Daily Devotional for June 27, 2014

Psalm 23
You, Lord, are my shepherd.
    I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields
    of green grass.
You lead me to streams
of peaceful water,
    and you refresh my life.
You are true to your name,
    and you lead me
    along the right paths.
I may walk through valleys
as dark as death,
    but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me,
    and your shepherd’s rod
    makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast,
    while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest,
    and you fill my cup
    until it overflows.
Your kindness and love
will always be with me
    each day of my life,
    and I will live forever
    in your house, Lord.
 
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
 
Medal of Honor recipient, Marine Lance Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter was interviewed on “Late Show with David Letterman” recently.  Carpenter becomes the 8th living recipient of the nation’s highest military award.  William Kyle Carpenter was injured in Afghanistan in 2010, when he threw himself on an incoming grenade to protect a fellow marine, Lance Cpl. Nicholas Eufrazio, who was also injured.  Carpenter suffered multiple injuries, including a shattered jaw and arm, loss of his right eye, shrapnel to the brain and legs, and a severed carotid artery.  He said that when he arrived at the first military hospital, he was tagged PEA…”Patient Expired on Arrival”.  This now-24-year-old soldier was resuscitated at least twice and spent more than 2 years in hospitals undergoing treatments, surgeries and therapies.
 

I may walk through valleys as dark as death,
but I won’t be afraid.

 

As I sat and listened to this young man recant his experience and conduct himself with seemingly such peace and confidence, I couldn’t help but think about what he must have endured.  David Letterman asked Carpenter what he remembered.  Carpenter said that the first time he awoke was five weeks later, when he saw his mother.  She had hung Christmas stockings for every member of the family on the wall in his hospital room.  I couldn’t help but think about my own little nieces, nephews and friends…I tried to imagine what such an experience would be like for one of them, were they in his position – or for anyone.  Carpenter said he knew the grenade was coming.  He knew they were under attack.  Imagine the fear…the anxiety and confusion of such a moment…the overwhelming sense of incredulity as you know bad things are happening – but you can’t stop them!
 

You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.

 

I thought of Carpenter’s mother – and other family members.  Imagine being told that your child or loved one had suffered such devastating injuries…that someone was so filled with hate that they would want to inflict this kind of atrocities on another human being…and there was nothing you can do except stand by, watch, and beg God for mercy and healing.  Surely there were days when everyone involved must have felt that death would actually be easier to bear than the suffering that this young man bore.
 

You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch. 
You honor me as your guest,
and you fill my cup until it overflows.

 

After all of this, young Marine Lance Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter says “I wouldn’t change a thing.”  He now studies psychology at the University of South Carolina.  His appears to be wise beyond his years…and filled with incredible peace.
 

Your kindness and love will always be with me
each day of my life…

 

All around the world, people endure incredible challenges and sufferings each and every day.  Hopefully, you and I will never experience anything akin to such atrocities or heartaches…but our “burdens” are often troublesome, all the same.  The message of the 23rd Psalm is for us just as much as for Lance Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter - or anyone else. If you are like many, you have this Psalm memorized in one form or another.  But I encourage you to read today’s presentation of it again.  I particularly like how “valleys as dark as death” are described.
 
I also like the first few verses.  They speak volumes to us as Christians.  These words offer a glimpse of the hope and peace we find in God…the incredible rest we enjoy in Jesus Christ.
 

You, Lord, are my shepherd. I will never be in need. 
You let me rest in fields of green grass.
You lead me to streams of peaceful water,
and you refresh my life.

 

I pray that you never have to experience something as devastating as what happened to William Kyle Carpenter.  I hope you never have to watch a child or loved one suffer…that your life is filled with a series of happy events and positive happenings.  But I also pray that you know that…no matter what comes your way…the LORD is your Shepherd, and you will never be in need.
 
Are you dwelling in the house of the LORD and resting in God’s fields of green grass?  Isn’t it time you were?
 
©2014 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 30, 2014

Deuteronomy 33:12
Concerning the tribe of Benjamin, Moses said:

“He is beloved of God
And lives in safety beside him.
God surrounds him with his loving care,
And preserves him from every harm.”

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

As with certain areas of Arkansas, the “oil boom” is alive and well in North Dakota, where countless people are involved in drilling for oil and natural gas.  Because many parts of North Dakota are sparsely populated, makeshift communities, often referred to as “man camps”, have sprung up in recent years. Housing consists of pre-fabricated homes similar to military barracks.  People also live in cars, trucks, tents and RVs.  So when a rare, but potentially deadly tornado came barreling down the main “escape route” in Watford City on Memorial Day 2014, “residents” had nowhere to go.  Many hunkered down in their trailers and “shelters” and rode out the 120-mile-per-hour winds that accompanied this EF-2 tornado. 

Fifteen people were injured, including a 15-year-old girl who was visiting relatives and suffered critical wounds that required med-flight to a hospital in Minot. There was so much noise from the rain and hail that accompanied the storm that many were unable to heed any warning sirens that sounded.  And even at that, there was pretty much nowhere to go.

In Arkansas, tornadoes occur every year.  Many people place a high premium on living where storm shelters are readily available. In recent years, communities have banded together to create facilities, such as reinforced school buildings, that will house and shelter a large number of people in the event of a potentially deadly storm.  I will tell you that I rest a little easier knowing that we have a “safe room” in our house where we can retreat from harm when necessary.

One of the residents of Watford City remarked that there…”ain’t no place to take cover.”  Isn’t that how it is for some of us in our spiritual life?  We live without the benefit of God’s safety and shelter…not because He doesn’t offer - but because we don’t accept it.  Now surely there are those in North Dakota who feel they have no choice.  They need employment, and the jobs and money are there for those who can do the work.  But they are also accepting the accompanying risks.  Granted, tornadoes are rare in this part of the country…reports are that there have been just 14 since 1950.  But the potential and susceptibility to such peril does exist…as well as other consequences that can come from living in temporary group housing or an otherwise vulnerable structure. 

In our spiritual lives, we are offered God’s shelter and protective arms.  We are presented with the opportunity to rest and relax in the comfort and safety of His loving care.  God is our omnipresent “safe room”.  But some of us will choose to venture out on our own and live in a “spiritual trailer” in the middle of nowhere.  We will risk the potential for peril in exchange for what we value – what we perceive as important.  The din of our prospects for money, fame, fortune, prestige, personal relationships, acceptance, and personal success will drown out any warning signals that might be present.  What we fail to recognize in doing this is that God offers us the possibility for all of these things that we desire – and more.  He knows what we need…what will truly satisfy.  His aspirations for us most likely are not a mirror image of our own…but they are far better in every regard.

As glad as I am to have a concrete “safe room” built into my house…as important as it is to me to always live where such shelter is readily available…it is even more important that I live in the shadow of God’s “safe room”.  I don’t want to be away from the security and protection of His loving arms for even one minute.  I’m all for being adventurous…but not with my soul and all Eternity…or that of my family and friends! 

So what about you?  Do you have a “safe room” – both physically, and in terms of your soul?  When the storms of life come barreling down and you are directly in their path, you do have a secure place to take cover…if only you will recognize it?  Is God providing you with around-the-clock safety and care?  Is His “safe room” available to you always – in all ways?  Are you fully resting in the protection He offers?  Don’t you think it’s time you were? 
   
©2014 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 16, 2013

Psalm 127:1-2
Without the help of the Lord
    it is useless to build a home
    or to guard a city.
It is useless to get up early
and stay up late
    in order to earn a living.
God takes care of his own,
    even while they sleep.
 
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.
Ever since I was a small child, I’ve had occasional bouts with allergic reactions – particularly hives.  We never could determine what triggered them, but in high school, I suffered a serious reaction after taking an antibiotic treatment for a sore throat.  The hives and swelling became so severe that I had to be hospitalized for four days.  A few years later, the school nurse where I taught rushed me to a medical clinic for a shot of epinephrine when swelling and hives I was experienced required immediate attention.  But it would be another twenty years – and several bouts with hives and other symptoms of an allergic reaction – before we determined that my apparent culprits are corn …and possibly chocolate.
 
Apparently, as my “minor” bouts with hives and other allergic reactions occurred over the years, my body accumulated the affects.  So while people sometimes “grow out of” allergies… mine actually escalated to the point that the reactions became more frequent and severe.  My physician prescribed three things… an oral antihistamine, a medical alert bracelet that I wear anytime I leave the house, and “epi-pens” that I carry with me in case of a life-threatening reaction. Thankfully, I have not had what I would consider a serious allergic reaction in a very long time… and I have never had to use the epi-pens.  I attribute this to diligence about encounters with products containing corn and chocolate.  I am also persistent about keeping my medications with me and wearing the alert bracelet.
 
I am so grateful that my allergy is controllable – and not nearly as severe as those other people experience.  I had students who were so severely allergic that even a whiff of their allergen could evoke a reaction.  One child with a peanut allergy lay on his living room floor where a sibling had earlier dropped a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, and the entire side of his face swelled.  But by the same token, I would never be so dismissive as to help myself to corn chips or a chocolate bar… or to use products on my skin that I know contain cornstarch.  My Mam-ma Polly used to tell me, “If you would just ignore all of that and eat what you want and forget about it, you’d be just fine.”  That was simply not a true statement… and to do such a thing would be incredibly reckless!
 
I wonder how many of us are this reckless about our daily living.  We know how important God’s care and protection are… how vital it is that we always carry the Holy Spirit in our heart.  Yet far too often, we are careless and irresponsible with God.  We step out into life on our own and test the waters.  One little sample of “life” can’t hurt… can it?  A little lie here… some gossip there… and an occasional bout with cheating might make us uncomfortable and “itchy” for a little while.  But the symptoms will subside and we’ll move on… and we think we are no worse for wear.  What we fail to realize is how these actions and consequences are accumulating…how the results can one day escalate into an “epic fail” of some sort that leaves us wondering what went wrong and how we got to that point!
 
We cannot afford to be without God… even for a minute. We cannot chance even a tiny taste of sin and disobedience.  We can’t risk “leaving God at home” – not even for a few hours!  He must be present and operating in and through us at all times.  Even though I feel I am thoroughly protected, I will occasionally encounter something that apparently has a trace of my allergens in it.  Thankfully, I have an arsenal of protective measures that I can utilize to attack this and keep me safe. We need God “on the clock” at all times, because the devil is waiting for even the tiniest opportunity to slip in and give us trouble!
 
I’ve gotten to a point where I don’t think much about my allergies… and staying alert for the culprits has become somewhat second nature.  I don’t take them for granted, but I know that I’m doing all I can to stay protected.  GOD is our protection against the attacks of the devil and the sins of the world.  Through His wisdom, we have the best chance of recognizing potential dangers and pitfalls – and avoiding them in the first place.  With His grace, mercy, forgiveness, love and strength, we are redeemed in the instances when we do slip and stumble.  We must never take His care for granted…but under His watch, we can live in confidence and peace.
 
God’s care and protection is readily available… but always optional.  We must choose to accept Him… we must invite His Holy Spirit to live in our hearts.  We must put forth the effort to keep the lines of communication with Him open.  I can’t imagine why anyone would elect to “leave home without God”… can you?
 
©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 14, 2013

Psalm 139:7-12
Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit?
    to be out of your sight?
If I climb to the sky, you’re there!
    If I go underground, you’re there!
If I flew on morning’s wings
    to the far western horizon,
You’d find me in a minute—
    you’re already there waiting!
Then I said to myself, “Oh, he even sees me in the dark!
    At night I’m immersed in the light!”
It’s a fact: darkness isn’t dark to you;
    night and day, darkness and light, they’re all the same to you.
 
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.
 
As we drove to Burger King after church on Sunday, Zola kept trying to tell me something.  Over and over she would point toward her feet and say the same thing… but I didn’t have a clue what she wanted.  Finally, I asked Timothy, “Do you know what Zola is trying to tell me?” He replied, “Um… yes”… and he interpreted her comments.  I repeated Timothy’s statement to Zola and asked if that was correct.  She nodded and said, “Yeah!”
 
This little girl may never choose to talk, as long as she has her older brother around to interpret for her!  And honestly, I think she somewhat depends on him… for a lot of things!  He pretty well seems to know what she is thinking in any given moment… and you can bet your bottom dollar he knows where she is and what she is doing… if nothing else, on the off chance she might be playing with his toys – or getting a little extra attention!  Still, she chooses to follow him around much of the time and mimic his every word and move.
 
As I read this scripture passage, I also thought about the other end of the spectrum… my grandmother’s last weeks on this earth, in which she often could not form a complete sentence – or even a few words.  I had grown so familiar with her that I often was able to interpret her thoughts and gestures… and her nods of agreement would confirm that I had guessed correctly.  She depended on me to express her wishes… and to protect her.  She chose to have me speak for her on several occasions… even when she was still able to talk.  She would wave at a doctor and gesture toward me and say, “You tell him.”  Or she would tell the doctors and nurses… “Ask Debbie… she can tell you.” My Mam-ma Polly knew that I always had her back.
 
I find it nothing short of amazing that God has chosen you and me… that He desires to know every breath we take and how many hairs number our head.  I am astounded to think that Jesus collects my tears… each one precious to Him.  I cannot comprehend the vastness of knowing that there is nowhere I can go that He is not with me... or that He knows my every thought and desire.  And I am blessed and comforted by this knowledge… so much that I choose to serve Him in return. Honestly, it doesn’t add up for me why anyone would opt for a life without Him.  Who else loves you that much?!  Still, we do have a choice… and God will never desert us… but He will also never impose.
 
What place have you given Him in your life?  Have you tucked God away on the shelf and pretended He isn’t there?  Have you even suggested to Him that you are doing just fine without His help?  Do you truly understand the depths of God’s love and care for you… how much He wants to give you – now and for all eternity?  Won’t you study this Psalm again and give your relationship with God a second look as well?  Aren’t you ready to choose the One who chose you all along?
 
©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 13, 2013

Psalm 139:1-6
You have looked deep
    into my heart, Lord,
    and you know all about me.
You know when I am resting
    or when I am working,
    and from heaven
    you discover my thoughts.
You notice everything I do
    and everywhere I go.
Before I even speak a word,
    you know what I will say,
and with your powerful arm
    you protect me
    from every side.
I can’t understand all of this!
    Such wonderful knowledge
    is far above me.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
 
We recently attended a high school reunion, where we visited with fellow students and alumni. I greeted my cousin, Jim, who is about 8 years older than I.  As he gave me a hug, someone snapped our picture, and Jim said, “I used to sit on the couch at her grandmother’s on stormy nights and hold her in a blanket.”  Indeed, I remember those nights and snuggling in my cousin’s lap.
 
Like countless children throughout the South, I spent many night-time hours of my childhood sheltered in my grandparent’s storm cellar.  The women and children would hunker down in the cellar as a storm approached, while the men stood on my grandparents’ screened porch and “watched the clouds”.  Those summer nights got long and tiresome, and the cellar was cool and damp.
 
My sister, brother and I had to make a few trips inside to use the restroom, and often, my cousin Jim was recruited to wrap one of us in a quilt or blanket and carry us inside and back.  Jim was in high school then, and I thought he was the bravest, most handsome guy around.  I especially loved it when he would sit on the couch with me for a while and delay my return to the dark, dank cellar!  All Jim had to do was hold out his arms, and I was ready to crawl up in his lap and snuggle!
 
When you are little, the powerful arms of someone older and stronger are comforting… and most of us readily accepted this protection.  But here’s the thing… we understood the security firsthand.  We felt it.  We could reach out and physically touch these people.  We knew them in the flesh… we fully trusted them because we could literally be in their presence and under their care.
 
God offers us a love and protection that far exceeds anything a precious cousin, parent, grandparent or other caring human being could offer.  He knows us – inside and out – and He knows everything about us.  His powerful arms are outstretched to embrace and protect us, and He wants to be there for us in all things.  But we have a choice.  He stands with his arms open wide… but we decide whether to crawl into His lap and snuggle there.
 
The amazing, incredible, inexplicable fact is that God has chosen us!  He wants to give us His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, protection… and even Eternal Life in His presence!  But the question is…will we choose Him in return?  Do we fully trust Him… and are we willing to let go and allow Him to love us in this manner?  It sounds like an easy question to answer… but in truth, many find the choice difficult to make.  What about you?  Are you ready to surrender to God and allow Him to fully love and protect you?  Is today the day you truly “let go and let God”?  Shouldn’t it be?
 
©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 24, 2013

May 24 ~ Luke 21:16-19
Even those closest to you—your parents, brothers, relatives, and friends—will betray you. They will even kill some of you. And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. But not a hair of your head will perish! By standing firm, you will win your souls.
 
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 have a friend who tells the story of his grandfather…a Jew who became a Christian.  The grandfather’s family told him that he was dead to them if he made such a decision.  My friend’s grandfather chose to follow Jesus anyhow.  A church member I know tells of how he and fellow members of his army platoon met in secret while deployed to Afghanistan during the first Gulf War… just so they could hold worship services.  In doing so, they literally feared for their lives… as do countless others around the globe who worship in places where Christianity is forbidden.  That is something most of us cannot fathom.  We cannot begin to consider possible betrayal or death – especially at the hands of a friend, family member or loved one because of our faith.  Imagine living in a country where your worship of Jesus Christ might be so daunting that your own parents would turn you in to the authorities for doing so, just to save their own necks!
 
Few of us can imagine doing this.  But maybe you grew up in a family where you were persuaded to “skip church and do something fun” with the family. You might have been the only person in your household who desired to worship and serve Jesus… and the others might have berated you for doing so.  Perhaps you have been laughed at and ridiculed by your classmates and friends because of your faith.  Maybe you have been labeled as a “goody two-shoes” or a “Jesus freak” – and excluded from certain circles and invitations to more than one event. Maybe you have decided to follow Jesus… and in doing so, you had to give up friends – and even family members – and distance yourself from those who engage in immoral, illegal, and/or sinful activities.
 
Whatever ridicule, exclusion, physical or emotional abuse or discomfort of any sort you may experience because you love and serve Jesus, know this… He has your back!  You will come out on top.  As this scripture indicates… “not a hair on your head will perish!”  You may be bruised and scraped… wounded emotionally, if not physically… but you will survive.  You can handle it, because Jesus is with you.  He is your shield and your protector.  There is nothing anyone else can say or do to you that can matter more than Jesus.  There is a catch… you must be patient.  This may not happen overnight.  You may very well have to suffer indignation and mistreatment for a while… and it may seem like an eternity.  But God will NOT leave you hanging.  He will bless you… and use your Discipleship and faithfulness.  He will honor those who honor Him with their obedience, steadfastness and commitments.
 
Last night, I read through my prayer journal for the last year.  I noted the many requests I had placed before God… for people to be healed – physically and emotionally… for this one or that to get a job or a restored relationship… for countless children…for some dear souls to be allowed to enter Heaven…and more.  I made a list of some of the requests that God answered… and I took notice of how He answered.  Most of the time, His answer was at least a little bit different than my request… but it was always perfect.  The timing was better… the outcome was impeccable…the response made more sense and had a more positive impact overall.
 
So why do I doubt?  Why do I try to impose my timetable?  Why can’t I be patient and trust God in all things?  Why do I worry that for one minute, He might allow a hair on my head to perish?  Why would we ever fear following Jesus?  I know the answer… our own human frailties and the inroads these provide for Satan to get a stronghold.  Because we all know that fear comes from the devil… it’s one of his favorite tools!
 
Today, my prayer is that God would make me more patient and trusting.  I am reminded of how faithful He is to care for me… and how I should be more faithful and trusting in my Discipleship.  Truly, nothing – and no one – matters more than Jesus.  The day we begin to understand this fully is the day we really arrive as Christians.  Where does this leave you?  Are you willing to put Jesus before everything – and everyone – else?  Have you arrived in your Spiritual journey? Are you even on your way?
 
©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 17, 2013

Psalm 27:1
You, Lord, are the light that keeps me safe.
         I am not afraid of anyone.
You protect me, and I have no fears.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Timothy and I were driving home, and he said, “I had a bad dream at Paw-Paw’s. A bear was after me.” We talked about how dreams are scary, but they can’t really hurt us… how grownups can protect children and keep them safe from scary things. And I said, “If I was scared, you would protect me… right?” Timothy said, “I can’t protect YOU… you’re BIG!” So I asked him what he would do if his little sister, Zola, was scared. He said, “I would hug her and protect her and keep her safe!” I hope this big brother remembers his vow as he gets older!

Not all of us have an older brother or sister… or anyone who is “bigger” that we trust to protect us. But each and every one of us can call on Jesus. We can rely on His strength and protection. He will keep us safe… He will calm our fears.

I have no doubt that it comforts little children greatly to think that they can trust their parents and other adults to allay their fears and keep them safe. We all need a “parental figure” we can turn to when the chips are down. But more importantly, we need to fully comprehend the strength of God… how HE protects us and keeps us safe… how He can calm our fears… how He sent Jesus Christ to be the light of the world and save us from all “darkness.” And we need to put our trust in our Heavenly Father to do exactly this for us – each and every day.

Whether you are three and a half, twenty-three, or well into your eighties or nineties, you know that the dark can be a scary place… and nightmares are no fun for anyone! Isn’t it wonderful to know that we have the light of Jesus to keep us safe in all situations… to protect us and remove our fears? Are you trusting Him to do this in your life? Shouldn’t you?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 16, 2013

Psalm 23:4
I may walk through valleys as dark as death,
but I won’t be afraid.

You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod
makes me feel safe.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

My husband and I took a walk one recent evening, shortly before dusk. There is a hiking trail near our house, with an access road for vehicular traffic that runs parallel to it. We have hiked the trail, but most of the time we take the access road. The trail runs underneath the side of a tall bluff and is steep in spots, rocky - and in certain areas – fairly dark. At one end of the trail, there is also an observation deck.

As we approached the overlook, we encountered a family… a father, mother, pre-teen and toddler. We said “Hello,” and the parents asked if the access road would take them back to the Visitor Center, where we assumed they had parked their car. We detected a foreign accent… perhaps German…and we decided maybe they were tourists. My husband and I pointed in the direction we were walking and gestured for them to follow us. But they were still taking in the view from the overlook, and as we trekked ahead at a steady gait, we lost sight of the group.

By the time we got to the Visitor Center, it was starting to get dark… and cold… and we could not see this family. We both agreed that surely they took the access road and had not gotten back on the trail. And soon enough, as we circled back to head home, we met all four of them walking toward us. We had been fairly certain the clan was safe. But I have to tell you, I wasn’t relishing the thought of a night-time rescue mission on that cold, precipitous hiking trail!

Isn’t it wonderful to know that God is always with us? Even when we set out on unknown trails in the dark, He is there to guide our steps. Just as this verse says…the mere thought of our Shepherd’s strong hook at the ready - should we need protection - gives us comfort. We truly have nothing to fear. The image of the strength and power of God combined with His incredible love and gentle care for us gives me goose bumps! NO ONE ELSE can do this for us! There is no other who can provide us with all of these things in anything near the measures that God does.

The next time you walk through a valley as dark as death - and you will - think about this scripture passage. Remind yourself WHO is walking alongside you. Picture God shielding and guiding you with one arm… fighting off your enemies with a shepherd’s rod in His other hand. It’s a powerful image… and He’s a powerful God. Do you recognize His presence by your side? Isn’t it time you did?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for November 8, 2012

Matthew 10:28-31
“Don’t be bluffed into silence by the threats of bullies. There’s nothing they can do to your soul, your core being. Save your fear for God, who holds your entire life—body and soul—in his hands.

“What’s the price of a pet canary? Some loose change, right? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head! So don’t be intimidated by all this bully talk. You’re worth more than a million canaries.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Today, my husband and I took Timothy and his little sister, Zola, to the park to play and enjoy a picnic lunch. This had to be one of the most perfect days we have had all year… maybe in more than a year. The air was crisp and cool… the sun was shining brightly over a local park adjacent to the beautiful blue water of a lake that hugs the northern edge of our community, and the leaves were brilliant hues of red, yellow, orange, and green.

I sat on a bench as we ate and looked at the children’s hair in the sunlight. Timmy’s is blond, a little course, and stands up along a couple of “cow licks” that give him wispy stick-straight spikes. Zola’s is almost black, soft, fine and pours over her head in a mound of unruly curls. To think that God knows exactly how many hairs number not only the heads of these children… but yours, mine, and everyone else’s as well… boggles my mind.

These children are marvels to me. I watch them play and see how quickly they are growing and what amazing things they are learning, and I am in awe. I cannot imagine that anyone could spend time in the presence of small children at play and not believe in God! How could you look at the innocent wonder of a toddler and not see Him at work? And how could you imagine that these incredible tiny creatures don’t simply melt God’s heart each and every day? I am convinced that God has a legion of angels just to care for small children… and that He cares about every detail of their little lives.

Timmy is very concerned that I will outgrow him… or that he will outgrow me! He asks me nearly every time I see him, “Am I still your baby?” I assure him that he is…that he will always be my baby! Surely the God who numbers the hair on our heads and holds sway over the bodies and souls of little children cares immensely for each of us. Remember, we were all once small children… and in God’s eyes, we are all still His babies! I don’t know about you, but I am deeply moved by this.

To think that God always has my back… that I am incredibly valuable to Him, and that He will protect me from all “bullies”… frees me to love Him more deeply and to follow Him more completely. All I have to do is love God and serve Him wholeheartedly. He will handle any naysayers or “bullies” who try to stop me or do me harm. Isn’t this amazing? Doesn’t this give you confidence and courage beyond anything you could ever muster on your own?

The children slid down the slide with abandon today. They giggled with glee in the swings…confident that we would protect them and keep them from harm… free to enjoy the wind in their hair and the sunshine on their face. Is your relationship with God this unencumbered? Do you feel this protected by God? Do you feel His presence…His constant love and care? Are you free to worship Him and serve Him without concern for what others may say or think?

Stop and take some time to sit in God’s presence. Enjoy the beauty of the fall color or even the peace and quiet of a secluded space in your home or office. Listen for God’s voice and hear Him say, “You’re still my baby.” Then go about your day with added confidence, peace and joy…knowing how incredibly loved and protected you are. Boldly proclaim the Good News of Jesus, confident that God has your back… now, and always.

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for June 22, 2012

Psalm 121:27-28
God guards you from every evil, he guards your very life. He guards you when you leave and when you return, he guards you now, he guards you always.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Imagine life in our nation’s White House, surrounded by Secret Service officials. Everywhere you go, someone is watching you – even if you don’t realize it. You are guarded when you go to school, to church, to a movie, or out for dinner. Your car is followed everywhere. You are protected as you sleep. Someone knows your whereabouts every minute of the night and day. Honestly, I’m not sure I would enjoy such scrutiny!

But in the case of my Heavenly Father, I welcome such close and comprehensive care. To think that I am continually guarded from evil…that God cares about me so much that I am always protected…is amazing, comforting, and almost beyond description. And the best part of all is that this same care and protection is extended to my family and friends… and my brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as all of those for whom I pray.

It takes a whole team of Secret Service agents to guard the First Family and others who are entitled to this level of protection. But all you and I need is Almighty God. He is more than enough to defend and protect us. And He is on the clock twenty-four/seven on our behalf! When was the last time you stopped and thought about how soundly you sleep at night – how blessed your days are – because God is guarding you? When was the last time you thanked Him for this? Isn’t this a perfect time to stop and do so? Aren’t you glad that God’s “Secret Service” detail is on duty in your life?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 15, 2012

Psalm 1
God blesses those people who refuse evil advice and won’t follow sinners or join in sneering at God. Instead, the Law of the Lord makes them happy, and they think about it day and night.

They are like trees growing beside a stream, trees that produce fruit in season and always have leaves. Those people succeed in everything they do. That isn’t true of those who are evil, because they are like straw blown by the wind. Sinners won’t have an excuse on the day of judgment, and they won’t have a place with the people of God.

The Lord protects everyone who follows him, but the wicked follow a road that leads to ruin.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Over the weekend, my best friend, Marla, and I attended a party to celebrate the marriage of two of our friends from high school. The weather was quirky, and we debated what to wear for a party on the river. The invitation said “outdoor festive attire.” So Marla chose a denim skirt and a pretty blouse… and I decided to wear a simple knit black dress.

I’ve had this dress for more than ten years… it is so old I can’t remember when I actually bought it. I find it as comfortable as pajamas… yet it looks nice enough to wear to a party. It doesn’t wrinkle, washes and dries in less than an hour, and can be worn with casual sandals to shop at Wal-Mart… or with dressy jewelry and heels to the most elegant party. You may have a “go-to” piece in your closet. It could be a basic dress, your favorite t-shirt or pair of jeans, or the sneakers that look more like dress shoes that you wear with everything you own!

The point is… most of us have an item in our closet that we turn to over and again… the piece that makes us feel good in our own skin – comfortable, confident, happy and grounded. This is the item that we are certain will always be appropriate and frees us to concentrate on being present in the moment instead of worrying, “Did I wear the right thing?”

Our relationship with God should be as comfortable and worry-free as the most dependable garment in our closet or our favorite t-shirt or sneakers. GOD should be our “go-to” item… His wisdom and love should be the guiding force that frees us to concentrate on the people and tasks at hand, rather than on whether or not we are doing the right thing or making good decisions. When we are grounded in God, we know that we are on the right path… we are comfortable, confident, happy and grounded. We are firmly rooted, like a hundred-year-old tree… and God’s love and care hangs over us like a shady canopy of guidance.

You know how it is when you get somewhere and feel like you aren’t dressed appropriately. You probably also know the feeling that you are not quite “dressed right” with God. Both are lousy feelings! Every fashion expert tells us to fill our closet with “staples” that are good for any occasion... those that stand the test of time and serve as a foundation for other items and accessories. God’s wisdom and guidance is our “Spiritual staple.” When we start with His foundation – our “tree” has solid roots… and we are always on point and “in style.”

What’s in your “Spiritual closet” these days? Are you firmly rooted in God? Does His wisdom and care cover you like the canopy of a shade tree? Or are you often insecure and uncertain about your choices and behaviors? This is the perfect time to recommit to GOD… to follow Him and listen for His guidance. Let the Psalms be a good source of information and encouragement to help you stay deeply rooted. Don’t waste another minute… fill your “spiritual closet” with solid basics today… and feel the confidence that God can give you when you stay close to Him.

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 6, 2012

Galatians 6:9
Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up.

Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be afraid. I am with you. Don’t tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

This is Day Six of my grandmother’s hospital stay. She still requires help with virtually everything… from being lifted and set in a chair to feeding and bathing. Countless people have worked continually to help her. This woman who has done so much for so many others now needs almost 100% care. She is being “rewarded when the time is right.” I am learning firsthand what Paul is teaching in Galatians 6:9… don’t grow weary… don’t give up… keep helping others in Jesus’ name. What goes around comes around… and while the reward is not our goal (or shouldn’t be), I can already see evidence of the blessings God gives to those who serve.

I turned on the television for my grandmother to distract her and give her something else on which to focus. She said she wanted to watch “church,” so I found Bro. Charles Stanley delivering a sermon. He’s one of her favorites. Bro. Stanley was preaching about fear and how it cripples us – how when we walk in fear, we aren’t truly exercising our faith and trusting God. He reminded us to picture God’s arms wrapped around us… strong arms that offer protection and fight our battles for us. Whatever we endure, we don’t have to fear - because God is handling things.

Again, I have seen incredible evidence of this in recent days. I have felt a calm and peace at every turn… even if those closest to me felt I was anything but serene! I have truly felt God’s hand in every detail… and I have been quite content to let Him guide me and protect my grandmother and the rest of us.

I may be a slow learner, but I am seeing the promises of God… and learning to walk in them! And in my weariness, I am restored and renewed by these promises… and by those who are serving us tirelessly. I am continually strengthened by God’s loving arms… and the angels He sends to serve in His name. I pray that whatever you are facing today – or may face in days to come – you feel this same strength and protection… that angels come to minister to your every need… and that you are inspired to serve as God directs you.

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 5, 2012

May 5 ~ Matthew 4:1-11
Next Jesus was taken into the wild by the Spirit for the Test. The Devil was ready to give it. Jesus prepared for the Test by fasting forty days and forty nights. That left him, of course, in a state of extreme hunger, which the Devil took advantage of in the first test: "Since you are God's Son, speak the word that will turn these stones into loaves of bread." Jesus answered by quoting Deuteronomy: "It takes more than bread to stay alive. It takes a steady stream of words from God's mouth."

For the second test the Devil took him to the Holy City. He sat him on top of the Temple and said, "Since you are God's Son, jump." The Devil goaded him by quoting Psalm 91: "He has placed you in the care of angels. They will catch you so that you won't so much as stub your toe on a stone." Jesus countered with another citation from Deuteronomy: "Don't you dare test the Lord your God."

For the third test, the Devil took him to the peak of a huge mountain. He gestured expansively, pointing out all the earth's kingdoms, how glorious they all were. Then he said, "They're yours—lock, stock, and barrel. Just go down on your knees and worship me, and they're yours." Jesus' refusal was curt: "Beat it, Satan!" He backed his rebuke with a third quotation from Deuteronomy: "Worship the Lord your God, and only him. Serve him with absolute single-heartedness."

The Test was over. The Devil left. And in his place, angels! Angels came and took care of Jesus' needs.

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.

Do you know anyone who doesn’t like to be pampered? Everyone likes a little TLC… and when you are sick or injured, the care and “ministry” of others is even more important. I have watched my grandmother’s whole demeanor change after a bath. I’ve seen her relax and even smile after she was put back into a clean bed. The difference in her entire appearance and reactions when she is pain-free is striking. Surely angels have been surrounding her and giving her care in these last few days.

Just as importantly, angels have surrounded my grandmother and my family mentally, emotionally, and Spiritually… and protected us from as much as a stubbed toe. There have been moments when the devil tried to slip in… a sense of doubt here… little mis-steps there… but each time, I’ve felt God saying, “Beat it, Satan!” And I have to tell you, I’ve even said this out loud myself a time or two! Each time, I’ve felt like God’s angels came and took care of us… and drove the devil away in the process.

Wherever you are today… whatever Satan is trying to do to you… however you are tempted to give in to challenges and the devil’s little voice that pokes at you and fills you with doubt… stay close to God and trust His word. Continue to worship Him and rest in His care and protection. Serve God with absolute single-heartedness and tell Satan to “take a hike!”

I am a strong believer in angels and their power. I have seen evidence of God’s protection… and I’ve met several of His “angels” along the way. You may even be one of them! Have faith in God… let a steady stream of His words guide and comfort you. Believe with all your heart that He will keep you safe from even as much as a stubbed toe… and do your part by trusting and believing His promises.

May 4th was National Star Wars Day, and I saw more than one Facebook post that said, “May the Fourth be with you!”… a cute play on words, of course. Today is Cinco de Mayo… a celebration of freedom and democracy… and I am saying, “May God’s angels be with you. May you feel the freedom of a life in His care surround you today – and always.” Have a blessed, angel-filled day!

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 4, 2012

Job1:6-12
One day, when the angels had gathered around the Lord, and Satan was there with them, the Lord asked, “Satan, where have you been?” Satan replied, “I have been going all over the earth.” Then the Lord asked, “What do you think of my servant Job? No one on earth is like him—he is a truly good person, who respects me and refuses to do evil.”

“Why shouldn’t he respect you?” Satan remarked. “You are like a wall protecting not only him, but his entire family and all his property. You make him successful in whatever he does, and his flocks and herds are everywhere. Try taking away everything he owns, and he will curse you to your face.”

The Lord replied, “All right, Satan, do what you want with anything that belongs to him, but don’t harm Job.” Then Satan left.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

This has been a challenging week. But as many have pointed out, God is in control. All I have to do is rest in Him. And I really am trying to do that… hopefully pretty well! I know that God has a wall of protection around me, my grandmother, and my family. He has shown me this over and again. He can take away lots of material things. He can allow challenges and temporary setbacks. But ultimately, I believe He has said to Satan, “Do what you want with anything that belongs to her, but do not harm HER or her family!”

I believe that Satan knows who he can and cannot touch. And when God tells the devil to leave someone alone, I believe there is a covenant in place between them for this to happen. So I want to be extra certain that I operate within the wall of protection that God offers. I want to respect God and refuse to do evil. I want to serve Him – and serve well!

I’m not being arrogant when I say that I believe the devil can’t touch me! If you trust God, serve Him and respect Him - and seek His will - I think you can say the very same thing. I find this incredibly comforting… and I am at peace with so many decisions and outcomes that I have experienced – especially in the last few days. God has my back! Does He have yours?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 28, 2012

April 28 ~ Psalm 34:7-9
God's angel sets up a circle of protection around us while we pray.

Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see - how good God is. Blessed are you who run to him.

Worship God if you want the best; worship opens doors to all his goodness.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

My husband and I have been watching Discovery Channel’s “Frozen Planet” about life in the Arctic and Antarctica. On one episode, hungry wolves approached a herd of bison, hoping to capture a slower, weaker yearling for dinner. The older bison encircled the young calf and protected it. The wolves were intimidated and retreated. I was reminded that, even in nature, God offers His circle of protection. I am comforted to think that when I pray to Him, His angels encircle me and protect me. I am grateful to think that I am ministered to by these agents of God as I pour out my heart to Him.

A few weeks ago, we went to a local steak house for dinner. We had eaten at this restaurant years ago, but they recently re-opened after being out of business for several years. We ordered our favorite – filet mignon – and when the food arrived and we tasted the first bite, we were both transported back in time. We savored the flavorful, tender beef and smiled at how delicious it tasted. We felt blessed!

Do you think of angels surrounding you… encircling you with protection when you pray? Do you savor God’s goodness like a well-cooked steak? Do you run to Him and seek His very best for you… worship Him and praise His blessings over your life? What do you suppose would change in your life if you did this? Are you ready and willing to find out?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 2, 2012

April 2 ~ 1 John 2:26-27
I've written to warn you about those who are trying to deceive you. But they're no match for what is embedded deeply within you—Christ's anointing, no less! You don't need any of their so-called teaching. Christ's anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him, uncontaminated by a single lie. Live deeply in what you were taught.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

With the early arrival of summertime temps, people are already getting outdoors and enjoying everything from swimming and tubing on the lake to playing in parks to softball and baseball, hiking, biking, and much more. Everywhere you turn, someone is admonishing… “Don’t forget the sunscreen!”… and with good reason. One of my Facebook friends recently posted a picture shared by someone who had a teeny speck of melanoma (skin cancer).

This small speck was surgically removed, but the resulting incision ran from just above her wrist to just above the elbow! She said she had two more “matching” incisions for “teeny specks” on her back and her leg. This person stated that her wounds would heal… but she was lucky. And she reminded everyone to cover their skin with sunscreen… and to re-apply often for full protection!

Making the choice to apply sunscreen is wise. It reflects our understanding of the potential harm of spending time in the sunshine without adequate protection. Reminding others to use sunscreen represents our knowledge of its benefits, as well as a healthy respect for the dangers of spending time in the sunlight without adequate covering. Sharing the good counsel we have been given regarding sunscreen denotes our quick understanding… an effort to “live deeply in what we have been taught.”

Sunscreen is a physical illustration of our spiritual “anointing” of the Holy Spirit. In Isaiah 11:2-3 (King James Version), we are given a listing of the seven-fold ingredients of Spiritual anointing: wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, fear of the LORD, and quick understanding. When we have these components – the full anointing of Jesus Christ – and carry the Holy Spirit in our hearts, we are fully protected. We have everything we need. We can live deeply and confidently that we are covered and operating with the full protection of all that Jesus died to give us… and we can share His Good News with others.

I hope that we will all redouble our efforts to wear sunscreen and protect our skin – not only in this long summer season ahead, but always. In the same manner, I pray that we would call on Jesus to pour out His anointing upon us… to cover us in all seven components of His full blessing and protection. As we begin what is known among Christians as “Holy Week,” we are perhaps more focused on what Jesus sacrificed for us than we are any other time of the year. Isn’t this a great time to claim His anointing for your life? Will this be the year you begin to focus on living under the full protection and blessings of Christ and His Holy Spirit? Will you risk deception and the cancer of the devil… or will you live deeply in what you have been taught?

Sunscreen carries a number known as the SPF… Sun Protection Factor. The higher the SPF number, the more protection the product offers against harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. Jesus offers us a much more critical SPF… the Son Protection Factor. I hope you have plenty of both… and that you apply them often! How high are your SPF numbers? Are you fully covered?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for November 3, 2011

Psalm 125:2
Just as Jerusalem is protected by mountains on every side, the LORD protects his people by holding them in his arms now and forever.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Everybody loves a hug. From the time we are babies, we are snuggled in the arms of others (hopefully). We learn from our earliest days that a hug can be a safe, comforting respite from the cares of the world. At some point in our lives, we have all probably said (or at least thought), “I could really use a hug!”

One of my favorite images is snuggling in the arms of Jesus. When I need a little “boost” in my day, I imagine sinking into the soft, silky folds of Jesus’ robe as His arms engulf me. I rest in His lap, snuggled against His chest, hearing the steady beat of His heart and the rhythmic in-and-out of his breathing. I am immediately comforted. I feel safe, protected, and greatly loved.

Lately, I’ve been picturing others there, too. It comforts me to envision my family and friends safely wrapped in Jesus’ arms. Each of us can have this “hug” from Jesus at any time. His arms are wide and strong… His lap can hold all of us! We will each receive personal attention… He is able to make all of us feel like we are His special, chosen children – because we are!

Whatever you need from Jesus today, He is waiting to provide. If you just need to sit in His lap for a while and rest against His heart, He has his arms open to receive you. Start to see yourself – and others – there. Feel the safety and security of snuggling with your Heavenly Father. Leave your cares and burdens with Him and go about the rest of your day restored and lightened.

Could you really use a hug right now? Why not ask Jesus to give you one.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 27, 2011

Psalm 121:5-8
The LORD is your protector, there at your right side to shade you from the sun. You won't be harmed by the sun during the day or by the moon at night. The LORD will protect you and keep you safe from all dangers. The LORD will protect you now and always wherever you go.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

I have very pale skin… so pale that in certain clothing and colors, people have actually asked me if I was feeling well! So I enjoyed many years of having a nice tan… until the day I found a spot on my collarbone. The doctor assured me it was probably nothing, as he sliced it off and sent it to a lab for evaluation. He called a few days later to say, “You were right to come see me. That was pre-cancerous… we got it just in time.” My deliberate tanning days were over.

This summer, my husband and I took a day trip to Mtn. View on the July 4th weekend. We walked through the craft village at the Ozark Folk Center on a very hot, sunny afternoon. I would say we spent less than 2 hours dashing from one air conditioned building to another to observe the crafters. That night when we got home, I noticed I was sporting a little sunburn that outlined where my shirt had hung. Just stepping out unprotected into the bright sunlight for a few minutes between buildings had exposed me to the dangers of the harmful rays and burned my skin.

Think about this for a minute… imagine venturing out into the world without the protection of God. If we try to make it on our own… away from God’s amazing grace and care, we are leaving room for the devil to make all sorts of inroads. And just as a few minutes in the sun left me vulnerable to a burn… even a few minutes without God’s protection leaves you wide open for all sorts of trouble.

God wants to be our shield night and day. He loves us and wants to care for us like an SPF50 sunscreen. But we have to invite Him to do so. We have to want His protection. He will not force Himself upon us.

I know we don’t want to hear this, but avoiding direct sunlight on our skin (i.e. tanning) is a good idea. I have to remember to apply sunscreen when I think I will be outside… and frankly, as we lose more and more ozone, a daily dose – just in case - is a good idea. It’s the same with God… don’t leave home without His protection. Better yet, wear it all the time! And remember to thank Him for his around-the-clock care and vigilance on your behalf. Are you protected today?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 26, 2011

Psalm 121:1-4
I look to the hills! Where will I find help? It will come from the LORD, who created the heavens and the earth. The LORD is your protector, and he won't go to sleep or let you stumble. The protector of Israel doesn't doze or ever get drowsy.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

When I was a little girl, one of my favorite stories was The Elves and the Shoemaker by the Brothers Grimm. In this story, elves visited the shop of a very poor shoemaker and his wife each night and created beautiful shoes for them to sell. In return, the shoemaker and his wife made beautiful clothes for the little elves.

Haven’t we all wished we had elves to come in at night and do our work for us and make everything beautiful by morning? When I awoke today and looked across the fiery hillside below our house, I thought, “God was surely up all night!” It was as if He spent the entire evening with a brush and a palette of oranges, reds, yellows and more… painting away on the trees outside our back door!

But God is no magical elf! While He often works in the background…making things better for us as the elves did for the shoemaker and his wife… the wonderful gifts and blessings that God bestows on us create riches far beyond money and material things. And the power and might of our Heavenly Father are far above and beyond mere magic!

As I looked at the hillside and valley this morning, I thought of the first verse of this passage… I considered the strength and protection God bestows on me every day… and how He never sleeps (which reminded me of the little Grimm fairy tale!). I was humbled, and blessed, to see that God not only blesses us and cares for our every need… He does it with astounding beauty and finesse!

Today, I hope your “take away” from this passage is that God cares for us beyond what we could ever imagine. I hope you remember that He never sleeps. And one more thing… as the shoemakers gave the elves new clothing, we should give back to God as much as we can - to the best of our abilities. We should be so grateful for His abundance that we are eager to do all we can for Him in return. We can never repay God – and that’s not the point! But we can do our best to show Him how much we appreciate His amazing generosity.

Look around today – look “to the hills” and up at the beautiful trees and the colors of fall – and remember Who is up all night and day caring for each of us. Take time to thank God for His love and care… go about your day with confidence that He is in complete control… and know that all will be well.

©2011 Debbie Robus