Acts 7:54-60
The Jewish leaders were stung to fury
by Stephen’s accusation and ground their teeth in rage. But Stephen,
full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily upward into heaven and saw the
glory of God and Jesus standing at God’s right hand. And he told them,
“Look, I see the heavens opened and Jesus the Messiah standing beside
God, at his right hand!”
Then they mobbed him, putting their
hands over their ears, and drowning out his voice with their shouts, and
dragged him out of the city to stone him. The official witnesses—the
executioners—took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young
man named Paul.
And as the murderous stones came hurtling at him,
Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And he fell to his
knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” and with that,
he died.
The Living Bible
copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of
Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights
reserved.
I don’t know about you, but I feel like in so many ways, I have often failed to keep “the main thing” the main thing!
When “life” gets in the way, it’s sometimes hard to focus on what
really matters, because we get stuck “in the weeds” of illness…death and
the “business” that must be attended to
afterward…holidays…work…studies…kids and their
activities/needs…caregiving…and so much more. We look up and realize
that we have not spent much quality time with God.
Oh, sure,
we’ve talked to God and asked Him for help…strength…courage…stamina…and
healing. We’ve thrown out some desperate cries for His attention. We
might have even mentioned to someone else that we are getting through
the days “only because of the grace of God.” But are we really focused
on Him? Are we truly engaged in living for Jesus and sharing His Good
News with others?
If you have a few minutes today, please read
the entire seventh chapter of Acts. Stephen was witnessing and
preaching in Jerusalem, and as we read in Verse 9, he met up with “the
Jewish cult of ‘The Freedmen’… joined by Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria
in Egypt, and the Turkish provinces of Cilicia, and Asia Minor.”
Basically, Stephen gave these men a history lesson of Old Testament
scripture, then accused them of resisting the Holy Spirit – and killing
Jesus. It was more than the group could handle…and they dragged Stephen
out to the edge of town and stoned him to death.
I am struck by
Stephen’s words as he saw the heavens open up and Jesus appeared. He
asked Jesus to receive his spirit…and also to forgive these men who were
killing him. This was a truly amazing demonstration of “keeping the
main thing the main thing.” Even in the midst of this horrific
act, Stephen was focused on Jesus. And while hopefully, none of us will
ever be literally stoned to death, this scripture passage has practical
application for each of us.
Surely there have been times when
you wrestled with which way to turn. On one hand, you could “do the
right thing” and face the ridicule (or even wrath) of those around you.
Your choice to honor God with your commitment and daily living might be
uncomfortable in a lot of ways. Despite our best efforts to please God,
there will be times when we fall short, because we are human. As I sifted through memories and
“treasures” my mother saved, I found a 7-year baby book. In it, she
wrote an account of my 2nd birthday party, which included several
invited guests. Mother noted that “Debbie fought with Robin (my cousin,
who was also two!), as usual…and Mommy was embarrassed.” Trust me…it
was not the last time I embarrassed my mother! I know she loved me, but
I could easily picture her greeting me with outstretched arms - and a
look of disappointment on her face!
So often, we buckle when
things get hard and take the easy way out. And Stephen could have
easily done this. He could have “folded his tent” and moved on and left
these rabble-rousers to believe and act as they pleased. He could also
have condemned them for stoning him to death and asked Jesus to “pour
out your wrath” on these evil men! But this would not have honored
Stephen’s commitment to Jesus - or his trust in Him to handle such
matters according to His will. And the account of Stephen’s reaction as
he saw the gates of Heaven open and His Lord standing there to greet
him illustrates the consolation.
I cling to the thought that
when it’s all said and done, Jesus will great me at Heaven’s gate with
outstretched arms and a look of delight. It will make everything
worthwhile, won’t it? So I am working to make better choices…to keep
the main thing (Jesus) the MAIN THING! I am trying to let Him handle other people and mete out justice as He determines.
I look forward to the day when I can say with confidence, “Lord Jesus,
receive my spirit” and see His welcoming smile. What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 30, 2016
Acts 4:12
Only Jesus has the power to save! His name is the only one in all the world that can save anyone.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It has been a long, emotional day. I spent most of it at my mother’s house, sorting through her books and personal belongings. It’s all part of the process…but I have to admit, I’m weary of it – and more than a little ready to be at a point where I can at least take a breather. Right now, our house looks like a bomb went off, because I have boxes and bags of books, photos, and other “treasures” everywhere.
Greg and I spent more than 2 hours this afternoon sorting through two giant containers of photos. You know those 5-gallon tins in which flavored popcorn is sometimes sold? Mother had one of those filled with loose photos! She also had an old hat box filled with more of the same…not to mention envelopes, photo boxes…and probably 2 dozen or more photo albums, which are now on a shelf in one of our closets until we have the energy to peruse them.
We found some real gems…a few of which I will share on Facebook soon to see if others in our community can help me identify the persons photographed…or determine actual locations depicted. We laughed and reminisced, and it was actually fun. My mother was a pack rat, like her dad before her. And I admit, I have inherited many of those same traits. So as I look around my office at just a handful of the books I brought home and think of all I sorted through today, I see a constant and pervading theme…Jesus. I recall the countless booklets, programs and more that my mother saved in a box from Vacation Bible School, Training Union and other church-related events of my childhood and that of my siblings. I think of the notations she made in my “baby book” over the first seven years of my life, and how she made a special effort to mention when I first attended church and other church-related events.
My mother made sure that my siblings and I knew about Jesus. Even in her last days on this earth, she shared Jesus with others and encouraged them to give their hearts to Him. I am pretty sure that I would be a blithering idiot by this point if I didn’t have the peace and comfort of knowing without a doubt that my mother sits at the feet of Jesus for all Eternity, alongside countless other loved ones…and that not only will I join them someday, but so will my family members and those I love and hold dear. And I want even MORE people to join us!
The only way this can happen is for each person to commit his/her heart to Jesus…to recognize that He is the only One with the power to save…and to surrender completely to Him. If we will only ask Jesus to wash us clean of our sins and fill us with His Holy Spirit, He will do this. Don’t do it for a “ticket to Heaven.” Do this because of how much better everything about your earthly life will be if you make this choice.
There will still be heartaches…there will still be diseases, trials and challenges. People you love will still die, and life might not ever be easy. But with Jesus, all things will be more manageable. He will give you hope and courage, strength and perseverance. With Jesus, you can still have joy in the midst of sorrow and struggle. Because of Jesus, we could laugh and enjoy photos of my mother and dad and others who have left us, even though their passing makes us sad. Jesus makes EVERYTHING better! And I want you to know Him, just like I do.
I was blessed to have parents and grandparents who took me to church and taught me about Jesus at an early age. But it’s never too late to discover Jesus and start living for Him. And there is no time like today. Do you know the power and presence of Jesus? Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Only Jesus has the power to save! His name is the only one in all the world that can save anyone.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It has been a long, emotional day. I spent most of it at my mother’s house, sorting through her books and personal belongings. It’s all part of the process…but I have to admit, I’m weary of it – and more than a little ready to be at a point where I can at least take a breather. Right now, our house looks like a bomb went off, because I have boxes and bags of books, photos, and other “treasures” everywhere.
Greg and I spent more than 2 hours this afternoon sorting through two giant containers of photos. You know those 5-gallon tins in which flavored popcorn is sometimes sold? Mother had one of those filled with loose photos! She also had an old hat box filled with more of the same…not to mention envelopes, photo boxes…and probably 2 dozen or more photo albums, which are now on a shelf in one of our closets until we have the energy to peruse them.
We found some real gems…a few of which I will share on Facebook soon to see if others in our community can help me identify the persons photographed…or determine actual locations depicted. We laughed and reminisced, and it was actually fun. My mother was a pack rat, like her dad before her. And I admit, I have inherited many of those same traits. So as I look around my office at just a handful of the books I brought home and think of all I sorted through today, I see a constant and pervading theme…Jesus. I recall the countless booklets, programs and more that my mother saved in a box from Vacation Bible School, Training Union and other church-related events of my childhood and that of my siblings. I think of the notations she made in my “baby book” over the first seven years of my life, and how she made a special effort to mention when I first attended church and other church-related events.
My mother made sure that my siblings and I knew about Jesus. Even in her last days on this earth, she shared Jesus with others and encouraged them to give their hearts to Him. I am pretty sure that I would be a blithering idiot by this point if I didn’t have the peace and comfort of knowing without a doubt that my mother sits at the feet of Jesus for all Eternity, alongside countless other loved ones…and that not only will I join them someday, but so will my family members and those I love and hold dear. And I want even MORE people to join us!
The only way this can happen is for each person to commit his/her heart to Jesus…to recognize that He is the only One with the power to save…and to surrender completely to Him. If we will only ask Jesus to wash us clean of our sins and fill us with His Holy Spirit, He will do this. Don’t do it for a “ticket to Heaven.” Do this because of how much better everything about your earthly life will be if you make this choice.
There will still be heartaches…there will still be diseases, trials and challenges. People you love will still die, and life might not ever be easy. But with Jesus, all things will be more manageable. He will give you hope and courage, strength and perseverance. With Jesus, you can still have joy in the midst of sorrow and struggle. Because of Jesus, we could laugh and enjoy photos of my mother and dad and others who have left us, even though their passing makes us sad. Jesus makes EVERYTHING better! And I want you to know Him, just like I do.
I was blessed to have parents and grandparents who took me to church and taught me about Jesus at an early age. But it’s never too late to discover Jesus and start living for Him. And there is no time like today. Do you know the power and presence of Jesus? Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 29, 2016
Acts 2:43-47
Everyone around was in awe—all those wonders and signs done through the apostles! And all the believers lived in a wonderful harmony, holding everything in common. They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person’s need was met.
They followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration, exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. People in general liked what they saw. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved.
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.
People are watching. This scripture passage once again reinforces that concept. The people were watching to see how the Apostles would behave. What would they do without Jesus? How would they conduct themselves? Would they fall apart and focus on their own agendas? Would they become bitter or selfish? Would distance develop between the individuals? Would they blame God?
Clearly, the opposite was true in all of these cases. Jesus’ Disciples and Apostles worked together, shared meals and fellowship, and grew closer as a body of believers. They operated in joy and hope…and praise for God and all that He had done for them. Surely they were kind and considerate of one another, and one can infer that they maintained a positive attitude! And my favorite line in this passage says, “People in general liked what they saw.”
This is probably one of the most important sentences for us as Christian disciples. The other verses tell us what the Apostles did…how they worked together to serve God. But the critical thing to remember is that what we project to others matters.
People are watching…but we must be careful to give them the truth. They will spot a phony a mile away! We’re not out to make ourselves seem superior…what God offers to us He will gladly grant to EVERYONE who seeks Him. Our goal is to live in such a way that others see Jesus in us…that they recognize how we operate under the power of His Holy Spirit, no matter what is happening in our lives…and they say, “Hey! I like what I see - and I want this for myself!”
These verses offer great illustrations of how to live for Jesus…and how to serve Him as genuine Christian disciples. If we live with care and intention - and genuinely seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our lives in each and every situation and circumstance – others will notice. They will see how God cares for us and fills us with hope and joy…and they will want to get in on this for themselves. This brings glory to God, as it should…and helps to fulfill our mission as Christian disciples who go…teach…and baptize.
People ARE watching. It is important that when they look at us as Christians, they like what they see. What – and WHO – are you showing them?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Everyone around was in awe—all those wonders and signs done through the apostles! And all the believers lived in a wonderful harmony, holding everything in common. They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person’s need was met.
They followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration, exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. People in general liked what they saw. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved.
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.
People are watching. This scripture passage once again reinforces that concept. The people were watching to see how the Apostles would behave. What would they do without Jesus? How would they conduct themselves? Would they fall apart and focus on their own agendas? Would they become bitter or selfish? Would distance develop between the individuals? Would they blame God?
Clearly, the opposite was true in all of these cases. Jesus’ Disciples and Apostles worked together, shared meals and fellowship, and grew closer as a body of believers. They operated in joy and hope…and praise for God and all that He had done for them. Surely they were kind and considerate of one another, and one can infer that they maintained a positive attitude! And my favorite line in this passage says, “People in general liked what they saw.”
This is probably one of the most important sentences for us as Christian disciples. The other verses tell us what the Apostles did…how they worked together to serve God. But the critical thing to remember is that what we project to others matters.
People are watching…but we must be careful to give them the truth. They will spot a phony a mile away! We’re not out to make ourselves seem superior…what God offers to us He will gladly grant to EVERYONE who seeks Him. Our goal is to live in such a way that others see Jesus in us…that they recognize how we operate under the power of His Holy Spirit, no matter what is happening in our lives…and they say, “Hey! I like what I see - and I want this for myself!”
These verses offer great illustrations of how to live for Jesus…and how to serve Him as genuine Christian disciples. If we live with care and intention - and genuinely seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our lives in each and every situation and circumstance – others will notice. They will see how God cares for us and fills us with hope and joy…and they will want to get in on this for themselves. This brings glory to God, as it should…and helps to fulfill our mission as Christian disciples who go…teach…and baptize.
People ARE watching. It is important that when they look at us as Christians, they like what they see. What – and WHO – are you showing them?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 28, 2016
Acts 2:38-42
Peter said, “Turn back to God! Be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven. Then you will be given the Holy Spirit. This promise is for you and your children. It is for everyone our Lord God will choose, no matter where they live.”
Peter told them many other things as well. Then he said, “I beg you to save yourselves from what will happen to all these evil people.” On that day about three thousand believed his message and were baptized. They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Three-year-olds can as a LOT of questions…and most start with the word “Why?” And this is a question I have asked myself quite often lately. WHY do we do some of the things I do? WHY do we make sure our little ones get to church almost every Sunday? WHY do I spend time writing daily devotionals? WHY does Greg spend a good part of his Monday mornings (and sometimes other days) delivering Meals on Wheels to some fourteen people…and take time to stop and visit with them, inquire about their well-being, offer a smile and a word or two of encouragement? WHY does he do so much for so many others every week, including me? WHY do we give to charitable organizations and contribute to our church? WHY do we do what we can to share kindness and the love of Christ with others?
In a nutshell, WHY do we bother? Because, as I understand scripture - and as Jesus demonstrated in saving the thief on the cross - we don’t technically have to do any of these things in order to be cleansed of our sins by the blood of Jesus. As long as we confess our sins and give our heart to Jesus, we are still guaranteed a seat at His table in heaven…and a “mansion” all our own. So why bother with serving Jesus on this earth? What does it really matter?
The answer lies in this scripture passage from Acts 2…and throughout the New Testament writings. Peter demonstrated this by preaching and teaching…by telling others about Jesus. In the Living Bible, verse 40 says that he “preached a long sermon, telling about Jesus.” And then we read that they crowd fellowshipped together and even shared a meal and prayer time…that they treated each other like family.
Suppose you were up to your ears in debt and had a mountain of troubles, ranging from health issues to figuring out how to juggle a job and family obligations…and someone stepped in to help you – a “benefactor” of sorts who paid your debts, physically aided you with other challenges, and was generally available whenever and however you needed assistance. This person assured you that nothing was required in return…that this was a gift to you bestowed out of love and concern.
At the very least, wouldn’t you want to treat this person with the utmost respect and care? Wouldn’t you seek ways to do little things for someone who did so much for you? Wouldn’t take every opportunity to speak kindly of this person to others…to let them know that he/she was someone for whom you had utmost admiration and esteem?
Substitute Jesus for this “benefactor” - and your sins for the debts. Insert your daily challenges for the issues that a human being might help you with and think of how the Holy Spirit helps you navigate the choppy waters of life. Now ask yourself WHY you would serve the needy, encourage those in your circle of influence to worship, and demonstrate kindness and concern to others. It’s because these things are the least we can do for the ONE who has done everything for us.
Jesus doesn’t require this of us…although He did call us to serve. He doesn’t stomp His foot or “write us out of the will” if we don’t comply. Jesus doesn’t want us to serve out of obligation…but out of love and appreciation for all that He has given us. And this is why I do what I do - out of profound gratitude and affection for my Lord and Savior…my Jesus! What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Peter said, “Turn back to God! Be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven. Then you will be given the Holy Spirit. This promise is for you and your children. It is for everyone our Lord God will choose, no matter where they live.”
Peter told them many other things as well. Then he said, “I beg you to save yourselves from what will happen to all these evil people.” On that day about three thousand believed his message and were baptized. They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Three-year-olds can as a LOT of questions…and most start with the word “Why?” And this is a question I have asked myself quite often lately. WHY do we do some of the things I do? WHY do we make sure our little ones get to church almost every Sunday? WHY do I spend time writing daily devotionals? WHY does Greg spend a good part of his Monday mornings (and sometimes other days) delivering Meals on Wheels to some fourteen people…and take time to stop and visit with them, inquire about their well-being, offer a smile and a word or two of encouragement? WHY does he do so much for so many others every week, including me? WHY do we give to charitable organizations and contribute to our church? WHY do we do what we can to share kindness and the love of Christ with others?
In a nutshell, WHY do we bother? Because, as I understand scripture - and as Jesus demonstrated in saving the thief on the cross - we don’t technically have to do any of these things in order to be cleansed of our sins by the blood of Jesus. As long as we confess our sins and give our heart to Jesus, we are still guaranteed a seat at His table in heaven…and a “mansion” all our own. So why bother with serving Jesus on this earth? What does it really matter?
The answer lies in this scripture passage from Acts 2…and throughout the New Testament writings. Peter demonstrated this by preaching and teaching…by telling others about Jesus. In the Living Bible, verse 40 says that he “preached a long sermon, telling about Jesus.” And then we read that they crowd fellowshipped together and even shared a meal and prayer time…that they treated each other like family.
Suppose you were up to your ears in debt and had a mountain of troubles, ranging from health issues to figuring out how to juggle a job and family obligations…and someone stepped in to help you – a “benefactor” of sorts who paid your debts, physically aided you with other challenges, and was generally available whenever and however you needed assistance. This person assured you that nothing was required in return…that this was a gift to you bestowed out of love and concern.
At the very least, wouldn’t you want to treat this person with the utmost respect and care? Wouldn’t you seek ways to do little things for someone who did so much for you? Wouldn’t take every opportunity to speak kindly of this person to others…to let them know that he/she was someone for whom you had utmost admiration and esteem?
Substitute Jesus for this “benefactor” - and your sins for the debts. Insert your daily challenges for the issues that a human being might help you with and think of how the Holy Spirit helps you navigate the choppy waters of life. Now ask yourself WHY you would serve the needy, encourage those in your circle of influence to worship, and demonstrate kindness and concern to others. It’s because these things are the least we can do for the ONE who has done everything for us.
Jesus doesn’t require this of us…although He did call us to serve. He doesn’t stomp His foot or “write us out of the will” if we don’t comply. Jesus doesn’t want us to serve out of obligation…but out of love and appreciation for all that He has given us. And this is why I do what I do - out of profound gratitude and affection for my Lord and Savior…my Jesus! What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 27, 2016
Acts 2:29-32
My friends, it is right for me to speak to you about our ancestor David. He died and was buried, and his tomb is still here. But David was a prophet, and he knew that God had made a promise he would not break. He had told David that someone from his own family would someday be king.
David knew this would happen, and so he told us that Christ would be raised to life. He said that God would not leave him in the grave or let his body decay. All of us can tell you that God has raised Jesus to life!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, I awoke to a beautiful sunrise over the valley outside our window. My first thought was one of great comfort and joy…“Jesus is Risen!” I looked around the room at all of the preparations that had been made for this day. The table was set to serve lunch to eleven, and the ham and side dishes were in the oven. There were “Easter sacks” on the hearth filled with gifts for Timothy, Zola and Nathan. The children had new outfits to wear today, and there were plenty of gifts and “new” things from others, as well.
This also signaled a new chapter in the life of our family…our first holiday dinner since my mother died. She is spending this Easter Sunday in Heaven with Jesus… my dad and brother, her own parents and in-laws, and countless cousins and other relatives and friends. No doubt, theirs will be a huge meal, with all of the “family favorites”…and the fellowship will be unbelievable. I cannot wrap my brain around literally sharing “family dinners” with Jesus…but I look forward to the day when I can!
The message of Easter is not death…but life! We sometimes miss this! We get so bogged down in the events that led up to this day…and they are important. But a friend shared a blog post yesterday in which the writer aptly reminded us that Jesus rose from the grave and spent the next 40 days telling us how to spread the Good News. He didn’t talk about Heaven…Jesus talked about how we were to go…preach…love others…share the Gospel…and “make disciples.”
So as you attend worship today, enjoy a sumptuous meal, hide and hunt the eggs, and eat far more candy than one person ought to consume…consider WHY Jesus rose from the grave. Think of what He has called us to do…and all that this week means for us. He saved us, cleansed us of our sins…and called us to do great things in His name. All parts of this equation are important.
We cannot accept salvation in Jesus, then sit down and wait to die. We must get up and get going! Jesus is Risen…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
My friends, it is right for me to speak to you about our ancestor David. He died and was buried, and his tomb is still here. But David was a prophet, and he knew that God had made a promise he would not break. He had told David that someone from his own family would someday be king.
David knew this would happen, and so he told us that Christ would be raised to life. He said that God would not leave him in the grave or let his body decay. All of us can tell you that God has raised Jesus to life!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, I awoke to a beautiful sunrise over the valley outside our window. My first thought was one of great comfort and joy…“Jesus is Risen!” I looked around the room at all of the preparations that had been made for this day. The table was set to serve lunch to eleven, and the ham and side dishes were in the oven. There were “Easter sacks” on the hearth filled with gifts for Timothy, Zola and Nathan. The children had new outfits to wear today, and there were plenty of gifts and “new” things from others, as well.
This also signaled a new chapter in the life of our family…our first holiday dinner since my mother died. She is spending this Easter Sunday in Heaven with Jesus… my dad and brother, her own parents and in-laws, and countless cousins and other relatives and friends. No doubt, theirs will be a huge meal, with all of the “family favorites”…and the fellowship will be unbelievable. I cannot wrap my brain around literally sharing “family dinners” with Jesus…but I look forward to the day when I can!
The message of Easter is not death…but life! We sometimes miss this! We get so bogged down in the events that led up to this day…and they are important. But a friend shared a blog post yesterday in which the writer aptly reminded us that Jesus rose from the grave and spent the next 40 days telling us how to spread the Good News. He didn’t talk about Heaven…Jesus talked about how we were to go…preach…love others…share the Gospel…and “make disciples.”
So as you attend worship today, enjoy a sumptuous meal, hide and hunt the eggs, and eat far more candy than one person ought to consume…consider WHY Jesus rose from the grave. Think of what He has called us to do…and all that this week means for us. He saved us, cleansed us of our sins…and called us to do great things in His name. All parts of this equation are important.
We cannot accept salvation in Jesus, then sit down and wait to die. We must get up and get going! Jesus is Risen…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 26, 2016
Lamentations 3:21-26
Yet there is one ray of hope: his compassion never ends. It is only the Lord’s mercies that have kept us from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his loving-kindness begins afresh each day. My soul claims the Lord as my inheritance; therefore I will hope in him. The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for him, to those who seek for him. It is good both to hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This is a tough day…the Second Day. If you have ever experienced the death of a loved one, you know what I mean. The First Day…the day of death, there is something of an “adrenaline rush” – and not in a good way, of course. You find yourself caught up in all of the emotions that surround the actual passing…the release of the person to the angels…the anguish and heartache in the realization that he/she is really gone…the sudden “to-do list” of things that must be addressed.
On the Second Day, we have time to actually unpack all that has happened. Reality sets in, and we are truly heartbroken for all that has happened. So on this day, as we ponder what happened to Jesus on the “First Day,” we are saddened by everything…the agony of His torture and crucifixion…the helplessness we feel that He had to suffer this way…the shame of knowing that it was all done for us. And as the title of this Bible chapter implies, we lament.
But hear the GOOD NEWS of these verses. There is a ray of hope…Jesus’ compassion truly never ends. His faithfulness is great…his mercies and loving-kindness are new every day. If we seek Jesus, we will find Him…even on the Second Day. He will show up in ways we never expected and remind us that all was accomplished because of His profound, inexplicable, unconditional love for each of us.
So as we endure this Second Day, let us remember that Jesus’ plan is “in the works.” He has something in store for each of us…and it is more than we could ever imagine. OUR JOB is to pay attention…to remain hopeful…to keep the faith. The Third Day is coming!
My
mother’s husband has been on a trip this week. He returned home today
and found a bed of beautiful red tulips in full bloom in the back yard.
My mother planted these bulbs last fall. I am sure that she can see
them from Heaven. For me, they are a reminder that life continues…that
beauty still exists even in the midst of grief and sorrow…that Jesus has
not stopped blessing us and meeting our every need - that His
faithfulness to each of us is indeed greater than we could ever hope for
or comprehend.
And so I take Him at His word. I revel in the beauty of these bright red flowers and remind myself that because of the First Day – and the Second – there will be a Third Day. And when Jesus’ earthly plans for me are accomplished, I will not only see my loved ones again, but I will get to meet Him face-to-face and revel in His glory forever and ever.
There is a ray of hope…Jesus’ compassion NEVER ends! How blessed are we who know and love Him…and how eternally grateful for this amazing gift! On this “Second Day,” may you feel His love, experience His presence, and know His hope.
©2016 Debbie Robus
Yet there is one ray of hope: his compassion never ends. It is only the Lord’s mercies that have kept us from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his loving-kindness begins afresh each day. My soul claims the Lord as my inheritance; therefore I will hope in him. The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for him, to those who seek for him. It is good both to hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This is a tough day…the Second Day. If you have ever experienced the death of a loved one, you know what I mean. The First Day…the day of death, there is something of an “adrenaline rush” – and not in a good way, of course. You find yourself caught up in all of the emotions that surround the actual passing…the release of the person to the angels…the anguish and heartache in the realization that he/she is really gone…the sudden “to-do list” of things that must be addressed.
On the Second Day, we have time to actually unpack all that has happened. Reality sets in, and we are truly heartbroken for all that has happened. So on this day, as we ponder what happened to Jesus on the “First Day,” we are saddened by everything…the agony of His torture and crucifixion…the helplessness we feel that He had to suffer this way…the shame of knowing that it was all done for us. And as the title of this Bible chapter implies, we lament.
But hear the GOOD NEWS of these verses. There is a ray of hope…Jesus’ compassion truly never ends. His faithfulness is great…his mercies and loving-kindness are new every day. If we seek Jesus, we will find Him…even on the Second Day. He will show up in ways we never expected and remind us that all was accomplished because of His profound, inexplicable, unconditional love for each of us.
So as we endure this Second Day, let us remember that Jesus’ plan is “in the works.” He has something in store for each of us…and it is more than we could ever imagine. OUR JOB is to pay attention…to remain hopeful…to keep the faith. The Third Day is coming!
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| Photo Credit: Lee Smith |
And so I take Him at His word. I revel in the beauty of these bright red flowers and remind myself that because of the First Day – and the Second – there will be a Third Day. And when Jesus’ earthly plans for me are accomplished, I will not only see my loved ones again, but I will get to meet Him face-to-face and revel in His glory forever and ever.
There is a ray of hope…Jesus’ compassion NEVER ends! How blessed are we who know and love Him…and how eternally grateful for this amazing gift! On this “Second Day,” may you feel His love, experience His presence, and know His hope.
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 25, 2016
Acts 2:22-26
Now, listen to what I have to say about Jesus from Nazareth. God proved that he sent Jesus to you by having him work miracles, wonders, and signs. All of you know this. God had already planned and decided that Jesus would be handed over to you. So you took him and had evil men put him to death on a cross. But God set him free from death and raised him to life. Death could not hold him in its power. What David said are really the words of Jesus,
“I always see the Lord near me,
and I will not be afraid with him at my right side.
Because of this, my heart will be glad,
my words will be joyful, and I will live in hope.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, I was trying to help Nathan work a rather difficult jigsaw puzzle. He kept saying, “Don’t help me, Debbie…I will do it myself.” So I sat down to watch…and ever-so-subtly (or so I thought!), I would slide a couple of pieces toward him that I had interlocked. Soon, I heard Nathan begin to sniffle. “What’s wrong, Buddy?” I asked. “You don’t love me anymore!” “Why, of course I do!” I reassured him. “Why would you think I don’t love you?” “Because you don’t think I can work this puzzle by myself…and I can!”
I sat and watched him struggle with the pieces. Nathan tried to work “from the inside out,” so I would suggest that this piece or that one might make a border. Finally, he began to get the hang of it. More than once, I had to squelch my urge to “assist”. It was hard to watch that little guy struggle with this task. I knew that I could help him work that puzzle in no time. But at the same time, I knew that he had to do this…he had to endure the frustration of learning to do it himself. And when he was finished, I “high-fived” him and praised him…and his little face beamed with pride.
I know it’s a stretch to use this illustration to comment on today’s scripture passage. But here’s the thing. God could fix so many things in our lives…but sometimes He understands that we have to struggle with them while He looks on so that we grow in our faith and more perfectly appreciate His love and care. God knows our heartaches and difficulties before they happen – just as He knew that Jesus would suffer horrific torture and abuse at the hands of the Roman soldiers.
Did God cause this to happen? Does He intend for us to get sick, lose our homes and jobs, go off to war, have terrible accidents and get involved in toxic relationships? Does God mean for us to struggle or be orphaned, abused and mistreated? The answer to all of these questions is a resounding, “NO!” But God allows these things in order to demonstrate to us and others His incredible power to rescue us…to comfort us in our pain and suffering…to heal us and set us upright mentally, physically, and emotionally. In this manner, God sets us free and raises us to life over and again. God will NEVER leave us!
So while some would contend that God deserted His Only Son and left Jesus to suffer and die, scripture tells us that this was not the case. Yes, He knew what would happen…but He also knew the next chapter…and the next. And God knows what happens in every chapter of your life and mine…and He wants us to count on Him to “slip us the next piece of the puzzle”…to heal us and repair our brokenness.
Because of what God did for Jesus, we have hope and confidence that He will do these things for us. We have joy that we are the children of such a powerful and mighty God who loves us so very much that He will never let us falter…if only we will trust Him. Hard to do sometimes? You betcha! Worth it all in the end? Absolutely! Are you trusting God to help you with your “life puzzles?” Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Now, listen to what I have to say about Jesus from Nazareth. God proved that he sent Jesus to you by having him work miracles, wonders, and signs. All of you know this. God had already planned and decided that Jesus would be handed over to you. So you took him and had evil men put him to death on a cross. But God set him free from death and raised him to life. Death could not hold him in its power. What David said are really the words of Jesus,
“I always see the Lord near me,
and I will not be afraid with him at my right side.
Because of this, my heart will be glad,
my words will be joyful, and I will live in hope.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, I was trying to help Nathan work a rather difficult jigsaw puzzle. He kept saying, “Don’t help me, Debbie…I will do it myself.” So I sat down to watch…and ever-so-subtly (or so I thought!), I would slide a couple of pieces toward him that I had interlocked. Soon, I heard Nathan begin to sniffle. “What’s wrong, Buddy?” I asked. “You don’t love me anymore!” “Why, of course I do!” I reassured him. “Why would you think I don’t love you?” “Because you don’t think I can work this puzzle by myself…and I can!”
I sat and watched him struggle with the pieces. Nathan tried to work “from the inside out,” so I would suggest that this piece or that one might make a border. Finally, he began to get the hang of it. More than once, I had to squelch my urge to “assist”. It was hard to watch that little guy struggle with this task. I knew that I could help him work that puzzle in no time. But at the same time, I knew that he had to do this…he had to endure the frustration of learning to do it himself. And when he was finished, I “high-fived” him and praised him…and his little face beamed with pride.
I know it’s a stretch to use this illustration to comment on today’s scripture passage. But here’s the thing. God could fix so many things in our lives…but sometimes He understands that we have to struggle with them while He looks on so that we grow in our faith and more perfectly appreciate His love and care. God knows our heartaches and difficulties before they happen – just as He knew that Jesus would suffer horrific torture and abuse at the hands of the Roman soldiers.
Did God cause this to happen? Does He intend for us to get sick, lose our homes and jobs, go off to war, have terrible accidents and get involved in toxic relationships? Does God mean for us to struggle or be orphaned, abused and mistreated? The answer to all of these questions is a resounding, “NO!” But God allows these things in order to demonstrate to us and others His incredible power to rescue us…to comfort us in our pain and suffering…to heal us and set us upright mentally, physically, and emotionally. In this manner, God sets us free and raises us to life over and again. God will NEVER leave us!
So while some would contend that God deserted His Only Son and left Jesus to suffer and die, scripture tells us that this was not the case. Yes, He knew what would happen…but He also knew the next chapter…and the next. And God knows what happens in every chapter of your life and mine…and He wants us to count on Him to “slip us the next piece of the puzzle”…to heal us and repair our brokenness.
Because of what God did for Jesus, we have hope and confidence that He will do these things for us. We have joy that we are the children of such a powerful and mighty God who loves us so very much that He will never let us falter…if only we will trust Him. Hard to do sometimes? You betcha! Worth it all in the end? Absolutely! Are you trusting God to help you with your “life puzzles?” Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 24, 2016
Acts 2:1-4
Seven weeks had gone by since Jesus’ death and resurrection, and the Day of Pentecost had now arrived. As the believers met together that day, suddenly there was a sound like the roaring of a mighty windstorm in the skies above them and it filled the house where they were meeting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on their heads. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in languages they didn’t know, for the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Today I’ve been thinking a lot about my mother…probably because I visited one of her lifelong friends earlier, and we reminisced about the fun adventures they shared. I also encountered some dear friends and fellow church members as I shopped at Walmart who spoke of my mother and asked how I was doing. I told them that I am doing well – and for the most part, I believe this. But later, I asked myself, why is this the case? How is it that I have been able to function somewhat normally in the two-plus months since my mother’s fairly sudden death? And the only answer that I can muster is…”I am acting under the power of the Holy Spirit.”
I didn’t feel the “whoosh” of a windstorm, as described in the Book of Acts. In fact, I don’t “feel” anything at all, except a profound calm and confidence. But I do sense that I am operating under the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life, because this is the only explanation that makes any sense.
Today is “Maundy Thursday,” the day we Christians take note of Jesus’ “last supper” with His disciples…His prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane and His betrayal there by Judas. We ponder Jesus’ arrest, Peter’s denial of any relationship with Him, and the horrific beating and torturous “interrogation” inflicted upon Him by the Roman soldiers. And one has to ask how Jesus endured all of this…knowing every step of the way exactly what would happen to Him.
We see in scripture that Jesus actually asked God if there might be another way – one that did not involve so much suffering and agony. And yet, He obediently surrendered to God’s will and sacrificed His life for the sins of each of us. Jesus trusted that God would provide…that He would make a way for Him to endure all of this. And that’s what we must do with the Holy Spirit. This presence is not something we can physically see – or even tangibly feel. But we know when we are experiencing the Holy Spirit’s power, and we must trust Him to steer us through every circumstance that the day brings.
We sense when the Holy Spirit is equipping us with abilities that we would not otherwise possess…when we have an Inner Strength that we are quite certain is not of our own making…when there is Peace and Comfort that defies logic. The God who appeared to a crowd of believers on the Day of Pentecost and caused them to speak in unknown languages is the same God who can fill us with His Holy Spirit and enable us to accomplish things we never imagined we would be able to handle.
If you do not yet recognize the power of the Holy Spirit in your own life, there is no time like the present. All you have to do is call on Him to fill your heart and mind…then trust that He is with you. I have found that sometimes it helps to actually sit and repeat the phrase, “Come, Holy Spirit, and fill me!” And He does!
Jesus sacrificed so much so that our sins could be forgiven…and so that we could have this special Comforter to guide and protect us each day. Won’t you recognize His presence in your heart and mind today? You may not feel the wind and fire or speak in unknown tongues…but He will be with you, all the same. Aren’t you ready to get to know Him?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Seven weeks had gone by since Jesus’ death and resurrection, and the Day of Pentecost had now arrived. As the believers met together that day, suddenly there was a sound like the roaring of a mighty windstorm in the skies above them and it filled the house where they were meeting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on their heads. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in languages they didn’t know, for the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Today I’ve been thinking a lot about my mother…probably because I visited one of her lifelong friends earlier, and we reminisced about the fun adventures they shared. I also encountered some dear friends and fellow church members as I shopped at Walmart who spoke of my mother and asked how I was doing. I told them that I am doing well – and for the most part, I believe this. But later, I asked myself, why is this the case? How is it that I have been able to function somewhat normally in the two-plus months since my mother’s fairly sudden death? And the only answer that I can muster is…”I am acting under the power of the Holy Spirit.”
I didn’t feel the “whoosh” of a windstorm, as described in the Book of Acts. In fact, I don’t “feel” anything at all, except a profound calm and confidence. But I do sense that I am operating under the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life, because this is the only explanation that makes any sense.
Today is “Maundy Thursday,” the day we Christians take note of Jesus’ “last supper” with His disciples…His prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane and His betrayal there by Judas. We ponder Jesus’ arrest, Peter’s denial of any relationship with Him, and the horrific beating and torturous “interrogation” inflicted upon Him by the Roman soldiers. And one has to ask how Jesus endured all of this…knowing every step of the way exactly what would happen to Him.
We see in scripture that Jesus actually asked God if there might be another way – one that did not involve so much suffering and agony. And yet, He obediently surrendered to God’s will and sacrificed His life for the sins of each of us. Jesus trusted that God would provide…that He would make a way for Him to endure all of this. And that’s what we must do with the Holy Spirit. This presence is not something we can physically see – or even tangibly feel. But we know when we are experiencing the Holy Spirit’s power, and we must trust Him to steer us through every circumstance that the day brings.
We sense when the Holy Spirit is equipping us with abilities that we would not otherwise possess…when we have an Inner Strength that we are quite certain is not of our own making…when there is Peace and Comfort that defies logic. The God who appeared to a crowd of believers on the Day of Pentecost and caused them to speak in unknown languages is the same God who can fill us with His Holy Spirit and enable us to accomplish things we never imagined we would be able to handle.
If you do not yet recognize the power of the Holy Spirit in your own life, there is no time like the present. All you have to do is call on Him to fill your heart and mind…then trust that He is with you. I have found that sometimes it helps to actually sit and repeat the phrase, “Come, Holy Spirit, and fill me!” And He does!
Jesus sacrificed so much so that our sins could be forgiven…and so that we could have this special Comforter to guide and protect us each day. Won’t you recognize His presence in your heart and mind today? You may not feel the wind and fire or speak in unknown tongues…but He will be with you, all the same. Aren’t you ready to get to know Him?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 23, 2016
Acts 1:6-8
When they were together for the last time they asked, “Master, are you going to restore the kingdom to Israel now? Is this the time?”
He told them, “You don’t get to know the time. Timing is the Father’s business. What you’ll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world.”
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.
“Now can we have a prize?” This is the question our children asked me after they had played together nicely for a few minutes earlier this week. I explained that we had the whole day to spend together…and if they continued to behave well, I would indeed bring out the prize basket at some point. The kids didn’t know when this would happen…but they knew what they had to do to earn a treat or toy! And for the most part, they waited patiently and got along. When they least expected it, I brought out the prize basket and let them choose a reward.
Okay, so this is a really simplified illustration to unpack the return of Jesus. But there ARE some parallels. 1) We don’t know the hour or day for Christ’s return. It could happen before you finish reading this devotional, or it could happen centuries from now. We simply do not know. 2) We have been given a purpose…the “Great Commission” to witness for Jesus to all people throughout the world. This is not a command for you to hop on a plane and travel to Africa to become a missionary. It is a call for us to serve wherever and whenever God provides us with opportunities…to “be the hands and feet of Jesus” on this earth until He returns or calls us Home.
I’ve thought a lot about timing lately. None of us knows how long we will be on this earth…or what the day will bring. If you had told me three months ago what all would happen in our family alone, I’m pretty sure I would not have believed you. Life is filled with surprises…and none of us is promised tomorrow…or even the next hour!
But what we ARE promised is that Jesus has sent His Holy Spirit to be with us every step of the way! We are promised Eternity in His presence, if we surrender our heart and our sins to Him. We are offered the ultimate “prize”…and in the scheme of things, very little is required in return. The question becomes, “Why wouldn’t we want to share this Good News with others?” I don’t serve Jesus because I have to…but because I want to do this! It seems like a no-brainer to me in light of Who He is in my life and the way that He cares for me every single minute!
My prayer this week is that you would take a hard look at what Jesus did…and what He DOES for you every single day. Think about all that He has sacrificed just so we can be with Him forever…free of guilt and shame, sin and sickness. How can we not share His message with others? How can we not strive to live as He designed each and every day – and serve Him with our whole heart?
How can we “celebrate” Holy Week and not understand what it means to truly be Christ’s disciple…and demonstrate this to the world – or our little corner of it? Are YOU “all in” this week before Easter? Will you continue to serve after the eggs and bunnies are packed away? The question the Disciples asked Jesus about His return could be asked of us in regard to our Christian service. So I ask you today…”Is this the time?” Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
When they were together for the last time they asked, “Master, are you going to restore the kingdom to Israel now? Is this the time?”
He told them, “You don’t get to know the time. Timing is the Father’s business. What you’ll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world.”
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.
“Now can we have a prize?” This is the question our children asked me after they had played together nicely for a few minutes earlier this week. I explained that we had the whole day to spend together…and if they continued to behave well, I would indeed bring out the prize basket at some point. The kids didn’t know when this would happen…but they knew what they had to do to earn a treat or toy! And for the most part, they waited patiently and got along. When they least expected it, I brought out the prize basket and let them choose a reward.
Okay, so this is a really simplified illustration to unpack the return of Jesus. But there ARE some parallels. 1) We don’t know the hour or day for Christ’s return. It could happen before you finish reading this devotional, or it could happen centuries from now. We simply do not know. 2) We have been given a purpose…the “Great Commission” to witness for Jesus to all people throughout the world. This is not a command for you to hop on a plane and travel to Africa to become a missionary. It is a call for us to serve wherever and whenever God provides us with opportunities…to “be the hands and feet of Jesus” on this earth until He returns or calls us Home.
I’ve thought a lot about timing lately. None of us knows how long we will be on this earth…or what the day will bring. If you had told me three months ago what all would happen in our family alone, I’m pretty sure I would not have believed you. Life is filled with surprises…and none of us is promised tomorrow…or even the next hour!
But what we ARE promised is that Jesus has sent His Holy Spirit to be with us every step of the way! We are promised Eternity in His presence, if we surrender our heart and our sins to Him. We are offered the ultimate “prize”…and in the scheme of things, very little is required in return. The question becomes, “Why wouldn’t we want to share this Good News with others?” I don’t serve Jesus because I have to…but because I want to do this! It seems like a no-brainer to me in light of Who He is in my life and the way that He cares for me every single minute!
My prayer this week is that you would take a hard look at what Jesus did…and what He DOES for you every single day. Think about all that He has sacrificed just so we can be with Him forever…free of guilt and shame, sin and sickness. How can we not share His message with others? How can we not strive to live as He designed each and every day – and serve Him with our whole heart?
How can we “celebrate” Holy Week and not understand what it means to truly be Christ’s disciple…and demonstrate this to the world – or our little corner of it? Are YOU “all in” this week before Easter? Will you continue to serve after the eggs and bunnies are packed away? The question the Disciples asked Jesus about His return could be asked of us in regard to our Christian service. So I ask you today…”Is this the time?” Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 22, 2016
Acts 1:14-22
The apostles often met together and prayed with a single purpose in mind. The women and Mary the mother of Jesus would meet with them, and so would his brothers. One day there were about one hundred twenty of the Lord’s followers meeting together, and Peter stood up to speak to them. He said:
My friends, long ago by the power of the Holy Spirit, David said something about Judas, and what he said has now happened. Judas was one of us and had worked with us, but he brought the mob to arrest Jesus. Then Judas bought some land with the money he was given for doing that evil thing. He fell headfirst into the field. His body burst open, and all his insides came out. When the people of Jerusalem found out about this, they called the place Akeldama, which in the local language means “Field of Blood.”
In the book of Psalms it says, “Leave his house empty, and don’t let anyone live there.”
It also says, “Let someone else have his job.”
So we need someone else to help us tell others that Jesus has been raised from death. He must also be one of the men who was with us from the very beginning. He must have been with us from the time the Lord Jesus was baptized by John until the day he was taken to heaven.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is much about the story of “Holy Week” that is sad and horrific. But for me, one of the most hopeless parts is the story of Judas Iscariot. Jesus knew that Judas would betray him…and yet, He washed his feet in the Upper Room alongside the other disciples. Jesus shared the bread and the cup with Judas. And Judas took a bribe of 30 silver pieces in exchange for kissing Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane to “make” Him for Roman soldiers.
Many are shocked to read this account in the Book of Acts about how Judas died. In Matthew 27:3-10, we are told that Judas threw the money at the high priests and then went out and hanged himself. The silver was used to buy a “Potter’s Field” for burying the poor and homeless, and it was given the name of “Murderer’s Meadow.”
There is much argument about which account is more accurate…but the bottom line is that Judas Iscariot realized that he had done a terrible thing. He committed a truly egregious sin…he denied His Lord and Savior. But Judas was not the only person who did this. Peter denied his own association with Jesus THREE TIMES before the night was out. Yet he did not take his own life. And the difference in the choice these two men made had eternal consequences.
What does this mean for us? I truly believe that had Judas come to Jesus and humbled himself, Jesus would have forgiven him, just as he did for Peter and the thief on the cross. Jesus forgives each of us when we ask Him to do so. And that is the primary message of this passage from Acts 1. There is NOTHING that can separate us from Jesus when we humbly admit our sins and failures and ask for His forgiveness. We are human…we will all sin and fall short. But Jesus stands ready, willing, and more than able to redeem us. This promise turns a devastatingly dismal passage of scripture into one of hope and promise!
I also find the last verses to be interesting. The Disciples are told to choose a replacement for Judas…someone who knew and loved Jesus and could speak of His teachings to others. It seems to me that there is a message for us there, as well. We can sit and wring our hands over all that is wrong in our world. We can gripe and complain about those who speak and act in a manner that is detrimental to the work of Jesus and furthering God’s Kingdom. But we are instructed to get up and get going…to move forward with the work of our discipleship…to select and encourage those who are involved in this mission with us – and to nurture their efforts alongside our own.
Two messages of hope vs. a choice mired in despair. We can opt to wallow in our sin and self-pity…and maybe even completely turn our backs on Jesus. Or we can learn from Judas’ critical mistakes and renew our efforts to serve in Christ’s army…to seek His forgiveness and follow Him for all of our earthly lives – and into Eternity. The choice may not be an easy one…but the path of Hope and Promise seems pretty clear to me. What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
The apostles often met together and prayed with a single purpose in mind. The women and Mary the mother of Jesus would meet with them, and so would his brothers. One day there were about one hundred twenty of the Lord’s followers meeting together, and Peter stood up to speak to them. He said:
My friends, long ago by the power of the Holy Spirit, David said something about Judas, and what he said has now happened. Judas was one of us and had worked with us, but he brought the mob to arrest Jesus. Then Judas bought some land with the money he was given for doing that evil thing. He fell headfirst into the field. His body burst open, and all his insides came out. When the people of Jerusalem found out about this, they called the place Akeldama, which in the local language means “Field of Blood.”
In the book of Psalms it says, “Leave his house empty, and don’t let anyone live there.”
It also says, “Let someone else have his job.”
So we need someone else to help us tell others that Jesus has been raised from death. He must also be one of the men who was with us from the very beginning. He must have been with us from the time the Lord Jesus was baptized by John until the day he was taken to heaven.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is much about the story of “Holy Week” that is sad and horrific. But for me, one of the most hopeless parts is the story of Judas Iscariot. Jesus knew that Judas would betray him…and yet, He washed his feet in the Upper Room alongside the other disciples. Jesus shared the bread and the cup with Judas. And Judas took a bribe of 30 silver pieces in exchange for kissing Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane to “make” Him for Roman soldiers.
Many are shocked to read this account in the Book of Acts about how Judas died. In Matthew 27:3-10, we are told that Judas threw the money at the high priests and then went out and hanged himself. The silver was used to buy a “Potter’s Field” for burying the poor and homeless, and it was given the name of “Murderer’s Meadow.”
There is much argument about which account is more accurate…but the bottom line is that Judas Iscariot realized that he had done a terrible thing. He committed a truly egregious sin…he denied His Lord and Savior. But Judas was not the only person who did this. Peter denied his own association with Jesus THREE TIMES before the night was out. Yet he did not take his own life. And the difference in the choice these two men made had eternal consequences.
What does this mean for us? I truly believe that had Judas come to Jesus and humbled himself, Jesus would have forgiven him, just as he did for Peter and the thief on the cross. Jesus forgives each of us when we ask Him to do so. And that is the primary message of this passage from Acts 1. There is NOTHING that can separate us from Jesus when we humbly admit our sins and failures and ask for His forgiveness. We are human…we will all sin and fall short. But Jesus stands ready, willing, and more than able to redeem us. This promise turns a devastatingly dismal passage of scripture into one of hope and promise!
I also find the last verses to be interesting. The Disciples are told to choose a replacement for Judas…someone who knew and loved Jesus and could speak of His teachings to others. It seems to me that there is a message for us there, as well. We can sit and wring our hands over all that is wrong in our world. We can gripe and complain about those who speak and act in a manner that is detrimental to the work of Jesus and furthering God’s Kingdom. But we are instructed to get up and get going…to move forward with the work of our discipleship…to select and encourage those who are involved in this mission with us – and to nurture their efforts alongside our own.
Two messages of hope vs. a choice mired in despair. We can opt to wallow in our sin and self-pity…and maybe even completely turn our backs on Jesus. Or we can learn from Judas’ critical mistakes and renew our efforts to serve in Christ’s army…to seek His forgiveness and follow Him for all of our earthly lives – and into Eternity. The choice may not be an easy one…but the path of Hope and Promise seems pretty clear to me. What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 21, 2016
2 Peter 3:11-13
Since everything here today might well be gone tomorrow, do you see how essential it is to live a holy life? Daily expect the Day of God, eager for its arrival. The galaxies will burn up and the elements melt down that day—but we’ll hardly notice. We’ll be looking the other way, ready for the promised new heavens and the promised new earth, all landscaped with righteousness.
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.
Given all that has happened in our family in the last three months, Greg and I felt it was urgent that we “get our house in order.” We updated our important documents, cleaned out files and closets…and we even pre-planned our funerals. Several people thought this was rather morbid - and even “rushing things.” But after the sudden deaths of Greg’s brother and my mother – both relatively young by our standards – we saw once again how quickly things can change. As this scripture puts it, everything here might very well be gone tomorrow.
The “upside” of doing all of this preparation is that we can now move forward with confidence that things are in some semblance of order…that we are not leaving a mess for our friends and relatives – or burdening them unnecessarily with questions and decisions about how we would wish for things to be handled.
We can also focus on other things that are more enjoyable. We can spend our days serving God and loving others…expectantly waiting for Him to show up and show out! There will still be bumps in the road…and details to “tweak” from time to time…but now we are free to focus on our earthly mission – and our heavenly destination. And both look pretty promising right at the moment.
I am reminded of the 4th grader who told me yesterday that he would not trade places with anyone, because, “My life is not perfect…there are problems…but it’s what I’ve been given, and it’s pretty great. I am happy with who I am and what I’ve got.” I’m with him 100%. I wish I had been that content when I was ten! Yes, this is an amazing kid. He has everything pretty well figured out...and I pray that this level of contentment and purpose continues in his life.
The thing is…we can be just like him! We can find our purpose, “get our ducks in a row,” and serve God with determination, dedication – and great hope for our future in heaven! What is required is often just a shift in attitude…and a determination to draw nearer to God and pay closer attention to His will for our lives. There is no better time than this Holy Week to make such a commitment. Won’t you join me in pledging to focus more on heaven and God’s plan for us until it is time for us to join Him there? Will you redouble your efforts to keep your eyes and ears open…to worry less and serve God more…and to share the joy of this Eternal hope with others each and every day? I’m ready to get started…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Since everything here today might well be gone tomorrow, do you see how essential it is to live a holy life? Daily expect the Day of God, eager for its arrival. The galaxies will burn up and the elements melt down that day—but we’ll hardly notice. We’ll be looking the other way, ready for the promised new heavens and the promised new earth, all landscaped with righteousness.
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.
Given all that has happened in our family in the last three months, Greg and I felt it was urgent that we “get our house in order.” We updated our important documents, cleaned out files and closets…and we even pre-planned our funerals. Several people thought this was rather morbid - and even “rushing things.” But after the sudden deaths of Greg’s brother and my mother – both relatively young by our standards – we saw once again how quickly things can change. As this scripture puts it, everything here might very well be gone tomorrow.
The “upside” of doing all of this preparation is that we can now move forward with confidence that things are in some semblance of order…that we are not leaving a mess for our friends and relatives – or burdening them unnecessarily with questions and decisions about how we would wish for things to be handled.
We can also focus on other things that are more enjoyable. We can spend our days serving God and loving others…expectantly waiting for Him to show up and show out! There will still be bumps in the road…and details to “tweak” from time to time…but now we are free to focus on our earthly mission – and our heavenly destination. And both look pretty promising right at the moment.
I am reminded of the 4th grader who told me yesterday that he would not trade places with anyone, because, “My life is not perfect…there are problems…but it’s what I’ve been given, and it’s pretty great. I am happy with who I am and what I’ve got.” I’m with him 100%. I wish I had been that content when I was ten! Yes, this is an amazing kid. He has everything pretty well figured out...and I pray that this level of contentment and purpose continues in his life.
The thing is…we can be just like him! We can find our purpose, “get our ducks in a row,” and serve God with determination, dedication – and great hope for our future in heaven! What is required is often just a shift in attitude…and a determination to draw nearer to God and pay closer attention to His will for our lives. There is no better time than this Holy Week to make such a commitment. Won’t you join me in pledging to focus more on heaven and God’s plan for us until it is time for us to join Him there? Will you redouble your efforts to keep your eyes and ears open…to worry less and serve God more…and to share the joy of this Eternal hope with others each and every day? I’m ready to get started…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 20, 2016
2 Corinthians 5:20-21
We are Christ’s ambassadors. God is using us to speak to you: we beg you, as though Christ himself were here pleading with you, receive the love he offers you—be reconciled to God. For God took the sinless Christ and poured into him our sins. Then, in exchange, he poured God’s goodness into us!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, I asked a group of fourth graders a few thought-provoking questions…”If you were given a million dollars to spend as you pleased, what would you buy? If you could change places with any person, who would it be? If you could be any animal in the world, what would you choose?” The point of this exercise was to get the kids thinking about their choices.
The answers were interesting – and even sweet. Three of the seven children said they would give some of their $1 million to the poor…and then spend the rest on fun things like cars, houses and land. Two boys said they would not trade places with anyone…they are perfectly content with who they are and the life they have. And one girl (who said she would spend her money on land and horses) said she wished to be a horse. But the best answer of the morning came when I asked the kids who among them had given his/her heart to Jesus…and every single hand in the class was raised.
We talked at length today about how Jesus was sinless…and how He chose to take OUR sins upon himself to free us of their burden. We talked about what this cost Jesus…and whether or not we could have physically endured what Christ did. We also talked about how giving our heart to Jesus is not enough…we “have to walk the walk, not just talk the talk,” as one student put it.
I have to say, I was humbled by how these mostly-10-year-old kids seemed to understand the story of “Good Friday” and its events…as well as the crucifixion and what this means for each of us. The theme of our lesson was choices, and I stressed to each person present how important it is for us to choose to put our Christian faith into action. And this is also the theme of this scriptural message from Paul to the Corinthians.
As I shared with the students this morning, there is a difference between giving your heart to Jesus and living for Him - and demonstrating Christian faith and the teachings of Christ afterwards. Baptism doesn’t “save” us and is not a prerequisite for getting into heaven. The thief on the cross who believed in Jesus proved that. But as Paul points out, Jesus exchanged our sin for God’s goodness…and we are expected to demonstrate this to others…every day, in every thought, word and action. Will we make mistakes? You betcha! Must we strive to continually do better? Absolutely.
Are you ready to live out your faith and salvation in this manner? I surely hope so! The start of Holy Week is the perfect time for us to renew our commitment to live for Jesus. There is NO WAY we can ever repay Him for all that he has done for us…but we can make our best effort to live in God’s goodness and share Christ’s message with others. Scriptures tell us that Jesus humbled Himself on our behalf. Isn’t it time we swallowed our pride and did whatever He asks of us? Will this be the week that you begin?
©2016 Debbie Robus
We are Christ’s ambassadors. God is using us to speak to you: we beg you, as though Christ himself were here pleading with you, receive the love he offers you—be reconciled to God. For God took the sinless Christ and poured into him our sins. Then, in exchange, he poured God’s goodness into us!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, I asked a group of fourth graders a few thought-provoking questions…”If you were given a million dollars to spend as you pleased, what would you buy? If you could change places with any person, who would it be? If you could be any animal in the world, what would you choose?” The point of this exercise was to get the kids thinking about their choices.
The answers were interesting – and even sweet. Three of the seven children said they would give some of their $1 million to the poor…and then spend the rest on fun things like cars, houses and land. Two boys said they would not trade places with anyone…they are perfectly content with who they are and the life they have. And one girl (who said she would spend her money on land and horses) said she wished to be a horse. But the best answer of the morning came when I asked the kids who among them had given his/her heart to Jesus…and every single hand in the class was raised.
We talked at length today about how Jesus was sinless…and how He chose to take OUR sins upon himself to free us of their burden. We talked about what this cost Jesus…and whether or not we could have physically endured what Christ did. We also talked about how giving our heart to Jesus is not enough…we “have to walk the walk, not just talk the talk,” as one student put it.
I have to say, I was humbled by how these mostly-10-year-old kids seemed to understand the story of “Good Friday” and its events…as well as the crucifixion and what this means for each of us. The theme of our lesson was choices, and I stressed to each person present how important it is for us to choose to put our Christian faith into action. And this is also the theme of this scriptural message from Paul to the Corinthians.
As I shared with the students this morning, there is a difference between giving your heart to Jesus and living for Him - and demonstrating Christian faith and the teachings of Christ afterwards. Baptism doesn’t “save” us and is not a prerequisite for getting into heaven. The thief on the cross who believed in Jesus proved that. But as Paul points out, Jesus exchanged our sin for God’s goodness…and we are expected to demonstrate this to others…every day, in every thought, word and action. Will we make mistakes? You betcha! Must we strive to continually do better? Absolutely.
Are you ready to live out your faith and salvation in this manner? I surely hope so! The start of Holy Week is the perfect time for us to renew our commitment to live for Jesus. There is NO WAY we can ever repay Him for all that he has done for us…but we can make our best effort to live in God’s goodness and share Christ’s message with others. Scriptures tell us that Jesus humbled Himself on our behalf. Isn’t it time we swallowed our pride and did whatever He asks of us? Will this be the week that you begin?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 19, 2016
2 Corinthians 5:14b-19
Since we believe that Christ died for all of us, we should also believe that we have died to the old life we used to live. He died for all so that all who live—having received eternal life from him—might live no longer for themselves, to please themselves, but to spend their lives pleasing Christ who died and rose again for them.
So stop evaluating Christians by what the world thinks about them or by what they seem to be like on the outside. Once I mistakenly thought of Christ that way, merely as a human being like myself. How differently I feel now! When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As I checked out at the grocery store the other day, I thought I recognized the man in line ahead of me. I wasn’t sure, so I didn’t speak to him…but he seemed very familiar. If I was right, I remember him as a very nice, kind, Christian man. However, the clerk was visibly rattled as he walked away – and she said he had been a total grump and had almost been downright rude to her. I told her that I thought I recognized him…and he was actually a very nice man who must be having a terribly bad day. She thanked me for being polite and said I “more made up for” his unpleasantness…and I did my best to put her back in a good mood.
The thing is…people are watching…and some have pretty long memories. A lot of folks will judge us and “peg” us in one way or another based on a single experience – or prior history. And we do this, too. We are often astounded to find that the person we could not stand in childhood, high school or our early adult life is now someone we really like – or vice versa. We could all probably note someone who experienced something traumatic or life-changing…and it seemed to be a real turning point in his/her life…and a personality changer, as well. Surely you have said of someone, “He/she is not even the same person I used to know!”
Can people really change? Absolutely! Unfortunately, these changes are not always positive. But when JESUS transforms someone from the inside out, the results are generally – and astoundingly – good ones. Some people change when they claim salvation in Jesus. For others, the shift often occurs after some life-altering event. Some are changed following a health scare, the loss of loved ones, or a major blow - like the loss of a job. Others are changed by the unfair judgment and criticism of others…or personal neglect. I think of how my mentor, Mrs. Peggy, developed such a tremendous visitation ministry after her own mother-in-law was virtually ignored by her church family when she became ill, and ultimately died.
The point is this…we don’t have to wait for a life-changing event to become the “new creature in Christ” that He has called us to be. We can evaluate our lives and make necessary adjustments today. It doesn’t matter what others think of us…or what we think of other people. What matters is what Jesus thinks! The U.S. Army used to have a slogan that said…“Be all that you can be.” Are you all that you can be for Jesus? Even if you surrendered your heart to Him decades ago…did you truly change from the inside out? You can still do this…and there is no better time than TODAY!
Stop judging others based on past history or outward appearances…and stop living like the “old you!” Be the new creature that Jesus has created…and look for this in others, as well. We may still occasionally have a bad day and show that “old side” to someone else. But with God’s help, we can transform ourselves more and more each day into the Disciple He intended us to be. Everything old IS new with Jesus. It’s time we lived this truth each and every day. How are you doing?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Since we believe that Christ died for all of us, we should also believe that we have died to the old life we used to live. He died for all so that all who live—having received eternal life from him—might live no longer for themselves, to please themselves, but to spend their lives pleasing Christ who died and rose again for them.
So stop evaluating Christians by what the world thinks about them or by what they seem to be like on the outside. Once I mistakenly thought of Christ that way, merely as a human being like myself. How differently I feel now! When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As I checked out at the grocery store the other day, I thought I recognized the man in line ahead of me. I wasn’t sure, so I didn’t speak to him…but he seemed very familiar. If I was right, I remember him as a very nice, kind, Christian man. However, the clerk was visibly rattled as he walked away – and she said he had been a total grump and had almost been downright rude to her. I told her that I thought I recognized him…and he was actually a very nice man who must be having a terribly bad day. She thanked me for being polite and said I “more made up for” his unpleasantness…and I did my best to put her back in a good mood.
The thing is…people are watching…and some have pretty long memories. A lot of folks will judge us and “peg” us in one way or another based on a single experience – or prior history. And we do this, too. We are often astounded to find that the person we could not stand in childhood, high school or our early adult life is now someone we really like – or vice versa. We could all probably note someone who experienced something traumatic or life-changing…and it seemed to be a real turning point in his/her life…and a personality changer, as well. Surely you have said of someone, “He/she is not even the same person I used to know!”
Can people really change? Absolutely! Unfortunately, these changes are not always positive. But when JESUS transforms someone from the inside out, the results are generally – and astoundingly – good ones. Some people change when they claim salvation in Jesus. For others, the shift often occurs after some life-altering event. Some are changed following a health scare, the loss of loved ones, or a major blow - like the loss of a job. Others are changed by the unfair judgment and criticism of others…or personal neglect. I think of how my mentor, Mrs. Peggy, developed such a tremendous visitation ministry after her own mother-in-law was virtually ignored by her church family when she became ill, and ultimately died.
The point is this…we don’t have to wait for a life-changing event to become the “new creature in Christ” that He has called us to be. We can evaluate our lives and make necessary adjustments today. It doesn’t matter what others think of us…or what we think of other people. What matters is what Jesus thinks! The U.S. Army used to have a slogan that said…“Be all that you can be.” Are you all that you can be for Jesus? Even if you surrendered your heart to Him decades ago…did you truly change from the inside out? You can still do this…and there is no better time than TODAY!
Stop judging others based on past history or outward appearances…and stop living like the “old you!” Be the new creature that Jesus has created…and look for this in others, as well. We may still occasionally have a bad day and show that “old side” to someone else. But with God’s help, we can transform ourselves more and more each day into the Disciple He intended us to be. Everything old IS new with Jesus. It’s time we lived this truth each and every day. How are you doing?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 18, 2016
John 14:15-16
It is because of this solemn fear of the Lord, which is ever present in our minds, that we work so hard to win others. God knows our hearts, that they are pure in this matter, and I hope that, deep within, you really know it too.
Are we trying to pat ourselves on the back again? No, I am giving you some good ammunition! You can use this on those preachers of yours who brag about how well they look and preach but don’t have true and honest hearts. You can boast about us that we, at least, are well intentioned and honest.
Are we insane to say such things about ourselves? If so, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If you saw something happening that could potentially harm a person you know and love, you would tell him/her…right? Let’s say your friend was out on the lake in a boat, and you knew that a storm was headed toward them. Even if you felt like this person might have access to weather radar, you would probably phone or text him/her and say, “Heads up! A storm is coming!”…just to be sure and safe! You would not be doing this to be a “know-it-all”…you would be trying to keep your friend or loved one from getting hurt in a storm!
Suppose you saw someone about to step in a hole. You could keep quiet and vow not to meddle…or you could speak up and prevent a potential disaster – or this person being injured. Which would you choose?
This seems like a no-brainer. But getting involved can sometimes be a slippery slope. We could easily be labeled as one who meddles…or people could decide we are arrogant and/or condescending – or that we don’t have all of the facts. We have to prayerfully work at letting others know that we care…that we are not acting out of a sense of superiority, but rather from our heart and a desire for them to enjoy God’s best – and we have to sincerely mean what we say!
How do we accomplish this? We must first remind ourselves that people don’t care what we know until they know that we care. Let’s say that a dear friend of mine who I trust tells me she thinks I have misjudged a situation and have blown it totally out of proportion. I would probably listen to her and interpret this comment as one offered in love and kindness. But if someone I barely know said this to me, I would most likely be insulted and consider it a criticism – and meddling on his/her part!
Even with close, dear friends and loved ones, we must temper our thoughts and actions – and always ask God…”Am I saying/doing the right thing?” We want to be good Disciples of Christ…we want to encourage others and stand up for God’s commandments and the teachings of Jesus. But there is a right and wrong way to do these things…and it only takes one act of arrogance or criticism to ruin our witness with that person – possibly forever.
So guard your heart – and your words and actions. Prayerfully ask God to show you what to say and do…how to demonstrate the love of Jesus to others - and when it is appropriate to speak up about something. Ask Him to guide you and give you wisdom, tact, and the ability to convey genuine concern and care to others. Ask God to help you develop a heart for His children - all of them - and to always act and speak with sincerity and Christian love.
There will be times when we will still miss the mark – or someone will misinterpret our most sincere comments and actions. But when we focus on making a difference, rather than making a point – and seek God’s wisdom in all of these things – we have a far better shot of getting it right. And shouldn’t that be our goal?
©2016 Debbie Robus
It is because of this solemn fear of the Lord, which is ever present in our minds, that we work so hard to win others. God knows our hearts, that they are pure in this matter, and I hope that, deep within, you really know it too.
Are we trying to pat ourselves on the back again? No, I am giving you some good ammunition! You can use this on those preachers of yours who brag about how well they look and preach but don’t have true and honest hearts. You can boast about us that we, at least, are well intentioned and honest.
Are we insane to say such things about ourselves? If so, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If you saw something happening that could potentially harm a person you know and love, you would tell him/her…right? Let’s say your friend was out on the lake in a boat, and you knew that a storm was headed toward them. Even if you felt like this person might have access to weather radar, you would probably phone or text him/her and say, “Heads up! A storm is coming!”…just to be sure and safe! You would not be doing this to be a “know-it-all”…you would be trying to keep your friend or loved one from getting hurt in a storm!
Suppose you saw someone about to step in a hole. You could keep quiet and vow not to meddle…or you could speak up and prevent a potential disaster – or this person being injured. Which would you choose?
This seems like a no-brainer. But getting involved can sometimes be a slippery slope. We could easily be labeled as one who meddles…or people could decide we are arrogant and/or condescending – or that we don’t have all of the facts. We have to prayerfully work at letting others know that we care…that we are not acting out of a sense of superiority, but rather from our heart and a desire for them to enjoy God’s best – and we have to sincerely mean what we say!
How do we accomplish this? We must first remind ourselves that people don’t care what we know until they know that we care. Let’s say that a dear friend of mine who I trust tells me she thinks I have misjudged a situation and have blown it totally out of proportion. I would probably listen to her and interpret this comment as one offered in love and kindness. But if someone I barely know said this to me, I would most likely be insulted and consider it a criticism – and meddling on his/her part!
Even with close, dear friends and loved ones, we must temper our thoughts and actions – and always ask God…”Am I saying/doing the right thing?” We want to be good Disciples of Christ…we want to encourage others and stand up for God’s commandments and the teachings of Jesus. But there is a right and wrong way to do these things…and it only takes one act of arrogance or criticism to ruin our witness with that person – possibly forever.
So guard your heart – and your words and actions. Prayerfully ask God to show you what to say and do…how to demonstrate the love of Jesus to others - and when it is appropriate to speak up about something. Ask Him to guide you and give you wisdom, tact, and the ability to convey genuine concern and care to others. Ask God to help you develop a heart for His children - all of them - and to always act and speak with sincerity and Christian love.
There will be times when we will still miss the mark – or someone will misinterpret our most sincere comments and actions. But when we focus on making a difference, rather than making a point – and seek God’s wisdom in all of these things – we have a far better shot of getting it right. And shouldn’t that be our goal?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 17, 2016
2 Corinthians 5:6-10
Now we look forward with confidence to our heavenly bodies, realizing that every moment we spend in these earthly bodies is time spent away from our eternal home in heaven with Jesus. We know these things are true by believing, not by seeing. And we are not afraid but are quite content to die, for then we will be at home with the Lord. So our aim is to please him always in everything we do, whether we are here in this body or away from this body and with him in heaven. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged and have our lives laid bare—before him. Each of us will receive whatever he deserves for the good or bad things he has done in his earthly body.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Spring Break is upon us…and for some of you, it may already be happening. I hear people talk all the time about longing for the beach…or a tropical island. Some prefer a cruise. And in light of all that we have experienced in recent months, more than a few people have said to us, “You two need to get away somewhere and relax!”
Can I tell you something? I’ve been on those kinds of trips. I’ve played on a sandy beach and sailed on a cruise ship. I’ve skied in snowy mountains and relaxed by a roaring fire. I’ve enjoyed several days of dining out and having someone else do the cooking and dish washing. And what I have discovered is that, for me, nothing compares to home. And ultimately the only place the grass will truly be greener for me is in the real Paradise…Heaven!
Have you heard the phrase, “I need a vacation from my vacation!”? It’s true for many of us…the “earthly pleasures” we seek never quite satisfy. And they won’t – they can’t! Nothing will compare to what we experience in Heaven. But here’s the thing…what we do with our earthly time matters greatly. How we serve, how we react and respond…it all matters. If we mope around and gripe and complain about our everyday existence in this earthly life, we are not focused on pleasing God.
Our daily routine may be dull and boring…or fraught with disappointments and difficulties. Yes, there are horrific things happening all around us. Let’s be honest, this earthly life can be pretty crummy at times. But what matters is how we respond to our circumstances…what we show others. I am not suggesting that we be phonies…I am reminding us to stand strong in the LORD!
I know I am preaching to the choir in many instances…but I am also yanking some of us up by the bootstraps – myself included! It is time for us to get up and get going…to ask, “What would you have me do with this, LORD?” The time is NOW to build our “portfolio” for Heaven…to fill it with the countless ways that we have glorified God and demonstrated His love and care through the teachings of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross for each of us.
There is nothing wrong with earthly vacations…or looking forward to them. But we must always be even more focused on our final destination – and how we prepare for Heaven. SOMEDAY, each one of us will stand at Heaven’s gate…present before God and accountable for everything we did – and didn’t do – on this earth. Your “ticket to Paradise” will be punched…but not before a “performance review” is conducted. What will you have to say for yourself…and what will God have to say to you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Now we look forward with confidence to our heavenly bodies, realizing that every moment we spend in these earthly bodies is time spent away from our eternal home in heaven with Jesus. We know these things are true by believing, not by seeing. And we are not afraid but are quite content to die, for then we will be at home with the Lord. So our aim is to please him always in everything we do, whether we are here in this body or away from this body and with him in heaven. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged and have our lives laid bare—before him. Each of us will receive whatever he deserves for the good or bad things he has done in his earthly body.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Spring Break is upon us…and for some of you, it may already be happening. I hear people talk all the time about longing for the beach…or a tropical island. Some prefer a cruise. And in light of all that we have experienced in recent months, more than a few people have said to us, “You two need to get away somewhere and relax!”
Can I tell you something? I’ve been on those kinds of trips. I’ve played on a sandy beach and sailed on a cruise ship. I’ve skied in snowy mountains and relaxed by a roaring fire. I’ve enjoyed several days of dining out and having someone else do the cooking and dish washing. And what I have discovered is that, for me, nothing compares to home. And ultimately the only place the grass will truly be greener for me is in the real Paradise…Heaven!
Have you heard the phrase, “I need a vacation from my vacation!”? It’s true for many of us…the “earthly pleasures” we seek never quite satisfy. And they won’t – they can’t! Nothing will compare to what we experience in Heaven. But here’s the thing…what we do with our earthly time matters greatly. How we serve, how we react and respond…it all matters. If we mope around and gripe and complain about our everyday existence in this earthly life, we are not focused on pleasing God.
Our daily routine may be dull and boring…or fraught with disappointments and difficulties. Yes, there are horrific things happening all around us. Let’s be honest, this earthly life can be pretty crummy at times. But what matters is how we respond to our circumstances…what we show others. I am not suggesting that we be phonies…I am reminding us to stand strong in the LORD!
I know I am preaching to the choir in many instances…but I am also yanking some of us up by the bootstraps – myself included! It is time for us to get up and get going…to ask, “What would you have me do with this, LORD?” The time is NOW to build our “portfolio” for Heaven…to fill it with the countless ways that we have glorified God and demonstrated His love and care through the teachings of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross for each of us.
There is nothing wrong with earthly vacations…or looking forward to them. But we must always be even more focused on our final destination – and how we prepare for Heaven. SOMEDAY, each one of us will stand at Heaven’s gate…present before God and accountable for everything we did – and didn’t do – on this earth. Your “ticket to Paradise” will be punched…but not before a “performance review” is conducted. What will you have to say for yourself…and what will God have to say to you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 16, 2016
2 Corinthians 5:1-5
For instance, we know that when these bodies of ours are taken down like tents and folded away, they will be replaced by resurrection bodies in heaven—God-made, not handmade—and we’ll never have to relocate our “tents” again. Sometimes we can hardly wait to move—and so we cry out in frustration. Compared to what’s coming, living conditions around here seem like a stopover in an unfurnished shack, and we’re tired of it! We’ve been given a glimpse of the real thing, our true home, our resurrection bodies! The Spirit of God whets our appetite by giving us a taste of what’s ahead. He puts a little of heaven in our hearts so that we’ll never settle for less.
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.
Timothy’s Sunday school teachers have done an excellent job of teaching him about Heaven…so good that he has said more than once, “I can’t wait to go there!” I reminded him that we will go when God is ready for us…but that meanwhile, we have things to do here - like grow up, go to school, have families, get jobs and serve others. He agrees with me…but I honestly do not think this child fears Heaven in the least.
This is heady stuff for an almost-seven-year-old. But then, this little boy has experienced more death in the last three years than most children his age…my grandmother, several pets, and the recent passing of Greg’s brother, Bruce (who was Timmy’s friend), and my mother – his Granny. He is truly comforted to picture them in Heaven…as are we.
I like the thought that God whets our appetite for Heaven by giving us glimpses of what it will be like…a beautiful sunset…a gorgeous day spent on the lake or in the woods…the faces of our children…even the striking images that have appeared this week on Facebook of wall clouds and funnel clouds as storms moved across our state. A friend shared video today of his daughter’s hiking trip in Patagonia, and I marveled at the mountains and glaciers. Greg and I watched a “Smithsonian Channel” program of aerial footage of some of America’s most beautiful places, and we were in awe of the spectacular scenery.
Someone does something kind for us out of the blue, and we are reminded of the blessings of God. We look at the intricacies of a newborn baby … the incredible markings of our pet or another animal…or the amazing details of spring flowers…and we think, “Surely this is a touch of Heaven on Earth.”
I don’t know about you, but I believe that Heaven is all that the Bible says it is…and more. I believe that for every beautiful experience I have on this earth…I will have ten thousand times more when I get to Heaven. Yes, there are days when I want to “fold up my tent” and just “get on with it!” But as I told Timothy…God is not ready for me yet. I have work to do…people to love, service to offer, and sunsets and beauty of all kinds still to enjoy!
Having some idea of what lies ahead does make this earthly life sweeter…and I thank God for this gift – and for all of His blessings. I’m Heaven bound…and that makes everything better! What about you?
© Debbie Robus
For instance, we know that when these bodies of ours are taken down like tents and folded away, they will be replaced by resurrection bodies in heaven—God-made, not handmade—and we’ll never have to relocate our “tents” again. Sometimes we can hardly wait to move—and so we cry out in frustration. Compared to what’s coming, living conditions around here seem like a stopover in an unfurnished shack, and we’re tired of it! We’ve been given a glimpse of the real thing, our true home, our resurrection bodies! The Spirit of God whets our appetite by giving us a taste of what’s ahead. He puts a little of heaven in our hearts so that we’ll never settle for less.
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.
Timothy’s Sunday school teachers have done an excellent job of teaching him about Heaven…so good that he has said more than once, “I can’t wait to go there!” I reminded him that we will go when God is ready for us…but that meanwhile, we have things to do here - like grow up, go to school, have families, get jobs and serve others. He agrees with me…but I honestly do not think this child fears Heaven in the least.
This is heady stuff for an almost-seven-year-old. But then, this little boy has experienced more death in the last three years than most children his age…my grandmother, several pets, and the recent passing of Greg’s brother, Bruce (who was Timmy’s friend), and my mother – his Granny. He is truly comforted to picture them in Heaven…as are we.
I like the thought that God whets our appetite for Heaven by giving us glimpses of what it will be like…a beautiful sunset…a gorgeous day spent on the lake or in the woods…the faces of our children…even the striking images that have appeared this week on Facebook of wall clouds and funnel clouds as storms moved across our state. A friend shared video today of his daughter’s hiking trip in Patagonia, and I marveled at the mountains and glaciers. Greg and I watched a “Smithsonian Channel” program of aerial footage of some of America’s most beautiful places, and we were in awe of the spectacular scenery.
Someone does something kind for us out of the blue, and we are reminded of the blessings of God. We look at the intricacies of a newborn baby … the incredible markings of our pet or another animal…or the amazing details of spring flowers…and we think, “Surely this is a touch of Heaven on Earth.”
I don’t know about you, but I believe that Heaven is all that the Bible says it is…and more. I believe that for every beautiful experience I have on this earth…I will have ten thousand times more when I get to Heaven. Yes, there are days when I want to “fold up my tent” and just “get on with it!” But as I told Timothy…God is not ready for me yet. I have work to do…people to love, service to offer, and sunsets and beauty of all kinds still to enjoy!
Having some idea of what lies ahead does make this earthly life sweeter…and I thank God for this gift – and for all of His blessings. I’m Heaven bound…and that makes everything better! What about you?
© Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 15, 2016
2 Corinthians 4:3-4
If our Message is obscure to anyone, it’s not because we’re holding back in any way. No, it’s because these other people are looking or going the wrong way and refuse to give it serious attention. All they have eyes for is the fashionable god of darkness. They think he can give them what they want, and that they won’t have to bother believing a Truth they can’t see. They’re stone-blind to the dayspring brightness of the Message that shines with Christ, who gives us the best picture of God we’ll ever get.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
How many times have you been told that in order to lose weight – or even maintain your current body mass – you must take in fewer calories than you are burning. Yet we continue to eat whatever tastes good – and put off exercising until tomorrow, next week, next year – or never! And we wonder why our clothes appear to be shrinking! We have convinced ourselves that it’s not us…it must be the clothes dryer!
This is how we often act with God. We’ve heard the Word of God…we know how He works. We understand on some level that God’s will for our lives is perfect and right – even when it doesn’t seem easy or go like we intended. We believe God when He says that He will answer our prayers (but we ignore the part about it happening when they fit within His parameters!). We never fail to call on Him whenever we need something – anything!
But here’s the thing…we have “selective hearing” when it comes to God. We pick and choose what to engage in and what to trust…and WE try to decide when it is important to follow God closely – and when it is okay to “bend the rules” a bit. And others pick up on this. They see how we treat our relationship with God…and they pay very close attention to what we are doing. “If it’s good enough for Joe or Kate…it’s surely okay for me, too,” they assume. So we perpetuate the mistaken idea that it’s acceptable to design Christ’s message to suit our own desires and agendas. Not only are we deluded in this thinking, but we misrepresent Jesus to others, as well…and give flawed witness to what it means to be His disciple.
We see this everywhere we look. People are loudly claiming the name of Jesus while acting like fools…misbehaving in ways that are both appalling – and sadly, somewhat mainstreamed. We’ve let down our guard and become complacent…about everything from foul language to physically abusing people who don’t agree with us. And it needs to stop.
We know better…it’s time to DO better! Just like we cannot keep eating whatever and whenever we want and fit into our clothes, we can’t “have it our way” and call ourselves honest and faithful disciples of Christ. It’s time to open our eyes to the truths of Jesus – and the blessings that He offers to us when we genuinely follow Him. I’m more than ready…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
If our Message is obscure to anyone, it’s not because we’re holding back in any way. No, it’s because these other people are looking or going the wrong way and refuse to give it serious attention. All they have eyes for is the fashionable god of darkness. They think he can give them what they want, and that they won’t have to bother believing a Truth they can’t see. They’re stone-blind to the dayspring brightness of the Message that shines with Christ, who gives us the best picture of God we’ll ever get.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
How many times have you been told that in order to lose weight – or even maintain your current body mass – you must take in fewer calories than you are burning. Yet we continue to eat whatever tastes good – and put off exercising until tomorrow, next week, next year – or never! And we wonder why our clothes appear to be shrinking! We have convinced ourselves that it’s not us…it must be the clothes dryer!
This is how we often act with God. We’ve heard the Word of God…we know how He works. We understand on some level that God’s will for our lives is perfect and right – even when it doesn’t seem easy or go like we intended. We believe God when He says that He will answer our prayers (but we ignore the part about it happening when they fit within His parameters!). We never fail to call on Him whenever we need something – anything!
But here’s the thing…we have “selective hearing” when it comes to God. We pick and choose what to engage in and what to trust…and WE try to decide when it is important to follow God closely – and when it is okay to “bend the rules” a bit. And others pick up on this. They see how we treat our relationship with God…and they pay very close attention to what we are doing. “If it’s good enough for Joe or Kate…it’s surely okay for me, too,” they assume. So we perpetuate the mistaken idea that it’s acceptable to design Christ’s message to suit our own desires and agendas. Not only are we deluded in this thinking, but we misrepresent Jesus to others, as well…and give flawed witness to what it means to be His disciple.
We see this everywhere we look. People are loudly claiming the name of Jesus while acting like fools…misbehaving in ways that are both appalling – and sadly, somewhat mainstreamed. We’ve let down our guard and become complacent…about everything from foul language to physically abusing people who don’t agree with us. And it needs to stop.
We know better…it’s time to DO better! Just like we cannot keep eating whatever and whenever we want and fit into our clothes, we can’t “have it our way” and call ourselves honest and faithful disciples of Christ. It’s time to open our eyes to the truths of Jesus – and the blessings that He offers to us when we genuinely follow Him. I’m more than ready…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 14, 2016
2 Corinthians 11:1-3
Will you put up with a little foolish aside from me? Please, just for a moment. The thing that has me so upset is that I care about you so much—this is the passion of God burning inside me! I promised your hand in marriage to Christ, presented you as a pure virgin to her husband. And now I’m afraid that exactly as the Snake seduced Eve with his smooth patter, you are being lured away from the simple purity of your love for Christ.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you received a telephone call from “the IRS” declaring that you are about to be slapped with a lawsuit and insisting that you call a certain number and provide personal information? Of course, it’s a scam. The IRS would never call and tell you such a thing. But it sounds so official, doesn’t it?!
When I was probably about 10, I got a new bicycle. A boy who lived several blocks away from us came along one day and asked if he could ride the bike. I told him he could…and he took off down the street! My dad caught up with him on the other side of town…the bike was returned…and I was told that I was not to allow anyone to ride my bike except my siblings or our closest neighbor friends.
We’ve all seen the stories on television of lonely people who were duped by an online love interest who bilked them out of their life savings…and this “boyfriend/girlfriend” turned out to be some con artist in Nigeria or somewhere who stole the identity of a real person and impersonated him/her to elicit the money.
My point in sharing these three illustrations is that there is something in all of us that wants to always believe the best in people. And yes, many of us can be gullible at times…myself included. But what we often fail to realize is that Satan uses these situations to get us into trouble. Not only could we lose our life savings, our property…or our identity…we could become so discouraged that we would turn away from God…or begin to behave in an ungodly manner.
If we are not careful, we could get swept up into a frenzy of falsehoods, rumors and innuendos…and we could become accomplices who engage others to join in these dishonest activities. We could easily stoop to Satan’s level…and essentially never know what hit us!
So we must stay awake and alert. We must focus on God and the things that please Him. We must be kind to others…but we must also pray for wisdom and discernment, so that we do not fall prey to the wiles of evil or deceptive people and circumstances. We must encourage others not to engage in divisive behaviors or illicit activities…but rather, to seek God and demonstrate what Jesus taught us - love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, and unity.
Do not be mistaken…the devil is incredibly crafty and clever. He has skills! He can worm his way into our hearts and minds faster than you can say “Bob’s your uncle!” He will try to convince you that Jesus wants you to do these things – that He has ordained them! Don’t grow complacent and think this can’t happen to you. Don’t drop your guard! Stay close to God…listen for His voice…pray always…and use your head! Stop and ask, “What would Jesus do?” or “What would He have me do in this situation?” And if you have been drawn into something you know is not sanctioned by God, get out…now…and ask Him to forgive you and set you on the right path again.
The Apostle Paul had it right…we have been washed spotless by the blood of Jesus and become part of His church – His “bride.” We cannot risk staining our “wedding garments” now! Wouldn’t you agree?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Will you put up with a little foolish aside from me? Please, just for a moment. The thing that has me so upset is that I care about you so much—this is the passion of God burning inside me! I promised your hand in marriage to Christ, presented you as a pure virgin to her husband. And now I’m afraid that exactly as the Snake seduced Eve with his smooth patter, you are being lured away from the simple purity of your love for Christ.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you received a telephone call from “the IRS” declaring that you are about to be slapped with a lawsuit and insisting that you call a certain number and provide personal information? Of course, it’s a scam. The IRS would never call and tell you such a thing. But it sounds so official, doesn’t it?!
When I was probably about 10, I got a new bicycle. A boy who lived several blocks away from us came along one day and asked if he could ride the bike. I told him he could…and he took off down the street! My dad caught up with him on the other side of town…the bike was returned…and I was told that I was not to allow anyone to ride my bike except my siblings or our closest neighbor friends.
We’ve all seen the stories on television of lonely people who were duped by an online love interest who bilked them out of their life savings…and this “boyfriend/girlfriend” turned out to be some con artist in Nigeria or somewhere who stole the identity of a real person and impersonated him/her to elicit the money.
My point in sharing these three illustrations is that there is something in all of us that wants to always believe the best in people. And yes, many of us can be gullible at times…myself included. But what we often fail to realize is that Satan uses these situations to get us into trouble. Not only could we lose our life savings, our property…or our identity…we could become so discouraged that we would turn away from God…or begin to behave in an ungodly manner.
If we are not careful, we could get swept up into a frenzy of falsehoods, rumors and innuendos…and we could become accomplices who engage others to join in these dishonest activities. We could easily stoop to Satan’s level…and essentially never know what hit us!
So we must stay awake and alert. We must focus on God and the things that please Him. We must be kind to others…but we must also pray for wisdom and discernment, so that we do not fall prey to the wiles of evil or deceptive people and circumstances. We must encourage others not to engage in divisive behaviors or illicit activities…but rather, to seek God and demonstrate what Jesus taught us - love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, and unity.
Do not be mistaken…the devil is incredibly crafty and clever. He has skills! He can worm his way into our hearts and minds faster than you can say “Bob’s your uncle!” He will try to convince you that Jesus wants you to do these things – that He has ordained them! Don’t grow complacent and think this can’t happen to you. Don’t drop your guard! Stay close to God…listen for His voice…pray always…and use your head! Stop and ask, “What would Jesus do?” or “What would He have me do in this situation?” And if you have been drawn into something you know is not sanctioned by God, get out…now…and ask Him to forgive you and set you on the right path again.
The Apostle Paul had it right…we have been washed spotless by the blood of Jesus and become part of His church – His “bride.” We cannot risk staining our “wedding garments” now! Wouldn’t you agree?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 13, 2016
1 Timothy 2:1-3
The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning I assisted with the 6th grade Sunday school class. The lesson was from John 12, where Jesus washed the feet of His disciples…even Judas, His subsequent betrayer. The point was made that we cannot pick and choose who we will serve, if we are truly Christ’s disciples. And as the Apostle Paul notes in these verses to Timothy, we must also pray for everyone.
I love how this translation says to “pray every way you know how.” Lately, there have been circumstances in my life where I found it hard to pray for certain people and situations…and yet, I knew that prayer was the only “resource” I had – and truly all that I needed. God answered, and I once again laughed at how I had worried needlessly. Here’s one instance…my husband, Greg, had surgery on Tuesday that led to the need for another procedure two days later…in another city more than an hour away.
The forecast was for us to receive as much as nine inches of rain, which could have led to flooded roads and possibly prevented us from getting to the hospital. I asked for prayer on Facebook, and one friend replied, “Today is Tuesday…don't project what will be [happening on] Thursday. It's in the hands of YKW (You Know Who). Prayers.” And she was right! The rains came – but there were no floods in our driving area. We made it to the hospital and back in one piece, and the procedure went better than expected. All is well.
God answered our prayers. He has answered all of my prayers perfectly. Notice I did not say that God always answers as I prefer! But I know in my heart that He has answered according to His perfect plans…and He will continue to do so. I am learning to live “simply, in humble contemplation”…and to pray for everyone and everything - in every way I know how! What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning I assisted with the 6th grade Sunday school class. The lesson was from John 12, where Jesus washed the feet of His disciples…even Judas, His subsequent betrayer. The point was made that we cannot pick and choose who we will serve, if we are truly Christ’s disciples. And as the Apostle Paul notes in these verses to Timothy, we must also pray for everyone.
I love how this translation says to “pray every way you know how.” Lately, there have been circumstances in my life where I found it hard to pray for certain people and situations…and yet, I knew that prayer was the only “resource” I had – and truly all that I needed. God answered, and I once again laughed at how I had worried needlessly. Here’s one instance…my husband, Greg, had surgery on Tuesday that led to the need for another procedure two days later…in another city more than an hour away.
The forecast was for us to receive as much as nine inches of rain, which could have led to flooded roads and possibly prevented us from getting to the hospital. I asked for prayer on Facebook, and one friend replied, “Today is Tuesday…don't project what will be [happening on] Thursday. It's in the hands of YKW (You Know Who). Prayers.” And she was right! The rains came – but there were no floods in our driving area. We made it to the hospital and back in one piece, and the procedure went better than expected. All is well.
God answered our prayers. He has answered all of my prayers perfectly. Notice I did not say that God always answers as I prefer! But I know in my heart that He has answered according to His perfect plans…and He will continue to do so. I am learning to live “simply, in humble contemplation”…and to pray for everyone and everything - in every way I know how! What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 12, 2016
1 Peter 2:21-25
This is the kind of life you’ve been invited into, the kind of life Christ lived. He suffered everything that came his way so you would know that it could be done, and also know how to do it, step-by-step.
He never did one thing wrong,
Not once said anything amiss.
They called him every name in the book and he said nothing back. He suffered in silence, content to let God set things right. He used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way. His wounds became your healing. You were lost sheep with no idea who you were or where you were going. Now you’re named and kept for good by the Shepherd of your souls.
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 will be honest…I am very concerned about the “Christians” in our country who are behaving in such a disruptive and divisive manner. My mother always said, “This is nothing new.” And truly, if you look back in history to the time of Jesus - and even beforehand - people have always fought, argued and called each other names. This is no excuse…it’s more a demonstration that we have not learned a whole lot from previous generations. And God must be so grieved over this.
Consider that God sacrificed His Only Son…He allowed Jesus to suffer – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Let it soak into your soul that He did all of this for each of us. And this is how we repay Him – by acting like ungrateful idiots!
When we come to a point where we really grasp what Jesus did for us in His time on earth, we ought to be incredibly humbled. To think of the healing that He accomplished on our behalf…how He rescued us like lost sheep – and named us –should be all of the incentive we ever need to fall to our feet and worship Him with all we’ve got. And we can! We just have to be thoughtful and careful…to watch what we say and do - and consider the ramifications.
We can do better than many are doing. Too many are like sheep who ambled off and got tangled in the briars. Intelligent, well-meaning, CHRISTIAN people have traveled so far off track and become so caught up in the hoopla and hype of many present-day situations that they have forgotten Whose they are – and how to act accordingly.
Let’s all take a collective breath and ask God to forgive us – for all of the ways that we fail Him each and every day. Let’s make a genuine promise to honor all that has been given to us – the sacrifices that Jesus made on our behalf and the blessings with which He covers us every single day. Let’s make a concerted effort to be the named sheep that He has healed and restored. And let’s begin today. Are you with me?
©2016 Debbie Robus
This is the kind of life you’ve been invited into, the kind of life Christ lived. He suffered everything that came his way so you would know that it could be done, and also know how to do it, step-by-step.
He never did one thing wrong,
Not once said anything amiss.
They called him every name in the book and he said nothing back. He suffered in silence, content to let God set things right. He used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way. His wounds became your healing. You were lost sheep with no idea who you were or where you were going. Now you’re named and kept for good by the Shepherd of your souls.
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 will be honest…I am very concerned about the “Christians” in our country who are behaving in such a disruptive and divisive manner. My mother always said, “This is nothing new.” And truly, if you look back in history to the time of Jesus - and even beforehand - people have always fought, argued and called each other names. This is no excuse…it’s more a demonstration that we have not learned a whole lot from previous generations. And God must be so grieved over this.
Consider that God sacrificed His Only Son…He allowed Jesus to suffer – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Let it soak into your soul that He did all of this for each of us. And this is how we repay Him – by acting like ungrateful idiots!
When we come to a point where we really grasp what Jesus did for us in His time on earth, we ought to be incredibly humbled. To think of the healing that He accomplished on our behalf…how He rescued us like lost sheep – and named us –should be all of the incentive we ever need to fall to our feet and worship Him with all we’ve got. And we can! We just have to be thoughtful and careful…to watch what we say and do - and consider the ramifications.
We can do better than many are doing. Too many are like sheep who ambled off and got tangled in the briars. Intelligent, well-meaning, CHRISTIAN people have traveled so far off track and become so caught up in the hoopla and hype of many present-day situations that they have forgotten Whose they are – and how to act accordingly.
Let’s all take a collective breath and ask God to forgive us – for all of the ways that we fail Him each and every day. Let’s make a genuine promise to honor all that has been given to us – the sacrifices that Jesus made on our behalf and the blessings with which He covers us every single day. Let’s make a concerted effort to be the named sheep that He has healed and restored. And let’s begin today. Are you with me?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 11, 2016
1 Kings 4:26-34
Solomon owned forty thousand chariot horses and employed twelve thousand charioteers. Each month the tax officials provided food for King Solomon and his court, also the barley and straw for the royal horses in the stables.
God gave Solomon great wisdom and understanding, and a mind with broad interests. In fact, his wisdom excelled that of any of the wise men of the East, including those in Egypt. He was wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol; and he was famous among all the surrounding nations. He was the author of 3,000 proverbs and wrote 1,005 songs. He was a great naturalist, with interest in animals, birds, snakes, fish, and trees—from the great cedars of Lebanon down to the tiny hyssop which grows in cracks in the wall. And kings from many lands sent their ambassadors to him for his advice.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Unless you live under a rock, you’ve undoubtedly heard more than one person talk about how great he/she is lately. The “news” has been filled with such proclamations…from a rapper who thinks he can “bring beautiful ideas to the world” if he can acquire $53 million and change from donors…to politicians who claim that God has blessed and ordained them to save our country…to countless pastors who are asking their congregants – and the world at large – to make “offerings” to enable them to purchase jets, homes, jewelry and other material luxuries that will “further the Kingdom of God” in some way.
I know…I don’t get it either! But here’s the thing. Look at all that King Solomon possessed. He was wealthy and prestigious. He was brilliant…well-rounded…and he apparently had common sense and understanding! Yes, Solomon was human – and if you study his life through the scriptures, you will see that he got a little too big for his britches and had to be taken down a notch or two at times. But God ordained Solomon and used him in spite of his occasional arrogance and foolishness.
If you have time, read the first few chapters of Ecclesiastes. King Solomon writes about all of the “virtues” and “things” that God gave him, such as wisdom, prosperity, work to do (and slaves to do it!), and more. And he concludes that these are all meaningless. In particular, start reading in Ecclesiastes 9, as Solomon begins to summarize what he has determined.
In Ecclesiastes 11:4-6, Solomon writes “If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done. God’s ways are as mysterious as the pathway of the wind and as the manner in which a human spirit is infused into the little body of a baby while it is yet in its mother’s womb. Keep on sowing your seed, for you never know which will grow—perhaps it all will.” And that is the point for today. God may not give us the wealth and wisdom of King Solomon, but He has planted seed in us that will grow according to His will – if we will allow it and do the work that God has ordained. We may never be celebrities on any scale. But God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things!
We don’t have to wait until we are out of school…married and/or settled in a relationship. We don’t have to have been a Christian for so many days/weeks/months/years…be debt free or have a decent amount of money to pay our bills with a little left over. We must start here…now…with what we have at this moment…and trust that God will make the difference. Because He WILL!
We may never be in the “King Solomon” category…but that doesn’t matter to God. He made us who we are and can use us to do great things in His name, regardless of our “status.” Are you ready to start “sowing seed” and let God work in and through you? Isn’t it time you were?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Solomon owned forty thousand chariot horses and employed twelve thousand charioteers. Each month the tax officials provided food for King Solomon and his court, also the barley and straw for the royal horses in the stables.
God gave Solomon great wisdom and understanding, and a mind with broad interests. In fact, his wisdom excelled that of any of the wise men of the East, including those in Egypt. He was wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol; and he was famous among all the surrounding nations. He was the author of 3,000 proverbs and wrote 1,005 songs. He was a great naturalist, with interest in animals, birds, snakes, fish, and trees—from the great cedars of Lebanon down to the tiny hyssop which grows in cracks in the wall. And kings from many lands sent their ambassadors to him for his advice.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Unless you live under a rock, you’ve undoubtedly heard more than one person talk about how great he/she is lately. The “news” has been filled with such proclamations…from a rapper who thinks he can “bring beautiful ideas to the world” if he can acquire $53 million and change from donors…to politicians who claim that God has blessed and ordained them to save our country…to countless pastors who are asking their congregants – and the world at large – to make “offerings” to enable them to purchase jets, homes, jewelry and other material luxuries that will “further the Kingdom of God” in some way.
I know…I don’t get it either! But here’s the thing. Look at all that King Solomon possessed. He was wealthy and prestigious. He was brilliant…well-rounded…and he apparently had common sense and understanding! Yes, Solomon was human – and if you study his life through the scriptures, you will see that he got a little too big for his britches and had to be taken down a notch or two at times. But God ordained Solomon and used him in spite of his occasional arrogance and foolishness.
If you have time, read the first few chapters of Ecclesiastes. King Solomon writes about all of the “virtues” and “things” that God gave him, such as wisdom, prosperity, work to do (and slaves to do it!), and more. And he concludes that these are all meaningless. In particular, start reading in Ecclesiastes 9, as Solomon begins to summarize what he has determined.
In Ecclesiastes 11:4-6, Solomon writes “If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done. God’s ways are as mysterious as the pathway of the wind and as the manner in which a human spirit is infused into the little body of a baby while it is yet in its mother’s womb. Keep on sowing your seed, for you never know which will grow—perhaps it all will.” And that is the point for today. God may not give us the wealth and wisdom of King Solomon, but He has planted seed in us that will grow according to His will – if we will allow it and do the work that God has ordained. We may never be celebrities on any scale. But God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things!
We don’t have to wait until we are out of school…married and/or settled in a relationship. We don’t have to have been a Christian for so many days/weeks/months/years…be debt free or have a decent amount of money to pay our bills with a little left over. We must start here…now…with what we have at this moment…and trust that God will make the difference. Because He WILL!
We may never be in the “King Solomon” category…but that doesn’t matter to God. He made us who we are and can use us to do great things in His name, regardless of our “status.” Are you ready to start “sowing seed” and let God work in and through you? Isn’t it time you were?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 9, 2016
1 John 5:5-10
The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus—the Divine Christ! He experienced a life-giving birth and a death-killing death. Not only birth from the womb, but baptismal birth of his ministry and sacrificial death. And all the while the Spirit is confirming the truth, the reality of God’s presence at Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion, bringing those occasions alive for us. A triple testimony: the Spirit, the Baptism, the Crucifixion. And the three in perfect agreement.
If we take human testimony at face value, how much more should we be reassured when God gives testimony as he does here, testifying concerning his Son.
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’m sure you have heard the phrase, “If you read it on the Internet, then it must be true!” This is said tongue-in-cheek, of course. But sadly, a lot of people “buy in” to the word of others – on a wide variety of topics! I was dismayed to hear some sixth-graders discussing politicians last week at church. I was disappointed by how (I’m sure with help from their parents) they appear to believe what these people are peddling…hook, line, and sinker. Never mind the name calling and infantile behaviors of some of these folks…these kids are “in” – and you can tell that they want to be just like the candidate their family is supporting.
So the question being asked in this scripture passage is this…”Why are we so eager to believe and support the word of mere human beings, yet we often fail to accept what God tells us – not once, but three times? Why will we accept the word of someone who says that the world is falling apart, and he/she knows how to fix it…but we don’t act like we believe that with God, all things are possible? Why do we laugh – and even cheer – when a politician berates, belittles or disparages others – as we fail to respect Jesus’ holy commandment to “love one another?”
Do we really know who Jesus is…and how He operates in our lives? If God spoke to us through Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion…and His Holy Spirit nudges our hearts and minds every day…why do we not believe that Jesus is the Son of God? “Oh, we DO believe this!” you may be saying. Really? Are you acting as if you believe it? Are you following God’s commandments, demonstrating love, forgiveness, grace, mercy and compassion to all other people? Are you living each and every day in a way that says to others, “Jesus is alive within me. His Holy Spirit flows through me every single day.”?
Many of us are terribly gullible and naïve. We are ready to believe anyone who comes along looking impressive and knowledgeable. We trust that whatever is placed before us – such as on the Internet – MUST be true (which would explain the picture I got last week on Facebook of a “nursing” mother rattlesnake with about a dozen “babies” laid out along her side!). We willingly step in line and follow a lot of people who are peddling nothing more than veritable “snake oil.” And yet, when presented with THREE testimonies to the sovereignty and supremacy of Jesus Christ, we act like we need more proof!
Misplaced priorities and allegiance? You tell me! Misguided loyalty? I’d say so! Are we failing to recognize Jesus for Who He really is? Unforgivable! It’s time to get real…about our faith…about who Jesus is in our heart and mind…and about how we live for Him. And it begins today. Are you ready to choose Jesus over the world at large? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus—the Divine Christ! He experienced a life-giving birth and a death-killing death. Not only birth from the womb, but baptismal birth of his ministry and sacrificial death. And all the while the Spirit is confirming the truth, the reality of God’s presence at Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion, bringing those occasions alive for us. A triple testimony: the Spirit, the Baptism, the Crucifixion. And the three in perfect agreement.
If we take human testimony at face value, how much more should we be reassured when God gives testimony as he does here, testifying concerning his Son.
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’m sure you have heard the phrase, “If you read it on the Internet, then it must be true!” This is said tongue-in-cheek, of course. But sadly, a lot of people “buy in” to the word of others – on a wide variety of topics! I was dismayed to hear some sixth-graders discussing politicians last week at church. I was disappointed by how (I’m sure with help from their parents) they appear to believe what these people are peddling…hook, line, and sinker. Never mind the name calling and infantile behaviors of some of these folks…these kids are “in” – and you can tell that they want to be just like the candidate their family is supporting.
So the question being asked in this scripture passage is this…”Why are we so eager to believe and support the word of mere human beings, yet we often fail to accept what God tells us – not once, but three times? Why will we accept the word of someone who says that the world is falling apart, and he/she knows how to fix it…but we don’t act like we believe that with God, all things are possible? Why do we laugh – and even cheer – when a politician berates, belittles or disparages others – as we fail to respect Jesus’ holy commandment to “love one another?”
Do we really know who Jesus is…and how He operates in our lives? If God spoke to us through Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion…and His Holy Spirit nudges our hearts and minds every day…why do we not believe that Jesus is the Son of God? “Oh, we DO believe this!” you may be saying. Really? Are you acting as if you believe it? Are you following God’s commandments, demonstrating love, forgiveness, grace, mercy and compassion to all other people? Are you living each and every day in a way that says to others, “Jesus is alive within me. His Holy Spirit flows through me every single day.”?
Many of us are terribly gullible and naïve. We are ready to believe anyone who comes along looking impressive and knowledgeable. We trust that whatever is placed before us – such as on the Internet – MUST be true (which would explain the picture I got last week on Facebook of a “nursing” mother rattlesnake with about a dozen “babies” laid out along her side!). We willingly step in line and follow a lot of people who are peddling nothing more than veritable “snake oil.” And yet, when presented with THREE testimonies to the sovereignty and supremacy of Jesus Christ, we act like we need more proof!
Misplaced priorities and allegiance? You tell me! Misguided loyalty? I’d say so! Are we failing to recognize Jesus for Who He really is? Unforgivable! It’s time to get real…about our faith…about who Jesus is in our heart and mind…and about how we live for Him. And it begins today. Are you ready to choose Jesus over the world at large? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 8, 2016
1 John 5:13-15
I have written this to you who believe in the Son of God so that you may know you have eternal life. And we are sure of this, that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we really know he is listening when we talk to him and make our requests, then we can be sure that he will answer us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I saw a “pin” on Pinterest titled, “How to pray when you just can’t focus.” Boy, does that ever describe me lately! The suggestions included…Pray the “LORD’s Prayer”…Pray out loud…Pray with someone else…Pray the Psalms.
I have to admit, I take comfort in knowing that I am not alone…that others mean well yet sometimes struggle to maintain focus in their prayer life. I am reminded that we are, after all, mere humans - and subject to becoming easily distracted! The GOOD NEWS for me is that God is NEVER distracted! He is always watching and listening…and when we make our requests known to Him, they are heard.
Romans 8:26 reminds us that when we cannot form the words, the Holy Spirit prays for us. This scripture comforts me greatly! The KEY is to remain in tune with the Holy Spirit, so that this can happen. But when we have lost focus (for whatever reason)…when life beats us down to a point where words just do not form…God still knows our heart and is able to answer our petitions!
I don’t know about you, but this gives me tremendous comfort and courage. And I want to share this knowledge with others. I want us all to understand that there are times in our lives when we love the LORD with all our hearts…but words simply fail us. There are situations and circumstances where our needs are tremendous…and we are completely unable to express them in any sensible manner. Bolstered with the knowledge that God still hears me – and answers – during these times…I am overwhelmed with peace, courage, and confidence.
None of us has a “corner on this market.” What God does for us, He will gladly do for others who seek His will and desire to serve Him. I don’t know whether this is a season of great focus for you…or if your thoughts are scattered to the four winds. But if you are in step with the Holy Spirit, rest assured that God is hearing you – and answering perfectly – no matter what you are actually saying.
©2016 Debbie Robus
I have written this to you who believe in the Son of God so that you may know you have eternal life. And we are sure of this, that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we really know he is listening when we talk to him and make our requests, then we can be sure that he will answer us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I saw a “pin” on Pinterest titled, “How to pray when you just can’t focus.” Boy, does that ever describe me lately! The suggestions included…Pray the “LORD’s Prayer”…Pray out loud…Pray with someone else…Pray the Psalms.
I have to admit, I take comfort in knowing that I am not alone…that others mean well yet sometimes struggle to maintain focus in their prayer life. I am reminded that we are, after all, mere humans - and subject to becoming easily distracted! The GOOD NEWS for me is that God is NEVER distracted! He is always watching and listening…and when we make our requests known to Him, they are heard.
Romans 8:26 reminds us that when we cannot form the words, the Holy Spirit prays for us. This scripture comforts me greatly! The KEY is to remain in tune with the Holy Spirit, so that this can happen. But when we have lost focus (for whatever reason)…when life beats us down to a point where words just do not form…God still knows our heart and is able to answer our petitions!
I don’t know about you, but this gives me tremendous comfort and courage. And I want to share this knowledge with others. I want us all to understand that there are times in our lives when we love the LORD with all our hearts…but words simply fail us. There are situations and circumstances where our needs are tremendous…and we are completely unable to express them in any sensible manner. Bolstered with the knowledge that God still hears me – and answers – during these times…I am overwhelmed with peace, courage, and confidence.
None of us has a “corner on this market.” What God does for us, He will gladly do for others who seek His will and desire to serve Him. I don’t know whether this is a season of great focus for you…or if your thoughts are scattered to the four winds. But if you are in step with the Holy Spirit, rest assured that God is hearing you – and answering perfectly – no matter what you are actually saying.
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 7, 2016
1 John 4:13-16
And he has put his own Holy Spirit into our hearts as a proof to us that we are living with him and he with us. And furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now tell all the world that God sent his Son to be their Savior. Anyone who believes and says that Jesus is the Son of God has God living in him, and he is living with God.
We know how much God loves us because we have felt his love and because we believe him when he tells us that he loves us dearly. God is love, and anyone who lives in love is living with God and God is living in him.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Sometimes when I tell Nathan “No,” he has started responding with “You don’t love me anymore.” I laugh and assure him that indeed, I do love him very much. It’s a manipulative ploy on his part to get me to change my mind. We both know how much he is loved – by me and countless others!
Whether the children can verbalize it or not, they recognize the love and care that many adults continually pour into their lives in dozens of ways. From the personal notes Timothy’s mother puts in his lunch box…to the extra towels I roll up in their swim bags so they won’t be cold after we get out of the pool…to the sacks full of beautiful barely-worn clothes that a dear friend from church generously shared with Zola – these kids know that they are loved. I am hopeful that they will grow to understand just how much they are loved…how much is done for them behind the scenes. I am trusting that they will want to demonstrate their gratitude for such boundless kindness and affection…particularly by “paying it forward” to others.
I know it doesn’t always work out this way. Plenty of children who were loved madly grew up to be spoiled, unappreciative, and presumptive – as if the world owed them everything. And there are all sorts of levels of this in between. But our goal is to instill in others a healthy balance of unconditional love and acceptance – and a sense of respect and responsibility.
Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit so that we would always feel His presence, love and guidance. His intention is that we feel so safe and loved that we operate in confidence – not arrogance! Jesus wants us to draw on the wisdom and loving guidance of the Holy Spirit as we move through our day – and to convey these gifts and blessings to others.
Yesterday, I told the 6th-grade Sunday school students that one of the best ways we can proclaim the love and Good News of Jesus to others is by our daily living…how we speak and act – and how we treat others. If we are negative and critical…if we call others ugly names and talk about them disparagingly…if we discriminate, bully and condescend…others will certainly NOT see Jesus in us. And when we do these things, we are not living in God.
So how are you living today? Are you demonstrating the power and blessings of the Holy Spirit in your own life? Are you offering others an example that makes them say, “I want the Holy Spirit to dwell in me!”…a model that makes others want your peace and joy in Jesus for themselves? Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
And he has put his own Holy Spirit into our hearts as a proof to us that we are living with him and he with us. And furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now tell all the world that God sent his Son to be their Savior. Anyone who believes and says that Jesus is the Son of God has God living in him, and he is living with God.
We know how much God loves us because we have felt his love and because we believe him when he tells us that he loves us dearly. God is love, and anyone who lives in love is living with God and God is living in him.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Sometimes when I tell Nathan “No,” he has started responding with “You don’t love me anymore.” I laugh and assure him that indeed, I do love him very much. It’s a manipulative ploy on his part to get me to change my mind. We both know how much he is loved – by me and countless others!
Whether the children can verbalize it or not, they recognize the love and care that many adults continually pour into their lives in dozens of ways. From the personal notes Timothy’s mother puts in his lunch box…to the extra towels I roll up in their swim bags so they won’t be cold after we get out of the pool…to the sacks full of beautiful barely-worn clothes that a dear friend from church generously shared with Zola – these kids know that they are loved. I am hopeful that they will grow to understand just how much they are loved…how much is done for them behind the scenes. I am trusting that they will want to demonstrate their gratitude for such boundless kindness and affection…particularly by “paying it forward” to others.
I know it doesn’t always work out this way. Plenty of children who were loved madly grew up to be spoiled, unappreciative, and presumptive – as if the world owed them everything. And there are all sorts of levels of this in between. But our goal is to instill in others a healthy balance of unconditional love and acceptance – and a sense of respect and responsibility.
Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit so that we would always feel His presence, love and guidance. His intention is that we feel so safe and loved that we operate in confidence – not arrogance! Jesus wants us to draw on the wisdom and loving guidance of the Holy Spirit as we move through our day – and to convey these gifts and blessings to others.
Yesterday, I told the 6th-grade Sunday school students that one of the best ways we can proclaim the love and Good News of Jesus to others is by our daily living…how we speak and act – and how we treat others. If we are negative and critical…if we call others ugly names and talk about them disparagingly…if we discriminate, bully and condescend…others will certainly NOT see Jesus in us. And when we do these things, we are not living in God.
So how are you living today? Are you demonstrating the power and blessings of the Holy Spirit in your own life? Are you offering others an example that makes them say, “I want the Holy Spirit to dwell in me!”…a model that makes others want your peace and joy in Jesus for themselves? Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 6, 2016
1 John 2:28-29
And now, my little children, stay in happy fellowship with the Lord so that when he comes you will be sure that all is well and will not have to be ashamed and shrink back from meeting him. Since we know that God is always good and does only right, we may rightly assume that all those who do right are his children.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Generally, there is not a bashful bone in the little bodies of Timothy, Zola, and Nathan. We have marveled at how they are so cordial and polite to our adult friends…and we have been a bit unnerved by how friendly Zola, particularly, can be toward complete strangers in public! But there are times when, for whatever reason, these little ones will shrink back and hide behind our legs when someone else approaches. Of course, once they “warm up,” everything is fine. But there are occasions when they will briefly cower as if they are embarrassed – or frightened. Of course, the children don’t do this with us. They know us…they are familiar and comfortable with us. But there ARE family members whom they rarely see – and these folks sometimes get the cold shoulder/bashful treatment - at least initially.
Were Jesus to suddenly appear among a group of us, I can totally envision many at least having the urge to cower and shrink back. After all, it’s Jesus…and we know we are not worthy. We know we have disappointed Him – and sullied His name with our disobedience and sinful ways. And because some of us don’t really KNOW Jesus as we should, there would be that period when we would hide behind the legs of someone more familiar, like a child does on occasion.
But that’s the whole point of this passage. There is no reason for us to cower behind anything or anyone in Jesus’ presence. If we will simply get to know Him as we should and develop an intimate relationship with Him, we will understand why this is unnecessary. We will learn that Jesus already knows every mistake we have made – or will make. And He loves us anyway. And quite honestly, the closer we stay to Jesus, the fewer missteps we will make, because we will be more in tune with His instruction and guidance.
Jesus wants us to be so comfortable and familiar with Him that there is no need to hide – anything. Jesus wants us to demonstrate to others how joyful this relationship can be…how secure and peaceful life is when we make Him our constant companion…our “Forever Friend” in every sense of the word. Jesus wants us to understand that nothing is too big for Him to overcome…and to convey this realization to others. Jesus wants us to boldly step up and out - and greet Him each and every minute of the day. And He wants us to show others that there is nothing to fear.
I want Jesus to be so present in my life that whenever others look at me, they can almost visualize His image standing next to me, holding my hand. I want others to see that Jesus is my constant companion…that He never leaves me…that wherever I go, He goes, also. And in order to do this, I have to develop a deep, abiding, continual relationship with Him that encompasses each and every minute of the day. I’m working hard to do exactly this…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
And now, my little children, stay in happy fellowship with the Lord so that when he comes you will be sure that all is well and will not have to be ashamed and shrink back from meeting him. Since we know that God is always good and does only right, we may rightly assume that all those who do right are his children.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Generally, there is not a bashful bone in the little bodies of Timothy, Zola, and Nathan. We have marveled at how they are so cordial and polite to our adult friends…and we have been a bit unnerved by how friendly Zola, particularly, can be toward complete strangers in public! But there are times when, for whatever reason, these little ones will shrink back and hide behind our legs when someone else approaches. Of course, once they “warm up,” everything is fine. But there are occasions when they will briefly cower as if they are embarrassed – or frightened. Of course, the children don’t do this with us. They know us…they are familiar and comfortable with us. But there ARE family members whom they rarely see – and these folks sometimes get the cold shoulder/bashful treatment - at least initially.
Were Jesus to suddenly appear among a group of us, I can totally envision many at least having the urge to cower and shrink back. After all, it’s Jesus…and we know we are not worthy. We know we have disappointed Him – and sullied His name with our disobedience and sinful ways. And because some of us don’t really KNOW Jesus as we should, there would be that period when we would hide behind the legs of someone more familiar, like a child does on occasion.
But that’s the whole point of this passage. There is no reason for us to cower behind anything or anyone in Jesus’ presence. If we will simply get to know Him as we should and develop an intimate relationship with Him, we will understand why this is unnecessary. We will learn that Jesus already knows every mistake we have made – or will make. And He loves us anyway. And quite honestly, the closer we stay to Jesus, the fewer missteps we will make, because we will be more in tune with His instruction and guidance.
Jesus wants us to be so comfortable and familiar with Him that there is no need to hide – anything. Jesus wants us to demonstrate to others how joyful this relationship can be…how secure and peaceful life is when we make Him our constant companion…our “Forever Friend” in every sense of the word. Jesus wants us to understand that nothing is too big for Him to overcome…and to convey this realization to others. Jesus wants us to boldly step up and out - and greet Him each and every minute of the day. And He wants us to show others that there is nothing to fear.
I want Jesus to be so present in my life that whenever others look at me, they can almost visualize His image standing next to me, holding my hand. I want others to see that Jesus is my constant companion…that He never leaves me…that wherever I go, He goes, also. And in order to do this, I have to develop a deep, abiding, continual relationship with Him that encompasses each and every minute of the day. I’m working hard to do exactly this…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 5, 2016
1 John 2:24-27
Keep thinking about the message you first heard, and you will always be one in your heart with the Son and with the Father. The Son has promised us eternal life.
I am writing to warn you about those people who are misleading you. But Christ has blessed you with the Holy Spirit. Now the Spirit stays in you, and you don’t need any teachers. The Spirit is truthful and teaches you everything. So stay one in your heart with Christ, just as the Spirit has taught you to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In reading some of my mother’s prayer journals – and yes, she had SEVERAL – I came across an entry from a couple of years ago alongside a devotional titled, “A Mother’s Blessing.” My mother wrote, “I would like to say that I encouraged my children. But I don’t know. I fear that I may have imposed myself – my aspirations for them – my thinking of what was right, good – best – for them. I can only hope that each one knows – feels – the love I’ve always had for them. One of the largest blessings – the greatest privilege – in my life is to be a mother. She went on to talk about how a lot of how she perceived herself for much of her life was through her own mother’s opinions. And she concluded…”Yet, I am thankful for a mother who took me to church…who fed, clothed and sheltered me well…who encouraged me in school and in music.”
I share these personal insights to tell you that we will always be surrounded by opinions. A lot of people will have aspirations – and plans – for our lives. I admit…I picture Timothy, Zola, and Nathan as college graduates with “successful” careers and happy families…I desire that they excel in school and extracurricular activities and have tons of friends and happy relationships.
But what I most want for them…what really matters…is that they know Jesus…that their little hearts are filled with the Holy Spirit. Then - and only then – can they truly succeed and “excel.” With the Holy Spirit as their “heartsong,” they can overcome any obstacle or difficulty…they will have a core confidence and wisdom…and they will know the truest love of all.
THIS is what my mother desired for my sister, brother and me…and what her mother desired for her own daughters. This is what God desires for all of His children, including you and me…and what we should strive to instill in our own offspring and others in our circle of influence. Instead of worrying whether we are developing good athletes or the next President of the United States, we should be focused on developing Christ’s next disciples…and demonstrating in our own lives that we are powered by His Holy Spirit.
There is only one opinion that matters…and it doesn’t belong to your best friend…your parents or family members…your teachers, coaches or pastor…or your “significant other.” The opinion we must seek and nurture is that of Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit. If we stay one in heart with Him…He will guide each and every step of our lives, and we will know true “success.”
The question of the day is this…”Whose ‘heartsong’ guides you?” Let this be the day that you quit worrying about the opinions of others and start to focus on the One who really makes a difference!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Keep thinking about the message you first heard, and you will always be one in your heart with the Son and with the Father. The Son has promised us eternal life.
I am writing to warn you about those people who are misleading you. But Christ has blessed you with the Holy Spirit. Now the Spirit stays in you, and you don’t need any teachers. The Spirit is truthful and teaches you everything. So stay one in your heart with Christ, just as the Spirit has taught you to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In reading some of my mother’s prayer journals – and yes, she had SEVERAL – I came across an entry from a couple of years ago alongside a devotional titled, “A Mother’s Blessing.” My mother wrote, “I would like to say that I encouraged my children. But I don’t know. I fear that I may have imposed myself – my aspirations for them – my thinking of what was right, good – best – for them. I can only hope that each one knows – feels – the love I’ve always had for them. One of the largest blessings – the greatest privilege – in my life is to be a mother. She went on to talk about how a lot of how she perceived herself for much of her life was through her own mother’s opinions. And she concluded…”Yet, I am thankful for a mother who took me to church…who fed, clothed and sheltered me well…who encouraged me in school and in music.”
I share these personal insights to tell you that we will always be surrounded by opinions. A lot of people will have aspirations – and plans – for our lives. I admit…I picture Timothy, Zola, and Nathan as college graduates with “successful” careers and happy families…I desire that they excel in school and extracurricular activities and have tons of friends and happy relationships.
But what I most want for them…what really matters…is that they know Jesus…that their little hearts are filled with the Holy Spirit. Then - and only then – can they truly succeed and “excel.” With the Holy Spirit as their “heartsong,” they can overcome any obstacle or difficulty…they will have a core confidence and wisdom…and they will know the truest love of all.
THIS is what my mother desired for my sister, brother and me…and what her mother desired for her own daughters. This is what God desires for all of His children, including you and me…and what we should strive to instill in our own offspring and others in our circle of influence. Instead of worrying whether we are developing good athletes or the next President of the United States, we should be focused on developing Christ’s next disciples…and demonstrating in our own lives that we are powered by His Holy Spirit.
There is only one opinion that matters…and it doesn’t belong to your best friend…your parents or family members…your teachers, coaches or pastor…or your “significant other.” The opinion we must seek and nurture is that of Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit. If we stay one in heart with Him…He will guide each and every step of our lives, and we will know true “success.”
The question of the day is this…”Whose ‘heartsong’ guides you?” Let this be the day that you quit worrying about the opinions of others and start to focus on the One who really makes a difference!
©2016 Debbie Robus
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