Jeremiah 1:4-10
This is what God said:
“Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you: A prophet to the nations - that’s what I had in mind for you.”
But I said, “Hold it, Master God! Look at me. I don’t know anything. I’m only a boy!”
God told me, “Don’t say, ‘I’m only a boy.’ I’ll tell you where to go and you’ll go there. I’ll tell you what to say and you’ll say it. Don’t be afraid of a soul. I’ll be right there, looking after you.” God’s Decree.
God reached out, touched my mouth, and said, “Look! I’ve just put my words in your mouth—hand-delivered! See what I’ve done? I’ve given you a job to do among nations and governments—a red-letter day! Your job is to pull up and tear down, take apart and demolish,
And then start over, building and planting.”
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 the earliest lessons we teach our children is how to speak and do things for themselves. Timothy will say to me, “I want Uncle Greg to come downstairs and see what I built with blocks.” For a long time, he was not permitted to go upstairs alone, because we were afraid he would fall on the steps. Now he is big enough to go up and down independently. Still, when I tell him to go and ask his Uncle Greg to come and have a look, he sometimes says, “But I can’t!” When I either ignore this or remind him that he can indeed do it himself, he usually decides to go alone to summon his uncle. Sometimes he will ask, “Come with me?” And I will usually oblige. My point is not to make him do things by himself as much as to teach him that he is developing capabilities for accomplishing new things.
We will start to walk somewhere together, and Timothy will say, “Carry me!” I often remind him that he is a big boy – almost too big now for me to carry – that he is perfectly capable of walking. Sometimes, he will come back with… “But I’m too little… I’m just a little boy!” And I have to laugh at this ploy for my sympathies and concession. This is exactly what Jeremiah said to God. But God had equipped Jeremiah for these tasks and knew his capabilities – and He was not buying this excuse for one minute!
If we are truly serving God, there will be plenty of times when we feel inadequate to accomplish what He has called us to do – in our own strength and wisdom. We will want to throw up our hands and say, “But I am too young/old/poor/sick… I’m not smart enough… I don’t have time… I don’t have any talent for this. But with God, all things are possible. He has equipped us to do far beyond what we ever dreamed possible. And it is time for us to realize just how ridiculous our excuses must sound to Him.
God has called me to do several things in even the last few months that I would never have dreamed were possible. There is no way I could have accomplished many of them under my own power… or even with the help of my husband, family members, friends and acquaintances. There have been too many instances where I had to stop and say, “Only God can get this done.” And I will admit… there were a few times when I wanted to throw up my hands and say, “But wait! I’m only human…I’m not strong enough… this is too hard… there is NO WAY this can ever work… I am ‘just a boy!’” And yet, God has proven to me over and again that HIS power and purpose far exceed mine. With God behind me (and beside me), I can do far more than I ever expected!
So what is God calling you to do today that seems daunting and/or impossible? Where is He sending you and equipping you to serve, even though you feel anything but adequate for the task? What is your excuse for turning Him down… and have you considered how preposterous you seem to Him for doing so? Will this be the day you step up and out - and ask, “Where, when and how, LORD?” instead of merely “Why me?” Or will you leave Him shaking His head in disappointment as you offer yet another argument as you try to justify your hesitance or refusal?
Do you really believe in the power of God to do all things? Are you confident that He formed you for His purposes… that He will equip you to handle anything and everything to which He calls you? Isn’t it time to tear down the walls of insecurity, uncertainty, and excuses… to allow God to work in and through you? Are you ready to build and plant wherever God sends you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label Gods power. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gods power. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for January 19, 2013
Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God wins victory after victory and is always with you. He celebrates and sings because of you, and he will refresh your life with his love.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Like many others, my husband and I have been Arkansas Razorbacks fans for decades. I like to think we are fans whether they win or lose. But let’s be honest… it’s a whole lot more fun when they are winning! We cheer, “call the Hogs,” and sing “Oh, Lord, It’s Hard to be Humble” with the best of them at games. There is something incredibly energizing and refreshing about the drumbeat of the band and hearing the U of A Fight Song. And who can beat the exhilaration of yelling “Woo Pig Sooie!”? Even though we both graduated from Arkansas Tech, we support the Razorbacks wholeheartedly… they are forever “our team.”
There was a time when we took our fan support of the Razorbacks more seriously than we do these days… and we know some fairly rabid fans even now! They practically live and die by the ups and downs of our beloved Hogs – especially when it comes to football, basketball, baseball and track. We have settled into what I believe is a healthy loyalty… a recognition that these are just sporting events played by young men and women. We are still exuberant over victories… but far less devastated by the defeats.
I have to wonder, do we give the same allegiance to God that we give to our athletic teams? After all, He supports US like no other. He is always there for us… always winning victories on our behalf… always singing and rejoicing over our triumphs. His love refreshes and energizes us each and every day. God is much more than the “wind beneath our wings.” He is our refuge, our strength… our everything! But do we treat Him with appropriate regard?
Do we give God the same “fan support” that we give to our beloved Arkansas Razorbacks? Are we ready to praise Him and maintain a relationship with Him when the chips are down and things are not going so well in our lives? Or maybe that’s the only time we ARE in close contact… when things go badly and we need God to bail us out! We can’t have it both ways, you know. We’re either in all the way… or we’re not in at all. Faith should not be fickle… and neither should our relationship with God.
We need to recognize God’s presence and power in our lives… His ability to secure victory after victory for us… to lift us up when we are sinking… and to celebrate when we are at the top of the heap! How refreshed are you by God’s presence in your life? Do you have a “fair weather fan” relationship… or have you gone “whole hog?” Isn’t it time you gave Him your “full fan support?” God is always with YOU… can you say the same in return?
©2013 Debbie Robus
The Lord your God wins victory after victory and is always with you. He celebrates and sings because of you, and he will refresh your life with his love.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Like many others, my husband and I have been Arkansas Razorbacks fans for decades. I like to think we are fans whether they win or lose. But let’s be honest… it’s a whole lot more fun when they are winning! We cheer, “call the Hogs,” and sing “Oh, Lord, It’s Hard to be Humble” with the best of them at games. There is something incredibly energizing and refreshing about the drumbeat of the band and hearing the U of A Fight Song. And who can beat the exhilaration of yelling “Woo Pig Sooie!”? Even though we both graduated from Arkansas Tech, we support the Razorbacks wholeheartedly… they are forever “our team.”
There was a time when we took our fan support of the Razorbacks more seriously than we do these days… and we know some fairly rabid fans even now! They practically live and die by the ups and downs of our beloved Hogs – especially when it comes to football, basketball, baseball and track. We have settled into what I believe is a healthy loyalty… a recognition that these are just sporting events played by young men and women. We are still exuberant over victories… but far less devastated by the defeats.
I have to wonder, do we give the same allegiance to God that we give to our athletic teams? After all, He supports US like no other. He is always there for us… always winning victories on our behalf… always singing and rejoicing over our triumphs. His love refreshes and energizes us each and every day. God is much more than the “wind beneath our wings.” He is our refuge, our strength… our everything! But do we treat Him with appropriate regard?
Do we give God the same “fan support” that we give to our beloved Arkansas Razorbacks? Are we ready to praise Him and maintain a relationship with Him when the chips are down and things are not going so well in our lives? Or maybe that’s the only time we ARE in close contact… when things go badly and we need God to bail us out! We can’t have it both ways, you know. We’re either in all the way… or we’re not in at all. Faith should not be fickle… and neither should our relationship with God.
We need to recognize God’s presence and power in our lives… His ability to secure victory after victory for us… to lift us up when we are sinking… and to celebrate when we are at the top of the heap! How refreshed are you by God’s presence in your life? Do you have a “fair weather fan” relationship… or have you gone “whole hog?” Isn’t it time you gave Him your “full fan support?” God is always with YOU… can you say the same in return?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 18, 2013
January 18 ~ Romans 5:3-5
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
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 wish I had a dollar for every time we have watched “Frosty the Snowman” at our house in the last month! I have to say… I had forgotten how “deep” this little story really is until we started watching it with Timothy before Christmas. Now do not misunderstand me… I am not elevating “Frosty” to the status of Jesus in the least. But at the same time, I believe we can use the lessons of this jovial snowman to begin to introduce our children to the strength, love, grace and mercy of God… and maybe learn a few things for ourselves in the bargain.
Hear me out on this…
Santa Claus essentially shuts down the magician… admonishing him to go away and leave Frosty and the children alone… and outlining serious consequences if he does not. He tells the children that Frosty is going away with him to the North Pole, but that they will see him again someday… and it is at least implied that the “spirit of Christmas” will live in their hearts each and every day.
There is so much we do not understand about Jesus… how He could love us enough to come to earth and sacrifice His very life for ours. We often have trouble accepting that God could care about us enough to send His Son to die for our sins… then leave His Holy Spirit to strengthen and encourage us each and every day. Just as surely as that evil magician kept popping up in “Frosty the Snowman”… the devil keeps rearing his ugly head and giving us troubles and trials. But God is still with us, persistently offering protection and fortitude… giving us hope and confidence.
Maybe it’s time we became more like little children… readily trusting in a magical snowman who came to life when he donned an old black magician’s hat. Perhaps it’s time to recognize the presence, care and strength of our Heavenly Father in the form of His Holy Spirit… to fully embrace how much He loves us and the amazing care we are offered each and every day. Isn’t it possible that we need to step out in faith and open our hearts and minds to the power of Jesus in our daily living… to renew our resolve to believe in Him and respect His abundant and profound attention to every detail of our lives?
I have to tell you, I have developed a new perspective on “Frosty the Snowman.” Someday soon, we will be able to use this little story to help our toddlers understand how God sent Jesus to earth to guide and protect us… and how He will return someday. We will most certainly instill in them the understanding that Jesus is far more important, powerful and loving than Frosty... how He cares about every single aspect of our lives and stands ready to help us with all of them.
Maybe you and I need to become a little more childlike today in our faith and understanding of the presence and impact of God in our lives. Do you truly grasp how much you are loved by God? Do you really “get it” that Jesus gave up His very life for yours? Are you confident that you will see Him again someday… and that He is available to you every minute of the day in the meantime? Have you tapped into the supernatural power and strength He offers? Wouldn’t this be a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
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 wish I had a dollar for every time we have watched “Frosty the Snowman” at our house in the last month! I have to say… I had forgotten how “deep” this little story really is until we started watching it with Timothy before Christmas. Now do not misunderstand me… I am not elevating “Frosty” to the status of Jesus in the least. But at the same time, I believe we can use the lessons of this jovial snowman to begin to introduce our children to the strength, love, grace and mercy of God… and maybe learn a few things for ourselves in the bargain.
Hear me out on this…
- When Frosty first comes to life, the children are all eager to follow him.
- There is an “evil magician” who is continually trying to destroy Frosty and hurt those who choose to love the jovial snowman.
- In an effort to stay frozen, Frosty and Hocus Pocus (the rabbit with a hefty fur coat) board a refrigerated train car with the little girl, Karen, in tow… and head for the North Pole. Karen gets very cold, and at his own expense, Frosty departs the train car and starts to seek a way to keep Karen warm. He enlists the forest animals to build a warming fire for her.
- When the evil magician stomps out the fire, Frosty takes Karen to a nearby greenhouse used for growing poinsettias, so that she can get warm. He knows that doing this will cause him great personal harm… but he sacrifices his own life for Karen’s.
- Frosty melts, and Karen is heartbroken. Santa Claus arrives and assures Karen that Frosty will come back to life… and he does.
- Frosty goes to the North Pole to live with Santa Claus. While Karen and the others are sad to see him go, they are reassured that he will be back again someday.
Santa Claus essentially shuts down the magician… admonishing him to go away and leave Frosty and the children alone… and outlining serious consequences if he does not. He tells the children that Frosty is going away with him to the North Pole, but that they will see him again someday… and it is at least implied that the “spirit of Christmas” will live in their hearts each and every day.
There is so much we do not understand about Jesus… how He could love us enough to come to earth and sacrifice His very life for ours. We often have trouble accepting that God could care about us enough to send His Son to die for our sins… then leave His Holy Spirit to strengthen and encourage us each and every day. Just as surely as that evil magician kept popping up in “Frosty the Snowman”… the devil keeps rearing his ugly head and giving us troubles and trials. But God is still with us, persistently offering protection and fortitude… giving us hope and confidence.
Maybe it’s time we became more like little children… readily trusting in a magical snowman who came to life when he donned an old black magician’s hat. Perhaps it’s time to recognize the presence, care and strength of our Heavenly Father in the form of His Holy Spirit… to fully embrace how much He loves us and the amazing care we are offered each and every day. Isn’t it possible that we need to step out in faith and open our hearts and minds to the power of Jesus in our daily living… to renew our resolve to believe in Him and respect His abundant and profound attention to every detail of our lives?
I have to tell you, I have developed a new perspective on “Frosty the Snowman.” Someday soon, we will be able to use this little story to help our toddlers understand how God sent Jesus to earth to guide and protect us… and how He will return someday. We will most certainly instill in them the understanding that Jesus is far more important, powerful and loving than Frosty... how He cares about every single aspect of our lives and stands ready to help us with all of them.
Maybe you and I need to become a little more childlike today in our faith and understanding of the presence and impact of God in our lives. Do you truly grasp how much you are loved by God? Do you really “get it” that Jesus gave up His very life for yours? Are you confident that you will see Him again someday… and that He is available to you every minute of the day in the meantime? Have you tapped into the supernatural power and strength He offers? Wouldn’t this be a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 31, 2012
1 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
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.
Here we are again… at the end of another year! No doubt, we have all encountered our own share of joys, triumphs, challenges and tribulations. Surely no one can live 365 consecutive uneventful days! There will be highs and lows for each of us. But the one thing that is indisputable is the availability of God’s spirit… His strength and power readily offered to each of us.
So often, we say, “This is so hard! I don’t know how I will make it!” We worry, fret, and operate in fear. The Apostle Paul’s words for Timothy work equally well for us. God has His hand on us…He is equipping us with fortitude and courage. With God by our side - His Holy Spirit living within us - nothing is beyond what we can handle. Because of His spirit of power, love and self-discipline, we are able to endure hardships, embrace victories… and keep a level head through all of it!
As we start a new year, I encourage you to make sure you are equipped for what lies ahead. Don’t enter 2013 without the power and strength of God to undergird you. Take some time right now to pause and ask Him to be with you every step of the way. In the words of scripture, put on the full armor of God, so that each minute of the day is as full and rich as possible.
There’s one more thing… remember to be grateful. Thank God for all He does for you… the blessings, care, power and encouragement He provides. Thank Him for giving us Jesus… and for sending His Holy Spirit to be your constant companion. And also thank God for the other people who come in and out of your life… for brief encounters and lasting relationships… for opportunities to bless and serve… and for those who enrich your life in His name.
Make this year the one you truly live with purpose. Realize your full potential with God as the driving force within you. Operate humbly under His power, and remember to be grateful in all circumstances. I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating… with God’s power behind us, we are stronger than we think! Make 2013 the year you fully embrace this thought… and live by example. Happy New Year’s Eve… and God bless you!
©2012 Debbie Robus
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
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.
Here we are again… at the end of another year! No doubt, we have all encountered our own share of joys, triumphs, challenges and tribulations. Surely no one can live 365 consecutive uneventful days! There will be highs and lows for each of us. But the one thing that is indisputable is the availability of God’s spirit… His strength and power readily offered to each of us.
So often, we say, “This is so hard! I don’t know how I will make it!” We worry, fret, and operate in fear. The Apostle Paul’s words for Timothy work equally well for us. God has His hand on us…He is equipping us with fortitude and courage. With God by our side - His Holy Spirit living within us - nothing is beyond what we can handle. Because of His spirit of power, love and self-discipline, we are able to endure hardships, embrace victories… and keep a level head through all of it!
As we start a new year, I encourage you to make sure you are equipped for what lies ahead. Don’t enter 2013 without the power and strength of God to undergird you. Take some time right now to pause and ask Him to be with you every step of the way. In the words of scripture, put on the full armor of God, so that each minute of the day is as full and rich as possible.
There’s one more thing… remember to be grateful. Thank God for all He does for you… the blessings, care, power and encouragement He provides. Thank Him for giving us Jesus… and for sending His Holy Spirit to be your constant companion. And also thank God for the other people who come in and out of your life… for brief encounters and lasting relationships… for opportunities to bless and serve… and for those who enrich your life in His name.
Make this year the one you truly live with purpose. Realize your full potential with God as the driving force within you. Operate humbly under His power, and remember to be grateful in all circumstances. I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating… with God’s power behind us, we are stronger than we think! Make 2013 the year you fully embrace this thought… and live by example. Happy New Year’s Eve… and God bless you!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 30, 2012
Ephesians 1:19-23
I want you to know about the great and mighty power that God has for us followers. It is the same wonderful power he used when he raised Christ from death and let him sit at his right side in heaven. There Christ rules over all forces, authorities, powers, and rulers. He rules over all beings in this world and will rule in the future world as well. God has put all things under the power of Christ, and for the good of the church he has made him the head of everything. The church is Christ’s body and is filled with Christ who completely fills everything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last year, my once-talkative grandmother has lost much of her ability to speak. Doctors think this is the result of a stroke she suffered at some point – maybe last summer. At any rate, she has what is called “expressive aphasia,” meaning that some days she can get out a few sentences or big words… but much of the time, she is lucky to manage a “Yes” or “No” - “How are you?” or “I’m fine.” And of course, she can still usually manage her trademark “I tell you what…” but then, she cannot tell you what! To say this is frustrating – for her and those who try to communicate with her – would be a huge understatement.
My grandmother feels as if she is powerless over much of her life. Generally, she cannot tell others what she wants, how she feels, or express her worries and concerns. As I talked with her today, I reminded her that she has told me all of my life, “The LORD will take care of me”… and He has – He is taking care of us this very minute! She has also shown me a tremendous example of courage and faith in situations when it seemed she was completely powerless… her home burning to the ground… the loss of my grandfather – and then the death of my dad, who was her only living child. She has risen to the occasion time and again… and I know it was not under her own power. I know her faith and her strength have sustained her.
So today, as she struggled and wanted to “tell you things,” as she kept saying, I reminded her of God’s power. I told her that even though she cannot talk and tell us things, God knows every word she is thinking and wanting to say. He still hears her voice… and He is still answering. We can never match God’s power… the all-encompassing power He extends to Jesus Christ on our behalf. But we can trust Him to operate in our best interest… to rule over all things with perfection… and to hear our every word – even when we can only think them.
Are you tapped in to the power of Jesus Christ today? Are you operating in faith that He is in complete and perfect control of your life and your surroundings? Do you communicate with Him daily and ask for His guidance and authority over every aspect of your life? Isn’t it time to “let go and let God?” Aren’t you ready to live within the freedom of allowing His power to direct your steps? Stop and spend a few minutes in prayer. Admit to God that you are powerless… but He is mighty. Ask Him to hear you… to guide your path… and to provide you with perfect plans and outcomes. Then rest in His decisions… trust Him completely, and praise Him for wielding perfect power over all beings – today, and always.
©2012 Debbie Robus
I want you to know about the great and mighty power that God has for us followers. It is the same wonderful power he used when he raised Christ from death and let him sit at his right side in heaven. There Christ rules over all forces, authorities, powers, and rulers. He rules over all beings in this world and will rule in the future world as well. God has put all things under the power of Christ, and for the good of the church he has made him the head of everything. The church is Christ’s body and is filled with Christ who completely fills everything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last year, my once-talkative grandmother has lost much of her ability to speak. Doctors think this is the result of a stroke she suffered at some point – maybe last summer. At any rate, she has what is called “expressive aphasia,” meaning that some days she can get out a few sentences or big words… but much of the time, she is lucky to manage a “Yes” or “No” - “How are you?” or “I’m fine.” And of course, she can still usually manage her trademark “I tell you what…” but then, she cannot tell you what! To say this is frustrating – for her and those who try to communicate with her – would be a huge understatement.
My grandmother feels as if she is powerless over much of her life. Generally, she cannot tell others what she wants, how she feels, or express her worries and concerns. As I talked with her today, I reminded her that she has told me all of my life, “The LORD will take care of me”… and He has – He is taking care of us this very minute! She has also shown me a tremendous example of courage and faith in situations when it seemed she was completely powerless… her home burning to the ground… the loss of my grandfather – and then the death of my dad, who was her only living child. She has risen to the occasion time and again… and I know it was not under her own power. I know her faith and her strength have sustained her.
So today, as she struggled and wanted to “tell you things,” as she kept saying, I reminded her of God’s power. I told her that even though she cannot talk and tell us things, God knows every word she is thinking and wanting to say. He still hears her voice… and He is still answering. We can never match God’s power… the all-encompassing power He extends to Jesus Christ on our behalf. But we can trust Him to operate in our best interest… to rule over all things with perfection… and to hear our every word – even when we can only think them.
Are you tapped in to the power of Jesus Christ today? Are you operating in faith that He is in complete and perfect control of your life and your surroundings? Do you communicate with Him daily and ask for His guidance and authority over every aspect of your life? Isn’t it time to “let go and let God?” Aren’t you ready to live within the freedom of allowing His power to direct your steps? Stop and spend a few minutes in prayer. Admit to God that you are powerless… but He is mighty. Ask Him to hear you… to guide your path… and to provide you with perfect plans and outcomes. Then rest in His decisions… trust Him completely, and praise Him for wielding perfect power over all beings – today, and always.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 20, 2012
John 15:18-20
"If you find the godless world is hating you, remember it got its start hating me. If you lived on the world's terms, the world would love you as one of its own. But since I picked you to live on God's terms and no longer on the world's terms, the world is going to hate you.
"When that happens, remember this: Servants don't get better treatment than their masters. If they beat on me, they will certainly beat on you. If they did what I told them, they will do what you tell them.
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 recently watched a program on the Documentary Channel entitled “Save the Farm.” According to information posted at http://www.cinemalibrestudio.com/savethefarm/about_the_farm.html “The South Central Farm (SCF) sprung up on an abandoned industrial area, approximately 14 acres. The land had been acquired in 1986 by the City of Los Angeles through eminent domain from developer Ralph Horowitz for $4.7 million. The land was to be used for an incinerator project, but the community voted it down, and the vacant lot became a dumping ground. After the Rodney King riots of 1992, Mayor Bradley mitigated the land to the community, and Doris Block, the President of the Food Bank, founded the farm. For fourteen years, the farm provided local, organic food and medicinal remedies for 350 families as well as thousands of area residents. At the weekly farmer's market, people could go into the farm plots and tell the farmers exactly what they wanted so that nothing went to waste.”
In 2004, Horowitz sued the city of Los Angeles for breach of contract, and ultimately, he was able to purchase the property from the city for $5 million in a transaction that was not made public. He sent eviction notices to all of the farmers, and he advertised the property for sale at $16.3 million… more than three times the purchase price. Through court injunctions, the farmers were able to hang on for nearly 2 years. By 2006, the farmers and supporters – including many celebrities like Darryl Hannah and Willie Nelson – managed to raise the $16.3 million to keep their land… but Horowitz refused to sell to them. Ultimately, County Sheriff’s department officers arrested some 40 people who were protesting peacefully on the property, and the farm plots were bulldozed.
Aside from the heartless, seemingly evil intentions of this land developer, I was struck most by the heartbreak of the people who watched their food supply – the way they fed, medicated, and supported their families – be destroyed in seconds. Grown men heaved and sobbed at the chain link fence as they watched this unfold. Small children cried out, “Why are they doing this, Momma?” People collapsed from the overwhelming devastation of what was happening. Many chanted and prayed for God to save their land. But in the end, the farm was completely destroyed.
The people have moved on - with help from the celebrities who fought for them and others. They have found other plots of land to farm – though none as close to their homes as this farm. I would bet that many of them would tell us that living on God’s terms instead of the world’s has sustained them. Throughout history, countless people have survived oppression by living on God’s terms. And we can learn great lessons from their struggles.
As I watched this 30-minute story, I was reminded that everyone is going through something. Our outcome will be determined by our attitude… and our faith. We can let the haters of this world… those who are influenced by the devil… get us down. Or we can operate on God’s terms and trust Him to orchestrate our lives… to create outcomes that are best for us and grow us in our faith and courage. We can allow God to use us and our experiences to witness to others - and show them how to operate on His terms, also.
According to information on the website, the land was still undeveloped as of May 2011… and still for sale for $16.3 million. For me, this is symbolic of many instances in life where our “irritant” doesn’t go away… the “hater” or the situation that challenges us may continue to be in our face each and every day, just as this land sits in front of many of the former “farmers” and taunts them. But we can call on God to strengthen us and give us the resolve to rise above our hurts and frustrations… to enable us to say, “You have no power here. I belong to Someone who IS all powerful… HE is meeting my needs each and every day.”
Whatever challenges you face, find your strength and courage in God. Don’t let the godless haters get you down. Don’t throw up your hands and say, “This is simply too much.” Remember, with God, all things are possible. Operate on His terms…and let the “haters” beware. They have no power when Almighty God is present.”
©2012 Debbie Robus
"If you find the godless world is hating you, remember it got its start hating me. If you lived on the world's terms, the world would love you as one of its own. But since I picked you to live on God's terms and no longer on the world's terms, the world is going to hate you.
"When that happens, remember this: Servants don't get better treatment than their masters. If they beat on me, they will certainly beat on you. If they did what I told them, they will do what you tell them.
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 recently watched a program on the Documentary Channel entitled “Save the Farm.” According to information posted at http://www.cinemalibrestudio.com/savethefarm/about_the_farm.html “The South Central Farm (SCF) sprung up on an abandoned industrial area, approximately 14 acres. The land had been acquired in 1986 by the City of Los Angeles through eminent domain from developer Ralph Horowitz for $4.7 million. The land was to be used for an incinerator project, but the community voted it down, and the vacant lot became a dumping ground. After the Rodney King riots of 1992, Mayor Bradley mitigated the land to the community, and Doris Block, the President of the Food Bank, founded the farm. For fourteen years, the farm provided local, organic food and medicinal remedies for 350 families as well as thousands of area residents. At the weekly farmer's market, people could go into the farm plots and tell the farmers exactly what they wanted so that nothing went to waste.”
In 2004, Horowitz sued the city of Los Angeles for breach of contract, and ultimately, he was able to purchase the property from the city for $5 million in a transaction that was not made public. He sent eviction notices to all of the farmers, and he advertised the property for sale at $16.3 million… more than three times the purchase price. Through court injunctions, the farmers were able to hang on for nearly 2 years. By 2006, the farmers and supporters – including many celebrities like Darryl Hannah and Willie Nelson – managed to raise the $16.3 million to keep their land… but Horowitz refused to sell to them. Ultimately, County Sheriff’s department officers arrested some 40 people who were protesting peacefully on the property, and the farm plots were bulldozed.
Aside from the heartless, seemingly evil intentions of this land developer, I was struck most by the heartbreak of the people who watched their food supply – the way they fed, medicated, and supported their families – be destroyed in seconds. Grown men heaved and sobbed at the chain link fence as they watched this unfold. Small children cried out, “Why are they doing this, Momma?” People collapsed from the overwhelming devastation of what was happening. Many chanted and prayed for God to save their land. But in the end, the farm was completely destroyed.
The people have moved on - with help from the celebrities who fought for them and others. They have found other plots of land to farm – though none as close to their homes as this farm. I would bet that many of them would tell us that living on God’s terms instead of the world’s has sustained them. Throughout history, countless people have survived oppression by living on God’s terms. And we can learn great lessons from their struggles.
As I watched this 30-minute story, I was reminded that everyone is going through something. Our outcome will be determined by our attitude… and our faith. We can let the haters of this world… those who are influenced by the devil… get us down. Or we can operate on God’s terms and trust Him to orchestrate our lives… to create outcomes that are best for us and grow us in our faith and courage. We can allow God to use us and our experiences to witness to others - and show them how to operate on His terms, also.
According to information on the website, the land was still undeveloped as of May 2011… and still for sale for $16.3 million. For me, this is symbolic of many instances in life where our “irritant” doesn’t go away… the “hater” or the situation that challenges us may continue to be in our face each and every day, just as this land sits in front of many of the former “farmers” and taunts them. But we can call on God to strengthen us and give us the resolve to rise above our hurts and frustrations… to enable us to say, “You have no power here. I belong to Someone who IS all powerful… HE is meeting my needs each and every day.”
Whatever challenges you face, find your strength and courage in God. Don’t let the godless haters get you down. Don’t throw up your hands and say, “This is simply too much.” Remember, with God, all things are possible. Operate on His terms…and let the “haters” beware. They have no power when Almighty God is present.”
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 12, 2012
Isaiah 64:3-4, 8-9
Your fearsome deeds have completely amazed us; even the mountains shake when you come down. You are the only God ever seen or heard of who works miracles for his followers.
You, Lord, are our Father. We are nothing but clay, but you are the potter who molded us. Don’t be so furious or keep our sins in your thoughts forever! Remember that all of us are your people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the songbook Then Sings My Soul, an account is given of the life of Adelaide A. Pollard, author of the well-known hymn “Have Thine Own Way, Lord.” Pollard was apparently healed of diabetes in the early 1900s, through the ministry of a Scottish-born faith healer, John Alexander Dowie. Years later, she sat in a prayer meeting… her heart heavy because she could not raise the necessary funds to travel to Africa as a missionary. Another lady attending the meeting prayed, “It doesn’t matter what you bring into our lives, LORD. Just have your own way with us.”
Pollard had recently read the story of the potter and the clay in Jeremiah 18, where in verse six, God says, “People of Israel, I, the Lord, have power over you, just as a potter has power over clay.” She used this verse and the woman’s prayer as inspiration to create the well-loved hymn. In the verses, she asks repeatedly, “Have Thine own way, LORD! Have Thine own way!” and she reminds God that “Thou art the Potter… I am the clay.” In the third verse she says, “Wounded and weary… help me, I pray! Power, all power, surely is Thine! Touch me and heal me, Savior divine!” And finally, she asks, “Hold o’er my being absolute sway! Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see, Christ only, always… living in me!”
As someone who attends a contemporary worship service most Sundays, I have to tell you that I miss old hymns like this one. I didn’t fully appreciate them when I was young… and I remember thinking this one was particularly mournful… but that had more to do with the tune itself and the tempo than the words themselves. There is something truly beautiful about so many of the old hymns, and this one is no exception. In these verses, we are reminded that God is willing to reward those who step out and spend time with Him. “Hold o’er my being absolute sway,”… then “Touch me and heal me” with your power!... can there be a stronger statement of faith and commitment?
We all get discouraged from time to time… and clearly, Adelaide Pollard did, as well. Even after being healed of a life-altering disease, she still found the need to humble herself before God and ask for a miracle. But the key point here is that God did answer… and eventually, Pollard made it to Africa. However, World War I caused her to move to Scotland – and eventually back to America, where she spoke frequently to groups, ministered to others, and wrote poetry. She was on her way to a speaking engagement in Pennsylvania, when she was stricken with a seizure and later died.
Surely God worked in the life of Adelaide Pollard and “had His own way” with her heart. Clearly she trusted Him to fill her with the Holy Spirit… and to lean on His wisdom and plans for her life. I find it inspiring that examples of faith know no time limit… what worked for a woman in the early 1900s can work for us in 2012 – and beyond. All we have to do is to ask God to “Have Thine own way” and to trust Him to mold us and make us after His own will. If we will sincerely and humbly do this, I truly believe that “we ain’t seen nothin’ yet!” Are you ready to find out for yourself? Will this be the day you truly ask God to “Have Thine own way?”
©2012 Debbie Robus
Your fearsome deeds have completely amazed us; even the mountains shake when you come down. You are the only God ever seen or heard of who works miracles for his followers.
You, Lord, are our Father. We are nothing but clay, but you are the potter who molded us. Don’t be so furious or keep our sins in your thoughts forever! Remember that all of us are your people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the songbook Then Sings My Soul, an account is given of the life of Adelaide A. Pollard, author of the well-known hymn “Have Thine Own Way, Lord.” Pollard was apparently healed of diabetes in the early 1900s, through the ministry of a Scottish-born faith healer, John Alexander Dowie. Years later, she sat in a prayer meeting… her heart heavy because she could not raise the necessary funds to travel to Africa as a missionary. Another lady attending the meeting prayed, “It doesn’t matter what you bring into our lives, LORD. Just have your own way with us.”
Pollard had recently read the story of the potter and the clay in Jeremiah 18, where in verse six, God says, “People of Israel, I, the Lord, have power over you, just as a potter has power over clay.” She used this verse and the woman’s prayer as inspiration to create the well-loved hymn. In the verses, she asks repeatedly, “Have Thine own way, LORD! Have Thine own way!” and she reminds God that “Thou art the Potter… I am the clay.” In the third verse she says, “Wounded and weary… help me, I pray! Power, all power, surely is Thine! Touch me and heal me, Savior divine!” And finally, she asks, “Hold o’er my being absolute sway! Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see, Christ only, always… living in me!”
As someone who attends a contemporary worship service most Sundays, I have to tell you that I miss old hymns like this one. I didn’t fully appreciate them when I was young… and I remember thinking this one was particularly mournful… but that had more to do with the tune itself and the tempo than the words themselves. There is something truly beautiful about so many of the old hymns, and this one is no exception. In these verses, we are reminded that God is willing to reward those who step out and spend time with Him. “Hold o’er my being absolute sway,”… then “Touch me and heal me” with your power!... can there be a stronger statement of faith and commitment?
We all get discouraged from time to time… and clearly, Adelaide Pollard did, as well. Even after being healed of a life-altering disease, she still found the need to humble herself before God and ask for a miracle. But the key point here is that God did answer… and eventually, Pollard made it to Africa. However, World War I caused her to move to Scotland – and eventually back to America, where she spoke frequently to groups, ministered to others, and wrote poetry. She was on her way to a speaking engagement in Pennsylvania, when she was stricken with a seizure and later died.
Surely God worked in the life of Adelaide Pollard and “had His own way” with her heart. Clearly she trusted Him to fill her with the Holy Spirit… and to lean on His wisdom and plans for her life. I find it inspiring that examples of faith know no time limit… what worked for a woman in the early 1900s can work for us in 2012 – and beyond. All we have to do is to ask God to “Have Thine own way” and to trust Him to mold us and make us after His own will. If we will sincerely and humbly do this, I truly believe that “we ain’t seen nothin’ yet!” Are you ready to find out for yourself? Will this be the day you truly ask God to “Have Thine own way?”
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 2, 2011
Psalm 140:6-7
You, LORD, are my God! Please listen to my prayer. You have the power to save me, and you keep me safe in every battle.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timmy and I have watched a particular episode of “Jack’s Big Music Show” probably a hundred times lately. It’s about Spunky the Alien, whose space ship breaks down and he cannot get home to play in a concert on his planet. Jack’s dog, Mel, “can fix anything,” according to Jack and his friend Mary. So Mel works on the space ship, and he finally determines that the problem is a dead battery. Spunky is thrilled! The clubhouse characters do not understand, but Spunky explains that dead batteries are “powered up” by playing loud and soft music. All they have to do is play and sing loudly and softly, and the batteries will recharge so that the space ship can fly. The viewers at home are asked to sing along and help.
In our daily living, we don’t have to rely on loud or soft music to keep our batteries charged. We don’t need others to sing along to bolster our efforts. The only power we need is Almighty God. He alone can save us in every battle. He has all the answers. Unlike Mel the dog, God really can fix anything.
Whatever battles you face today… whatever prayers you have lifted to God… know that He is at work, ready and able to fix things for you. God has the power to save us and keep us safe in every battle. Trust Him to do exactly this. Call on Him and believe that He will do what He has promised. And thank Him for being so all-encompassing. We don’t have to rely on the singing and efforts of others to help us have enough power. Our God is enough! Sing praises to God for His continual love and care!
©2011 Debbie Robus
You, LORD, are my God! Please listen to my prayer. You have the power to save me, and you keep me safe in every battle.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timmy and I have watched a particular episode of “Jack’s Big Music Show” probably a hundred times lately. It’s about Spunky the Alien, whose space ship breaks down and he cannot get home to play in a concert on his planet. Jack’s dog, Mel, “can fix anything,” according to Jack and his friend Mary. So Mel works on the space ship, and he finally determines that the problem is a dead battery. Spunky is thrilled! The clubhouse characters do not understand, but Spunky explains that dead batteries are “powered up” by playing loud and soft music. All they have to do is play and sing loudly and softly, and the batteries will recharge so that the space ship can fly. The viewers at home are asked to sing along and help.
In our daily living, we don’t have to rely on loud or soft music to keep our batteries charged. We don’t need others to sing along to bolster our efforts. The only power we need is Almighty God. He alone can save us in every battle. He has all the answers. Unlike Mel the dog, God really can fix anything.
Whatever battles you face today… whatever prayers you have lifted to God… know that He is at work, ready and able to fix things for you. God has the power to save us and keep us safe in every battle. Trust Him to do exactly this. Call on Him and believe that He will do what He has promised. And thank Him for being so all-encompassing. We don’t have to rely on the singing and efforts of others to help us have enough power. Our God is enough! Sing praises to God for His continual love and care!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 7, 2011
Psalm 118:14-17
My power and my strength come from the LORD, and he has saved me. From the tents of God's people come shouts of victory: "The LORD is powerful! With his mighty arm the LORD wins victories! The LORD is powerful!" And so my life is safe, and I will live to tell what the LORD has done.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I never know where God will lead me for inspiration as I write these devotionals. In recent months, I’ve pretty much written them one at a time, rather than writing several in advance… trusting God each day to show me what I need to share. Today is no exception. I found this scripture passage, then walked away to pray and consider what I should write as commentary. God led me to the piano, where I keep a book my mother gave me one year for Christmas. It is titled “Then Sings My Soul” and contains 300 of the world’s greatest hymns, along with a commentary about each and how it was written.
I thumbed through and the page opened to a hymn I have always loved, based on 2 Timothy 1:12 – “I Know Whom I Have Believed.” The back story explained how Major Daniel Webster Whittle enlisted in the 72nd Illinois Infantry when the Civil War began. He was seriously injured in the Battle of Vicksburg and lost an arm. Out of boredom, Whittle picked up a New Testament and began to read. He considered inviting Jesus to be his Savior, but drifted off to sleep. An orderly woke him and asked him to pray with a POW who was dying. Whittle declined, and the orderly told him that he assumed Whittle was a Christian, because… “I have seen you reading your Bible.” At that moment, Whittle did confess his sins to Jesus and invited Him into his heart. Then he knelt and prayed with the POW, rising to see that the young boy had died, but his once-troubled face was peaceful. Whittle recognized the power of God to use him to lead this young man to trust Jesus for himself and find peace and pardon. Later, he penned this hymn to express his own faith.
So often, we fail to recognize the power and strength of God in our daily lives… the ability He gives us to do all things – from the simple to the extraordinary. We miss opportunities to convey the safety of trusting God to claim victory over sin in our lives – and to give us tremendous comfort and care.
Today, as you read the words of this beautiful hymn, claim victory in Jesus for yourself. Recognize the strength and power of God in your life… His desire and ability to conquer all challenges and sins - and give you total victory. Know Whom you have believed… and be persuaded that He is able to keep that which you have committed to Him forever and ever.
©2011 Debbie Robus
My power and my strength come from the LORD, and he has saved me. From the tents of God's people come shouts of victory: "The LORD is powerful! With his mighty arm the LORD wins victories! The LORD is powerful!" And so my life is safe, and I will live to tell what the LORD has done.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I never know where God will lead me for inspiration as I write these devotionals. In recent months, I’ve pretty much written them one at a time, rather than writing several in advance… trusting God each day to show me what I need to share. Today is no exception. I found this scripture passage, then walked away to pray and consider what I should write as commentary. God led me to the piano, where I keep a book my mother gave me one year for Christmas. It is titled “Then Sings My Soul” and contains 300 of the world’s greatest hymns, along with a commentary about each and how it was written.
I thumbed through and the page opened to a hymn I have always loved, based on 2 Timothy 1:12 – “I Know Whom I Have Believed.” The back story explained how Major Daniel Webster Whittle enlisted in the 72nd Illinois Infantry when the Civil War began. He was seriously injured in the Battle of Vicksburg and lost an arm. Out of boredom, Whittle picked up a New Testament and began to read. He considered inviting Jesus to be his Savior, but drifted off to sleep. An orderly woke him and asked him to pray with a POW who was dying. Whittle declined, and the orderly told him that he assumed Whittle was a Christian, because… “I have seen you reading your Bible.” At that moment, Whittle did confess his sins to Jesus and invited Him into his heart. Then he knelt and prayed with the POW, rising to see that the young boy had died, but his once-troubled face was peaceful. Whittle recognized the power of God to use him to lead this young man to trust Jesus for himself and find peace and pardon. Later, he penned this hymn to express his own faith.
So often, we fail to recognize the power and strength of God in our daily lives… the ability He gives us to do all things – from the simple to the extraordinary. We miss opportunities to convey the safety of trusting God to claim victory over sin in our lives – and to give us tremendous comfort and care.
Today, as you read the words of this beautiful hymn, claim victory in Jesus for yourself. Recognize the strength and power of God in your life… His desire and ability to conquer all challenges and sins - and give you total victory. Know Whom you have believed… and be persuaded that He is able to keep that which you have committed to Him forever and ever.
- I Know Whom I Have Believed
Daniel W. Whittle, pub.1883 - now public domain
I know not why God’s wondrous grace
To me He hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own.
I know not how this saving faith
To me He did impart,
Nor how believing in His Word
Wrought peace within my heart.
I know not how the Spirit moves,
Convincing men of sin,
Revealing Jesus through the Word,
Creating faith in Him.
I know not what of good or ill
May be reserved for me,
Of weary ways or golden days,
Before His face I see.
I know not when my Lord may come,
At night or noonday fair,
Nor if I walk the vale with Him,
Or meet Him in the air.
Refrain:
But “I know Whom I have believed,
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I’ve committed
Unto Him against that day.”
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 13, 2011
1 Kings 8:54-61
When Solomon finished his prayer at the altar, he was kneeling with his arms lifted toward heaven. He stood up, turned toward the people, blessed them, and said loudly:
Praise the LORD! He has kept his promise and given us peace. Every good thing he promised to his servant Moses has happened.
The LORD our God was with our ancestors to help them, and I pray that he will be with us and never abandon us. May the LORD help us obey him and follow all the laws and teachings he gave our ancestors.
I pray that the LORD our God will remember my prayer day and night. May he help everyone in Israel each day, in whatever way we need it. Then every nation will know that the LORD is the only true God.
Obey the LORD our God and follow his commands with all your heart, just as you are doing today.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
At the risk of sounding like a certain politician, I can see Greers Ferry Dam from my house! As I looked at the dam this morning… formidable, sturdy and powerful… able to restrain the 40,000-acres of water known as Greers Ferry Lake, I was impressed. The thought of how important this structure is to our area astounds me. I remember the floods of my childhood… when the area known as “Swinging Bridge” and other spots up and down the Little Red River were covered in water and impassable.
I recall the floods of a year or two ago, when water was slowly released from some of the floodgates every day for a month to prevent the lake from spilling over the top and wreaking havoc downstream. I know it didn’t seem like a slow release to those along the river, but in the scheme of things, it was a trickle. I’ve seen the choppy raging waters on the lake side of the dam… and today, I observed a serene calm… water as “slick as glass.”
In all of this, I was reminded of the power of God… and His promises. Just as we depend on the dam to hold back our lake and prevent a catastrophic flood downstream, we depend on God to make good on what He has promised us… and He does! Just as water may flow from a floodgate and temporarily disrupt life downstream from time to time, God allows us to sometimes wallow in our sins and mistakes, so that we better appreciate His wonderful work in our lives. Just like the massive concrete structure is powerful and sturdy enough to hold back the waters of our lake - releasing only when necessary - God is in control of our lives and the daily situations and challenges we face. He monitors all of it and controls things according to our best interest.
I look at that dam every day of my life, and I try not to take it for granted. But I also don’t dwell on what would happen if it were compromised, because I am trusting that this will never happen. But unlike God’s promises, I can’t be totally sure of this. Isn’t it good to know that what God has said He will do for us really will happen? Aren’t you comforted to know that you can always depend on God… to bless you, protect you, and meet all of your needs?
Isn’t our God worthy of our praise… our obedience… and our whole heart? Have you committed to Him for this? Have you spoken with Him lately and thanked Him for His promises… His peace… and every good thing He gives us? Isn’t today a good day to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
When Solomon finished his prayer at the altar, he was kneeling with his arms lifted toward heaven. He stood up, turned toward the people, blessed them, and said loudly:
Praise the LORD! He has kept his promise and given us peace. Every good thing he promised to his servant Moses has happened.
The LORD our God was with our ancestors to help them, and I pray that he will be with us and never abandon us. May the LORD help us obey him and follow all the laws and teachings he gave our ancestors.
I pray that the LORD our God will remember my prayer day and night. May he help everyone in Israel each day, in whatever way we need it. Then every nation will know that the LORD is the only true God.
Obey the LORD our God and follow his commands with all your heart, just as you are doing today.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
At the risk of sounding like a certain politician, I can see Greers Ferry Dam from my house! As I looked at the dam this morning… formidable, sturdy and powerful… able to restrain the 40,000-acres of water known as Greers Ferry Lake, I was impressed. The thought of how important this structure is to our area astounds me. I remember the floods of my childhood… when the area known as “Swinging Bridge” and other spots up and down the Little Red River were covered in water and impassable.
I recall the floods of a year or two ago, when water was slowly released from some of the floodgates every day for a month to prevent the lake from spilling over the top and wreaking havoc downstream. I know it didn’t seem like a slow release to those along the river, but in the scheme of things, it was a trickle. I’ve seen the choppy raging waters on the lake side of the dam… and today, I observed a serene calm… water as “slick as glass.”
In all of this, I was reminded of the power of God… and His promises. Just as we depend on the dam to hold back our lake and prevent a catastrophic flood downstream, we depend on God to make good on what He has promised us… and He does! Just as water may flow from a floodgate and temporarily disrupt life downstream from time to time, God allows us to sometimes wallow in our sins and mistakes, so that we better appreciate His wonderful work in our lives. Just like the massive concrete structure is powerful and sturdy enough to hold back the waters of our lake - releasing only when necessary - God is in control of our lives and the daily situations and challenges we face. He monitors all of it and controls things according to our best interest.
I look at that dam every day of my life, and I try not to take it for granted. But I also don’t dwell on what would happen if it were compromised, because I am trusting that this will never happen. But unlike God’s promises, I can’t be totally sure of this. Isn’t it good to know that what God has said He will do for us really will happen? Aren’t you comforted to know that you can always depend on God… to bless you, protect you, and meet all of your needs?
Isn’t our God worthy of our praise… our obedience… and our whole heart? Have you committed to Him for this? Have you spoken with Him lately and thanked Him for His promises… His peace… and every good thing He gives us? Isn’t today a good day to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 8, 2011
John 9:24-33
They called the man back a second time—the man who had been blind— and told him, "Give credit to God. We know this man is an impostor." He replied, "I know nothing about that one way or the other. But I know one thing for sure: I was blind . . . I now see."
They said, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" "I've told you over and over and you haven't listened. Why do you want to hear it again? Are you so eager to become his disciples?” With that they jumped all over him. "You might be a disciple of that man, but we're disciples of Moses. We know for sure that God spoke to Moses, but we have no idea where this man even comes from."
The man replied, "This is amazing! You claim to know nothing about him, but the fact is, he opened my eyes! It's well known that God isn't at the beck and call of sinners, but listens carefully to anyone who lives in reverence and does his will. That someone opened the eyes of a man born blind has never been heard of—ever. If this man didn't come from God, he wouldn't be able to do anything."
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.
Jerry Betnar is a friend of mine who recently posted on Facebook … “Putting God first was the hardest thing of all as I struggled to let go....and only now I see that it is not my Dream that I seek, but a story written in the Mind of God....made possible by the Love and Sacrifice of my Lord Jesus Christ and the Guiding Hand and Light of the Holy Spirit… working together to shape me into what I was always meant to be!”
Do you hear what Jerry is saying? Many of us are waiting for Jesus to descend to earth and literally rub mud in our eyes before we will believe in His gift of salvation… and trust Him to operate in the power of God to effect real, permanent changes in our lives. Everything will never be perfect. We’re never going to escape problems, challenges, frustrations, illness, and more. But by the power of Jesus’ blood, we can handle all of this… and much more.
We so underestimate the power of God. We do not fully comprehend His amazing gift of Jesus Christ… and what He means for us. We pray and ask for help… but we don’t truly expect it to come. We say, “God can change anything”… but we still listen to the devil’s voice whispering, “Are you sure?”
Even when we get “mud in our eye” and see clearly how the hand of God has orchestrated certain events, we still question His continual power in our lives. The least little bump in the road, and we are back to “Square One”…wringing our hands, wondering what to do to fix things, and feeling vulnerable and alone.
I don’t think it is any accident that Jerry posted these comments on Facebook. I believe that God is calling us to stop and take a look at this testimony… and to hop on the bandwagon! Our story has also been written in the mind of God… made possible by the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. God, through Jesus, is working to shape us into what we were always meant to be. The question is… will we open our ears and our heart… and truly believe?
©2011 Debbie Robus
They called the man back a second time—the man who had been blind— and told him, "Give credit to God. We know this man is an impostor." He replied, "I know nothing about that one way or the other. But I know one thing for sure: I was blind . . . I now see."
They said, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" "I've told you over and over and you haven't listened. Why do you want to hear it again? Are you so eager to become his disciples?” With that they jumped all over him. "You might be a disciple of that man, but we're disciples of Moses. We know for sure that God spoke to Moses, but we have no idea where this man even comes from."
The man replied, "This is amazing! You claim to know nothing about him, but the fact is, he opened my eyes! It's well known that God isn't at the beck and call of sinners, but listens carefully to anyone who lives in reverence and does his will. That someone opened the eyes of a man born blind has never been heard of—ever. If this man didn't come from God, he wouldn't be able to do anything."
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.
Jerry Betnar is a friend of mine who recently posted on Facebook … “Putting God first was the hardest thing of all as I struggled to let go....and only now I see that it is not my Dream that I seek, but a story written in the Mind of God....made possible by the Love and Sacrifice of my Lord Jesus Christ and the Guiding Hand and Light of the Holy Spirit… working together to shape me into what I was always meant to be!”
Do you hear what Jerry is saying? Many of us are waiting for Jesus to descend to earth and literally rub mud in our eyes before we will believe in His gift of salvation… and trust Him to operate in the power of God to effect real, permanent changes in our lives. Everything will never be perfect. We’re never going to escape problems, challenges, frustrations, illness, and more. But by the power of Jesus’ blood, we can handle all of this… and much more.
We so underestimate the power of God. We do not fully comprehend His amazing gift of Jesus Christ… and what He means for us. We pray and ask for help… but we don’t truly expect it to come. We say, “God can change anything”… but we still listen to the devil’s voice whispering, “Are you sure?”
Even when we get “mud in our eye” and see clearly how the hand of God has orchestrated certain events, we still question His continual power in our lives. The least little bump in the road, and we are back to “Square One”…wringing our hands, wondering what to do to fix things, and feeling vulnerable and alone.
I don’t think it is any accident that Jerry posted these comments on Facebook. I believe that God is calling us to stop and take a look at this testimony… and to hop on the bandwagon! Our story has also been written in the mind of God… made possible by the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. God, through Jesus, is working to shape us into what we were always meant to be. The question is… will we open our ears and our heart… and truly believe?
©2011 Debbie Robus
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