment – or make another card – until I get this room in order.” There was no harmony in that room, and I could not function properly in such chaos and clutter.
The room isn’t perfect, but I am making a concerted effort to maintain some semblance of order there. I try to leave a few minutes at the end of the day/evening to clean up and put things away. I find that I am more productive in this space now…that my entire spirit has lifted, because for the most part, there is harmony and order there.
In our relationship with God, a lot of us need to spend some time giving things a good cleaning. We have become scattered and jumped on one bandwagon too many! Are the “old ways” of worship outdated and no longer relevant? Do we sell everything and give to the poor and humble ourselves…or does God want us to be rich and dripping in furs, diamonds and new cars/houses? Do we need to take to the streets and “meet people where they are”…or do we need to build a big new sanctuary as a literal “temple to God” that shows others how much we love Him?
Do we need to raise our hands and play the music louder…or do we need to “be still and know” His voice? Is God over and done with worship on wooden pews with traditional hymns and rituals? Does He now require that our services include a coffee bar, light show and a full stage of musicians? Are choirs and organs passé…does God now insist we praise Him with a full orchestra? Is loving others…visiting the sick, helping the poor and needy, and simply sharing your personal time and attention with others no longer a valid way to minister in Jesus’ name? Does He now expect us to have “programs” for such things?
I have prayed about all of these questions…and many more…in recent weeks/months, and the answer I keep getting is this…”Just go…be…do. Operate with order and harmony. Study My word and see what has worked for centuries. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel…you just have to do what I ask – to minister in My name. I will show you how, where and when to do these things. Clear away the clutter and focus on Me. Fix your eyes on the cross and Jesus…and give Me space to work!”
I am constantly re-assessing my craft/sewing/laundry area…checking to see where I might be getting a little lax or letting some disorder creep back into the space. And we must do this in our Spiritual lives, also. Every day, we must take a few minutes to asses our relationship with God…how we are serving Him and worshiping Him…whether we are truly hearing from Him and following His lead. God enjoys harmony and order. When we strive to give Him these things in our own lives, we will be amazed at what He can do in and through us. I’m ready to get things in order and find out…what about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 14, 2015
Matthew 7:15-20
“Be wary of false preachers who smile a lot, dripping with practiced sincerity. Chances are they are out to rip you off some way or other. Don’t be impressed with charisma; look for character. Who preachers are is the main thing, not what they say. A genuine leader will never exploit your emotions or your pocketbook. These diseased trees with their bad apples are going to be chopped down and burned.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In the last couple of decades, “rock stars” have emerged in the area of Christian faith. Everyone knows Billy Graham …but a lot of us also know his son Franklin and daughter Anne Graham Lotz, as well as Beth Moore, Chris Tomlin, Jeremy Camp, Jen Hatmaker, Priscilla Shirer, Joel Osteen, Charles Stanley, and dozens of other evangelists, musicians, and authors who have made a name for themselves because of their Christian faith. I am in no way suggesting that any of these folks are insincere, exploitive, or only interested in your pocketbook…and some do tremendous things with the proceeds from their sales.
My shelves are filled with books by Max Lucado, Joyce Meyer, Charles Swindoll, Pastor Rick Warren, and others. I love reading the insights of fellow believers…and discovering how God speaks to them. I have dozens of Contemporary Christian music CDs, and I appreciate the talents of someone who can produce such artistry and give me a great “background” that (in my mind) makes me sound good when I sing along! We have plaques and crosses in our house that profess our love of Jesus…and I wear jewelry with crosses and fish that further symbolize my allegiance to God.
Christian music writer/performer Michael W. Smith created a song several years ago called “Cross of Gold*”…and in part, the lyrics say:
The short answer is, “Yes!” The lesson is 1) we must understand that not everyone who wears a cross or claims to love Jesus truly has a passion for Him and serving as His disciple. We must be discerning in our relationships and trust…and rely on God to show us who is the “real deal” – and who is out to rip you off…mentally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually; and 2) we must make sure that our own motives are pure…that we are genuine in our faith and service…and in what we share with others.
Wear your crosses…read the books that inspire you to love Jesus more (especially God’s word!)…listen to music that uplifts and encourages you in your faith…and pay attention to the “signs” that God gives you with regard to what you see and hear. Be genuine and real in YOUR discipleship, and live in a way that pleases God rather than others. If you are sincere in your faith and Christian witness, people will know…and if you’re not, they’ll know that, too!
©2015 Debbie Robus
*https://michaelwsmith.twoseventwoshop.com/product/Change-Your-World
“Be wary of false preachers who smile a lot, dripping with practiced sincerity. Chances are they are out to rip you off some way or other. Don’t be impressed with charisma; look for character. Who preachers are is the main thing, not what they say. A genuine leader will never exploit your emotions or your pocketbook. These diseased trees with their bad apples are going to be chopped down and burned.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In the last couple of decades, “rock stars” have emerged in the area of Christian faith. Everyone knows Billy Graham …but a lot of us also know his son Franklin and daughter Anne Graham Lotz, as well as Beth Moore, Chris Tomlin, Jeremy Camp, Jen Hatmaker, Priscilla Shirer, Joel Osteen, Charles Stanley, and dozens of other evangelists, musicians, and authors who have made a name for themselves because of their Christian faith. I am in no way suggesting that any of these folks are insincere, exploitive, or only interested in your pocketbook…and some do tremendous things with the proceeds from their sales.
My shelves are filled with books by Max Lucado, Joyce Meyer, Charles Swindoll, Pastor Rick Warren, and others. I love reading the insights of fellow believers…and discovering how God speaks to them. I have dozens of Contemporary Christian music CDs, and I appreciate the talents of someone who can produce such artistry and give me a great “background” that (in my mind) makes me sound good when I sing along! We have plaques and crosses in our house that profess our love of Jesus…and I wear jewelry with crosses and fish that further symbolize my allegiance to God.
Christian music writer/performer Michael W. Smith created a song several years ago called “Cross of Gold*”…and in part, the lyrics say:
It's confusing to me ~ The message you're sending ~ And I don't know if I can relate ~ What's your line ~ Tell me why you wear your cross of gold ~ State of mind ~ Or does it find a way into your soul ~ Is it a flame ~ Is it a passion ~ A symbol of love living in you ~ Or is it a game ~ Religion in fashion ~ Some kind of phase you're going throughI do not think this passage in Matthew is literally about preachers as much as it is a warning for all Christians to be very clear in our message and our motives. Are we “playing the game” with our faith? Are some on board with Jesus merely to make money? I once was “greeted” at Walmart by an associate who was trying to sell a shopping cartload of potato chips. He said to me, “You’re wearing crosses on your earrings, so you must be a Christian…surely YOU will buy a package of these chips!” I smiled and said, “I am a Christian, but I don’t need chips today.” Are people making certain assumptions about us based on our appearance and demeanor...or what we say and how we say it?
The short answer is, “Yes!” The lesson is 1) we must understand that not everyone who wears a cross or claims to love Jesus truly has a passion for Him and serving as His disciple. We must be discerning in our relationships and trust…and rely on God to show us who is the “real deal” – and who is out to rip you off…mentally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually; and 2) we must make sure that our own motives are pure…that we are genuine in our faith and service…and in what we share with others.
Wear your crosses…read the books that inspire you to love Jesus more (especially God’s word!)…listen to music that uplifts and encourages you in your faith…and pay attention to the “signs” that God gives you with regard to what you see and hear. Be genuine and real in YOUR discipleship, and live in a way that pleases God rather than others. If you are sincere in your faith and Christian witness, people will know…and if you’re not, they’ll know that, too!
©2015 Debbie Robus
*https://michaelwsmith.twoseventwoshop.com/product/Change-Your-World
Daily Devotional for May 13, 2015
May 13 ~ 2 Timothy 4:3
For there is going to come a time when people won’t listen to the truth but will go around looking for teachers who will tell them just what they want to hear.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
There is a new “craze” circulating that involves wearing a tightly-fitting corset to supposedly whittle your waist and give one a defined, “hourglass” figure. Yes, it really is a “thing”…and there are late-night infomercials about it and the whole nine yards. I saw a news interview with physicians who warned that this “quick fix” would mostly result in health complications…trouble breathing, spinal damage, and even a weakened “core,” to name a few. One doctor said that the “best” thing about the corset was that it would make people eat less…because they were too constricted to do otherwise!
There is probably no topic on which people will spend more time and energy seeking the “answers” they want than weight loss. People don’t want to believe that diet and exercise work! They want a quick fix…something easy…a solution that doesn’t require any real effort on their part. Drink this and burn the calories! Put on this belt (or corset), and the fat will melt away! Use this gizmo and your body will tone itself while you sit in your easy chair!
I can see you rolling your eyes now. We seem to have no trouble understanding how ridiculous some of these gimmicks are…but when it comes to matters of faith, we’re all in! Historically, people have justified everything from the “prosperity gospel” to slavery – and so much more - by twisting and turning scriptures to suit their agendas. If you look long and hard, you will find SOMEONE who will justify your “take” on just about anything to do with religion and Christian faith!
So the question becomes, “Do you want to know the truth…or do you want to hear what suits you?” In the movie A Few Good Men, Tom Cruise’s character, Lt. Daniel Kaffee, tells Col. Nathan R. Jessup (played by Jack Nicholson)…“I want the truth!” - to which Col. Jessep replies, “You can't handle the truth!” The question we must ask today is…“Can you handle the truth?”
Are you really ready to go “all in” with Jesus and live according to the genuine intention of God’s word? Will you dig deeply, spend time with God and discover for yourself what He has to say? Or will you continue to search for the “corset” that will cinch your faith into a shapely version that you find attractive and tolerable? Will this be the day that you get real with God, surrender to His word and will for your life…and really start to “get in shape?”
Are you looking for a “quick fix” or a relationship that will stand the test of time and carry you through to Eternity? Are you ready to handle God’s truth? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
For there is going to come a time when people won’t listen to the truth but will go around looking for teachers who will tell them just what they want to hear.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
There is a new “craze” circulating that involves wearing a tightly-fitting corset to supposedly whittle your waist and give one a defined, “hourglass” figure. Yes, it really is a “thing”…and there are late-night infomercials about it and the whole nine yards. I saw a news interview with physicians who warned that this “quick fix” would mostly result in health complications…trouble breathing, spinal damage, and even a weakened “core,” to name a few. One doctor said that the “best” thing about the corset was that it would make people eat less…because they were too constricted to do otherwise!
There is probably no topic on which people will spend more time and energy seeking the “answers” they want than weight loss. People don’t want to believe that diet and exercise work! They want a quick fix…something easy…a solution that doesn’t require any real effort on their part. Drink this and burn the calories! Put on this belt (or corset), and the fat will melt away! Use this gizmo and your body will tone itself while you sit in your easy chair!
I can see you rolling your eyes now. We seem to have no trouble understanding how ridiculous some of these gimmicks are…but when it comes to matters of faith, we’re all in! Historically, people have justified everything from the “prosperity gospel” to slavery – and so much more - by twisting and turning scriptures to suit their agendas. If you look long and hard, you will find SOMEONE who will justify your “take” on just about anything to do with religion and Christian faith!
So the question becomes, “Do you want to know the truth…or do you want to hear what suits you?” In the movie A Few Good Men, Tom Cruise’s character, Lt. Daniel Kaffee, tells Col. Nathan R. Jessup (played by Jack Nicholson)…“I want the truth!” - to which Col. Jessep replies, “You can't handle the truth!” The question we must ask today is…“Can you handle the truth?”
Are you really ready to go “all in” with Jesus and live according to the genuine intention of God’s word? Will you dig deeply, spend time with God and discover for yourself what He has to say? Or will you continue to search for the “corset” that will cinch your faith into a shapely version that you find attractive and tolerable? Will this be the day that you get real with God, surrender to His word and will for your life…and really start to “get in shape?”
Are you looking for a “quick fix” or a relationship that will stand the test of time and carry you through to Eternity? Are you ready to handle God’s truth? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 12, 2015
2 Peter 2:1-2
But there were also lying prophets among the people then, just as there will be lying religious teachers among you. They’ll smuggle in destructive divisions, pitting you against each other—biting the hand of the One who gave them a chance to have their lives back! They’ve put themselves on a fast downhill slide to destruction, but not before they recruit a crowd of mixed-up followers who can’t tell right from wrong.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Suppose I told you that in order to belong to a certain church in your community, you had to support a particular political candidate or social issue. No one would openly discuss this, but it would be understood by everyone that this person was the “Christian” choice - or this social issue was “black and white” with a clear right and wrong side. And these were GOD’s choices. To support anyone else – or the opposite side of said issue – would be the equivalent of saying, “I’m not really a Christian…and I am more than a little wrong!”
In small groups and other church activities, there would be little to no open, direct discussion of this candidate and/or social issue. But there would be enough “What is the world coming to?” and “God is punishing us” talk that everyone would get the message loudly and clearly. And there would be an “us vs. them” undercurrent within the church. If anyone questioned the general “stance” of this church body, the reply would be that the majority was operating on God’s behalf…and the “tone” would be that these tenets were not to be questioned.
You think this doesn’t happen in our churches today? Think again! Do you feel that I am exaggerating? Let’s get real for a moment. There are a lot of churches that operate along party lines – with membership that is both liberal and conservative and a clear and deep underlying divide along these “sides”. Less common, but more troubling, are extreme pockets of “church folk” who have gone so far as to create autonomous leaders who can do as they please…even if that means “marrying” 14-year-old girls and fathering children with them – or putting little boys in the fields to do manual labor to support the church body at large. Just watch the story at http://abc.go.com/shows/2020/listing/2015-05/08-2020-050815-flds-a-house-divided.
The thing you and I have to be most concerned with is the little inroads that the devil tries to make in our daily lives “in the name of God.” We have to be very careful that we are not sucked into this deceit…that we focus on Jesus’ commands to “Love one another” and to love others as He loves us. This means we must love and serve unconditionally, inclusively and without discrimination. We must learn to express our opinions without an ounce of judgment or superiority…leaving room for others to make up their own minds about things like politics and social issues. It is one thing to say, “I support XYZ”…but quite another to say, “If you love God, you will support XYZ.”
We must focus on cultivating deep and abiding, intimate relationship with God, so that we KNOW when we are hearing from Him…and when we are listening to outside forces. We have to guard our hearts and minds against becoming so caught up in being right (if only in our own minds) that we pick a fight with anyone who challenges us, rather than recognizing that Satan and his agents are having a heyday!
I know this may seem like a threatening or even fearful message. But this is where we need to truly get honest about faithful discipleship and what it means to be a Christian. We need to be busy listening for God’s voice. We must be steeped in His word and digging deeply to find out what HE is telling us, rather than those who have an agenda. We should be going to God in prayer for answers and opinions and considering how outside opinions and influences “stack up” against them – or they don’t. We need to learn to be comfortable in our own “skin” – the New Life in Christ Jesus that He has so graciously given us. We need to weigh everything against His standards and make sure that all thoughts, words and actions line up accordingly. If we do these things, we have nothing to fear.
False prophets live among us…but we don’t have to fall into their camp – or even give them the time of day! Who are you listening to these days? Are you able to tell right from wrong? Have you opened the door even slightly for the devil? It’s time to close that door, lock it…and throw away the key! Wouldn’t this be the perfect day to get started?
©2015 Debbie Robus
But there were also lying prophets among the people then, just as there will be lying religious teachers among you. They’ll smuggle in destructive divisions, pitting you against each other—biting the hand of the One who gave them a chance to have their lives back! They’ve put themselves on a fast downhill slide to destruction, but not before they recruit a crowd of mixed-up followers who can’t tell right from wrong.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Suppose I told you that in order to belong to a certain church in your community, you had to support a particular political candidate or social issue. No one would openly discuss this, but it would be understood by everyone that this person was the “Christian” choice - or this social issue was “black and white” with a clear right and wrong side. And these were GOD’s choices. To support anyone else – or the opposite side of said issue – would be the equivalent of saying, “I’m not really a Christian…and I am more than a little wrong!”
In small groups and other church activities, there would be little to no open, direct discussion of this candidate and/or social issue. But there would be enough “What is the world coming to?” and “God is punishing us” talk that everyone would get the message loudly and clearly. And there would be an “us vs. them” undercurrent within the church. If anyone questioned the general “stance” of this church body, the reply would be that the majority was operating on God’s behalf…and the “tone” would be that these tenets were not to be questioned.
You think this doesn’t happen in our churches today? Think again! Do you feel that I am exaggerating? Let’s get real for a moment. There are a lot of churches that operate along party lines – with membership that is both liberal and conservative and a clear and deep underlying divide along these “sides”. Less common, but more troubling, are extreme pockets of “church folk” who have gone so far as to create autonomous leaders who can do as they please…even if that means “marrying” 14-year-old girls and fathering children with them – or putting little boys in the fields to do manual labor to support the church body at large. Just watch the story at http://abc.go.com/shows/2020/listing/2015-05/08-2020-050815-flds-a-house-divided.
The thing you and I have to be most concerned with is the little inroads that the devil tries to make in our daily lives “in the name of God.” We have to be very careful that we are not sucked into this deceit…that we focus on Jesus’ commands to “Love one another” and to love others as He loves us. This means we must love and serve unconditionally, inclusively and without discrimination. We must learn to express our opinions without an ounce of judgment or superiority…leaving room for others to make up their own minds about things like politics and social issues. It is one thing to say, “I support XYZ”…but quite another to say, “If you love God, you will support XYZ.”
We must focus on cultivating deep and abiding, intimate relationship with God, so that we KNOW when we are hearing from Him…and when we are listening to outside forces. We have to guard our hearts and minds against becoming so caught up in being right (if only in our own minds) that we pick a fight with anyone who challenges us, rather than recognizing that Satan and his agents are having a heyday!
I know this may seem like a threatening or even fearful message. But this is where we need to truly get honest about faithful discipleship and what it means to be a Christian. We need to be busy listening for God’s voice. We must be steeped in His word and digging deeply to find out what HE is telling us, rather than those who have an agenda. We should be going to God in prayer for answers and opinions and considering how outside opinions and influences “stack up” against them – or they don’t. We need to learn to be comfortable in our own “skin” – the New Life in Christ Jesus that He has so graciously given us. We need to weigh everything against His standards and make sure that all thoughts, words and actions line up accordingly. If we do these things, we have nothing to fear.
False prophets live among us…but we don’t have to fall into their camp – or even give them the time of day! Who are you listening to these days? Are you able to tell right from wrong? Have you opened the door even slightly for the devil? It’s time to close that door, lock it…and throw away the key! Wouldn’t this be the perfect day to get started?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 11, 2015
1 John 4:1-4
Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all “been there – done that.” I’m talking about computer viruses and malware…you know, those messages that tell you to “click here” for more information – or that your computer is compromised. You’ve seen the messages that look just like they came from your bank…until you realize, “Oh, wait! I don’t have an account with Bank of America!” Or you’ve gotten a link from a “friend” that says, “You’ve just gotta see this!”…and you are sorely tempted to click and see what Friend XYZ has sent your way!
We cannot believe everything we see and hear - even when some of it looks pretty good or legitimate. Some of us are fairly gullible at times (myself included)…in part because we want to think the best of people – we want to believe that they are innately “good” and honest. Others are terribly cynical and always “looking for the bogeyman” at every turn. There is a delicate balance between the two…and God can help us find it.
Several years ago, I found myself drawn to the weekly sermons of a televangelist named Creflo Dollar. I could not stop watching these broadcasts! Pastor Dollar unpacked the scriptures in a way that I had never understood before. Like the computer virus “gimmicks”, his delivery was all slick and shiny…with just enough “truth” to draw me in.
But God had His hand on me from the get-go. I began to study these sermons…with my Bible and a notebook in hand. And I started seeking God’s word through many sources…other evangelists, my own local church and small groups, “Christian” authors, and discussions with other believers. Contemporary Christian music became my “listening genre” of choice…and my Spiritual faith and confidence levels soared.
As I studied the Bible and prayed, I began to question some of the “teachings” of Pastor Dollar and others…and to dig more deeply into God’s word to see how it lined up with what they were saying. And I found several discrepancies. Recently when Creflo Dollar asked his congregation to raise $65 million for him to purchase a new jet for his “ministry,” I just shook my head. I don’t discount what God did for me through his sermons…and in general via “Christian” media and its authors/teachers. God was able to use these vehicles to deliver His message - in spite of their agendas and motives…and to engage me in a relationship with Him in a whole new manner. But God also showed me how to “sift the wheat from the chaff”, so to speak…and to find His truth in the process.
Perhaps someone has had a tremendous influence on your thinking in some way. You may frequently quote Billy Graham, Mother Teresa, or Bill O’Reilly! You may get your “news” from some of the cable media outlets…and “Entertainment Tonight”…or even Facebook or Twitter. Or you may even put a lot of stock in the thoughts and opinions of a trusted Christian friend. And in the process, you may not be getting the whole story…or the information may have been manipulated in some way to suit the person or media outlet’s agenda.
I do not mean to pick on Creflo Dollar…or to suggest that he is not a Christian. But a whole lot of us have lost our way along the way. Our pastor said recently that our Bishop had reminded him to…”Keep the main thing the MAIN THING!”…and this is good advice for all of us. When we get distracted by a message that we “need to verify our account”…or that God has great things in store for us if we will only “click here” and donate to this cause or attend this Bible study group or serve in this mission/ministry…we often start down a “rabbit trail” that leads to nowhere - or worse!
I cannot emphasize enough that we must stay awake and alert! We must stay so close to God… study His word and talk to Him about it…ask, “LORD, what are You saying to me? Where are YOU leading me?”…that we know the answer is coming from Him. We need to stop jumping to conclusions and hopping on the latest, greatest bandwagon…and listen to Almighty God. If these situations are His doing - and legitimate - He will show us this. And if they are not, God will reveal this to us, also.
The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. Listen to God! Let Him guide your every thought, word and deed…and never worry about falling for a spiritual “virus” or “malware” again!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all “been there – done that.” I’m talking about computer viruses and malware…you know, those messages that tell you to “click here” for more information – or that your computer is compromised. You’ve seen the messages that look just like they came from your bank…until you realize, “Oh, wait! I don’t have an account with Bank of America!” Or you’ve gotten a link from a “friend” that says, “You’ve just gotta see this!”…and you are sorely tempted to click and see what Friend XYZ has sent your way!
We cannot believe everything we see and hear - even when some of it looks pretty good or legitimate. Some of us are fairly gullible at times (myself included)…in part because we want to think the best of people – we want to believe that they are innately “good” and honest. Others are terribly cynical and always “looking for the bogeyman” at every turn. There is a delicate balance between the two…and God can help us find it.
Several years ago, I found myself drawn to the weekly sermons of a televangelist named Creflo Dollar. I could not stop watching these broadcasts! Pastor Dollar unpacked the scriptures in a way that I had never understood before. Like the computer virus “gimmicks”, his delivery was all slick and shiny…with just enough “truth” to draw me in.
But God had His hand on me from the get-go. I began to study these sermons…with my Bible and a notebook in hand. And I started seeking God’s word through many sources…other evangelists, my own local church and small groups, “Christian” authors, and discussions with other believers. Contemporary Christian music became my “listening genre” of choice…and my Spiritual faith and confidence levels soared.
As I studied the Bible and prayed, I began to question some of the “teachings” of Pastor Dollar and others…and to dig more deeply into God’s word to see how it lined up with what they were saying. And I found several discrepancies. Recently when Creflo Dollar asked his congregation to raise $65 million for him to purchase a new jet for his “ministry,” I just shook my head. I don’t discount what God did for me through his sermons…and in general via “Christian” media and its authors/teachers. God was able to use these vehicles to deliver His message - in spite of their agendas and motives…and to engage me in a relationship with Him in a whole new manner. But God also showed me how to “sift the wheat from the chaff”, so to speak…and to find His truth in the process.
Perhaps someone has had a tremendous influence on your thinking in some way. You may frequently quote Billy Graham, Mother Teresa, or Bill O’Reilly! You may get your “news” from some of the cable media outlets…and “Entertainment Tonight”…or even Facebook or Twitter. Or you may even put a lot of stock in the thoughts and opinions of a trusted Christian friend. And in the process, you may not be getting the whole story…or the information may have been manipulated in some way to suit the person or media outlet’s agenda.
I do not mean to pick on Creflo Dollar…or to suggest that he is not a Christian. But a whole lot of us have lost our way along the way. Our pastor said recently that our Bishop had reminded him to…”Keep the main thing the MAIN THING!”…and this is good advice for all of us. When we get distracted by a message that we “need to verify our account”…or that God has great things in store for us if we will only “click here” and donate to this cause or attend this Bible study group or serve in this mission/ministry…we often start down a “rabbit trail” that leads to nowhere - or worse!
I cannot emphasize enough that we must stay awake and alert! We must stay so close to God… study His word and talk to Him about it…ask, “LORD, what are You saying to me? Where are YOU leading me?”…that we know the answer is coming from Him. We need to stop jumping to conclusions and hopping on the latest, greatest bandwagon…and listen to Almighty God. If these situations are His doing - and legitimate - He will show us this. And if they are not, God will reveal this to us, also.
The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. Listen to God! Let Him guide your every thought, word and deed…and never worry about falling for a spiritual “virus” or “malware” again!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 10, 2015
Isaiah 56:10-11
Israel’s watchmen are blind,
they all lack knowledge;
they are all mute dogs,
they cannot bark;
they lie around and dream,
they love to sleep.
They are dogs with mighty appetites;
they never have enough.
They are shepherds who lack understanding;
they all turn to their own way,
they seek their own gain.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
People are watching. So when we act like fools while driving and gesture wildly at the person who sits at the green light or slips into a parking spot ahead of us – all while sporting a Christian fish symbol or a bumper sticker advertising our church - people scratch their heads. On social media, we bash our ex…post suggestive or off-color comments and stories…or go off on tangents about political candidates and social issues, how lousy the refs were at our favorite team’s latest game, and gripe about whatever is bugging us. Then our next post is about the new Bible study or small group at our church – or a personal request for prayer over some situation. And people wonder…”Is this what it means to be a disciple of Christ?”
When we become Christians and give our hearts to Jesus, we become God’s “watchmen” and “shepherds”. We cannot focus on our own agendas or say that we trust God for all things while wringing our hands over the latest struggle or frustration. We cannot say, “I give God complete power and authority over my life,” and then post a cartoon on Facebook that makes a “dig” at someone else – or expresses a sentiment that is in any way unkind, disrespectful, or self-serving.
In this scripture passage, Isaiah is talking about the religious leaders as “shepherds” who were more like the “sheep” they were supposed to be guiding…lost, confused, and wandering aimlessly. We who are true Disciples of Christ must not do this. We must pay attention to what God is calling us to do…and where He is leading us. We must fully trust Him to number our steps…and our words and actions have to reflect this!
You cannot have an agenda and be a true – and effective – Disciple of Christ. It just cannot be about you…or me…or the other guy. It has to be about Jesus! I’ll be honest with you…I work on this every day. But lately I have been strongly convicted that even my private thoughts must reflect Jesus’ teachings. Even if I say and do all the right things…but I have unkind, critical, or selfish thoughts about other people and situations, I am a “shepherd who lacks understanding.”
We must give EVERYTHING to God…and strive daily to operate in His will…on His terms…and completely under His leadership. Will this be easy? Absolutely not! Will it be worth the effort? Remember…with God, ALL THINGS are possible! Whose agenda are you focused on? Are you a “mute dog” or a dedicated servant? It’s time for us to open our eyes, wake up, watch and listen to the Holy Spirit as He guides us through each and every day. It’s time to make a difference – not a point…to seek God’s gain – not our own. People ARE watching. When they look at you...what - and WHO - do they see?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Israel’s watchmen are blind,
they all lack knowledge;
they are all mute dogs,
they cannot bark;
they lie around and dream,
they love to sleep.
They are dogs with mighty appetites;
they never have enough.
They are shepherds who lack understanding;
they all turn to their own way,
they seek their own gain.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
People are watching. So when we act like fools while driving and gesture wildly at the person who sits at the green light or slips into a parking spot ahead of us – all while sporting a Christian fish symbol or a bumper sticker advertising our church - people scratch their heads. On social media, we bash our ex…post suggestive or off-color comments and stories…or go off on tangents about political candidates and social issues, how lousy the refs were at our favorite team’s latest game, and gripe about whatever is bugging us. Then our next post is about the new Bible study or small group at our church – or a personal request for prayer over some situation. And people wonder…”Is this what it means to be a disciple of Christ?”
When we become Christians and give our hearts to Jesus, we become God’s “watchmen” and “shepherds”. We cannot focus on our own agendas or say that we trust God for all things while wringing our hands over the latest struggle or frustration. We cannot say, “I give God complete power and authority over my life,” and then post a cartoon on Facebook that makes a “dig” at someone else – or expresses a sentiment that is in any way unkind, disrespectful, or self-serving.
In this scripture passage, Isaiah is talking about the religious leaders as “shepherds” who were more like the “sheep” they were supposed to be guiding…lost, confused, and wandering aimlessly. We who are true Disciples of Christ must not do this. We must pay attention to what God is calling us to do…and where He is leading us. We must fully trust Him to number our steps…and our words and actions have to reflect this!
You cannot have an agenda and be a true – and effective – Disciple of Christ. It just cannot be about you…or me…or the other guy. It has to be about Jesus! I’ll be honest with you…I work on this every day. But lately I have been strongly convicted that even my private thoughts must reflect Jesus’ teachings. Even if I say and do all the right things…but I have unkind, critical, or selfish thoughts about other people and situations, I am a “shepherd who lacks understanding.”
We must give EVERYTHING to God…and strive daily to operate in His will…on His terms…and completely under His leadership. Will this be easy? Absolutely not! Will it be worth the effort? Remember…with God, ALL THINGS are possible! Whose agenda are you focused on? Are you a “mute dog” or a dedicated servant? It’s time for us to open our eyes, wake up, watch and listen to the Holy Spirit as He guides us through each and every day. It’s time to make a difference – not a point…to seek God’s gain – not our own. People ARE watching. When they look at you...what - and WHO - do they see?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 9, 2015
Ephesians 2:8-9
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Tomorrow is Mother’s Day, and all across America, mothers will receive gifts and cards…special treats…breakfasts in bed…lunches and dinners that someone else prepared…and all sorts of accolades. I can tell you that we would be hard pressed to find many mothers who didn’t earn every single bit of this! I seriously doubt many mothers are already bragging about how they are due all of the wonderful things their children have done for them. And few will say, “You’re treating me better than I deserve!”
On the other hand, I would say that most of our mothers have given us much better than we deserve. On Pulptastic.com*, I found a list titled “10 Things Your Mom Never Told You”. Visit the site to read the entire list, but they include…1) You made her cry a lot (in both good and bad ways); 2) She wanted that last piece of pie; 8) It broke her heart every time you cried; and 9) She put you first. By and large, our mothers have rescued us from more troubles than we could ever count… and as item #10 on this list states, “She would do it all again.”
As much as our mothers love us, God loves us even more. He doesn’t love us only when we exhibit “good behavior” that is worthy of some sort of recognition, prize or treat. While God does reward our obedience and service with blessings and other “perks”, He is more than generous with plenty that we in no way earned or deserved…particularly our salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ.
There are times when we have a right to brag…and times when most mothers deserve to pat themselves on the back and say, “I did pretty well!” This weekend – and tomorrow in particular – will be one of those times. But for the most part, we must all turn our eyes toward the heavens and recognize WHO truly gives us the very best blessings and care every single day…the One who created mothers – and fathers – and each of us.
We can “brag” and celebrate our wonderful mothers – and our incomparable Heavenly Father…we can revel in all that we have been given by them – and remind ourselves of all that we owe them! But we must humbly recognize that WE had nothing to do with these blessings of our own accord…and we must learn to say a humble, and truly heartfelt, “Thank YOU!”
Tomorrow as we celebrate Mom, let’s turn to God and thank HIM for this incredible gift – and ALL that He gives us. We don’t deserve this love and care…but He gives it anyway…and for this we owe Him our utmost gratitude and praise.
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://pulptastic.com/10-things-mom-never-told/
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Tomorrow is Mother’s Day, and all across America, mothers will receive gifts and cards…special treats…breakfasts in bed…lunches and dinners that someone else prepared…and all sorts of accolades. I can tell you that we would be hard pressed to find many mothers who didn’t earn every single bit of this! I seriously doubt many mothers are already bragging about how they are due all of the wonderful things their children have done for them. And few will say, “You’re treating me better than I deserve!”
On the other hand, I would say that most of our mothers have given us much better than we deserve. On Pulptastic.com*, I found a list titled “10 Things Your Mom Never Told You”. Visit the site to read the entire list, but they include…1) You made her cry a lot (in both good and bad ways); 2) She wanted that last piece of pie; 8) It broke her heart every time you cried; and 9) She put you first. By and large, our mothers have rescued us from more troubles than we could ever count… and as item #10 on this list states, “She would do it all again.”
As much as our mothers love us, God loves us even more. He doesn’t love us only when we exhibit “good behavior” that is worthy of some sort of recognition, prize or treat. While God does reward our obedience and service with blessings and other “perks”, He is more than generous with plenty that we in no way earned or deserved…particularly our salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ.
There are times when we have a right to brag…and times when most mothers deserve to pat themselves on the back and say, “I did pretty well!” This weekend – and tomorrow in particular – will be one of those times. But for the most part, we must all turn our eyes toward the heavens and recognize WHO truly gives us the very best blessings and care every single day…the One who created mothers – and fathers – and each of us.
We can “brag” and celebrate our wonderful mothers – and our incomparable Heavenly Father…we can revel in all that we have been given by them – and remind ourselves of all that we owe them! But we must humbly recognize that WE had nothing to do with these blessings of our own accord…and we must learn to say a humble, and truly heartfelt, “Thank YOU!”
Tomorrow as we celebrate Mom, let’s turn to God and thank HIM for this incredible gift – and ALL that He gives us. We don’t deserve this love and care…but He gives it anyway…and for this we owe Him our utmost gratitude and praise.
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://pulptastic.com/10-things-mom-never-told/
Daily Devotional for May 8, 2015
Ephesians 2:1-6
It wasn’t so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn’t know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It’s a wonder God didn’t lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
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 video clip is an old one – I first saw it a few years ago. But a dad is standing in front of the refrigerator, with twin babies seated on the floor next to him. These babies are probably not quite a year old – they are still crawling – and as the dad opens the fridge and gets out a few things, one of the babies waddles over and starts to peer into the cold box filled with food and condiments. The dad moves the baby…and as he turns back to the refrigerator, the other child advances and begins to investigate the ice box’s contents. This goes on for several seconds in a vicious cycle.
Never once does the dad get upset. He doesn’t raise his voice a single decibel. He continues his work of getting things out of the refrigerator – while gently picking up the babies and (temporarily) relocating them. Finally, Dad is able to quickly scoot both babies out of the doorway and close it. He looks at the camera (obviously operated by Mom), and heaves a weary, “Whew!”
This must be exactly how God feels about us each and every day. We are the babies getting into anything and everything…investigating, learning, testing the waters…and God is the patient Dad who gently moves us out of the way and starts all over – all the while going about the business of running the universe. I do hope you will take the less-than-two-minutes to watch this video. The babies try to stand as the dad repositions them. A couple of times, it takes several attempts before he is able to get them to fold their legs and SIT on the floor. Surprisingly, there is no kicking and screaming!
Again, this is us in a nutshell. God tries to show us how to live…the right way to do things, and while He is trying to seat us at His feet (and get His work done!), we are buckling our legs and resisting - if not out-and-out kicking and screaming!
Watch this video and think of God as the patient Father who continues to love you even when you “get into mischief” and behave sinfully. Feel His hands as He removes you over and again from situations that are, at best, not the right fit for you…and recognize His wisdom in doing so. THANK HIM for picking us up and setting us down in Highest Heaven – in company with Jesus! He certainly doesn’t have to do any this…but aren’t you glad He does?
Where will God reposition you today? Will you be ready, willing, and able to take His cue and do what He desires? Will you recognize His infinite wisdom and care for every aspect of your life? Will this be the day that you “move away from the fridge” and give God room to work? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
It wasn’t so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn’t know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It’s a wonder God didn’t lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
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 video clip is an old one – I first saw it a few years ago. But a dad is standing in front of the refrigerator, with twin babies seated on the floor next to him. These babies are probably not quite a year old – they are still crawling – and as the dad opens the fridge and gets out a few things, one of the babies waddles over and starts to peer into the cold box filled with food and condiments. The dad moves the baby…and as he turns back to the refrigerator, the other child advances and begins to investigate the ice box’s contents. This goes on for several seconds in a vicious cycle.
Never once does the dad get upset. He doesn’t raise his voice a single decibel. He continues his work of getting things out of the refrigerator – while gently picking up the babies and (temporarily) relocating them. Finally, Dad is able to quickly scoot both babies out of the doorway and close it. He looks at the camera (obviously operated by Mom), and heaves a weary, “Whew!”
This must be exactly how God feels about us each and every day. We are the babies getting into anything and everything…investigating, learning, testing the waters…and God is the patient Dad who gently moves us out of the way and starts all over – all the while going about the business of running the universe. I do hope you will take the less-than-two-minutes to watch this video. The babies try to stand as the dad repositions them. A couple of times, it takes several attempts before he is able to get them to fold their legs and SIT on the floor. Surprisingly, there is no kicking and screaming!
Again, this is us in a nutshell. God tries to show us how to live…the right way to do things, and while He is trying to seat us at His feet (and get His work done!), we are buckling our legs and resisting - if not out-and-out kicking and screaming!
Watch this video and think of God as the patient Father who continues to love you even when you “get into mischief” and behave sinfully. Feel His hands as He removes you over and again from situations that are, at best, not the right fit for you…and recognize His wisdom in doing so. THANK HIM for picking us up and setting us down in Highest Heaven – in company with Jesus! He certainly doesn’t have to do any this…but aren’t you glad He does?
Where will God reposition you today? Will you be ready, willing, and able to take His cue and do what He desires? Will you recognize His infinite wisdom and care for every aspect of your life? Will this be the day that you “move away from the fridge” and give God room to work? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
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