Daily Devotional for January 12, 2017
2 Peter 3:8-9
Don’t overlook the obvious here, friends. With God, one day is as good as a thousand years, a thousand years as a day. God isn’t late with his promise as some measure lateness. He is restraining himself on account of you, holding back the End because he doesn’t want anyone lost. He’s giving everyone space and time to change.
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.
God’s timing is impeccable. One year ago this morning, the angels came for my mother and ushered her into the arms of Jesus. Her brief - yet anguishing - battle with cancer was finished. She ran the good race and fought the good fight…and in the end, she was given a new body in Heaven.
I think about the days that we sat with her as she steadily declined…the hours when we wondered, “Is this it?” I have “sat vigil” with loved ones who were dying more than once. As I watched them struggle with pain – or even to catch a breath – I often whispered, “Why is it taking so long?” And yet, I knew that God’s timing is impeccable.
I shared these thoughts last week with a childhood friend whose mother is now in her last days of a brief – yet anguishing – battle with cancer. I told her how in Mother’s final days of consciousness, she had an opportunity to witness to a family member about the incredible, incomparable love of Jesus. I shared that there were things that needed to be said between a lot of us – and they were.
I noted that God granted us an opportunity for the little ones to visit their Granny in her home setting, where they weren’t frightened by the sterility of a hospital room and happily showed her books and toys – and kissed her cheek. I encouraged my friend to savor these moments – no matter how difficult or unending they may seem.
A year later, I turned to the scripture passage for this day and read that a day is as a thousand years to God – and a thousand years are as a day. And I know that we have no idea how long it will be until we see my mother and other loved ones who have passed. I know that some days seem like a thousand years - and others seem like only minutes have passed. In many ways, this has been a long, long year – and in others, it seems like I just blinked and here we are.
This is not a ploy to gain sympathy or pity. As my friend pointed out, countless other people have survived the heartache of death…and we will, too. But I want you to remember these four words…God’s timing is impeccable. I cannot tell you why people die “too young” - or linger for years in the stupor of dementia. I don’t know why there are natural disasters and physical deformities…why children are abused and neglected, orphaned and hungry…why so many people have to “go through stuff”…or why “bad things happen to good people.”
I don’t know why God doesn’t stop it all, send Jesus for His church, and end the mess that so many have made of His blessings and abundance. I understand the evil influence of the devil, God’s gift of free will, and how trials and tests build our faith muscle. But that still doesn’t explain to me the timing of it all. Still, the Bible tells us that God knows things that we don’t…that He sees a big picture and has a much greater plan that we could ever envision. And God’s timing is impeccable.
My mother wanted everyone to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. I know that she would tell me today that this is our mission…that we are still here to do the work of sharing Jesus’ Good News with others – and serving as His hands and feet. I am confident that there is a reason that her discipleship ended just shy of her 77th birthday. As I have heard from countless people who were influenced by her legacy of Christian faith and service, I’ve come to see that she is still glorifying Jesus – even from Heaven.
This should be OUR goal…to serve Him wherever we are…for as long as He desires and ordains – and in whatever capacity. I don’t know what you are waiting on today…or what is on your “timeline.” But I do know that God’s timing is impeccable. I pray you know this, as well.
©2017 Debbie Robus
Don’t overlook the obvious here, friends. With God, one day is as good as a thousand years, a thousand years as a day. God isn’t late with his promise as some measure lateness. He is restraining himself on account of you, holding back the End because he doesn’t want anyone lost. He’s giving everyone space and time to change.
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.
God’s timing is impeccable. One year ago this morning, the angels came for my mother and ushered her into the arms of Jesus. Her brief - yet anguishing - battle with cancer was finished. She ran the good race and fought the good fight…and in the end, she was given a new body in Heaven.
I think about the days that we sat with her as she steadily declined…the hours when we wondered, “Is this it?” I have “sat vigil” with loved ones who were dying more than once. As I watched them struggle with pain – or even to catch a breath – I often whispered, “Why is it taking so long?” And yet, I knew that God’s timing is impeccable.
I shared these thoughts last week with a childhood friend whose mother is now in her last days of a brief – yet anguishing – battle with cancer. I told her how in Mother’s final days of consciousness, she had an opportunity to witness to a family member about the incredible, incomparable love of Jesus. I shared that there were things that needed to be said between a lot of us – and they were.
I noted that God granted us an opportunity for the little ones to visit their Granny in her home setting, where they weren’t frightened by the sterility of a hospital room and happily showed her books and toys – and kissed her cheek. I encouraged my friend to savor these moments – no matter how difficult or unending they may seem.
A year later, I turned to the scripture passage for this day and read that a day is as a thousand years to God – and a thousand years are as a day. And I know that we have no idea how long it will be until we see my mother and other loved ones who have passed. I know that some days seem like a thousand years - and others seem like only minutes have passed. In many ways, this has been a long, long year – and in others, it seems like I just blinked and here we are.
This is not a ploy to gain sympathy or pity. As my friend pointed out, countless other people have survived the heartache of death…and we will, too. But I want you to remember these four words…God’s timing is impeccable. I cannot tell you why people die “too young” - or linger for years in the stupor of dementia. I don’t know why there are natural disasters and physical deformities…why children are abused and neglected, orphaned and hungry…why so many people have to “go through stuff”…or why “bad things happen to good people.”
I don’t know why God doesn’t stop it all, send Jesus for His church, and end the mess that so many have made of His blessings and abundance. I understand the evil influence of the devil, God’s gift of free will, and how trials and tests build our faith muscle. But that still doesn’t explain to me the timing of it all. Still, the Bible tells us that God knows things that we don’t…that He sees a big picture and has a much greater plan that we could ever envision. And God’s timing is impeccable.
My mother wanted everyone to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. I know that she would tell me today that this is our mission…that we are still here to do the work of sharing Jesus’ Good News with others – and serving as His hands and feet. I am confident that there is a reason that her discipleship ended just shy of her 77th birthday. As I have heard from countless people who were influenced by her legacy of Christian faith and service, I’ve come to see that she is still glorifying Jesus – even from Heaven.
This should be OUR goal…to serve Him wherever we are…for as long as He desires and ordains – and in whatever capacity. I don’t know what you are waiting on today…or what is on your “timeline.” But I do know that God’s timing is impeccable. I pray you know this, as well.
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 11, 2017
2 Peter 1:20-21
For no prophecy recorded in Scripture was ever thought up by the prophet himself. It was the Holy Spirit within these godly men who gave them true messages from God.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
One morning as the second graders in Timothy’s class lined up for lunch, another student and my nephew had an interesting conversation about the presidential election – and who was “the best.” They waffled back and forth as they debated all of this…and clearly, both were parroting what they had heard at home - and in the media. But in their 7-year-old minds, these ideas and opinions were totally “theirs!”
On one level, this was cute. On another, it was rather disturbing…because these children were forming opinions and spouting “facts” that were based completely on hearsay. And yet, they claimed these thoughts as their own original ideas. Or…they adamantly stated that someone in authority had told them these things – so they must be true!
Far too many Christians give themselves too much credit. They play “judge and jury” based on their personal interpretation of God’s word. They try to scare the pants off of others with their predictions that “based on Scripture…this or that is about to happen.” Do you realize that the imminence of “end times” has been predicted for thousands of years? Do not misunderstand me…I believe Jesus will return again for His church. But we truly don’t know when…and living in fear of this is 1) disrespectful to our Christian faith; and 2) a scare tactic to try to manipulate others into giving their hearts to Jesus. Attempts to interpret scripture to try to predict when the “end of the world” will happen are not our job as Christian disciples.
By the same token, we do not have God’s authority to interpret countless other prophecies and messages in scripture. Yes, God speaks to us through His Holy Word. And quite frankly, He might use the same verse to guide us in one manner today…and in a totally different way tomorrow. This is God’s prerogative. But it is not our job to judge others and declare certain “truths” based on personal interpretation of scripture.
The bottom line is this…study God’s word and let Him use the scriptures to speak to you and guide you through your day. Share YOUR experiences with others about how God has spoken and directed you. But do not declare yourself to be an authority…or your “ways” and interpretations to be infallible. Prayerfully petition God to always guide your words and actions…and to enable you to represent Him in the manner that is pleasing to Him and furthers His kingdom.
In essence, don’t use your Christian discipleship as a “license” to dictate God’s directives to others. God is looking for humble servants and disciples…not know-it-alls and fear mongers. What does your faith and discipleship demonstrate?
©2017 Debbie Robus
For no prophecy recorded in Scripture was ever thought up by the prophet himself. It was the Holy Spirit within these godly men who gave them true messages from God.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
One morning as the second graders in Timothy’s class lined up for lunch, another student and my nephew had an interesting conversation about the presidential election – and who was “the best.” They waffled back and forth as they debated all of this…and clearly, both were parroting what they had heard at home - and in the media. But in their 7-year-old minds, these ideas and opinions were totally “theirs!”
On one level, this was cute. On another, it was rather disturbing…because these children were forming opinions and spouting “facts” that were based completely on hearsay. And yet, they claimed these thoughts as their own original ideas. Or…they adamantly stated that someone in authority had told them these things – so they must be true!
Far too many Christians give themselves too much credit. They play “judge and jury” based on their personal interpretation of God’s word. They try to scare the pants off of others with their predictions that “based on Scripture…this or that is about to happen.” Do you realize that the imminence of “end times” has been predicted for thousands of years? Do not misunderstand me…I believe Jesus will return again for His church. But we truly don’t know when…and living in fear of this is 1) disrespectful to our Christian faith; and 2) a scare tactic to try to manipulate others into giving their hearts to Jesus. Attempts to interpret scripture to try to predict when the “end of the world” will happen are not our job as Christian disciples.
By the same token, we do not have God’s authority to interpret countless other prophecies and messages in scripture. Yes, God speaks to us through His Holy Word. And quite frankly, He might use the same verse to guide us in one manner today…and in a totally different way tomorrow. This is God’s prerogative. But it is not our job to judge others and declare certain “truths” based on personal interpretation of scripture.
The bottom line is this…study God’s word and let Him use the scriptures to speak to you and guide you through your day. Share YOUR experiences with others about how God has spoken and directed you. But do not declare yourself to be an authority…or your “ways” and interpretations to be infallible. Prayerfully petition God to always guide your words and actions…and to enable you to represent Him in the manner that is pleasing to Him and furthers His kingdom.
In essence, don’t use your Christian discipleship as a “license” to dictate God’s directives to others. God is looking for humble servants and disciples…not know-it-alls and fear mongers. What does your faith and discipleship demonstrate?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 10, 2017
2 Corinthians 5:17
Anyone who belongs to Christ is a new person. The past is forgotten, and everything is new.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Yesterday would have been my cousin Eddie’s 70th birthday. I told his daughter, “This means that in a few months, I will be SIXTY!” She replied, “I think someone has messed that up…there’s no way!” My sweet cousin always knows how to make my day! But the truth is that in a few short months, I will indeed have lived six decades.
I have to say, there is no way I would want to start completely over. Like everyone, there are situations and moments that I wish I could do over. I would love to have the energy and stamina of my youth…less wrinkles…and a slimmer body. But overall, I am comfortable with where I am in life. As a cousin who is a few years older than I noted recently, I have a blessed life. And as actress Sally Field noted in her role as the matriarch of the television series “Brothers and Sisters,” I’ve earned my wrinkles…they tell the story of my life!
The GOOD NEWS is that my life story is not told by my mistakes and transgressions. And neither is yours. If you have given your heart to Jesus, the past truly is forgotten, and everything is new. Over and again, Jesus stands in the gap for us…because we are not perfect, and we will never be completely free of sin. But now we can live in the comfort and assurance of knowing that when we make every effort to follow His commands and serve as we are directed, Jesus will indeed continue to wipe the slate clean in our favor.
I don’t know about you, but I cling to this promise that “the past is forgotten, and everything is new.” Everyone loves a fresh start…from the first day of school, to a new car or house, to even a New Year! But the best “fresh start” of all is the one we have in Jesus Christ. This incredible gift is not to be taken lightly…or misused. We must make every effort to show our extreme gratitude…and to be good stewards of God’s grace through Jesus. With this in mind, I take on the next few months - and then a new decade - full of joy and anticipation for continued blessings and the assurance of Jesus’ amazing love and care.
My wrinkles and gravity may note my physical age…but on the inside, I am a new creature in Christ Jesus. What about you?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Anyone who belongs to Christ is a new person. The past is forgotten, and everything is new.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Yesterday would have been my cousin Eddie’s 70th birthday. I told his daughter, “This means that in a few months, I will be SIXTY!” She replied, “I think someone has messed that up…there’s no way!” My sweet cousin always knows how to make my day! But the truth is that in a few short months, I will indeed have lived six decades.
I have to say, there is no way I would want to start completely over. Like everyone, there are situations and moments that I wish I could do over. I would love to have the energy and stamina of my youth…less wrinkles…and a slimmer body. But overall, I am comfortable with where I am in life. As a cousin who is a few years older than I noted recently, I have a blessed life. And as actress Sally Field noted in her role as the matriarch of the television series “Brothers and Sisters,” I’ve earned my wrinkles…they tell the story of my life!
The GOOD NEWS is that my life story is not told by my mistakes and transgressions. And neither is yours. If you have given your heart to Jesus, the past truly is forgotten, and everything is new. Over and again, Jesus stands in the gap for us…because we are not perfect, and we will never be completely free of sin. But now we can live in the comfort and assurance of knowing that when we make every effort to follow His commands and serve as we are directed, Jesus will indeed continue to wipe the slate clean in our favor.
I don’t know about you, but I cling to this promise that “the past is forgotten, and everything is new.” Everyone loves a fresh start…from the first day of school, to a new car or house, to even a New Year! But the best “fresh start” of all is the one we have in Jesus Christ. This incredible gift is not to be taken lightly…or misused. We must make every effort to show our extreme gratitude…and to be good stewards of God’s grace through Jesus. With this in mind, I take on the next few months - and then a new decade - full of joy and anticipation for continued blessings and the assurance of Jesus’ amazing love and care.
My wrinkles and gravity may note my physical age…but on the inside, I am a new creature in Christ Jesus. What about you?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 9, 2017
1 Peter 3:13-18
Usually no one will hurt you for wanting to do good. But even if they should, you are to be envied, for God will reward you for it. Quietly trust yourself to Christ your Lord, and if anybody asks why you believe as you do, be ready to tell him, and do it in a gentle and respectful way.
Do what is right; then if men speak against you, calling you evil names, they will become ashamed of themselves for falsely accusing you when you have only done what is good. Remember, if God wants you to suffer, it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing wrong!
Christ also suffered. He died once for the sins of all us guilty sinners although he himself was innocent of any sin at any time, that he might bring us safely home to God. But though his body died, his spirit lived on...
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
You’ve heard the joke about “I had a drug problem…I was drug to church.” That pretty well describes me and my siblings. We didn’t go EVERY time the church doors were open…mainly because I don’t think my parents could manage the logistics of working several jobs and getting us there on Wednesday nights. But if we missed a Sunday morning or evening service, somebody had better be on his/her deathbed! We weren’t the only kids in our church who attended that “faithfully.” There were a few more in the same boat. And we were often labeled by others as the “goody-two-shoes” - or laughed at because we tried to abide by the lessons (and fear of burning in Hell) that were drilled into us!
There were a few sympathetic adults who tried to commiserate with us when our parents were strict…while defending them for being that way. And more than one mentor told me that someday, I would understand the benefits of my childhood “suffering” for Jesus by doing good. At the time, I thought these folks were nuts…or just feeding me a line. But over the years, I’ve come to see that doing what is good…and right…is always best.
There have been times when I wanted to lash out…and there have been times when I did just that (and almost always regretted it later, if not immediately). But there have been times when I have managed to hold my tongue and suppress the desire to express my feelings toward someone who was unkind or unfair…and I have always been better for it. Whether that person recognized his/her mistake or not…I knew that GOD knew. Whether I ever get an apology or better treatment, I know that God will bless my efforts.
Many years ago, I was in a situation where some pretty unfair things happened in the workplace because of one particular person. One day, a senior supervisor and I were talking, and he noted that these things were happening. And then he said, “I’ve been watching you…and I have never heard you say one unkind thing about this person. I’ve never seen you act inappropriately or voice your disagreement…and I KNOW you had to have been extremely frustrated at times. But it never showed…and I am truly impressed.”
I had no clue this person had been paying attention. I really thought nobody knew or cared. To be honest, things didn’t really improve all that much after this conversation…but at least I knew that I had an ally. And I knew that God was blessing my efforts to do the right thing and contain my frustrations.
We will all be faced with opportunities to “be good” – and to yell, kick, scream and show out when others “do us wrong.” But let’s remember Who we really need to serve – and impress. Let’s remind ourselves Who truly matters. More importantly, let us never forget how Jesus suffered and was ridiculed…all because of us. It’s amazing to think about…but Jesus would do all of this again for us in a heartbeat!
Now with this in mind, how can WE behave any differently toward others? How can we acknowledge and appreciate Jesus’ gift while lashing out at others and doing the wrong things? Isn’t it time we trust God to handle ALL things…even the words and actions of those who would criticize and mistreat us? Are you willing to “suffer” for your faith - and demonstrate honor and glory for Jesus’ great gift of suffering for us? Isn’t it time you were?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Usually no one will hurt you for wanting to do good. But even if they should, you are to be envied, for God will reward you for it. Quietly trust yourself to Christ your Lord, and if anybody asks why you believe as you do, be ready to tell him, and do it in a gentle and respectful way.
Do what is right; then if men speak against you, calling you evil names, they will become ashamed of themselves for falsely accusing you when you have only done what is good. Remember, if God wants you to suffer, it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing wrong!
Christ also suffered. He died once for the sins of all us guilty sinners although he himself was innocent of any sin at any time, that he might bring us safely home to God. But though his body died, his spirit lived on...
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
You’ve heard the joke about “I had a drug problem…I was drug to church.” That pretty well describes me and my siblings. We didn’t go EVERY time the church doors were open…mainly because I don’t think my parents could manage the logistics of working several jobs and getting us there on Wednesday nights. But if we missed a Sunday morning or evening service, somebody had better be on his/her deathbed! We weren’t the only kids in our church who attended that “faithfully.” There were a few more in the same boat. And we were often labeled by others as the “goody-two-shoes” - or laughed at because we tried to abide by the lessons (and fear of burning in Hell) that were drilled into us!
There were a few sympathetic adults who tried to commiserate with us when our parents were strict…while defending them for being that way. And more than one mentor told me that someday, I would understand the benefits of my childhood “suffering” for Jesus by doing good. At the time, I thought these folks were nuts…or just feeding me a line. But over the years, I’ve come to see that doing what is good…and right…is always best.
There have been times when I wanted to lash out…and there have been times when I did just that (and almost always regretted it later, if not immediately). But there have been times when I have managed to hold my tongue and suppress the desire to express my feelings toward someone who was unkind or unfair…and I have always been better for it. Whether that person recognized his/her mistake or not…I knew that GOD knew. Whether I ever get an apology or better treatment, I know that God will bless my efforts.
Many years ago, I was in a situation where some pretty unfair things happened in the workplace because of one particular person. One day, a senior supervisor and I were talking, and he noted that these things were happening. And then he said, “I’ve been watching you…and I have never heard you say one unkind thing about this person. I’ve never seen you act inappropriately or voice your disagreement…and I KNOW you had to have been extremely frustrated at times. But it never showed…and I am truly impressed.”
I had no clue this person had been paying attention. I really thought nobody knew or cared. To be honest, things didn’t really improve all that much after this conversation…but at least I knew that I had an ally. And I knew that God was blessing my efforts to do the right thing and contain my frustrations.
We will all be faced with opportunities to “be good” – and to yell, kick, scream and show out when others “do us wrong.” But let’s remember Who we really need to serve – and impress. Let’s remind ourselves Who truly matters. More importantly, let us never forget how Jesus suffered and was ridiculed…all because of us. It’s amazing to think about…but Jesus would do all of this again for us in a heartbeat!
Now with this in mind, how can WE behave any differently toward others? How can we acknowledge and appreciate Jesus’ gift while lashing out at others and doing the wrong things? Isn’t it time we trust God to handle ALL things…even the words and actions of those who would criticize and mistreat us? Are you willing to “suffer” for your faith - and demonstrate honor and glory for Jesus’ great gift of suffering for us? Isn’t it time you were?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 8, 2017
1 John 4:1
Dearly loved friends, don’t always believe everything you hear just because someone says it is a message from God: test it first to see if it really is. For there are many false teachers around…
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A former co-worker of Greg’s was famous for saying, “If you lie, you fry…Hezekiah 3:5.” For those who might be nodding their heads and saying, “Yep…that’s exactly right!”…there is no such book in the Bible as Hezekiah! The fellow got a kick out of pulling this prank on people and watching them fall for it.
In an online article written by CNN correspondent, John Blake – titled “Actually, that’s not in the Bible”* - Blake cites several verses people often quote with complete confidence they are scripturally accurate…such as “God helps those who help themselves,” and “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” In fact, neither of these oft-quoted “verses” actually exists in scripture.
Blake went on to cite Steve Bouma-Prediger, a religion professor at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, who noted that even people in his college religion classes were easily fooled. He would quote 2 Hesitations 4:3…”There are no internal combustion engines in heaven.” Then he would pause to see if someone would recognize that neither the book of 2 Hesitations – or this verse – were actually part of the Bible. Bouma-Prediger said only a few got the joke.
Here’s the thing…these are rather humorous examples meant to elicit a chuckle. But far too many people are declaring themselves authorities on God’s word and will…claiming to be prophets who can predict the future…and making every attempt to convince others that they have accurately interpreted scripture – even when what they are claiming causes many to scratch their heads and wonder, “How can this be?” The television channels are full of “evangelists” who are proponents of this cause or that one. Countless men and women stand at the ready to tell us they are certain that God wants us to do XYZ in this country or support that mission in ABC – or that this action or that one are an abominable sin. And countless people fall into line to follow them – and finance or otherwise endorse their agendas.
I know people who are experiencing tremendous stress because they have been told that God expects them to “step out of their comfort zone” and do more, give more, serve more often and with greater conviction, and focus every single minute on His missions and the work of the church. I’ve seen families struggle because of the struggle and strain created when there is too much focus on what others perceive as “God’s work” at the expense of family life, work, marriage and relationships, and more.
Yes, Jesus told James and John to drop their fishing nets and follow Him. Another disciple asked for a couple of days off to tend to his father’s funeral, and Jesus told him to let others bury the dead while he pursued life. But we have to consider these verses in context…and while they have relevance in our lives, I don’t believe Jesus was literally telling us to drop EVERYTHING and EVERYONE to serve him – at least not in this same way.
I will tell you…I don’t have all the answers. But I am so frustrated sometimes with those who make outlandish claims that are supposed to be “scripturally based.” They post alarming memes and quotes on social media that don’t do anything but scare the pants off people. I have to refrain from commenting sometimes and telling them just how much this diminishes their “Christian witness” and calls it into question for those who stop and think for even half a second about what they are promoting!
I pray that you are not one of these people – the “promoters” OR someone who gets caught up in these falsehoods. Stay awake and alert. Read your Bible and spend some quiet time in meditation and communication with God and ASK HIM to show you the truth…then abide in it! Don’t be that person who blindly nods in agreement when someone quotes Hezekiah 3:5 or 2 Hesitations 4:3. Know enough about scripture to at least check before acting on certain verses. Dig out your Bible or do an online search and see if you can find those passages for yourself.
Ask God what He wants you to do…and when and where He wants you to serve…and then don’t do anything else! Not everything is your mission or ministry! Learn to tell the difference - and operate only in the things that God has ordained for you. Christian discipleship is a privilege…and a gift. Make sure you are honoring God’s blessings to the fullest by staying on track…and always operating in His truths.
©2017 Debbie Robus
*“Actually, that’s not in the Bible” ~ http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/19/living/bible-not-jesus/
Dearly loved friends, don’t always believe everything you hear just because someone says it is a message from God: test it first to see if it really is. For there are many false teachers around…
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A former co-worker of Greg’s was famous for saying, “If you lie, you fry…Hezekiah 3:5.” For those who might be nodding their heads and saying, “Yep…that’s exactly right!”…there is no such book in the Bible as Hezekiah! The fellow got a kick out of pulling this prank on people and watching them fall for it.
In an online article written by CNN correspondent, John Blake – titled “Actually, that’s not in the Bible”* - Blake cites several verses people often quote with complete confidence they are scripturally accurate…such as “God helps those who help themselves,” and “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” In fact, neither of these oft-quoted “verses” actually exists in scripture.
Blake went on to cite Steve Bouma-Prediger, a religion professor at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, who noted that even people in his college religion classes were easily fooled. He would quote 2 Hesitations 4:3…”There are no internal combustion engines in heaven.” Then he would pause to see if someone would recognize that neither the book of 2 Hesitations – or this verse – were actually part of the Bible. Bouma-Prediger said only a few got the joke.
Here’s the thing…these are rather humorous examples meant to elicit a chuckle. But far too many people are declaring themselves authorities on God’s word and will…claiming to be prophets who can predict the future…and making every attempt to convince others that they have accurately interpreted scripture – even when what they are claiming causes many to scratch their heads and wonder, “How can this be?” The television channels are full of “evangelists” who are proponents of this cause or that one. Countless men and women stand at the ready to tell us they are certain that God wants us to do XYZ in this country or support that mission in ABC – or that this action or that one are an abominable sin. And countless people fall into line to follow them – and finance or otherwise endorse their agendas.
I know people who are experiencing tremendous stress because they have been told that God expects them to “step out of their comfort zone” and do more, give more, serve more often and with greater conviction, and focus every single minute on His missions and the work of the church. I’ve seen families struggle because of the struggle and strain created when there is too much focus on what others perceive as “God’s work” at the expense of family life, work, marriage and relationships, and more.
Yes, Jesus told James and John to drop their fishing nets and follow Him. Another disciple asked for a couple of days off to tend to his father’s funeral, and Jesus told him to let others bury the dead while he pursued life. But we have to consider these verses in context…and while they have relevance in our lives, I don’t believe Jesus was literally telling us to drop EVERYTHING and EVERYONE to serve him – at least not in this same way.
I will tell you…I don’t have all the answers. But I am so frustrated sometimes with those who make outlandish claims that are supposed to be “scripturally based.” They post alarming memes and quotes on social media that don’t do anything but scare the pants off people. I have to refrain from commenting sometimes and telling them just how much this diminishes their “Christian witness” and calls it into question for those who stop and think for even half a second about what they are promoting!
I pray that you are not one of these people – the “promoters” OR someone who gets caught up in these falsehoods. Stay awake and alert. Read your Bible and spend some quiet time in meditation and communication with God and ASK HIM to show you the truth…then abide in it! Don’t be that person who blindly nods in agreement when someone quotes Hezekiah 3:5 or 2 Hesitations 4:3. Know enough about scripture to at least check before acting on certain verses. Dig out your Bible or do an online search and see if you can find those passages for yourself.
Ask God what He wants you to do…and when and where He wants you to serve…and then don’t do anything else! Not everything is your mission or ministry! Learn to tell the difference - and operate only in the things that God has ordained for you. Christian discipleship is a privilege…and a gift. Make sure you are honoring God’s blessings to the fullest by staying on track…and always operating in His truths.
©2017 Debbie Robus
*“Actually, that’s not in the Bible” ~ http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/19/living/bible-not-jesus/
Daily Devotional for January 7, 2017
1 John 2:28-29
And now, children, stay with Christ. Live deeply in Christ. Then we’ll be ready for him when he appears, ready to receive him with open arms, with no cause for red-faced guilt or lame excuses when he arrives.
Once you’re convinced that he is right and righteous, you’ll recognize that all who practice righteousness are God’s true children.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Today, our heads are spinning with news of the latest tragic shooting in our country. You may also be confronted with personal challenges…family members and friends who are ill or have recently passed…money woes…or loss of work because of the latest “snow event.” You may be stressed from the care and nurture of children and your immediate family…a heavy load at work or school…and so much more.
With everything that we face on a daily basis, it can sometimes be hard to live deeply in Christ…but this is exactly WHY we need to make the effort to do so! In my daily readings the last few days from Jesus Calling*, these are some of the charges that have stuck out to me…”There could never be another companion as devoted as I am. Try saying, ‘I trust You, Jesus’ in response to whatever happens to you. Your continual assertion of trusting Me will strengthen our relationship and keep you close to Me.”
I cannot imagine what the people in Ft. Lauderdale are enduring…the heartache and shock for all involved…the horror and complete terror that must have stricken hundreds of people throughout this event. But I know that God was right there with them, through it all. I recently visited with a friend whose mother is quite ill. She and I agreed that as we cry out to God that we are in “deep waters,” we recognize that He has led others through them already. So why wouldn’t He do this for us, as well? When we realize that Jesus is our most devoted companion, it becomes imperative that we live deeply in Him…and trust Him in whatever happens to us.
Living deeply in Christ doesn’t happen overnight. You cannot just snap your fingers and instantly gain this most intimate relationship with Him. You must cultivate deep and abiding faith over time…through continual communion with Jesus in prayer, Bible study – and quite frankly, going through some stuff! Each experience strengthens your faith muscle. Every prayer draws you closer to Jesus and allows Him to show you just how much He cares for every detail of your life. Each time you read Scripture – or a daily devotional such as this one – you gain insights into how God is working for you every second of the night and day.
You have to start somewhere…and today is as good as any to begin. Call out to Jesus…tell Him, “I trust You” – and mean it! My prayer is that this would be the day that you make every effort to keep your Dearest Companion close at all times…and start to live deeply in His promises and care. Jesus is calling…are you ready to welcome Him into your heart forever?
©2017 Debbie Robus
*Jesus Calling ~ www.jesuscalling.com (quotes from January 3 and January 4 entries)
And now, children, stay with Christ. Live deeply in Christ. Then we’ll be ready for him when he appears, ready to receive him with open arms, with no cause for red-faced guilt or lame excuses when he arrives.
Once you’re convinced that he is right and righteous, you’ll recognize that all who practice righteousness are God’s true children.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Today, our heads are spinning with news of the latest tragic shooting in our country. You may also be confronted with personal challenges…family members and friends who are ill or have recently passed…money woes…or loss of work because of the latest “snow event.” You may be stressed from the care and nurture of children and your immediate family…a heavy load at work or school…and so much more.
With everything that we face on a daily basis, it can sometimes be hard to live deeply in Christ…but this is exactly WHY we need to make the effort to do so! In my daily readings the last few days from Jesus Calling*, these are some of the charges that have stuck out to me…”There could never be another companion as devoted as I am. Try saying, ‘I trust You, Jesus’ in response to whatever happens to you. Your continual assertion of trusting Me will strengthen our relationship and keep you close to Me.”
I cannot imagine what the people in Ft. Lauderdale are enduring…the heartache and shock for all involved…the horror and complete terror that must have stricken hundreds of people throughout this event. But I know that God was right there with them, through it all. I recently visited with a friend whose mother is quite ill. She and I agreed that as we cry out to God that we are in “deep waters,” we recognize that He has led others through them already. So why wouldn’t He do this for us, as well? When we realize that Jesus is our most devoted companion, it becomes imperative that we live deeply in Him…and trust Him in whatever happens to us.
Living deeply in Christ doesn’t happen overnight. You cannot just snap your fingers and instantly gain this most intimate relationship with Him. You must cultivate deep and abiding faith over time…through continual communion with Jesus in prayer, Bible study – and quite frankly, going through some stuff! Each experience strengthens your faith muscle. Every prayer draws you closer to Jesus and allows Him to show you just how much He cares for every detail of your life. Each time you read Scripture – or a daily devotional such as this one – you gain insights into how God is working for you every second of the night and day.
You have to start somewhere…and today is as good as any to begin. Call out to Jesus…tell Him, “I trust You” – and mean it! My prayer is that this would be the day that you make every effort to keep your Dearest Companion close at all times…and start to live deeply in His promises and care. Jesus is calling…are you ready to welcome Him into your heart forever?
©2017 Debbie Robus
*Jesus Calling ~ www.jesuscalling.com (quotes from January 3 and January 4 entries)
Daily Devotional for January 6, 2017
1 John 2:26-27
I’ve written to warn you about those who are trying to deceive you. But they’re no match for what is embedded deeply within you—Christ’s anointing, no less! You don’t need any of their so-called teaching. Christ’s anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him, uncontaminated by a single lie. Live deeply in what you were taught.
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 don’t know how it happened…but what took us nearly 3 days to un-box and arrange to decorate the house for Christmas was all packed away in the course of one very long day. And I will be the first to tell you that putting away the Christmas decorations is not my favorite chore! I told Greg…“This is not nearly as fun as getting it all out and decorating!” And that’s understandable. In late November/early December, we are anticipating the holiday season…looking forward to fun times with family and friends…hoping for lots of joy and “good will toward men!” In January, the skies are dark and grey, the holidays are over, and saying “Good-bye” to the festive décor is more than a little bit of a let-down.
This year, I worked with determination to put things away…but there was an extra sadness in my efforts. And then I realized why I was struggling. Many of our decorations are tied to those who are no longer with us…especially my mother. Initially, I didn’t believe that I attached that much significance to the countless ornaments that Mother has given me over the years. But as I hung them on the tree (and took them off a few weeks later), I thought of her with each one. I set out some of her infamous napkin rings in the shape of Christmas trees… the “Shoji Tabuchi Santa”…holiday books…her big nativity scene that she and my dad purchased in Mexico…and some treasured crystal ornaments. Each one evoked memories of things my mother had said, done – and taught me.
With every cup of “Russian Tea,” I thought of my mother. With each sugar cookie, I remembered my Mam-ma Polly – and the love and care with which she baked hundreds of batches that she mostly gave to others. With every gift the children unwrapped – or cute thing that they said during the holidays – I longed to pick up the phone and share these with Mother…to laugh and remark on how they are growing and getting smarter every day!
I did not realize as the holidays progressed how much these items were reminding me of my mother…and causing me to “live deeply in what I have been taught.” Because for every moment when I felt a bit melancholy, I also heard her saying, “You are doing just fine. You are caring for your family and serving God – and making memories in the process. You are creating a foundation that will carry the little ones into adulthood. You are reinforcing to all that love matters – that what is said and done is significant. You are sharing the love of Christ - with every decoration, card, cookie and cup of cocoa or hot tea – and letting others know how important they are to Him. You are saying, “Jesus is worth celebrating.”
God used this holiday season to remind me of the valuable lessons that I have been taught…and how to live deeply in them. He showed me how important it is for me to keep on “keepin’ on”…to instill in children (our own, those at church and school) just how much Jesus loves them and what He did for them. God reminded me of the importance of gifts – and not just the kind you wrap and place under the tree. He showed me the importance of such blessings as a smile and kind words for clerks and fellow shoppers in the stores…a phone call or visit to check on a friend...a card or note of encouragement to someone who is in need (especially if that person is not your favorite person!) – and the warmth and comfort of a tasty loaf of banana bread or a tin of ginger snaps. God reminded me to “live deeply in what I have been taught” about Jesus…and to pass this on to others.
There are plenty of opportunities for us to succumb to the devil…to be swayed by enemies of Jesus, which scripture likens in 1 John 2:18 to “antichrists everywhere you look.” So it is important that we live deeply in what we have been taught…and show others how to do this, too.
With each passing day, God shows up for me in even the most “routine” of events – even Christmas decorations and holiday traditions. I have no doubt that He will do this for you, also – and show YOU how to help others live deeply in His teachings – both directly, and through other people and circumstances. Are you listening for His voice and looking for His presence? Isn’t it time you were?
©2017 Debbie Robus
I’ve written to warn you about those who are trying to deceive you. But they’re no match for what is embedded deeply within you—Christ’s anointing, no less! You don’t need any of their so-called teaching. Christ’s anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him, uncontaminated by a single lie. Live deeply in what you were taught.
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 don’t know how it happened…but what took us nearly 3 days to un-box and arrange to decorate the house for Christmas was all packed away in the course of one very long day. And I will be the first to tell you that putting away the Christmas decorations is not my favorite chore! I told Greg…“This is not nearly as fun as getting it all out and decorating!” And that’s understandable. In late November/early December, we are anticipating the holiday season…looking forward to fun times with family and friends…hoping for lots of joy and “good will toward men!” In January, the skies are dark and grey, the holidays are over, and saying “Good-bye” to the festive décor is more than a little bit of a let-down.
This year, I worked with determination to put things away…but there was an extra sadness in my efforts. And then I realized why I was struggling. Many of our decorations are tied to those who are no longer with us…especially my mother. Initially, I didn’t believe that I attached that much significance to the countless ornaments that Mother has given me over the years. But as I hung them on the tree (and took them off a few weeks later), I thought of her with each one. I set out some of her infamous napkin rings in the shape of Christmas trees… the “Shoji Tabuchi Santa”…holiday books…her big nativity scene that she and my dad purchased in Mexico…and some treasured crystal ornaments. Each one evoked memories of things my mother had said, done – and taught me.
With every cup of “Russian Tea,” I thought of my mother. With each sugar cookie, I remembered my Mam-ma Polly – and the love and care with which she baked hundreds of batches that she mostly gave to others. With every gift the children unwrapped – or cute thing that they said during the holidays – I longed to pick up the phone and share these with Mother…to laugh and remark on how they are growing and getting smarter every day!
I did not realize as the holidays progressed how much these items were reminding me of my mother…and causing me to “live deeply in what I have been taught.” Because for every moment when I felt a bit melancholy, I also heard her saying, “You are doing just fine. You are caring for your family and serving God – and making memories in the process. You are creating a foundation that will carry the little ones into adulthood. You are reinforcing to all that love matters – that what is said and done is significant. You are sharing the love of Christ - with every decoration, card, cookie and cup of cocoa or hot tea – and letting others know how important they are to Him. You are saying, “Jesus is worth celebrating.”
God used this holiday season to remind me of the valuable lessons that I have been taught…and how to live deeply in them. He showed me how important it is for me to keep on “keepin’ on”…to instill in children (our own, those at church and school) just how much Jesus loves them and what He did for them. God reminded me of the importance of gifts – and not just the kind you wrap and place under the tree. He showed me the importance of such blessings as a smile and kind words for clerks and fellow shoppers in the stores…a phone call or visit to check on a friend...a card or note of encouragement to someone who is in need (especially if that person is not your favorite person!) – and the warmth and comfort of a tasty loaf of banana bread or a tin of ginger snaps. God reminded me to “live deeply in what I have been taught” about Jesus…and to pass this on to others.
There are plenty of opportunities for us to succumb to the devil…to be swayed by enemies of Jesus, which scripture likens in 1 John 2:18 to “antichrists everywhere you look.” So it is important that we live deeply in what we have been taught…and show others how to do this, too.
With each passing day, God shows up for me in even the most “routine” of events – even Christmas decorations and holiday traditions. I have no doubt that He will do this for you, also – and show YOU how to help others live deeply in His teachings – both directly, and through other people and circumstances. Are you listening for His voice and looking for His presence? Isn’t it time you were?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 5, 2016
1 John 2:15-17
Don’t love the world’s ways. Don’t love the world’s goods. Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. Practically everything that goes on in the world—wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important—has nothing to do with the Father. It just isolates you from him. The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out—but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
A couple of decades ago, I had this idea to write a book about “heroic” women in my community. I wanted to write the book while these women were still living and I could personally interview them…and I never got around to doing this. I may still write the book someday, but here’s the thing…none of these women were world famous. I doubt a single one of them was anywhere near millionaire status. Yet they left their mark – on my life, the community at large, and as Christian disciples.
Here was my “short list” of heroes…
Geraldine Monroe McCurry…a wife and mother who devoted her entire life to her husband and three girls, one of whom was wheelchair bound with Cerebral Palsy. Geraldine and her family normalized a “special needs” child in the 1950s and 60s…when most children like her daughter, Mary, were institutionalized.
Charlsie Baldridge Little…an educator and mother of two whose husband died tragically on December 7, 1941 – while fighting a fire at our local theater. The wall collapsed, and Milton Little fell with it and was killed. Mrs. Charlsie reared her two sons while teaching and serving as an elementary (and maybe junior high) school principal. She also authored a book about the history of our community’s First Baptist Church. Charlsie Little was brilliant and remarkable on many levels.
Olive Biggs Baldridge…an amazing military wife who worked tirelessly in her community as an assistant to her husband (who was a local optometrist) - and also in her church and our county’s Democratic Party. Olive was a force to be reckoned with – and a woman ahead of her time!
Peggy Mahon Logan…”Mrs. Peggy” was the queen of caring. Her life of service was borne out of personal experiences with neglect. As a divorcee, she cared for her dying mother-in-law, and no one from the church came to visit this woman. Mrs. Peggy vowed that would never happen again on her “watch,” and she made it her mission – and life’s work – to visit the sick and shut-ins and ensure that anyone in need knew that someone cared.
Willie “Polly” Chandler…my paternal grandmother, whose life was filled with a vast array of experiences , both challenging and incredible. My grandmother drove a school bus in the 1960s – and made dentures on her kitchen stove for the dentist she served as a chairside assistant...all while helping my grandfather manage a small farm, sewing clothes for us and making beautiful hand-stitched quilts. My Mam-ma Polly could do it all…and she pretty well did!
There are other ladies I would add to this book…Miss Ollie Fae Jackson and Mrs. Cora Mae Barnett, to name a couple. But I will tie this together by saying that the one thing that all of these ladies have in common is their relationship with the Father. Their Christian faith was/is at the core of every single thing about them. Of all of the lessons I learned from each one…how to love and serve Jesus was the greatest and most important.
Not a single one of these ladies wanted their own way, everything for themselves, or to appear to be important. They simply lived humble lives that honored their commitment to God – and blessed a LOT of people in the process. And I want to be like them.
I may never get the book written, but I will do all I can to honor these “heroes” and serve God as they did. Their examples give me hope and courage…and when I emulate their penchant for service and discipleship, I know I am closer to God. My prayer is that you know – or have known – people who model this level of Christian faith and humility…and that you are making every effort to imitate them. Want what God wants…not the world…and see what amazing things this produces!
©2017 Debbie Robus
Don’t love the world’s ways. Don’t love the world’s goods. Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. Practically everything that goes on in the world—wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important—has nothing to do with the Father. It just isolates you from him. The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out—but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
A couple of decades ago, I had this idea to write a book about “heroic” women in my community. I wanted to write the book while these women were still living and I could personally interview them…and I never got around to doing this. I may still write the book someday, but here’s the thing…none of these women were world famous. I doubt a single one of them was anywhere near millionaire status. Yet they left their mark – on my life, the community at large, and as Christian disciples.
Here was my “short list” of heroes…
Geraldine Monroe McCurry…a wife and mother who devoted her entire life to her husband and three girls, one of whom was wheelchair bound with Cerebral Palsy. Geraldine and her family normalized a “special needs” child in the 1950s and 60s…when most children like her daughter, Mary, were institutionalized.
Charlsie Baldridge Little…an educator and mother of two whose husband died tragically on December 7, 1941 – while fighting a fire at our local theater. The wall collapsed, and Milton Little fell with it and was killed. Mrs. Charlsie reared her two sons while teaching and serving as an elementary (and maybe junior high) school principal. She also authored a book about the history of our community’s First Baptist Church. Charlsie Little was brilliant and remarkable on many levels.
Olive Biggs Baldridge…an amazing military wife who worked tirelessly in her community as an assistant to her husband (who was a local optometrist) - and also in her church and our county’s Democratic Party. Olive was a force to be reckoned with – and a woman ahead of her time!
Peggy Mahon Logan…”Mrs. Peggy” was the queen of caring. Her life of service was borne out of personal experiences with neglect. As a divorcee, she cared for her dying mother-in-law, and no one from the church came to visit this woman. Mrs. Peggy vowed that would never happen again on her “watch,” and she made it her mission – and life’s work – to visit the sick and shut-ins and ensure that anyone in need knew that someone cared.
Willie “Polly” Chandler…my paternal grandmother, whose life was filled with a vast array of experiences , both challenging and incredible. My grandmother drove a school bus in the 1960s – and made dentures on her kitchen stove for the dentist she served as a chairside assistant...all while helping my grandfather manage a small farm, sewing clothes for us and making beautiful hand-stitched quilts. My Mam-ma Polly could do it all…and she pretty well did!
There are other ladies I would add to this book…Miss Ollie Fae Jackson and Mrs. Cora Mae Barnett, to name a couple. But I will tie this together by saying that the one thing that all of these ladies have in common is their relationship with the Father. Their Christian faith was/is at the core of every single thing about them. Of all of the lessons I learned from each one…how to love and serve Jesus was the greatest and most important.
Not a single one of these ladies wanted their own way, everything for themselves, or to appear to be important. They simply lived humble lives that honored their commitment to God – and blessed a LOT of people in the process. And I want to be like them.
I may never get the book written, but I will do all I can to honor these “heroes” and serve God as they did. Their examples give me hope and courage…and when I emulate their penchant for service and discipleship, I know I am closer to God. My prayer is that you know – or have known – people who model this level of Christian faith and humility…and that you are making every effort to imitate them. Want what God wants…not the world…and see what amazing things this produces!
©2017 Debbie Robus
1 John 2:12-14
I remind you, my dear children: Your sins are forgiven in Jesus’ name. You veterans were in on the ground floor, and know the One who started all this; you newcomers have won a big victory over the Evil One.
And a second reminder, dear children: You know the Father from personal experience. You veterans know the One who started it all; and you newcomers—such vitality and strength! God’s word is so steady in you. Your fellowship with God enables you to gain a victory over the Evil One.
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’ve been talking with a few of friends who are in the throes of some difficult situations, including struggles with the issues of aging, terminal illness, and challenges at work. I have tried to offer hope and encouragement to them as someone who - as one friend put it – “has been through the fire” on a few of these fronts. Indeed, like anyone who has lived nearly 60 years, I’ve experienced a few “life events.” And I feel very much like a “veteran who knows the One who started it all.”
This morning, I woke and looked around our house (which is still fully “dressed” in Christmas decorations) and thought about all that has happened to me and my family in just one year. Last winter, I didn’t get the Christmas decorations put away until nearly the end of January, so I am counting my blessings that I am somewhat ahead of the game today! But for the moment, I look around the house and see decorations everywhere…and a part of me is asking, “How on earth will I ever get this all put away?” The simple answer is, “one piece at a time.” I can’t fully explain how this will happen, but I know that I will roll up my sleeves, get in there and get started…and soon it will all be done.
You probably know that 2016 was a year that tested – and strengthened - our faith. I hope that we have demonstrated to others – especially our children – that even when we don’t know how we will “get it done,” God is making a way. If I have learned anything, I’ve learned that even when we don’t know how we will manage a situation…how we will ever survive the situations and circumstances that cause us to feel like the world is crumbling around us…God is busy working everything out and meeting our needs.
Yesterday, Nathan slipped out of a kitchen counter chair – and bumped his head. I’m sure it really hurt, and he cried big ole “crocodile tears.” I cuddled him in my lap with a cold “owie bag” and assured him that it would be okay soon. He tearfully said, “No, it won’t!” But it was…and soon, he was playing – and climbing back into that chair for another snack!
Yes, there are days when I want to curl up in a ball and say, “This is too much!” That happens to all of us. And I believe those are the days when God cradles us in His lap, much as I did Nathan, and says, “It’s going to be okay. I know you don’t see it…but I promise, I’m right here with you.” God is always fighting the Evil One behind the scenes. When we sit in His lap and pour out our heart and soul, He is holding us with one arm…and swinging His sword at the devil with his other.
When I tell others that “this will be okay,” I do not say this smugly…but rather, as one who has faith and confidence that it truly will. I am quick to tell you – I have not lost a child or a spouse – or suffered a lengthy and debilitating illness…and I cannot fathom the anguish of these situations. But I have observed many who have experienced these heartbreaks and difficulties, and I have seen how God carried them through – and healed their hearts to a point where they could continue to function and bless others. I truly believe that God can bring us through anything…the really “big stuff” like death, illness and personal struggle…and the relatively small stuff of taking down our holiday decorations!
When you stop and think about it, there is no other who has the all-encompassing power – and compassion, grace and mercy – to accomplish all of this. God is the be-all, end-all…the winner over the Evil One…and our incomparable LORD and Master. Do you feel His power and presence in your life today? Whether you are doing pretty well right now – or you need some “lap time,” God is ready, willing and able to meet your needs. Will you claim Him and cling to His promises? Don’t you think you should?
©2017 Debbie Robus
I remind you, my dear children: Your sins are forgiven in Jesus’ name. You veterans were in on the ground floor, and know the One who started all this; you newcomers have won a big victory over the Evil One.
And a second reminder, dear children: You know the Father from personal experience. You veterans know the One who started it all; and you newcomers—such vitality and strength! God’s word is so steady in you. Your fellowship with God enables you to gain a victory over the Evil One.
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’ve been talking with a few of friends who are in the throes of some difficult situations, including struggles with the issues of aging, terminal illness, and challenges at work. I have tried to offer hope and encouragement to them as someone who - as one friend put it – “has been through the fire” on a few of these fronts. Indeed, like anyone who has lived nearly 60 years, I’ve experienced a few “life events.” And I feel very much like a “veteran who knows the One who started it all.”
This morning, I woke and looked around our house (which is still fully “dressed” in Christmas decorations) and thought about all that has happened to me and my family in just one year. Last winter, I didn’t get the Christmas decorations put away until nearly the end of January, so I am counting my blessings that I am somewhat ahead of the game today! But for the moment, I look around the house and see decorations everywhere…and a part of me is asking, “How on earth will I ever get this all put away?” The simple answer is, “one piece at a time.” I can’t fully explain how this will happen, but I know that I will roll up my sleeves, get in there and get started…and soon it will all be done.
You probably know that 2016 was a year that tested – and strengthened - our faith. I hope that we have demonstrated to others – especially our children – that even when we don’t know how we will “get it done,” God is making a way. If I have learned anything, I’ve learned that even when we don’t know how we will manage a situation…how we will ever survive the situations and circumstances that cause us to feel like the world is crumbling around us…God is busy working everything out and meeting our needs.
Yesterday, Nathan slipped out of a kitchen counter chair – and bumped his head. I’m sure it really hurt, and he cried big ole “crocodile tears.” I cuddled him in my lap with a cold “owie bag” and assured him that it would be okay soon. He tearfully said, “No, it won’t!” But it was…and soon, he was playing – and climbing back into that chair for another snack!
Yes, there are days when I want to curl up in a ball and say, “This is too much!” That happens to all of us. And I believe those are the days when God cradles us in His lap, much as I did Nathan, and says, “It’s going to be okay. I know you don’t see it…but I promise, I’m right here with you.” God is always fighting the Evil One behind the scenes. When we sit in His lap and pour out our heart and soul, He is holding us with one arm…and swinging His sword at the devil with his other.
When I tell others that “this will be okay,” I do not say this smugly…but rather, as one who has faith and confidence that it truly will. I am quick to tell you – I have not lost a child or a spouse – or suffered a lengthy and debilitating illness…and I cannot fathom the anguish of these situations. But I have observed many who have experienced these heartbreaks and difficulties, and I have seen how God carried them through – and healed their hearts to a point where they could continue to function and bless others. I truly believe that God can bring us through anything…the really “big stuff” like death, illness and personal struggle…and the relatively small stuff of taking down our holiday decorations!
When you stop and think about it, there is no other who has the all-encompassing power – and compassion, grace and mercy – to accomplish all of this. God is the be-all, end-all…the winner over the Evil One…and our incomparable LORD and Master. Do you feel His power and presence in your life today? Whether you are doing pretty well right now – or you need some “lap time,” God is ready, willing and able to meet your needs. Will you claim Him and cling to His promises? Don’t you think you should?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 3, 2017
1 John 2:7-11
My dear friends, I’m not writing anything new here. This is the oldest commandment in the book, and you’ve known it from day one. It’s always been implicit in the Message you’ve heard. On the other hand, perhaps it is new, freshly minted as it is in both Christ and you—the darkness on its way out and the True Light already blazing!
Anyone who claims to live in God’s light and hates a brother or sister is still in the dark. It’s the person who loves brother and sister who dwells in God’s light and doesn’t block the light from others. But whoever hates is still in the dark, stumbles around in the dark, doesn’t know which end is up, blinded by the darkness.
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, Zola, and Nathan came to stay with us for a couple of days this week. Their mother dropped them off yesterday morning as she went to work…and picked them up this evening as she headed home for the day. So they were here two days and a night.
When we got in bed last night, the children begged me to leave some lights on. They did not want to be in the dark. Timmy said, “I wish the night wasn’t so creepy.” Even during the daytime, if one of them would enter a dark hallway or room, they would ask for someone to come turn on a light. Nathan would say, “That dark scares me!” The dark was NOT a good place to be! So I made lots of trips with the kids to retrieve a toy or something in a dark room…and last night, I left some lights on until all three kiddos were sound asleep.
Can I tell you something? The darkness of hatred, judgment, bigotry, discrimination, unkindness, gossip, and other sinful behaviors – especially from those who claim to belong to Jesus – is pretty creepy and scary, too. In fact, scripture tells us that this darkness indicates that we have not fully committed to Jesus…that essentially, our faith is pretty well a farce.
If you look up this word (farce) in a thesaurus, you will see the words shambles, travesty, circus, sham, mockery, charade, embarrassment, and disgrace, to name a few. Now think about your relationship with Jesus in these terms. Doesn’t it make you just a little bit sick? Is this really how you want Him to see you?
Now is the time to turn this around…to drop conditions and limitations, and go all in with Jesus. Love your brothers and sisters and accept them where they are, as they are - and embrace them as Jesus does. Quit trying to play God and make decisions and judgments that are not yours to make. Let go…and let Jesus have full control in your life…and operate in His brilliant light. “Anyone who claims to live in God’s light and hates a brother or sister is still in the dark.” Where do you live these days?
©2017 Debbie Robus
My dear friends, I’m not writing anything new here. This is the oldest commandment in the book, and you’ve known it from day one. It’s always been implicit in the Message you’ve heard. On the other hand, perhaps it is new, freshly minted as it is in both Christ and you—the darkness on its way out and the True Light already blazing!
Anyone who claims to live in God’s light and hates a brother or sister is still in the dark. It’s the person who loves brother and sister who dwells in God’s light and doesn’t block the light from others. But whoever hates is still in the dark, stumbles around in the dark, doesn’t know which end is up, blinded by the darkness.
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, Zola, and Nathan came to stay with us for a couple of days this week. Their mother dropped them off yesterday morning as she went to work…and picked them up this evening as she headed home for the day. So they were here two days and a night.
When we got in bed last night, the children begged me to leave some lights on. They did not want to be in the dark. Timmy said, “I wish the night wasn’t so creepy.” Even during the daytime, if one of them would enter a dark hallway or room, they would ask for someone to come turn on a light. Nathan would say, “That dark scares me!” The dark was NOT a good place to be! So I made lots of trips with the kids to retrieve a toy or something in a dark room…and last night, I left some lights on until all three kiddos were sound asleep.
Can I tell you something? The darkness of hatred, judgment, bigotry, discrimination, unkindness, gossip, and other sinful behaviors – especially from those who claim to belong to Jesus – is pretty creepy and scary, too. In fact, scripture tells us that this darkness indicates that we have not fully committed to Jesus…that essentially, our faith is pretty well a farce.
If you look up this word (farce) in a thesaurus, you will see the words shambles, travesty, circus, sham, mockery, charade, embarrassment, and disgrace, to name a few. Now think about your relationship with Jesus in these terms. Doesn’t it make you just a little bit sick? Is this really how you want Him to see you?
Now is the time to turn this around…to drop conditions and limitations, and go all in with Jesus. Love your brothers and sisters and accept them where they are, as they are - and embrace them as Jesus does. Quit trying to play God and make decisions and judgments that are not yours to make. Let go…and let Jesus have full control in your life…and operate in His brilliant light. “Anyone who claims to live in God’s light and hates a brother or sister is still in the dark.” Where do you live these days?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 2, 2017
1 John 2:3-6
Here’s how we can be sure that we know God in the right way: Keep his commandments.
If someone claims, “I know him well!” but doesn’t keep his commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My 7-year-old cousin, Owen, LOVES the color orange. Do you know how I know this? He wears orange all the time! Other colors that run a close second in Owen’s wardrobe are royal blue and red. Owen shares a lot of clothes that he has outgrown with Timothy and Nathan…so our boys wear a lot of these colors, too. Thankfully, they are glad to have the barely-worn clothes and like these hues, also.
If Owen claimed his favorite color was orange…but he wore fluorescent pink all the time, we would wonder about him! We surely wouldn’t believe that orange was his color of choice! His life would not match his words.
This is how a lot of people who claim to be Christians operate. They essentially say, “The brilliant white of Jesus’ bright light is my favorite ‘color’.” Then they consistently “wear” the dark colors of Satan’s black and red. They treat others unkindly…use critical and foul language…lie, cheat and steal…gossip…judge and discriminate…and commit sins of all kinds. And still, they show up at worship services, prayer walks, “Christian protests,” and Bible studies…cover themselves in clothing and jewelry that proclaims Jesus is their Lord and King…and never miss an opportunity to make a public showing of how “good” and faithful they are.
I have to tell you, this kind of Christian sullies the name of Jesus. For the outside observer – especially those who are not yet believers or are young in their faith walk – these folks are nothing short of a phony! How can their lives demonstrate what it means to surrender your heart to Jesus and strive to be like Him? Honestly, people who act like this are some of the devil’s favorites, because they do his dirty work better than even his own agents can!
A friend told me one time that she felt like she knew a lot of people who claimed to be Christians – but very few who she believed truly were. She was not passing judgment, per se…but she said that she could name about three people that she felt were “the real deal.” I sure hope I was in that group!
I hope that my favorite color is the bright white of Jesus' love and grace – and that it shows. I may wear a lot of black and red in my physical clothing…but I pray that the darkness of the devil never dominates my heart and soul – or my Christian discipleship. What about you?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Here’s how we can be sure that we know God in the right way: Keep his commandments.
If someone claims, “I know him well!” but doesn’t keep his commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My 7-year-old cousin, Owen, LOVES the color orange. Do you know how I know this? He wears orange all the time! Other colors that run a close second in Owen’s wardrobe are royal blue and red. Owen shares a lot of clothes that he has outgrown with Timothy and Nathan…so our boys wear a lot of these colors, too. Thankfully, they are glad to have the barely-worn clothes and like these hues, also.
If Owen claimed his favorite color was orange…but he wore fluorescent pink all the time, we would wonder about him! We surely wouldn’t believe that orange was his color of choice! His life would not match his words.
This is how a lot of people who claim to be Christians operate. They essentially say, “The brilliant white of Jesus’ bright light is my favorite ‘color’.” Then they consistently “wear” the dark colors of Satan’s black and red. They treat others unkindly…use critical and foul language…lie, cheat and steal…gossip…judge and discriminate…and commit sins of all kinds. And still, they show up at worship services, prayer walks, “Christian protests,” and Bible studies…cover themselves in clothing and jewelry that proclaims Jesus is their Lord and King…and never miss an opportunity to make a public showing of how “good” and faithful they are.
I have to tell you, this kind of Christian sullies the name of Jesus. For the outside observer – especially those who are not yet believers or are young in their faith walk – these folks are nothing short of a phony! How can their lives demonstrate what it means to surrender your heart to Jesus and strive to be like Him? Honestly, people who act like this are some of the devil’s favorites, because they do his dirty work better than even his own agents can!
A friend told me one time that she felt like she knew a lot of people who claimed to be Christians – but very few who she believed truly were. She was not passing judgment, per se…but she said that she could name about three people that she felt were “the real deal.” I sure hope I was in that group!
I hope that my favorite color is the bright white of Jesus' love and grace – and that it shows. I may wear a lot of black and red in my physical clothing…but I pray that the darkness of the devil never dominates my heart and soul – or my Christian discipleship. What about you?
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 1, 2017
1 John 2:1-2
My children, I am writing this so that you won’t sin. But if you do sin, Jesus Christ always does the right thing, and he will speak to the Father for us. Christ is the sacrifice that takes away our sins and the sins of all the world’s people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Happy New Year! I hope yours is off to a great start (and includes some black-eyed peas, greens, pork – and maybe big ole piece of cornbread!!!). Sweet tea is optional!
Okay, enough about our Southern traditions...but I do have a point in sharing them. I saw a meme on Facebook this morning that offered an explanation for why we eat these foods on New Year’s Day. Rather than go into detail about each dish, let me just say that the collective reason is – HOPE! We hope that these foods will bring us good luck in the coming year. Yes, it is a “superstition”…and okay, maybe it’s ridiculous. But what is NOT silly is hope in Jesus…and that’s where these verses from 1 John 2 come into play.
When Jesus takes away our sins, we all know that this doesn’t mean we will never sin again…right? We surrender our hearts to Jesus…He washes us clean…and we make every effort to stay that way. But scripture tells us over and again that, as human beings, we will never be completely free of sin or a sinful nature. Only Jesus can claim this perfection.
BUT...because of Jesus, we can humbly acknowledge our failures and shortcomings, and ask forgiveness...and Jesus will petition God on our behalf. Because of Jesus, we always have hope. HE is the assurance that we are claimed and sanctified before God…that our seat at the Heavenly Table is forever secure.
Just as I will probably never stop eating peas and greens on New Year’s Day, I will never stop depending on Jesus to stand in the gap for me and ask God to continually forgive my sins. And He will do this for you – and all of the world’s people – just as surely. All you have to do is genuinely and humbly surrender your sinful nature to Jesus…to beg His forgiveness and accept His generous gift of Salvation. THEN…you must make every effort to live a holy and acceptable life…to serve Jesus and share His Good News with others.
Because we have the promise of salvation and an Eternal Home…we are free to live with hope and confidence…and encourage others to do the same. Will this be the year that you fully let go and let God have control? Will you live in expectation that Jesus has your back? I pray that this is the case.
Old habits die hard, so I’ll probably keep eating peas and greens on New Year’s Day. But I know that with Jesus standing in the gap for us, anything and everything is possible…with no “good luck” meals required!
©2017 Debbie Robus
My children, I am writing this so that you won’t sin. But if you do sin, Jesus Christ always does the right thing, and he will speak to the Father for us. Christ is the sacrifice that takes away our sins and the sins of all the world’s people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Happy New Year! I hope yours is off to a great start (and includes some black-eyed peas, greens, pork – and maybe big ole piece of cornbread!!!). Sweet tea is optional!
Okay, enough about our Southern traditions...but I do have a point in sharing them. I saw a meme on Facebook this morning that offered an explanation for why we eat these foods on New Year’s Day. Rather than go into detail about each dish, let me just say that the collective reason is – HOPE! We hope that these foods will bring us good luck in the coming year. Yes, it is a “superstition”…and okay, maybe it’s ridiculous. But what is NOT silly is hope in Jesus…and that’s where these verses from 1 John 2 come into play.
When Jesus takes away our sins, we all know that this doesn’t mean we will never sin again…right? We surrender our hearts to Jesus…He washes us clean…and we make every effort to stay that way. But scripture tells us over and again that, as human beings, we will never be completely free of sin or a sinful nature. Only Jesus can claim this perfection.
BUT...because of Jesus, we can humbly acknowledge our failures and shortcomings, and ask forgiveness...and Jesus will petition God on our behalf. Because of Jesus, we always have hope. HE is the assurance that we are claimed and sanctified before God…that our seat at the Heavenly Table is forever secure.
Just as I will probably never stop eating peas and greens on New Year’s Day, I will never stop depending on Jesus to stand in the gap for me and ask God to continually forgive my sins. And He will do this for you – and all of the world’s people – just as surely. All you have to do is genuinely and humbly surrender your sinful nature to Jesus…to beg His forgiveness and accept His generous gift of Salvation. THEN…you must make every effort to live a holy and acceptable life…to serve Jesus and share His Good News with others.
Because we have the promise of salvation and an Eternal Home…we are free to live with hope and confidence…and encourage others to do the same. Will this be the year that you fully let go and let God have control? Will you live in expectation that Jesus has your back? I pray that this is the case.
Old habits die hard, so I’ll probably keep eating peas and greens on New Year’s Day. But I know that with Jesus standing in the gap for us, anything and everything is possible…with no “good luck” meals required!
©2017 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 31, 2016
1 John 1:8-10
If we claim that we’re free of sin, we’re only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense. On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won’t let us down; he’ll be true to himself. He’ll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing. If we claim that we’ve never sinned, we out-and-out contradict God—make a liar out of him. A claim like that only shows off our ignorance of God.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
When I was about twelve, I got braces to correct an overbite and a huge gap between my two front teeth. I wore the braces for about two years, and the result was a really nice smile with perfectly aligned teeth. I even had my wisdom teeth removed, because the orthodontist said they might affect my new “alignment” if we allowed them emerge later on.
Despite my efforts to practice good dental health, my perfectly straight row of lower teeth have pushed together a bit over time – probably due to “bruxism” – a condition where I grind my teeth at night. I also started to have a slight gap between two of my upper teeth that was cosmetically bothersome. To compensate for the grinding, the dentist made me a little “retainer” of sorts to wear at night - called a “night guard.”
Many years ago, the dentist made impressions of my teeth to create a model for the night guard. Over time, this device became pretty worn. Last spring, I took in the old models of my teeth and asked the dentist to make me a new device. For a few weeks, this new night guard fit pretty snugly…but over time, my teeth adjusted. The gap is much smaller now as my teeth have conformed to the fit of this device created from my original impressions.
I could deny that I grind my teeth…but the dentist can prove otherwise. To say that he is mistaken would be to essentially call him a liar. And while this might offend him…I would be the real loser as my teeth weakened and separated over time. I’m not going to say that my teeth would ever be as badly aligned as they were when I was twelve…but I could surely do some serious damage and negate all of the hard work it took to get a nice, straight smile.
Even worse, I could grind the teeth down so much that they began to crack and break. And besides…my parents really scrimped and scraped to pay for my braces. To fail to do what I need to protect my teeth would be incredibly disrespectful and ungrateful toward them.
The solution is simple. I pop in this little soft plastic night guard each night and sleep with confidence that my teeth are protected – and staying in place. And honestly, the “solution” with God is pretty simple, too. All we have to do is acknowledge that we are sinners…then affirm that Jesus died so that our sins are forgiven. Then we must stay in close contact with Him through prayer and Bible study, so that we have the best chance of maintaining alignment with His will for our lives.
Just like my teeth can still shift and change, we are all still capable of sin. To claim we aren’t is the same as saying that God is a liar! A right relationship with Jesus Christ is our spiritual “night guard.” When we admit that we are sinners and do all of the “preventative maintenance” necessary to honor Jesus’ sacrifice for us, we will always enjoy His protection and blessings. To accept Salvation in Jesus Christ - then try to have things our way after the fact - is essentially the same as thumbing our noses at this amazing Gift and indicating that we are plenty capable of keeping ourselves aligned without any help. Honestly, this tells Jesus, “I didn’t really need You in the first place…and any claims You make to the contrary are lies.”
Surely this is not how we want to live. And there is no time like today to make necessary changes. Don’t let your spiritual relationship with Jesus weaken or lose its alignment. As you think about the New Year and resolutions to make improvements, put your relationship with Him at the top of the list! Jesus is already your perfect “Night Guard”…all you have to do is acknowledge that you continually need Him – and enjoy the perfect alignment of His grace, mercy, forgiveness and blessings. It’s an offer you can’t afford to refuse! Are you ready to “line up” with Jesus? Will this be the year that you do?
©2016 Debbie Robus
If we claim that we’re free of sin, we’re only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense. On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won’t let us down; he’ll be true to himself. He’ll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing. If we claim that we’ve never sinned, we out-and-out contradict God—make a liar out of him. A claim like that only shows off our ignorance of God.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
When I was about twelve, I got braces to correct an overbite and a huge gap between my two front teeth. I wore the braces for about two years, and the result was a really nice smile with perfectly aligned teeth. I even had my wisdom teeth removed, because the orthodontist said they might affect my new “alignment” if we allowed them emerge later on.
Despite my efforts to practice good dental health, my perfectly straight row of lower teeth have pushed together a bit over time – probably due to “bruxism” – a condition where I grind my teeth at night. I also started to have a slight gap between two of my upper teeth that was cosmetically bothersome. To compensate for the grinding, the dentist made me a little “retainer” of sorts to wear at night - called a “night guard.”
Many years ago, the dentist made impressions of my teeth to create a model for the night guard. Over time, this device became pretty worn. Last spring, I took in the old models of my teeth and asked the dentist to make me a new device. For a few weeks, this new night guard fit pretty snugly…but over time, my teeth adjusted. The gap is much smaller now as my teeth have conformed to the fit of this device created from my original impressions.
I could deny that I grind my teeth…but the dentist can prove otherwise. To say that he is mistaken would be to essentially call him a liar. And while this might offend him…I would be the real loser as my teeth weakened and separated over time. I’m not going to say that my teeth would ever be as badly aligned as they were when I was twelve…but I could surely do some serious damage and negate all of the hard work it took to get a nice, straight smile.
Even worse, I could grind the teeth down so much that they began to crack and break. And besides…my parents really scrimped and scraped to pay for my braces. To fail to do what I need to protect my teeth would be incredibly disrespectful and ungrateful toward them.
The solution is simple. I pop in this little soft plastic night guard each night and sleep with confidence that my teeth are protected – and staying in place. And honestly, the “solution” with God is pretty simple, too. All we have to do is acknowledge that we are sinners…then affirm that Jesus died so that our sins are forgiven. Then we must stay in close contact with Him through prayer and Bible study, so that we have the best chance of maintaining alignment with His will for our lives.
Just like my teeth can still shift and change, we are all still capable of sin. To claim we aren’t is the same as saying that God is a liar! A right relationship with Jesus Christ is our spiritual “night guard.” When we admit that we are sinners and do all of the “preventative maintenance” necessary to honor Jesus’ sacrifice for us, we will always enjoy His protection and blessings. To accept Salvation in Jesus Christ - then try to have things our way after the fact - is essentially the same as thumbing our noses at this amazing Gift and indicating that we are plenty capable of keeping ourselves aligned without any help. Honestly, this tells Jesus, “I didn’t really need You in the first place…and any claims You make to the contrary are lies.”
Surely this is not how we want to live. And there is no time like today to make necessary changes. Don’t let your spiritual relationship with Jesus weaken or lose its alignment. As you think about the New Year and resolutions to make improvements, put your relationship with Him at the top of the list! Jesus is already your perfect “Night Guard”…all you have to do is acknowledge that you continually need Him – and enjoy the perfect alignment of His grace, mercy, forgiveness and blessings. It’s an offer you can’t afford to refuse! Are you ready to “line up” with Jesus? Will this be the year that you do?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 30, 2016
1 Corinthians 8:8-9
But fortunately God doesn’t grade us on our diet. We’re neither commended when we clean our plate nor reprimanded when we just can’t stomach it. But God does care when you use your freedom carelessly in a way that leads a fellow believer still vulnerable to those old associations to be thrown off track.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
A man was found dead recently in a hot tub at a residence in Northwest Arkansas. The homeowner possessed an Amazon Echo…a hands-free voice-controlled speaker. When someone says, “Alexa” or “Amazon” (the names assigned to this device), the machine begins recording your questions or comments, and a response is then given. It’s sort of an “in-home Siri” for those who have a smart-phone and are familiar with this feature. Police want to confiscate the Amazon Echo device as evidence in this particular death. They want to examine this device to see if anyone in the home the night the death occurred might have said something that was recorded. Amazon is refusing to comply, citing privacy concerns.
Let’s just label this the monthly “People Are Watching” devotional! We apparently need plenty of reminders about this idea, because related scriptures pop up in my outline every few weeks.
Here’s the thing…a lot of us think that what we say and do in the privacy of our own home or car is our business…that nobody should know – or care. In truth, we are now surrounded with surveillance. Unless you have been under a rock, you know that you can be hacked, observed, followed and monitored – even as you sit and read this devotional! I don’t mean to make us paranoid - and you can Google ways to protect yourself from hackers and other “spies” at home and online. But the bottom line is that people.are.watching…and this SHOULD affect how we conduct ourselves at all times.
Our Timothy is particularly astute. Tell him something once…and he never seems to forget. He is also extremely observant. So the old notion of “Do as I say – not as I do” confuses him to no end. And honestly…this should be a signal to us as “grown-ups” that we cannot play this both ways. We cannot call people names and expect our children – or anyone we encounter – to refrain from doing this. If you have ever watched a little kid pretend to “smoke” a “cigarette,” you know that they already assume that SOMEDAY, this will be okay for them in reality. Actually, just sit quietly sometime and watch and listen as your kids play. Most likely, you will get a pretty good picture of how you sound and act in their presence…and it might be pretty enlightening!
At every turn, we need to examine what we say and do…and how we behave. We should continually be asking ourselves if anything about our demeanor could cause someone else to sin or backslide. Yes, God is in the business of forgiving us when we “fall short”…but our daily goal should be to never give Him a reason to have to do so! Most certainly, we should make every effort to conduct our lives in a manner that no one else is tempted to falter. We should be so steeped in self-control through the power and strength of Jesus Christ that others want the same kind of relationship with Him that we enjoy.
Is there something that you are saying or doing that could cause another person to be thrown off track? Could your words and actions actually result in distance between someone else and their relationship with Jesus? Perhaps we need to think of God as our own personal “Echo”…listening and recording everything about us – and act accordingly. Will this be the day that you give yourself a head-to-toe exam and discover where you might be exercising your freedom in the salvation of Jesus in a way that could be harmful to others? Will you then ask God to help you make necessary adjustments? Don’t you think you should?
©2016 Debbie Robus
But fortunately God doesn’t grade us on our diet. We’re neither commended when we clean our plate nor reprimanded when we just can’t stomach it. But God does care when you use your freedom carelessly in a way that leads a fellow believer still vulnerable to those old associations to be thrown off track.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
A man was found dead recently in a hot tub at a residence in Northwest Arkansas. The homeowner possessed an Amazon Echo…a hands-free voice-controlled speaker. When someone says, “Alexa” or “Amazon” (the names assigned to this device), the machine begins recording your questions or comments, and a response is then given. It’s sort of an “in-home Siri” for those who have a smart-phone and are familiar with this feature. Police want to confiscate the Amazon Echo device as evidence in this particular death. They want to examine this device to see if anyone in the home the night the death occurred might have said something that was recorded. Amazon is refusing to comply, citing privacy concerns.
Let’s just label this the monthly “People Are Watching” devotional! We apparently need plenty of reminders about this idea, because related scriptures pop up in my outline every few weeks.
Here’s the thing…a lot of us think that what we say and do in the privacy of our own home or car is our business…that nobody should know – or care. In truth, we are now surrounded with surveillance. Unless you have been under a rock, you know that you can be hacked, observed, followed and monitored – even as you sit and read this devotional! I don’t mean to make us paranoid - and you can Google ways to protect yourself from hackers and other “spies” at home and online. But the bottom line is that people.are.watching…and this SHOULD affect how we conduct ourselves at all times.
Our Timothy is particularly astute. Tell him something once…and he never seems to forget. He is also extremely observant. So the old notion of “Do as I say – not as I do” confuses him to no end. And honestly…this should be a signal to us as “grown-ups” that we cannot play this both ways. We cannot call people names and expect our children – or anyone we encounter – to refrain from doing this. If you have ever watched a little kid pretend to “smoke” a “cigarette,” you know that they already assume that SOMEDAY, this will be okay for them in reality. Actually, just sit quietly sometime and watch and listen as your kids play. Most likely, you will get a pretty good picture of how you sound and act in their presence…and it might be pretty enlightening!
At every turn, we need to examine what we say and do…and how we behave. We should continually be asking ourselves if anything about our demeanor could cause someone else to sin or backslide. Yes, God is in the business of forgiving us when we “fall short”…but our daily goal should be to never give Him a reason to have to do so! Most certainly, we should make every effort to conduct our lives in a manner that no one else is tempted to falter. We should be so steeped in self-control through the power and strength of Jesus Christ that others want the same kind of relationship with Him that we enjoy.
Is there something that you are saying or doing that could cause another person to be thrown off track? Could your words and actions actually result in distance between someone else and their relationship with Jesus? Perhaps we need to think of God as our own personal “Echo”…listening and recording everything about us – and act accordingly. Will this be the day that you give yourself a head-to-toe exam and discover where you might be exercising your freedom in the salvation of Jesus in a way that could be harmful to others? Will you then ask God to help you make necessary adjustments? Don’t you think you should?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 29, 2016
1 Corinthians 1:2-9
To: The Christians in Corinth, invited by God to be his people and made acceptable to him by Christ Jesus. And to: All Christians everywhere—whoever calls upon the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and theirs.
May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you all of his blessings, and great peace of heart and mind.
I can never stop thanking God for all the wonderful gifts he has given you, now that you are Christ’s: he has enriched your whole life. He has helped you speak out for him and has given you a full understanding of the truth; what I told you Christ could do for you has happened! Now you have every grace and blessing; every spiritual gift and power for doing his will are yours during this time of waiting for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. And he guarantees right up to the end that you will be counted free from all sin and guilt on that day when he returns. God will surely do this for you, for he always does just what he says, and he is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, even Christ our 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.
For months, our 4-year-old nephew, Nathan, has been talking about a toy he wanted for Christmas…a Batbot. This remote-controlled toy transforms from a robot into an “armored” tank. Nathan never wavered. This was what he wanted…and he was certain that it was waiting for him under the Christmas tree. Every box that even remotely looked like it could be the right size, he would say, “That’s probably a Batbot!” Christmas Eve, as his mother helped him open a box of assorted colors of Play-doh®, he asked her, “Is that my Batbot?”
Nathan DID get the Batbot on Christmas morning…and I am sure he has spent countless happy hours playing with it since then. Now, can you imagine if his parents told him that he had to give it back to them? I cannot even think about what would happen if they told him that he had to take his prized toy back to the store. He would be devastated…and his entire vision of Christmas and the hope and excitement that surround this season would probably be destroyed. Thankfully, I don’t know anyone who rescinds their child’s Christmas gifts…or any other gifts for that matter.
I cannot imagine living with the idea that Jesus could revoke my salvation at any moment…that my “friendship” with Him teetered so precariously and could vanish in a heartbeat. One of the great joys of Christian faith is living with the childlike hope and confidence that Jesus truly will deliver the grace, blessings, gifts and power that He promised…and we get to keep them forever!
While I don’t have to consciously think about this night and day, I also cannot grow complacent or take Jesus’ gifts for granted. If you stop and think about it, we tell our children that they have to…“be good, or Santa won’t come and bring you what you asked for.” Jesus does NOT operate like Santa Claus...efforts on our part to “be good” do not have a direct correlation to His gift of Salvation and Eternal Life.
But we should want to do everything we can to honor Jesus’ gifts and blessings - precisely because we cannot earn them. We are offered Salvation and all of the benefits of a life in Christ – forever and ever – in spite of our ugly, egotistical, sinful selves. Jesus knows that we are undeserving…but He loves us and generously lavishes these gifts upon us anyway. There is no “naughty or nice list”…at least not in the way we envision with Santa Claus. And aren’t we glad?!
I thank God every day for Jesus…for the grace, blessings, gifts, and power that are mine because HE is my Redeemer. I thank God that many people I know and love share in these same blessings and gifts…though NONE of us deserves them or can ever “earn” them. Because I know that Salvation and the abundance of a life in Christ are available to any and all who will accept His invitation, I am doing all I can to lead as many people into this relationship as I possibly can…and I hope you are with me!
If you have not accepted Jesus’ invitation, please do so today. If you are living in His abundance and blessings already, what are you doing to show your gratitude and respect – and give others a reason to accept this invitation for themselves? Will this be the day that you begin to answer this question?
©2016 Debbie Robus
To: The Christians in Corinth, invited by God to be his people and made acceptable to him by Christ Jesus. And to: All Christians everywhere—whoever calls upon the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and theirs.
May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you all of his blessings, and great peace of heart and mind.
I can never stop thanking God for all the wonderful gifts he has given you, now that you are Christ’s: he has enriched your whole life. He has helped you speak out for him and has given you a full understanding of the truth; what I told you Christ could do for you has happened! Now you have every grace and blessing; every spiritual gift and power for doing his will are yours during this time of waiting for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. And he guarantees right up to the end that you will be counted free from all sin and guilt on that day when he returns. God will surely do this for you, for he always does just what he says, and he is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, even Christ our 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.
For months, our 4-year-old nephew, Nathan, has been talking about a toy he wanted for Christmas…a Batbot. This remote-controlled toy transforms from a robot into an “armored” tank. Nathan never wavered. This was what he wanted…and he was certain that it was waiting for him under the Christmas tree. Every box that even remotely looked like it could be the right size, he would say, “That’s probably a Batbot!” Christmas Eve, as his mother helped him open a box of assorted colors of Play-doh®, he asked her, “Is that my Batbot?”
Nathan DID get the Batbot on Christmas morning…and I am sure he has spent countless happy hours playing with it since then. Now, can you imagine if his parents told him that he had to give it back to them? I cannot even think about what would happen if they told him that he had to take his prized toy back to the store. He would be devastated…and his entire vision of Christmas and the hope and excitement that surround this season would probably be destroyed. Thankfully, I don’t know anyone who rescinds their child’s Christmas gifts…or any other gifts for that matter.
I cannot imagine living with the idea that Jesus could revoke my salvation at any moment…that my “friendship” with Him teetered so precariously and could vanish in a heartbeat. One of the great joys of Christian faith is living with the childlike hope and confidence that Jesus truly will deliver the grace, blessings, gifts and power that He promised…and we get to keep them forever!
While I don’t have to consciously think about this night and day, I also cannot grow complacent or take Jesus’ gifts for granted. If you stop and think about it, we tell our children that they have to…“be good, or Santa won’t come and bring you what you asked for.” Jesus does NOT operate like Santa Claus...efforts on our part to “be good” do not have a direct correlation to His gift of Salvation and Eternal Life.
But we should want to do everything we can to honor Jesus’ gifts and blessings - precisely because we cannot earn them. We are offered Salvation and all of the benefits of a life in Christ – forever and ever – in spite of our ugly, egotistical, sinful selves. Jesus knows that we are undeserving…but He loves us and generously lavishes these gifts upon us anyway. There is no “naughty or nice list”…at least not in the way we envision with Santa Claus. And aren’t we glad?!
I thank God every day for Jesus…for the grace, blessings, gifts, and power that are mine because HE is my Redeemer. I thank God that many people I know and love share in these same blessings and gifts…though NONE of us deserves them or can ever “earn” them. Because I know that Salvation and the abundance of a life in Christ are available to any and all who will accept His invitation, I am doing all I can to lead as many people into this relationship as I possibly can…and I hope you are with me!
If you have not accepted Jesus’ invitation, please do so today. If you are living in His abundance and blessings already, what are you doing to show your gratitude and respect – and give others a reason to accept this invitation for themselves? Will this be the day that you begin to answer this question?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 28, 2016
1 Corinthians 1:10-13
But, dear brothers, I beg you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to stop arguing among yourselves. Let there be real harmony so that there won’t be splits in the church. I plead with you to be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. For some of those who live at Chloe’s house have told me of your arguments and quarrels, dear brothers. Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul”; and others say that they are for Apollos or for Peter; and some that they alone are the true followers of Christ. And so, in effect, you have broken Christ into many pieces.
But did I, Paul, die for your sins? Were any of you baptized in my name?
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Twenty-nine years ago, my Mam-ma Polly gave me money for Christmas and said, “Buy whatever you want.” Greg and I had just started our new business venture…and there were plenty of things on which we could have spent this money (I think it was $25). But I wanted to buy something that would last…a tangible reminder of my grandmother and this gift. So I went to a local “Christmas store,” and I bought two nativity sets…a large 4-piece white ceramic Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus on a manger of straw…and a musical nativity scene snow-globe that played “Silent Night.” With a few dollars left, I purchased a small wooden 3-piece set that had been hand-crafted by an Arkansas artisan.
Sadly, the snow globe leaked and ruined last year and had to be discarded…but over the last 3 decades, I have added to the collection, so that today has grown from the initial 3 sets to nearly 100 if you count “nativity” ornaments we hang on our tree. I have enjoyed rescuing sets from the thrift store to go alongside those I purchased at estate auctions. Many sets once graced the homes of people I knew who are in heaven now - from a plaster set that belonged to my mother’s first grade teacher to a beautiful towering Madonna that I purchased at the estate sale of dear friends. And this year – the large creamy colored set that my parents purchased in Mexico several decades ago has a special place of honor among the other sets.
A few years ago I wrote a song about how “we set out nativities beside Santa Claus.” Indeed, plenty of people collect “Santas”…and I will admit that I have a table of them in the same room with most of the nativities! When starting my nativity collection, I decided that I would rather amass something that celebrated the birth of Jesus…the hope and faith of Mary…the “true meaning of Christmas.” So while I have a few “Santas” on display…I have far more images of Jesus, Joseph and Mary.
Does this mean that I feel my collection is superior to those who collect “Santas?” Absolutely not! Does it mean that I disapprove of the secular compilations…or judge those who assemble them? Never! Can “Santa” and Jesus be recognized in the same space? Most definitely! Are we worshipping Santa and splintering our faith – or devaluing the true meaning of this holiday season? I don’t think so…as long as we keep Jesus the real “reason for the season.”
But too many of us HAVE placed a great emphasis on the teachings of one person, like a particular evangelist or Bible scholar. We have made too much of which form of worship is the best…traditional, contemporary – or even “communing with nature.” We have drawn a line in the sand that only the King James Version of the Bible should be studied and quoted…or that traditional hymns are outdated and no longer “speak to us.” And we have definitely made people who practice other religious beliefs feel inferior…or even evil!
In numerous ways that we don’t even realize, we have “broken Christ into many pieces.” We have created division among us…the very thing that Jesus taught against. And in so doing, we have dishonored and disrespected our Lord and Savior.
It is time to regain our focus. In these waning days of 2016, let’s take some time to think about Jesus…the commandments He gave us…the sacrifice He made for each of us. Let’s remember who the real KING of KINGS and LORD of Lords is! And let’s stop pitting ourselves against one another over petty issues. Christian faith is not a competition…it is a unification – or it should be.
Now is the time to “be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.” Are you ready to be a part of the body of Christ? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2016 Debbie Robus
But, dear brothers, I beg you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to stop arguing among yourselves. Let there be real harmony so that there won’t be splits in the church. I plead with you to be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. For some of those who live at Chloe’s house have told me of your arguments and quarrels, dear brothers. Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul”; and others say that they are for Apollos or for Peter; and some that they alone are the true followers of Christ. And so, in effect, you have broken Christ into many pieces.
But did I, Paul, die for your sins? Were any of you baptized in my name?
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Twenty-nine years ago, my Mam-ma Polly gave me money for Christmas and said, “Buy whatever you want.” Greg and I had just started our new business venture…and there were plenty of things on which we could have spent this money (I think it was $25). But I wanted to buy something that would last…a tangible reminder of my grandmother and this gift. So I went to a local “Christmas store,” and I bought two nativity sets…a large 4-piece white ceramic Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus on a manger of straw…and a musical nativity scene snow-globe that played “Silent Night.” With a few dollars left, I purchased a small wooden 3-piece set that had been hand-crafted by an Arkansas artisan.
Sadly, the snow globe leaked and ruined last year and had to be discarded…but over the last 3 decades, I have added to the collection, so that today has grown from the initial 3 sets to nearly 100 if you count “nativity” ornaments we hang on our tree. I have enjoyed rescuing sets from the thrift store to go alongside those I purchased at estate auctions. Many sets once graced the homes of people I knew who are in heaven now - from a plaster set that belonged to my mother’s first grade teacher to a beautiful towering Madonna that I purchased at the estate sale of dear friends. And this year – the large creamy colored set that my parents purchased in Mexico several decades ago has a special place of honor among the other sets.
A few years ago I wrote a song about how “we set out nativities beside Santa Claus.” Indeed, plenty of people collect “Santas”…and I will admit that I have a table of them in the same room with most of the nativities! When starting my nativity collection, I decided that I would rather amass something that celebrated the birth of Jesus…the hope and faith of Mary…the “true meaning of Christmas.” So while I have a few “Santas” on display…I have far more images of Jesus, Joseph and Mary.
Does this mean that I feel my collection is superior to those who collect “Santas?” Absolutely not! Does it mean that I disapprove of the secular compilations…or judge those who assemble them? Never! Can “Santa” and Jesus be recognized in the same space? Most definitely! Are we worshipping Santa and splintering our faith – or devaluing the true meaning of this holiday season? I don’t think so…as long as we keep Jesus the real “reason for the season.”
But too many of us HAVE placed a great emphasis on the teachings of one person, like a particular evangelist or Bible scholar. We have made too much of which form of worship is the best…traditional, contemporary – or even “communing with nature.” We have drawn a line in the sand that only the King James Version of the Bible should be studied and quoted…or that traditional hymns are outdated and no longer “speak to us.” And we have definitely made people who practice other religious beliefs feel inferior…or even evil!
In numerous ways that we don’t even realize, we have “broken Christ into many pieces.” We have created division among us…the very thing that Jesus taught against. And in so doing, we have dishonored and disrespected our Lord and Savior.
It is time to regain our focus. In these waning days of 2016, let’s take some time to think about Jesus…the commandments He gave us…the sacrifice He made for each of us. Let’s remember who the real KING of KINGS and LORD of Lords is! And let’s stop pitting ourselves against one another over petty issues. Christian faith is not a competition…it is a unification – or it should be.
Now is the time to “be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.” Are you ready to be a part of the body of Christ? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 27, 2016
1 Corinthians 10:32-33
As a matter of fact, do everything that way, heartily and freely to God’s glory. At the same time, don’t be callous in your exercise of freedom, thoughtlessly stepping on the toes of those who aren’t as free as you are. I try my best to be considerate of everyone’s feelings in all these matters; I hope you will be, too.
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.
Sometimes, we Christians are so busy trying to make a point that we fail to make a difference! We get so caught up in rituals and appearances of piety that we totally fail at serving as the hands and feet of Jesus. We turn our Christian faith into a grand production…we have to belong to the right groups…we have to have plenty of Christian symbols in our jewelry and home décor. We have to attend the right Bible studies. At church, the lighting has to be just right…the musicians have to be semi-professional or better…and the worship facility has to be large and grand – or chic and trendy.
We serve coffee at worship services and try to dress and act casual, so everyone feels comfortable. But then we make a big deal out of our offerings…or even have times when we encourage people to come to the altar with their “gifts.” We pass the plate or bucket at special events like the Christmas Eve candlelight service...OR, we dress “to the nines” with the premise that we want to show respect to God by wearing our best clothes and accessories.
We look at those whose appearance is different than ours in some way as we walk the aisles of Walmart…and they know immediately that we disapprove. We wear our cross jewelry and “Jesus Saves” t-shirts…but we cluck our tongues at those in headgear and other clothing and accessories that symbolize their beliefs. And then we wonder why others think that many there isn’t room for everyone at God's table.
We don’t take into account that the very people we are seeking to reach – those who may not yet enjoy the freedom of salvation in Jesus Christ or who may be seeking a church home or a simple Christian friendship – often feel judged by these actions and behaviors. They feel they cannot measure up…that they cannot afford to participate at an “appropriate or acceptable level”…that this Christian faith must be for those who have it all together and/or belong to a certain group.
In short, Christian faith becomes a “country club” for “eligible members”…and we often step all over the toes of those who are “on the outside” – if only in their own minds. A whole lot of people don’t want what we are peddling as Christians…and who can blame them?!
This is dangerous territory. We cannot afford to even suggest exclusion for a single person, because this is NOT why God gave us Jesus! At every turn, we need to be asking ourselves – and God…”Am I being considerate? Is this glorifying my relationship with God and the freedom and blessings He offers through salvation in Jesus Christ?” We must carefully consider everything we say and do, because…wait for it…PEOPLE.ARE.WATCHING!
God wants us to enjoy our lives as Christians. He wants us to worship Him and celebrate Jesus to the best of our ability. He wants us to communicate with Him in prayer and praise…to serve others in Jesus’ name (and give Him the glory)…and to honor all that He has given us by giving back – in time, talents, AND money. But God does not approve of a spectacle…or any words and gestures that cause another person to feel unworthy, judged, or excluded.
This is where a lot of us miss the mark. People ARE watching. When they look at you…what – and WHO – will they see?
©2016 Debbie Robus
As a matter of fact, do everything that way, heartily and freely to God’s glory. At the same time, don’t be callous in your exercise of freedom, thoughtlessly stepping on the toes of those who aren’t as free as you are. I try my best to be considerate of everyone’s feelings in all these matters; I hope you will be, too.
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.
Sometimes, we Christians are so busy trying to make a point that we fail to make a difference! We get so caught up in rituals and appearances of piety that we totally fail at serving as the hands and feet of Jesus. We turn our Christian faith into a grand production…we have to belong to the right groups…we have to have plenty of Christian symbols in our jewelry and home décor. We have to attend the right Bible studies. At church, the lighting has to be just right…the musicians have to be semi-professional or better…and the worship facility has to be large and grand – or chic and trendy.
We serve coffee at worship services and try to dress and act casual, so everyone feels comfortable. But then we make a big deal out of our offerings…or even have times when we encourage people to come to the altar with their “gifts.” We pass the plate or bucket at special events like the Christmas Eve candlelight service...OR, we dress “to the nines” with the premise that we want to show respect to God by wearing our best clothes and accessories.
We look at those whose appearance is different than ours in some way as we walk the aisles of Walmart…and they know immediately that we disapprove. We wear our cross jewelry and “Jesus Saves” t-shirts…but we cluck our tongues at those in headgear and other clothing and accessories that symbolize their beliefs. And then we wonder why others think that many there isn’t room for everyone at God's table.
We don’t take into account that the very people we are seeking to reach – those who may not yet enjoy the freedom of salvation in Jesus Christ or who may be seeking a church home or a simple Christian friendship – often feel judged by these actions and behaviors. They feel they cannot measure up…that they cannot afford to participate at an “appropriate or acceptable level”…that this Christian faith must be for those who have it all together and/or belong to a certain group.
In short, Christian faith becomes a “country club” for “eligible members”…and we often step all over the toes of those who are “on the outside” – if only in their own minds. A whole lot of people don’t want what we are peddling as Christians…and who can blame them?!
This is dangerous territory. We cannot afford to even suggest exclusion for a single person, because this is NOT why God gave us Jesus! At every turn, we need to be asking ourselves – and God…”Am I being considerate? Is this glorifying my relationship with God and the freedom and blessings He offers through salvation in Jesus Christ?” We must carefully consider everything we say and do, because…wait for it…PEOPLE.ARE.WATCHING!
God wants us to enjoy our lives as Christians. He wants us to worship Him and celebrate Jesus to the best of our ability. He wants us to communicate with Him in prayer and praise…to serve others in Jesus’ name (and give Him the glory)…and to honor all that He has given us by giving back – in time, talents, AND money. But God does not approve of a spectacle…or any words and gestures that cause another person to feel unworthy, judged, or excluded.
This is where a lot of us miss the mark. People ARE watching. When they look at you…what – and WHO – will they see?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 26, 2016
Titus 2:7-8
And here you yourself must be an example to them of good deeds of every kind. Let everything you do reflect your love of the truth and the fact that you are in dead earnest about it. Your conversation should be so sensible and logical that anyone who wants to argue will be ashamed of himself because there won’t be anything to criticize in anything you say!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
“So-and-So said a bad word!” Adults hear that a lot from children. I also hear, “We can’t say bad words, because we’re kids. When we’re grown-ups, we can say it.” I’ve seen children snicker in the classroom over a word they perceived to be “bad”…and tattle on each other for what they deemed to be inappropriate words and deeds.
I try to tell all children that “bad” words/behaviors are just that…a bad idea. Even grown-ups shouldn’t participate in their usage. It’s hard to navigate this subject without appearing to criticize other adults…especially a child’s parents or others who are something of an authority figure. And with so many in the public eye using profanities and unkind phrases, it is indeed a slippery slope! So I try to tell children, “You are smart…you know lots of great words to use – and you know how to behave nicely. Always make good choices!”
None of us is immune. I was putting Timmy in the car at school recently, and he kept saying, “I can’t fasten my seatbelt.” I looked in the back seat…and before I could think, I said, “Well, dummy…you’re wearing your backpack!” Boy, did I have to do some backpedaling and apologizing…and I did! I told him that was a terrible name to call him…and I was so very sorry…that I should never use that word. I’ve also tried to tell the children not to use words like “stupid and idiot” – and then I’ve heard them expressed in “kid’s” movies like “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” It’s a tough balancing act because so many unkind and inappropriate words and actions have become mainstream in media and personal conversation…and we HAVE become complacent about their usage.
So I have been reminded to stay on guard. My words to Timmy slipped out…but I need to be more careful. A lot of things have a way of “slipping out” if we do not make a conscious effort to conduct ourselves in a manner that defies reproach.
God can help us with this. We should take time every day to ask Him for guidance and guardianship over our words and actions. We should steep ourselves in His word and the concept that “practice makes perfect”…and we should make concerted efforts to banish any hint of bad word usage or behavior that could be subject to criticism. God has given us so much…the opportunity for salvation through Jesus Christ and the promise of Eternity in heaven…His love and care on this earth and forever at His feet…amazing blessings and abundances of all kinds. How can we disrespect Him with words and behaviors that are untrue, inappropriate, or even downright shameful?
As we wind down this holiday season and look toward a New Year, let’s make a concerted effort to clean up our act…to be the kind of people spoken of in Titus 2:7-8. The justification that we are earthly “grown-ups” doesn’t negate the fact that we will always be God’s “children,” so let’s remember this as we go about our day. Make sure that you strive to always represent our Heavenly Father in the best way possible.
We must never give anyone a reason to question our integrity - or our spiritual “lineage.” Ask God to help you always make good choices – and never operate in bad ideas.
©2016 Debbie Robus
And here you yourself must be an example to them of good deeds of every kind. Let everything you do reflect your love of the truth and the fact that you are in dead earnest about it. Your conversation should be so sensible and logical that anyone who wants to argue will be ashamed of himself because there won’t be anything to criticize in anything you say!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
“So-and-So said a bad word!” Adults hear that a lot from children. I also hear, “We can’t say bad words, because we’re kids. When we’re grown-ups, we can say it.” I’ve seen children snicker in the classroom over a word they perceived to be “bad”…and tattle on each other for what they deemed to be inappropriate words and deeds.
I try to tell all children that “bad” words/behaviors are just that…a bad idea. Even grown-ups shouldn’t participate in their usage. It’s hard to navigate this subject without appearing to criticize other adults…especially a child’s parents or others who are something of an authority figure. And with so many in the public eye using profanities and unkind phrases, it is indeed a slippery slope! So I try to tell children, “You are smart…you know lots of great words to use – and you know how to behave nicely. Always make good choices!”
None of us is immune. I was putting Timmy in the car at school recently, and he kept saying, “I can’t fasten my seatbelt.” I looked in the back seat…and before I could think, I said, “Well, dummy…you’re wearing your backpack!” Boy, did I have to do some backpedaling and apologizing…and I did! I told him that was a terrible name to call him…and I was so very sorry…that I should never use that word. I’ve also tried to tell the children not to use words like “stupid and idiot” – and then I’ve heard them expressed in “kid’s” movies like “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” It’s a tough balancing act because so many unkind and inappropriate words and actions have become mainstream in media and personal conversation…and we HAVE become complacent about their usage.
So I have been reminded to stay on guard. My words to Timmy slipped out…but I need to be more careful. A lot of things have a way of “slipping out” if we do not make a conscious effort to conduct ourselves in a manner that defies reproach.
God can help us with this. We should take time every day to ask Him for guidance and guardianship over our words and actions. We should steep ourselves in His word and the concept that “practice makes perfect”…and we should make concerted efforts to banish any hint of bad word usage or behavior that could be subject to criticism. God has given us so much…the opportunity for salvation through Jesus Christ and the promise of Eternity in heaven…His love and care on this earth and forever at His feet…amazing blessings and abundances of all kinds. How can we disrespect Him with words and behaviors that are untrue, inappropriate, or even downright shameful?
As we wind down this holiday season and look toward a New Year, let’s make a concerted effort to clean up our act…to be the kind of people spoken of in Titus 2:7-8. The justification that we are earthly “grown-ups” doesn’t negate the fact that we will always be God’s “children,” so let’s remember this as we go about our day. Make sure that you strive to always represent our Heavenly Father in the best way possible.
We must never give anyone a reason to question our integrity - or our spiritual “lineage.” Ask God to help you always make good choices – and never operate in bad ideas.
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 25, 2016
Romans 8:32
Since he did not spare even his own Son for us but gave him up for us all, won’t he also surely give us everything else?
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
For the last 25 days (or longer, for those who put up their trees around Halloween!), we have celebrated Christmas with family members and friends. We’ve decorated our homes…sent greeting cards…shopped…baked…eaten delectable foods…wrapped gifts…presented and enjoyed holiday programs…attended parties…worshipped together…and shared gifts and merriment with each other. We've celebrated Jesus’ birthday, lit the advent candle, and sung carols to herald His arrival.
The festivities will continue for a few more days for some of us. For others, it’s all over but the clean-up! But honestly, Christmas isn’t over for any who believe in Jesus Christ. In fact…it’s just beginning!
God knew when He sent Jesus to earth that His would not be an easy life. He knew that there would be ridicule, misunderstanding, persecution…and a crucifixion. And He sent Jesus anyway. He sent His Son as a tiny baby so that we could fully see perfection in human form – from the cradle to adulthood. Physically, God wanted Jesus to be “one of us.” But all along, God knew that Jesus would suffer and die for us…that He would shed His blood as the perfect Lamb - sacrificed for our sins.
God didn’t just send a baby and say, “Here you go folks…figure out the rest!” He knew all along just how things would happen – and why. And that’s why “Christmas” doesn’t end today…or tomorrow…or next week or next year. When we know Jesus as our Savior, every day is “Christmas”…and a gift from God Almighty.
Someone noted today on Facebook that historically, Jesus probably was born in the spring - not in December…that December 25 is likely not actually Jesus’ real birth date. It doesn’t matter what day has been chosen to mark the birth of our Savior. It doesn’t change the fact that some 2050 years ago, God sent His Son - against all odds - to save us from our sins. And He has been in the “giving” business ever since.
I don’t understand God’s grace and generosity. I cannot explain His mercy…or why He continues to bless us with abundance. It is beyond my comprehension that God’s gift of Jesus was not enough…that He continues to meet our every need and lavish us with gifts that we will never deserve. I honestly don’t know why God didn’t dust off His hands after sending Jesus to earth and basically say, “Merry Christmas…and to all a Good Night!” and be done with us. But I’m very glad that He didn’t.
God loves us beyond anything we can comprehend. He sent Jesus to show us how to live and serve…and to die for our sins. And now, God walks with us each and every day…hears our prayers…heals us in every sense of the word…and blesses us beyond human understanding. I don’t understand His generosity…but I will never doubt it!
So take down the tree…and pack away the lights, tinsel and decorations for the next few months. But don’t pack away “Christmas.” Let the spirit of God’s greatest Gift live on in your heart each and every day. Embrace His gift of Salvation…and watch His blessings and abundance flow in your life. Live and serve with gratitude for such an amazing Gift…and make every day a reason to celebrate! Merry Christmas!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Since he did not spare even his own Son for us but gave him up for us all, won’t he also surely give us everything else?
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
For the last 25 days (or longer, for those who put up their trees around Halloween!), we have celebrated Christmas with family members and friends. We’ve decorated our homes…sent greeting cards…shopped…baked…eaten delectable foods…wrapped gifts…presented and enjoyed holiday programs…attended parties…worshipped together…and shared gifts and merriment with each other. We've celebrated Jesus’ birthday, lit the advent candle, and sung carols to herald His arrival.
The festivities will continue for a few more days for some of us. For others, it’s all over but the clean-up! But honestly, Christmas isn’t over for any who believe in Jesus Christ. In fact…it’s just beginning!
God knew when He sent Jesus to earth that His would not be an easy life. He knew that there would be ridicule, misunderstanding, persecution…and a crucifixion. And He sent Jesus anyway. He sent His Son as a tiny baby so that we could fully see perfection in human form – from the cradle to adulthood. Physically, God wanted Jesus to be “one of us.” But all along, God knew that Jesus would suffer and die for us…that He would shed His blood as the perfect Lamb - sacrificed for our sins.
God didn’t just send a baby and say, “Here you go folks…figure out the rest!” He knew all along just how things would happen – and why. And that’s why “Christmas” doesn’t end today…or tomorrow…or next week or next year. When we know Jesus as our Savior, every day is “Christmas”…and a gift from God Almighty.
Someone noted today on Facebook that historically, Jesus probably was born in the spring - not in December…that December 25 is likely not actually Jesus’ real birth date. It doesn’t matter what day has been chosen to mark the birth of our Savior. It doesn’t change the fact that some 2050 years ago, God sent His Son - against all odds - to save us from our sins. And He has been in the “giving” business ever since.
I don’t understand God’s grace and generosity. I cannot explain His mercy…or why He continues to bless us with abundance. It is beyond my comprehension that God’s gift of Jesus was not enough…that He continues to meet our every need and lavish us with gifts that we will never deserve. I honestly don’t know why God didn’t dust off His hands after sending Jesus to earth and basically say, “Merry Christmas…and to all a Good Night!” and be done with us. But I’m very glad that He didn’t.
God loves us beyond anything we can comprehend. He sent Jesus to show us how to live and serve…and to die for our sins. And now, God walks with us each and every day…hears our prayers…heals us in every sense of the word…and blesses us beyond human understanding. I don’t understand His generosity…but I will never doubt it!
So take down the tree…and pack away the lights, tinsel and decorations for the next few months. But don’t pack away “Christmas.” Let the spirit of God’s greatest Gift live on in your heart each and every day. Embrace His gift of Salvation…and watch His blessings and abundance flow in your life. Live and serve with gratitude for such an amazing Gift…and make every day a reason to celebrate! Merry Christmas!
©2016 Debbie Robus
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