Galatians 5:22-23
But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.
Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way.
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.
Recently, I spoke with several girls who are members of a “small group” ministry hosted by my church. Since these girls are all high school seniors, the girls’ leaders had asked me to address the question, “What do you wish you had known when you were 18?” The first thing I listed was how I wished I had understood more fully just how much God loves me…that I had truly comprehended His grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion for me. While those who nurtured me in the first 18 years of my life loved God and meant well, much of my teaching was based in fear and an image of God – at least in my mind - as a strong disciplinarian (think lion tamer with a chair in one hand and a whip in the other!) who was watching and waiting to cast me into hell at the first misstep. The girls got quite a laugh when I said that the phrase “You’ll go to hell for that!” rang in my head much of the time.
It wasn’t until much later in life that I truly learned just how much God loves me… even when I screw things up – as we all do from time to time. I told the girls I wish I had understood that people make mistakes in life…it’s part of how we grown and learn. While this is not a license to sin or do things we shouldn’t…it is important that we realize that God can forgive and restore us…He has no desire to see any of us punished…much less condemned to hell for all eternity. By the same token, I didn’t have a clear understanding of how the Holy Spirit works. Most of my childhood, we heard of the “Holy Ghost”…and it was in a vague, sometimes eerie context. I did not understand that the Holy Spirit’s presence in our hearts equips us with compassion, holiness, affection for others, the ability to discern God’s wisdom…and so much more.
I shared with the girls how I have come to recognize the Holy Spirit’s presence… how He has calmed me in situations that almost literally took my breath…how He has shrouded me in peace and confidence when there was no “legal” – or human – explanation for the presence of either one! And I tried to convey to them how helpful it would have been to fully understand – and acknowledge – the Holy Spirit’s manifestation in my life when I was their age. It would have made a lot of situations easier…answered a lot of questions…and equipped me to handle many things far better than I did.
We talked about how so many people have opinions these days about what the girls should do with the rest of their lives…which college they should attend…what they should choose for a major…even which dress they should wear to the prom! Everyone has an opinion…and while many are offered in love and genuine care, the ultimate decisions reside with these girls. I encouraged them to think for themselves… to listen to the advice of others - but to lean on the Holy Spirit for guidance…and to understand that they don’t have all of the answers yet – and they aren’t supposed to at this age!
In short, my message to these girls is the same missive I give to each of you today…and serves as a reminder to myself, as well: The “world” can tell you a lot of things. The “legalism” of right and wrong can serve us just fine. Etiquette and a societal “moral code” can help us figure out what to say and do in many situations. But ultimately, the guidance that will supply us best comes from God…often through the manifestation of His Holy Spirit in our lives. When we listen to the Holy Spirit and operate in God’s will, we don’t have to operate in fear or uncertainty. We are equipped with a true sense of “affection for others, exuberance about life…and serenity.” We truly develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of gentleness and compassion in the heart, and a true understanding of holiness and self-control.
While I wish I had fully understood some of these things when I was eighteen, I honestly have no regrets. God has directed each day of my journey. Even when I didn’t fully recognize His presence – or that of the Holy Spirit – He was with me. But I could have been more compassionate and caring at times…I could have been less fearful and more confident…and “marshaled my energies” more wisely. And this is my challenge for all of us…to take whatever time we have left on this earth and make the most of it as we live God’s way.
If we start every day by asking God to show us what He wants us to do…and call on His Holy Spirit to fill us and guide our steps…we can proceed with confidence that we are operating in His will – and producing “good fruit” in the process.
Whose “laws” are guiding you today? Will you listen to the “legalism” of today’s society…or will you be guided by the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit? Will you operate in God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness, and compassion…and share these “fruits” with others? Or will you strike out on your own…and take your chances?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label Gods grace mercy and forgiveness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gods grace mercy and forgiveness. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for January 26, 2014
Galatians 6:1-3
Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
You messed up…made a big mistake. Maybe you broke the law, or you broke a promise. You hurt someone deeply…you betrayed family members, friends, co-workers. And now you are paying for your offense…in more ways than you ever imagined. The “obvious consequences” are bad enough…citations, court appearances – maybe even jail, loss of a job, getting kicked out of school, the break-up of a marriage or relationship - to name a few. But you didn’t expect the alienation and loneliness that has come with it. You didn’t realize that people would treat you like a pariah…or worse! Where are your friends? Why has your family distanced themselves from you? What happened to all of those co-workers or team mates who always wanted to socialize – at work and afterward?
There are consequences for mistakes…sometimes big ones. And many people do not consider the cost until after the fact. But the Bible tells us that as Christians, we have an obligation not to pile trouble upon trouble. In fact, we are to reach out to those who are hurting…those who have fallen…the ones on whom the rest of the world has turned its back. This doesn’t mean we are to condone their misdeeds. But we are to remind them that Jesus has not left them…and neither will we.
Think of yourself driving down the highway. You are cruising along - maybe even daydreaming a little. You top a hill and see the blue lights of a police car that has another car pulled over, and instinctively, you apply your brakes. You look at your speedometer and realize that YOU were speeding, too. Admit it…as you pass the two cars on the side of the road, you look at the poor guy who has gotten caught, and you shake your head – at least a little. And you probably say, “That easily could have been me.”
See, this is the thing. We are all one misstep away from needing mercy and grace from others…and honestly, we are all in need of daily mercy from Jesus – if not minute-by-minute! Jesus would never shun us. There are plenty of times when we disappoint Him – even anger Him – with our thoughts, words and actions. But Jesus never leaves us. He still visits us in the “jail cell” of our guilt and embarrassment – if not literally. Jesus still demonstrates love, compassion, and caring – even when we don’t deserve it. And we must do this for others.
So the person who hurt you so badly or caused great difficulties for others in his/her job, family life, friendships, athletic team – or church group – doesn’t deserve a “free pass”. But he/she does need our compassion…a smile…a hug…an “I love you and I’m praying for you”…and maybe even an “I forgive you.” The person who “got pulled over” needs to know that you still care about him/her…that nothing is too big for Jesus to forgive…and that we are seeing the person – not their sin. If we can do this, at least two things will happen: 1) our act of compassion may be the very catalyst for a change in this person; and 2) we will have helped to set the stage for our own mercy and understanding if/when we need it.
As this scripture points out, none of us is “that important!” Certainly none of us is above reproach…and there isn’t a single one of us who deserves Jesus’ mercy and compassion more than another. Jesus would never play favorites...so why would we?
Who needs to hear from you today? Where do you need to step forward…be bold…and approach someone on whom others have turned their backs? How will you help someone shoulder a burden today? What is Jesus calling you to do - and will you answer?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
You messed up…made a big mistake. Maybe you broke the law, or you broke a promise. You hurt someone deeply…you betrayed family members, friends, co-workers. And now you are paying for your offense…in more ways than you ever imagined. The “obvious consequences” are bad enough…citations, court appearances – maybe even jail, loss of a job, getting kicked out of school, the break-up of a marriage or relationship - to name a few. But you didn’t expect the alienation and loneliness that has come with it. You didn’t realize that people would treat you like a pariah…or worse! Where are your friends? Why has your family distanced themselves from you? What happened to all of those co-workers or team mates who always wanted to socialize – at work and afterward?
There are consequences for mistakes…sometimes big ones. And many people do not consider the cost until after the fact. But the Bible tells us that as Christians, we have an obligation not to pile trouble upon trouble. In fact, we are to reach out to those who are hurting…those who have fallen…the ones on whom the rest of the world has turned its back. This doesn’t mean we are to condone their misdeeds. But we are to remind them that Jesus has not left them…and neither will we.
Think of yourself driving down the highway. You are cruising along - maybe even daydreaming a little. You top a hill and see the blue lights of a police car that has another car pulled over, and instinctively, you apply your brakes. You look at your speedometer and realize that YOU were speeding, too. Admit it…as you pass the two cars on the side of the road, you look at the poor guy who has gotten caught, and you shake your head – at least a little. And you probably say, “That easily could have been me.”
See, this is the thing. We are all one misstep away from needing mercy and grace from others…and honestly, we are all in need of daily mercy from Jesus – if not minute-by-minute! Jesus would never shun us. There are plenty of times when we disappoint Him – even anger Him – with our thoughts, words and actions. But Jesus never leaves us. He still visits us in the “jail cell” of our guilt and embarrassment – if not literally. Jesus still demonstrates love, compassion, and caring – even when we don’t deserve it. And we must do this for others.
So the person who hurt you so badly or caused great difficulties for others in his/her job, family life, friendships, athletic team – or church group – doesn’t deserve a “free pass”. But he/she does need our compassion…a smile…a hug…an “I love you and I’m praying for you”…and maybe even an “I forgive you.” The person who “got pulled over” needs to know that you still care about him/her…that nothing is too big for Jesus to forgive…and that we are seeing the person – not their sin. If we can do this, at least two things will happen: 1) our act of compassion may be the very catalyst for a change in this person; and 2) we will have helped to set the stage for our own mercy and understanding if/when we need it.
As this scripture points out, none of us is “that important!” Certainly none of us is above reproach…and there isn’t a single one of us who deserves Jesus’ mercy and compassion more than another. Jesus would never play favorites...so why would we?
Who needs to hear from you today? Where do you need to step forward…be bold…and approach someone on whom others have turned their backs? How will you help someone shoulder a burden today? What is Jesus calling you to do - and will you answer?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 20, 2014
Daniel 9:9
But the Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I still remember when my Mam-ma Polly told me that she had shoveled the ice off her driveway…”so that people could pull in safely.” She did this despite our most earnest pleas to stay inside…and stay OFF the ice! I cannot honestly say that she never fell doing this (because she probably would not have told us!), but thankfully, she never suffered any significant injuries as a result. And while we did not like her “rebellious” actions and behaviors at times, we always loved her and forgave her.
Parents have been doing this with children for generations. My cousins were telling recently of their now-adult daughter sticking something into the electrical outlet as a child – TWICE - despite their admonitions…”Don’t do that!” Of course, they loved her and cared for her afterward…but they still did not want her to put anything in the electrical outlets!
Every single day, we do things that displease God. We may be fully conscious of our rebellion…or it may be something that we do so automatically that we don’t realize what we have done. We may also rebel against God by charging ahead without asking for His guidance and seeking His wisdom. We have to do better at responding to God and obeying His commands. Thankfully, God is merciful, forgiving…and relatively patient with us in the meantime. Hopefully we can make daily progress as we grow closer to Him through prayer, Bible study, and the fellowship and sharing of encouragement with other believers.
As part of our Christian discipleship, we are called to show mercy, forgiveness and compassion to others. Let’s be honest…people are going to rebel against us…betray us…insult us…ignore us…or show us disrespect and/or mistreatment in some manner more than once in our lifetimes. Maybe you feel like this is a daily occurrence in your life! Truly, this is not what God desires for us. But then, He doesn’t desire that we treat Him in this manner, either. And in God, we see the perfect example of how to treat others. We don’t have to like their actions and behaviors…we don’t have to be their personal doormat…but we do have to offer them mercy and forgiveness, just as God offers each of us.
How do you maintain boundaries, stand up for yourself and what is right…yet let someone know that you do not condone rebellious actions and behaviors? We have been perfect examples of this all throughout scripture. There are consequences for bad behavior. God does not dole out blessings and “free passes” to those who disobey or disrespect Him. But He never stops loving them. God is always available to hear from His children…He makes sure basic needs are met, and He offers opportunities for restoration and reconciliation.
A cousin of mine once said of a mutual acquaintance…”When you get on his list – there is no eraser.” We may have to take a “time out” from someone…or step away from certain situations. We may have to practice “tough love” for a season. But we never stop sharing God’s love. We never stop praying – or caring. And when the person sincerely asks for our forgiveness…we must offer it. Imagine how you would feel if you were cut off from God…if you felt you had messed up so badly that He could never love you again. Thankfully, this will never happen! But we must still imagine how a person would feel if he/she thought this were the case…or how it would be for them to feel as if we had permanently and completely rejected them.
God wants us to love others as He loves us…so we must stand ready to offer mercy and forgiveness. To do otherwise is also an act of rebellion! This is a big challenge…but we serve a MIGHTY God…and He will give us the strength and wisdom to accomplish this! Are you ready to pay His mercy and forgiveness forward? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
But the Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I still remember when my Mam-ma Polly told me that she had shoveled the ice off her driveway…”so that people could pull in safely.” She did this despite our most earnest pleas to stay inside…and stay OFF the ice! I cannot honestly say that she never fell doing this (because she probably would not have told us!), but thankfully, she never suffered any significant injuries as a result. And while we did not like her “rebellious” actions and behaviors at times, we always loved her and forgave her.
Parents have been doing this with children for generations. My cousins were telling recently of their now-adult daughter sticking something into the electrical outlet as a child – TWICE - despite their admonitions…”Don’t do that!” Of course, they loved her and cared for her afterward…but they still did not want her to put anything in the electrical outlets!
Every single day, we do things that displease God. We may be fully conscious of our rebellion…or it may be something that we do so automatically that we don’t realize what we have done. We may also rebel against God by charging ahead without asking for His guidance and seeking His wisdom. We have to do better at responding to God and obeying His commands. Thankfully, God is merciful, forgiving…and relatively patient with us in the meantime. Hopefully we can make daily progress as we grow closer to Him through prayer, Bible study, and the fellowship and sharing of encouragement with other believers.
As part of our Christian discipleship, we are called to show mercy, forgiveness and compassion to others. Let’s be honest…people are going to rebel against us…betray us…insult us…ignore us…or show us disrespect and/or mistreatment in some manner more than once in our lifetimes. Maybe you feel like this is a daily occurrence in your life! Truly, this is not what God desires for us. But then, He doesn’t desire that we treat Him in this manner, either. And in God, we see the perfect example of how to treat others. We don’t have to like their actions and behaviors…we don’t have to be their personal doormat…but we do have to offer them mercy and forgiveness, just as God offers each of us.
How do you maintain boundaries, stand up for yourself and what is right…yet let someone know that you do not condone rebellious actions and behaviors? We have been perfect examples of this all throughout scripture. There are consequences for bad behavior. God does not dole out blessings and “free passes” to those who disobey or disrespect Him. But He never stops loving them. God is always available to hear from His children…He makes sure basic needs are met, and He offers opportunities for restoration and reconciliation.
A cousin of mine once said of a mutual acquaintance…”When you get on his list – there is no eraser.” We may have to take a “time out” from someone…or step away from certain situations. We may have to practice “tough love” for a season. But we never stop sharing God’s love. We never stop praying – or caring. And when the person sincerely asks for our forgiveness…we must offer it. Imagine how you would feel if you were cut off from God…if you felt you had messed up so badly that He could never love you again. Thankfully, this will never happen! But we must still imagine how a person would feel if he/she thought this were the case…or how it would be for them to feel as if we had permanently and completely rejected them.
God wants us to love others as He loves us…so we must stand ready to offer mercy and forgiveness. To do otherwise is also an act of rebellion! This is a big challenge…but we serve a MIGHTY God…and He will give us the strength and wisdom to accomplish this! Are you ready to pay His mercy and forgiveness forward? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 5, 2014
Matthew 18:28-35
“The servant was no sooner out of the room when he came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him ten dollars. He seized him by the throat and demanded, ‘Pay up. Now!’
“The poor wretch threw himself down and begged, ‘Give me a chance and I’ll pay it all back.’ But he wouldn’t do it. He had him arrested and put in jail until the debt was paid. When the other servants saw this going on, they were outraged and brought a detailed report to the king.
“The king summoned the man and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave your entire debt when you begged me for mercy. Shouldn’t you be compelled to be merciful to your fellow servant who asked for mercy?’ The king was furious and put the screws to the man until he paid back his entire debt. And that’s exactly what my Father in heaven is going to do to each one of you who doesn’t forgive unconditionally anyone who asks for mercy.”
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.
January 3, 2014, author/blogger Ben Irwin wrote a piece for http://HuffingtonPost.com titled “20 Things the Poor Really Do Every Day”*. Irwin cited several sources for creating his list, and the points were compelling…search for affordable housing…try to make $133 worth of food last a whole month…skip a meal…work longer and harder than most of us - just to name a few. Irwin’s point was that the poor may not share the habits of the rich… but it’s not necessarily because they don’t want to…or because they are lazy or ignorant. More importantly, Irwin notes that the poor are “those with whom Jesus identifies most closely”.
As I thought about this article and how we look at people who are “less fortunate” than we are, I considered this scripture passage and Jesus’ admonition to show mercy to those who ask for it. I believe that His message extends much further. How many people in need do you know who are unabashed about asking for help or mercy? I’m sure my church’s staff might argue this point with me, because they spend every Tuesday fielding request from folks who need money or assistance from our “Pastor’s Emergency Fund” - and I am quite sure some are not the least bit embarrassed to ask repeatedly. But at the same time, I know there are people who will do without a lot of things most would consider necessities – or simply avoid certain people and situations - rather than ask for help.
There are also those who are so embarrassed and ashamed of their situation… or their behavior… that they cannot bring themselves to ask for forgiveness and/or a second chance. If you don’t believe me, ask yourself if you have ever felt you had to improve in one area or another before you approached God. It’s the same thing. We all have times when we think that we cannot rectify our situation… rebuild a relationship… or ask for help… until we get things straightened out a little more on our own. And in doing this, we rob ourselves of blessings on so many levels.
I say all this to remind each of us – myself especially – to put ourselves in the shoes of the other guy. Consider how he feels… what struggles plague him…how hard it might be for this person to ask for help – much less seek mercy and forgiveness. I am in no way suggesting that you let people run over you and take full advantage of your kindness. I’m merely suggesting that we truly offer others compassion and understanding… that we try to see things from their vantage point. Rather than demand payment or to be treated in a certain way… perhaps we should shower this person with love and gentleness. You know…treat them just like Jesus treats us! We might just find that they come around sooner...or at the very least, that we are more tenderhearted and merciful in our own thoughts and actions!
God does not want us to be “doormats” for others. But many of us have plenty of situations and relationships that are far removed from this status…yet they could use a hefty dose of grace, mercy and compassion. Are you willing to take a step back and consider the other person’s perspective? Can you operate more from a position of kindheartedness, understanding and compassion… and less from one of judgment and ultimatum? Will you offer others the same level of mercy that you desire from God? Shouldn’t you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ben-irwin/20-things-poor-people-really-do_b_4533691.html
“The servant was no sooner out of the room when he came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him ten dollars. He seized him by the throat and demanded, ‘Pay up. Now!’
“The poor wretch threw himself down and begged, ‘Give me a chance and I’ll pay it all back.’ But he wouldn’t do it. He had him arrested and put in jail until the debt was paid. When the other servants saw this going on, they were outraged and brought a detailed report to the king.
“The king summoned the man and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave your entire debt when you begged me for mercy. Shouldn’t you be compelled to be merciful to your fellow servant who asked for mercy?’ The king was furious and put the screws to the man until he paid back his entire debt. And that’s exactly what my Father in heaven is going to do to each one of you who doesn’t forgive unconditionally anyone who asks for mercy.”
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.
January 3, 2014, author/blogger Ben Irwin wrote a piece for http://HuffingtonPost.com titled “20 Things the Poor Really Do Every Day”*. Irwin cited several sources for creating his list, and the points were compelling…search for affordable housing…try to make $133 worth of food last a whole month…skip a meal…work longer and harder than most of us - just to name a few. Irwin’s point was that the poor may not share the habits of the rich… but it’s not necessarily because they don’t want to…or because they are lazy or ignorant. More importantly, Irwin notes that the poor are “those with whom Jesus identifies most closely”.
As I thought about this article and how we look at people who are “less fortunate” than we are, I considered this scripture passage and Jesus’ admonition to show mercy to those who ask for it. I believe that His message extends much further. How many people in need do you know who are unabashed about asking for help or mercy? I’m sure my church’s staff might argue this point with me, because they spend every Tuesday fielding request from folks who need money or assistance from our “Pastor’s Emergency Fund” - and I am quite sure some are not the least bit embarrassed to ask repeatedly. But at the same time, I know there are people who will do without a lot of things most would consider necessities – or simply avoid certain people and situations - rather than ask for help.
There are also those who are so embarrassed and ashamed of their situation… or their behavior… that they cannot bring themselves to ask for forgiveness and/or a second chance. If you don’t believe me, ask yourself if you have ever felt you had to improve in one area or another before you approached God. It’s the same thing. We all have times when we think that we cannot rectify our situation… rebuild a relationship… or ask for help… until we get things straightened out a little more on our own. And in doing this, we rob ourselves of blessings on so many levels.
I say all this to remind each of us – myself especially – to put ourselves in the shoes of the other guy. Consider how he feels… what struggles plague him…how hard it might be for this person to ask for help – much less seek mercy and forgiveness. I am in no way suggesting that you let people run over you and take full advantage of your kindness. I’m merely suggesting that we truly offer others compassion and understanding… that we try to see things from their vantage point. Rather than demand payment or to be treated in a certain way… perhaps we should shower this person with love and gentleness. You know…treat them just like Jesus treats us! We might just find that they come around sooner...or at the very least, that we are more tenderhearted and merciful in our own thoughts and actions!
God does not want us to be “doormats” for others. But many of us have plenty of situations and relationships that are far removed from this status…yet they could use a hefty dose of grace, mercy and compassion. Are you willing to take a step back and consider the other person’s perspective? Can you operate more from a position of kindheartedness, understanding and compassion… and less from one of judgment and ultimatum? Will you offer others the same level of mercy that you desire from God? Shouldn’t you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ben-irwin/20-things-poor-people-really-do_b_4533691.html
Daily Devotional for October 18, 2013
Romans 3:23-26
But in our time something new has been added. What Moses and the prophets witnessed to all those years has happened. The God-setting-things-right that we read about has become Jesus-setting-things-right for us. And not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him. For there is no difference between us and them in this. Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ.
God sacrificed Jesus on the altar of the world to clear that world of sin. Having faith in him sets us in the clear. God decided on this course of action in full view of the public—to set the world in the clear with himself through the sacrifice of Jesus, finally taking care of the sins he had so patiently endured. This is not only clear, but it’s now—this is current history! God sets things right. He also makes it possible for us to live in his rightness.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One of my all-time favorite television shows is “I Love Lucy”. Every episode, Lucy gets herself into some kind of mess… and she usually recruits Ethel to help her figure out how to get out of it! She tries very hard to cover up her mistakes… she especially tries to keep her husband Ricky from finding out what has happened. But in the end, she usually needs rescuing… and often it is at the hands and mercy of Ricky Ricardo!
Many of us are a lot like Lucy and Ethel. We have these grand schemes of how we think everything ought to work out… or we see something we want – or want to happen – and we start plotting and planning how we can make it so. We may involve others in our shenanigans… or we may try to do things completely on our own. But in the end, we have one royal mess on our hands… and then we need someone to mercifully save us.
Lest you think this doesn’t apply to you, let me ask you a question or two. Have you ever wondered how on earth you were going to pass a test for which you had not adequately studied and prepared? Do you ever make big promises to someone that, going in, you know you will not be able to deliver…but you hope you can figure it all out later on and no one will be the wiser? Do you ever lie… even a little or about seemingly small things… so that people will see you in a particular light – or things will go your way? Have you ever cheated (or as Lucy might describe it “fibbed a little”) in order to achieve a desired outcome? Have you ever tried to make yourself look good at another’s expense?
These are just some of the thousands of ways that we make messes of our lives each and every day…and then wonder how we will work our way out of them. Sometimes, we have a “go-to” person who helps us make amends and mop up the trouble. Other times, we have to muddle through on our own. And more times than we care to admit, we just pretend it never happened and move on…never realizing that our disorder and disobedience accumulates into a cluttered jumble of a life.
And that’s where God comes into the picture. He stands ready and able to help us fix things, once and for all. God knows us and the sorry state of affairs we are capable of creating on our own. Yet He loves us and desires to rescue us from a life that is so messy and chaotic. He can equip us to right all of the wrongs… to ask forgiveness where necessary… and to set things right wherever possible. More importantly, with God’s help – and because of His incredible love, grace, mercy and forgiveness – we don’t have to keep on repeating the same old mistakes.
Our lives are not perpetual episodes of “I Love Lucy”! Without her continual escapades, the show would cease to exist. But the end of our “antics” can be the beginning of our life in Christ… and it can be far better than anything we ever could imagine or create on our own. We know what God offers… we know what He sacrificed through Jesus Christ in order for us to attain it. The choice is ours whether to accept Him and allow Him to operate in and through us… or not. How will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
But in our time something new has been added. What Moses and the prophets witnessed to all those years has happened. The God-setting-things-right that we read about has become Jesus-setting-things-right for us. And not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him. For there is no difference between us and them in this. Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ.
God sacrificed Jesus on the altar of the world to clear that world of sin. Having faith in him sets us in the clear. God decided on this course of action in full view of the public—to set the world in the clear with himself through the sacrifice of Jesus, finally taking care of the sins he had so patiently endured. This is not only clear, but it’s now—this is current history! God sets things right. He also makes it possible for us to live in his rightness.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One of my all-time favorite television shows is “I Love Lucy”. Every episode, Lucy gets herself into some kind of mess… and she usually recruits Ethel to help her figure out how to get out of it! She tries very hard to cover up her mistakes… she especially tries to keep her husband Ricky from finding out what has happened. But in the end, she usually needs rescuing… and often it is at the hands and mercy of Ricky Ricardo!
Many of us are a lot like Lucy and Ethel. We have these grand schemes of how we think everything ought to work out… or we see something we want – or want to happen – and we start plotting and planning how we can make it so. We may involve others in our shenanigans… or we may try to do things completely on our own. But in the end, we have one royal mess on our hands… and then we need someone to mercifully save us.
Lest you think this doesn’t apply to you, let me ask you a question or two. Have you ever wondered how on earth you were going to pass a test for which you had not adequately studied and prepared? Do you ever make big promises to someone that, going in, you know you will not be able to deliver…but you hope you can figure it all out later on and no one will be the wiser? Do you ever lie… even a little or about seemingly small things… so that people will see you in a particular light – or things will go your way? Have you ever cheated (or as Lucy might describe it “fibbed a little”) in order to achieve a desired outcome? Have you ever tried to make yourself look good at another’s expense?
These are just some of the thousands of ways that we make messes of our lives each and every day…and then wonder how we will work our way out of them. Sometimes, we have a “go-to” person who helps us make amends and mop up the trouble. Other times, we have to muddle through on our own. And more times than we care to admit, we just pretend it never happened and move on…never realizing that our disorder and disobedience accumulates into a cluttered jumble of a life.
And that’s where God comes into the picture. He stands ready and able to help us fix things, once and for all. God knows us and the sorry state of affairs we are capable of creating on our own. Yet He loves us and desires to rescue us from a life that is so messy and chaotic. He can equip us to right all of the wrongs… to ask forgiveness where necessary… and to set things right wherever possible. More importantly, with God’s help – and because of His incredible love, grace, mercy and forgiveness – we don’t have to keep on repeating the same old mistakes.
Our lives are not perpetual episodes of “I Love Lucy”! Without her continual escapades, the show would cease to exist. But the end of our “antics” can be the beginning of our life in Christ… and it can be far better than anything we ever could imagine or create on our own. We know what God offers… we know what He sacrificed through Jesus Christ in order for us to attain it. The choice is ours whether to accept Him and allow Him to operate in and through us… or not. How will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 9, 2013
Isaiah 54:9-10
“This exile is just like the days of Noah for me:
I promised then that the waters of Noah
would never again flood the earth.
I’m promising now no more anger,
no more dressing you down.
For even if the mountains walk away
and the hills fall to pieces,
My love won’t walk away from you,
my covenant commitment of peace won’t fall apart.”
The God who has compassion on you says so.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On the way home from church Sunday, Timothy was telling us about his Sunday school lesson. “God wants us to do our BEST!” he would say emphatically. He elaborated… “God wants us to pick up our toys when we pour them out. If we don’t, He will be so disappointed in us… maybe even angry!” Our little four-year-old can be pretty dramatic! But he kept talking about disappointing God and making Him angry, so I reminded him… “We talked about this… when you think you have done something that will disappoint God, talk to Him and tell Him you are sorry.” He lifted his eyes to the roof of the car, and we heard, “God, I’m sorry I didn’t pick up my blocks. Please don’t be disappointed.”
My husband and I stifled our grins from the front seat, and I reminded Timothy that you have to really be sorry… you can’t just say you are and go on misbehaving. But I also reassured Him that God always…ALWAYS loves us – even when we disappoint Him or make Him angry. Explaining compassion and unconditional love to a small child is a challenge. On one hand, we are trying to teach them to follow rules and be obedient and respectful… to their parents, teachers, other adults – and to GOD. But we also want them to understand that they can be forgiven… that their love and value is not based solely on their words and actions. We must make sure that we portray God in the proper light … as a loving, gracious, merciful Father Who has high expectations for each of us – but also as Someone who will never walk away.
I don’t know about you, but I grew up with more than healthy dose of fear about my relationship with God. I do not believe this was intentional…the people who nurtured me in my faith were loving, caring, well-meaning Christians. But the emphasis was on God’s retribution far more than His mercy and kindheartedness. I am so thankful that I have come to know the compassionate side of God… that I operate from a place of peace. I respect God and His authority over my life… but I no longer picture Him waiting like a lion tamer with a whip and a chair to chastise me for my every transgression!
The thought of God as someone who will not walk away from me when things get tough is incredibly comforting. The assurance that God loves me no matter what – that His promises are the real deal - makes me want to love Him and serve Him faithfully in return. In my book, a faith built on mutual trust and peace trumps one based in fear every time!
I know that there are times when God truly is disappointed with us… or possibly angry. I also know that He will never leave us or stop loving us, even in our worst moments. This is an incredibly peaceful – and powerful – guarantee! I pray that your faith is based in God’s peaceful promises rather than fear of His retribution… that His unconditional love makes you want to serve Him obediently- with your whole heart - and to always do your BEST. But you’ll still have to pick up your toys!
©2013 Debbie Robus
“This exile is just like the days of Noah for me:
I promised then that the waters of Noah
would never again flood the earth.
I’m promising now no more anger,
no more dressing you down.
For even if the mountains walk away
and the hills fall to pieces,
My love won’t walk away from you,
my covenant commitment of peace won’t fall apart.”
The God who has compassion on you says so.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On the way home from church Sunday, Timothy was telling us about his Sunday school lesson. “God wants us to do our BEST!” he would say emphatically. He elaborated… “God wants us to pick up our toys when we pour them out. If we don’t, He will be so disappointed in us… maybe even angry!” Our little four-year-old can be pretty dramatic! But he kept talking about disappointing God and making Him angry, so I reminded him… “We talked about this… when you think you have done something that will disappoint God, talk to Him and tell Him you are sorry.” He lifted his eyes to the roof of the car, and we heard, “God, I’m sorry I didn’t pick up my blocks. Please don’t be disappointed.”
My husband and I stifled our grins from the front seat, and I reminded Timothy that you have to really be sorry… you can’t just say you are and go on misbehaving. But I also reassured Him that God always…ALWAYS loves us – even when we disappoint Him or make Him angry. Explaining compassion and unconditional love to a small child is a challenge. On one hand, we are trying to teach them to follow rules and be obedient and respectful… to their parents, teachers, other adults – and to GOD. But we also want them to understand that they can be forgiven… that their love and value is not based solely on their words and actions. We must make sure that we portray God in the proper light … as a loving, gracious, merciful Father Who has high expectations for each of us – but also as Someone who will never walk away.
I don’t know about you, but I grew up with more than healthy dose of fear about my relationship with God. I do not believe this was intentional…the people who nurtured me in my faith were loving, caring, well-meaning Christians. But the emphasis was on God’s retribution far more than His mercy and kindheartedness. I am so thankful that I have come to know the compassionate side of God… that I operate from a place of peace. I respect God and His authority over my life… but I no longer picture Him waiting like a lion tamer with a whip and a chair to chastise me for my every transgression!
The thought of God as someone who will not walk away from me when things get tough is incredibly comforting. The assurance that God loves me no matter what – that His promises are the real deal - makes me want to love Him and serve Him faithfully in return. In my book, a faith built on mutual trust and peace trumps one based in fear every time!
I know that there are times when God truly is disappointed with us… or possibly angry. I also know that He will never leave us or stop loving us, even in our worst moments. This is an incredibly peaceful – and powerful – guarantee! I pray that your faith is based in God’s peaceful promises rather than fear of His retribution… that His unconditional love makes you want to serve Him obediently- with your whole heart - and to always do your BEST. But you’ll still have to pick up your toys!
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 3, 2013
Romans 2:3-4
Do you really think God won’t punish you, when you behave exactly like the people you accuse? You surely don’t think much of God’s wonderful goodness or of his patience and willingness to put up with you. Don’t you know that the reason God is good to you is because he wants you to turn to him?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“I may have my faults, but at least I’m not as bad as So-and-So!” How many times have you heard a version of this… or uttered something similar yourself? We all tend to think we are not as bad as the next guy, when the truth is that we are ALL sinners and in need of God’s patience, grace, mercy, and forgiveness.
I’ll admit… I get frustrated with a few people and wonder why they cannot see things as I do. Why can’t they realize that they need Jesus? Why don’t they understand that their behaviors are giving the devil ample reasons to dance? Why won’t they change and behave better? And then I hear God’s voice asking me, “Why won’t you do the same things?” And I am embarrassed… ashamed… and humbled.
I am so thankful that God is patient with me. I’m beyond thrilled that He wants me to turn to Him. At a recent funeral, my dear pastor friend preached from Psalm 139, which says in verses 7 and 8: “I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there!” He explained that in the Hebrew translation of that last verse, it says… “If I go up to heaven, YOU! If I go down to the grave, YOU!” In other words, wherever we are, GOD is THERE… waiting for us… desiring us…wanting to forgive us and set us on the right path again.
The next time you start to compare your sins and shortcomings to those of another, remember these passages in Romans and Psalms. Remind yourself that the things you judge others for are no worse than your own offenses. In this case, trying to shine a spotlight on others actually may bring your own life front and center! God shakes His head at this…and someday, He will remind us of our accusations and attempts to shift blame and focus. Don’t you want to do all you can to make His list of such misdeeds as short as possible?
Don’t you want to turn to God and spend your time in His presence… to recognize His company… to bask in His glory? When was the last time you thanked God for his patience and mercy over your life? When was the last time you acknowledged that wherever you go, He is there… and praised Him for such grace and forgiveness? Isn’t this a perfect time to tell God how much you love Him… and to thank Him for loving you? Are you ready to quit blaming others for your mistakes and fully acknowledge God? Will this be the day you begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Do you really think God won’t punish you, when you behave exactly like the people you accuse? You surely don’t think much of God’s wonderful goodness or of his patience and willingness to put up with you. Don’t you know that the reason God is good to you is because he wants you to turn to him?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“I may have my faults, but at least I’m not as bad as So-and-So!” How many times have you heard a version of this… or uttered something similar yourself? We all tend to think we are not as bad as the next guy, when the truth is that we are ALL sinners and in need of God’s patience, grace, mercy, and forgiveness.
I’ll admit… I get frustrated with a few people and wonder why they cannot see things as I do. Why can’t they realize that they need Jesus? Why don’t they understand that their behaviors are giving the devil ample reasons to dance? Why won’t they change and behave better? And then I hear God’s voice asking me, “Why won’t you do the same things?” And I am embarrassed… ashamed… and humbled.
I am so thankful that God is patient with me. I’m beyond thrilled that He wants me to turn to Him. At a recent funeral, my dear pastor friend preached from Psalm 139, which says in verses 7 and 8: “I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there!” He explained that in the Hebrew translation of that last verse, it says… “If I go up to heaven, YOU! If I go down to the grave, YOU!” In other words, wherever we are, GOD is THERE… waiting for us… desiring us…wanting to forgive us and set us on the right path again.
The next time you start to compare your sins and shortcomings to those of another, remember these passages in Romans and Psalms. Remind yourself that the things you judge others for are no worse than your own offenses. In this case, trying to shine a spotlight on others actually may bring your own life front and center! God shakes His head at this…and someday, He will remind us of our accusations and attempts to shift blame and focus. Don’t you want to do all you can to make His list of such misdeeds as short as possible?
Don’t you want to turn to God and spend your time in His presence… to recognize His company… to bask in His glory? When was the last time you thanked God for his patience and mercy over your life? When was the last time you acknowledged that wherever you go, He is there… and praised Him for such grace and forgiveness? Isn’t this a perfect time to tell God how much you love Him… and to thank Him for loving you? Are you ready to quit blaming others for your mistakes and fully acknowledge God? Will this be the day you begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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