Matthew 5:13
"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.”
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.
We hear a lot these days about watching our salt intake. Doctors who report on television news stations – or have their own TV shows – are warning us to greatly reduce the amount of salt in our diet. On the other hand, professionals who are evaluating the work of chefs and “would-be chefs” on a number of cooking shows routinely mention salt. There is a delicate balance… not enough, and the dish is bland and lacks flavor. Add too much, and all you taste is salt.
Few people really enjoy bland food… or food that lacks enough salt. Most people detest a dish that is too salty! And this analogy in Matthew 5 for salt directly applies to our Christian life.
Jesus has told us that we are the salt. How we conduct ourselves… the things we say and do… enhance the “flavor” of His work. In other words, when people see us living in joy… gladly doing for others… speaking kindly and holding our tongue when many would lash out or say something ugly… they see the goodness of God through us. When we “take the high road” and quietly work behind the scenes to make life better for others… when we show compassion… and most especially, when we demonstrate faith in the midst of challenges… people see the power, grace, mercy and love of God in action.
At the same time, when we add “too much salt,” we have a negative effect. When we behave badly, then claim to be Disciples of Christ… people notice. When we go on and on about how active we are in ministries… give people the impression that the Sunday School class to which we belong, the Bible study we attend, and our mission work and generous spirit are what define our Christian life, we have “over-salted” – and it often leaves a foul taste with others. I’m not saying we can’t ever tell someone we will pray for them (if we indeed pray for them afterward), or that it is in any way wrong to attend a Bible study or Sunday School… or to do missions work. But the delicate “seasoning” comes in how we present our lives to others… how well we balance the “salt.”
Salt is a subtle flavoring. When there is not enough of it in a dish, people notice – and miss it! When there is too much salt, people notice, also… and for many, the dish is ruined. If we over-salt our Christian witness with too much outward show of how wonderful we are… how faithfully we serve… what martyrs we are for Jesus… we may do more harm than good for the kingdom of God. If we are careful and attentive with our “salt,” God can use us to bring out the very best flavor of a life in Christ… and others will take notice and want more for themselves.
We all know people who are “heavy-handed with the salt shaker”… and I’m betting you know a few who are on the bland side… literally, and in their daily Christian living. It’s time for us to take a hard look at our Christian “salt shaker” and see where we should correct the balance. Have you checked your “salt” lately?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label Jesus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jesus. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for April 1, 2010
April 1 ~ John 20:24-29
Although Thomas the Twin was one of the twelve disciples, he wasn't with the others when Jesus appeared to them. So they told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But Thomas said, "First, I must see the nail scars in his hands and touch them with my finger. I must put my hand where the spear went into his side. I won't believe unless I do this!"
A week later the disciples were together again. This time, Thomas was with them. Jesus came in while the doors were still locked and stood in the middle of the group. He greeted his disciples and said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and look at my hands! Put your hand into my side. Stop doubting and have faith!"
Thomas replied, "You are my Lord and my God!" Jesus said, "Thomas, do you have faith because you have seen me? The people who have faith in me without seeing me are the ones who are really blessed!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was growing up, I heard the story of “Doubting Thomas” over and over. He was the disciple who didn’t believe that Jesus was real until he put his hand into Jesus’ side, pierced by the Roman soldier’s spear. Thomas had to see the nail scars on Jesus’ hands. He needed physical proof that Jesus was alive and real.
Several years ago, I heard a sermon in which this scripture passage was used, but the emphasis was not on Thomas and his skepticism. The pastor emphasized the second half of the passage, where Jesus says, “Stop doubting and have faith.” More importantly, He says (and I’m paraphrasing now), “Those who really have faith in me are the ones who have never seen me, but they believe I exist anyway.” Jesus is talking about you and me! We’ve “felt” Jesus’ presence, maybe… but we have never looked Him in the eye or touched His nail-scarred hands. We’ve never seen His pierced side, much less touched it! But Jesus Himself says that WE are the ones who are really blessed because we believe in Him anyway.
The New King James Version says that Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” The Living Bible quotes Jesus as saying, “Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.” Jesus is telling Thomas that he believes because he can see Jesus… but others believe purely out of faith and a desire to know Him. This pleases Jesus… and He blesses us for our faith. This really hit home with me. Jesus loves my faith – and my faithfulness! It pleases Him! After all He has done for me, that seems like such a small thing in return… but to Him it is HUGE!
Where are you in this equation? Are you like Thomas… waiting for physical proof? Do you need a “sign” before you will really believe? Or are you willing to step out in faith and trust Jesus? The choice is yours… no one will force you to decide either way. But I can tell you that choosing to believe in Jesus can change your life… in a very good way! This is one time where we don’t need physical proof… we just need a leap of faith. Are you ready to jump?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Although Thomas the Twin was one of the twelve disciples, he wasn't with the others when Jesus appeared to them. So they told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But Thomas said, "First, I must see the nail scars in his hands and touch them with my finger. I must put my hand where the spear went into his side. I won't believe unless I do this!"
A week later the disciples were together again. This time, Thomas was with them. Jesus came in while the doors were still locked and stood in the middle of the group. He greeted his disciples and said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and look at my hands! Put your hand into my side. Stop doubting and have faith!"
Thomas replied, "You are my Lord and my God!" Jesus said, "Thomas, do you have faith because you have seen me? The people who have faith in me without seeing me are the ones who are really blessed!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was growing up, I heard the story of “Doubting Thomas” over and over. He was the disciple who didn’t believe that Jesus was real until he put his hand into Jesus’ side, pierced by the Roman soldier’s spear. Thomas had to see the nail scars on Jesus’ hands. He needed physical proof that Jesus was alive and real.
Several years ago, I heard a sermon in which this scripture passage was used, but the emphasis was not on Thomas and his skepticism. The pastor emphasized the second half of the passage, where Jesus says, “Stop doubting and have faith.” More importantly, He says (and I’m paraphrasing now), “Those who really have faith in me are the ones who have never seen me, but they believe I exist anyway.” Jesus is talking about you and me! We’ve “felt” Jesus’ presence, maybe… but we have never looked Him in the eye or touched His nail-scarred hands. We’ve never seen His pierced side, much less touched it! But Jesus Himself says that WE are the ones who are really blessed because we believe in Him anyway.
The New King James Version says that Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” The Living Bible quotes Jesus as saying, “Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.” Jesus is telling Thomas that he believes because he can see Jesus… but others believe purely out of faith and a desire to know Him. This pleases Jesus… and He blesses us for our faith. This really hit home with me. Jesus loves my faith – and my faithfulness! It pleases Him! After all He has done for me, that seems like such a small thing in return… but to Him it is HUGE!
Where are you in this equation? Are you like Thomas… waiting for physical proof? Do you need a “sign” before you will really believe? Or are you willing to step out in faith and trust Jesus? The choice is yours… no one will force you to decide either way. But I can tell you that choosing to believe in Jesus can change your life… in a very good way! This is one time where we don’t need physical proof… we just need a leap of faith. Are you ready to jump?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 29, 2010
March 29 ~ Romans 8:10-11
But Christ lives in you. So you are alive because God has accepted you, even though your bodies must die because of your sins. Yet God raised Jesus to life! God's Spirit now lives in you, and he will raise you to life by his Spirit.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a television show once in which a child asked his father what happens to us when we die. The dad took a glove and put it on his hand. Then he removed it and wiggled his fingers. He said, “The glove is like our body.” Pulling it off his hand, he added, “When our body dies, the soul inside still lives… just in another form.” I’ve thought about this simple analogy often – the concept of our body as a “glove” for our spirit.
Let’s think about gloves for a minute. Some gloves are heavy-duty and made of strong fabric or leather for manual labor like carpentry, farming, or working with things that are rough and dirty. We’ve all seen filthy work gloves that have been used for this purpose. And those dirty gloves are protecting the hands underneath. Once the gloves are removed, the hands inside are hopefully fairly clean, soft and free of scratches and blisters.
A few decades ago, a lady almost never left home without her gloves. She had gloves to match every outfit, and dress gloves were always worn to church! Even when dining out, a lady removed only one glove and kept it in her lap while she ate! Of course, her hands remained soft and supple inside the gloves.
The thing is… each person’s “gloves” are different. And once the gloves come off, we may each use our hands differently, but they still move and function without the gloves. This is, very simply, how our lives are with God. Some of us wear some pretty filthy gloves… caked with sin and hard living, while others wear nicer gloves. All of the gloves can get dirty from time to time – because we are all sinful. But if we accept Jesus, when the “gloves” come off, our spirit is still alive… clean and free of scratches and blemishes…ready to live forever with our Heavenly Father!
I know this is an oversimplified illustration. But think about your life as a glove. What does it look like? Are you still wearing an old dirty work glove, caked with the grime and filth of sin? Or have you put on your fancy dress glove? When you die and the “glove” comes off, what will be underneath? Will your spirit rise to new life by God’s Spirit? Just what sort of “glove” are you wearing these days? Are you alive in Christ Jesus?
©2010 Debbie Robus
But Christ lives in you. So you are alive because God has accepted you, even though your bodies must die because of your sins. Yet God raised Jesus to life! God's Spirit now lives in you, and he will raise you to life by his Spirit.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a television show once in which a child asked his father what happens to us when we die. The dad took a glove and put it on his hand. Then he removed it and wiggled his fingers. He said, “The glove is like our body.” Pulling it off his hand, he added, “When our body dies, the soul inside still lives… just in another form.” I’ve thought about this simple analogy often – the concept of our body as a “glove” for our spirit.
Let’s think about gloves for a minute. Some gloves are heavy-duty and made of strong fabric or leather for manual labor like carpentry, farming, or working with things that are rough and dirty. We’ve all seen filthy work gloves that have been used for this purpose. And those dirty gloves are protecting the hands underneath. Once the gloves are removed, the hands inside are hopefully fairly clean, soft and free of scratches and blisters.
A few decades ago, a lady almost never left home without her gloves. She had gloves to match every outfit, and dress gloves were always worn to church! Even when dining out, a lady removed only one glove and kept it in her lap while she ate! Of course, her hands remained soft and supple inside the gloves.
The thing is… each person’s “gloves” are different. And once the gloves come off, we may each use our hands differently, but they still move and function without the gloves. This is, very simply, how our lives are with God. Some of us wear some pretty filthy gloves… caked with sin and hard living, while others wear nicer gloves. All of the gloves can get dirty from time to time – because we are all sinful. But if we accept Jesus, when the “gloves” come off, our spirit is still alive… clean and free of scratches and blemishes…ready to live forever with our Heavenly Father!
I know this is an oversimplified illustration. But think about your life as a glove. What does it look like? Are you still wearing an old dirty work glove, caked with the grime and filth of sin? Or have you put on your fancy dress glove? When you die and the “glove” comes off, what will be underneath? Will your spirit rise to new life by God’s Spirit? Just what sort of “glove” are you wearing these days? Are you alive in Christ Jesus?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 25, 2010
March 25 ~ Luke 24:46-48
He told them: "The Scriptures say that the Messiah must suffer, then three days later he will rise from death. They also say that all people of every nation must be told in my name to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. So beginning in Jerusalem, you must tell everything that has happened."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose someone knew some really great news that would help you tremendously. Let’s say, for instance, that you were sick, and someone knew exactly how to make you feel better – or even cure you – but he/she kept the information from you. Let’s say you desperately needed a job, and family members and friends knew of several companies that were hiring, but they never bothered to let you know… and you did not have access to this information any other way. Or, let’s say that someone let you walk around all day with a hole in your pants or your skirt tucked into your underwear… and nobody told you about this and saved you from further embarrassment. Thankfully, most of these scenarios are unlikely today, especially given the lightning speed with which “news” travels over phone lines and Internet social networks.
Now consider if the disciples had not shared the knowledge of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection with others. Suppose that there was limited firsthand information about the crucifixion from those who observed it. Maybe the word traveled as far as nearby villages as people ventured away and spread the news. But suppose that nobody ever told about the empty grave… the rolled away stone… the resurrection of Jesus on the third day. What would have happened? Wouldn’t this negate the entire sacrifice and effort of Jesus on our behalf? If we didn’t know about Jesus… and about His sacrifices and the fact that He rose on the third day and is ALIVE… how would we ever come to know Him and believe in Him? How would we ever learn of His promises – and our promise of a home with Him for eternity?
The simple fact is that someone had to tell. Jesus commanded His disciples to tell everything that had happened… but only after He empowered them with His Holy Spirit? Why was this important? Because, as humans, we tend to color things a bit… make them fuzzy around the edges… sugarcoat the rough stuff or operate in fear instead of love. Jesus wanted to make sure that His Holy Spirit led us as we shared His story and message. But He definitely wants it to be shared! And honestly, if we can tell half the world on Facebook that someone just saw Miley Cyrus shopping in a department store, can’t we tell others about Jesus Christ and how He bought and paid for our sins on the cross and now LIVES with our Heavenly Father? Can’t we share the message of how Jesus has changed our life and will do the same for others? Can’t we ask the Holy Spirit to lead us in sharing the Good News with every nation?
God has given us everything we need to accomplish this – Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, technology and communication tools galore. Now all we have to do is get up and get going. We have people to tell… Good News to share! We must tell everything that has happened and encourage everyone to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. Who have you told this news today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
He told them: "The Scriptures say that the Messiah must suffer, then three days later he will rise from death. They also say that all people of every nation must be told in my name to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. So beginning in Jerusalem, you must tell everything that has happened."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose someone knew some really great news that would help you tremendously. Let’s say, for instance, that you were sick, and someone knew exactly how to make you feel better – or even cure you – but he/she kept the information from you. Let’s say you desperately needed a job, and family members and friends knew of several companies that were hiring, but they never bothered to let you know… and you did not have access to this information any other way. Or, let’s say that someone let you walk around all day with a hole in your pants or your skirt tucked into your underwear… and nobody told you about this and saved you from further embarrassment. Thankfully, most of these scenarios are unlikely today, especially given the lightning speed with which “news” travels over phone lines and Internet social networks.
Now consider if the disciples had not shared the knowledge of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection with others. Suppose that there was limited firsthand information about the crucifixion from those who observed it. Maybe the word traveled as far as nearby villages as people ventured away and spread the news. But suppose that nobody ever told about the empty grave… the rolled away stone… the resurrection of Jesus on the third day. What would have happened? Wouldn’t this negate the entire sacrifice and effort of Jesus on our behalf? If we didn’t know about Jesus… and about His sacrifices and the fact that He rose on the third day and is ALIVE… how would we ever come to know Him and believe in Him? How would we ever learn of His promises – and our promise of a home with Him for eternity?
The simple fact is that someone had to tell. Jesus commanded His disciples to tell everything that had happened… but only after He empowered them with His Holy Spirit? Why was this important? Because, as humans, we tend to color things a bit… make them fuzzy around the edges… sugarcoat the rough stuff or operate in fear instead of love. Jesus wanted to make sure that His Holy Spirit led us as we shared His story and message. But He definitely wants it to be shared! And honestly, if we can tell half the world on Facebook that someone just saw Miley Cyrus shopping in a department store, can’t we tell others about Jesus Christ and how He bought and paid for our sins on the cross and now LIVES with our Heavenly Father? Can’t we share the message of how Jesus has changed our life and will do the same for others? Can’t we ask the Holy Spirit to lead us in sharing the Good News with every nation?
God has given us everything we need to accomplish this – Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, technology and communication tools galore. Now all we have to do is get up and get going. We have people to tell… Good News to share! We must tell everything that has happened and encourage everyone to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. Who have you told this news today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 24, 2010
March 24 ~ John 10:17-18
The Father loves me, because I give up my life, so that I may receive it back again. No one takes my life from me. I give it up willingly! I have the power to give it up and the power to receive it back again, just as my Father commanded me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You’ve probably seen the TV game show, Let’s Make a Deal. Sometimes the host will tell a contestant. “You can have what is behind Door #1… OR… I will give you $1000 cash, and you can walk away now.” Sometimes what is behind Door #1 is lousy, but often it is a great prize, worth far more than $1000 – a car, a boat, new home furnishings, a fantastic trip, or even big bucks. But the contestant must choose… instant gratification, or the possibility of something far greater. The power to make this choice is totally within their hands.
Nobody made Jesus die on the cross for us – not even God! Do you get this? Even Jesus had free will. He could have supernaturally come down off the cross at any time and said, “Nope – don’t think so – I’m not doing this!” He could have spun around and wiped out all of the Roman soldiers who abused and tortured Him. He could have knelt in the Garden of Gethsemane and said, “Find someone else, God… I can’t do this.” But He did it. He saw that by giving His life in this manner, He not only gained it back – He also gained the salvation of those who would follow Him… for all eternity. This was the most important choice ever made… and Jesus made it for US!
We have a choice, too. We choose to “give up” our old, sinful nature. In return, we receive a new life in Christ Jesus – and the privilege of spending eternity in His presence. When you start to feel the “cost” might be too high, consider Jesus. When you start to feel like you can’t part with your friends, your money, your addiction, your partying ways, your old bad habits of whatever sort and more, consider what Jesus sacrificed just so you could have a choice in the first place. Consider the concept that giving up your “old self” means gaining a new life… not necessarily an easy life or one filled with fun and excitement every minute of every day… but a blessed life in Christ. Think about your choice in terms of giving up short-term, “for-the-moment” satisfactions for the opportunity to spend eternity in the presence of God Almighty.
We have a choice… and believe it or not, we have the power. We can use it to choose life in Christ in exchange for our old nature, as God commands us to do. Or we can go our own way and choose to live for today only. We can “take the cash and run,” or choose what is behind Door #1, so to speak. The difference is that we KNOW what is “behind the door”… so why would we settle for less?
©2010 Debbie Robus
The Father loves me, because I give up my life, so that I may receive it back again. No one takes my life from me. I give it up willingly! I have the power to give it up and the power to receive it back again, just as my Father commanded me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You’ve probably seen the TV game show, Let’s Make a Deal. Sometimes the host will tell a contestant. “You can have what is behind Door #1… OR… I will give you $1000 cash, and you can walk away now.” Sometimes what is behind Door #1 is lousy, but often it is a great prize, worth far more than $1000 – a car, a boat, new home furnishings, a fantastic trip, or even big bucks. But the contestant must choose… instant gratification, or the possibility of something far greater. The power to make this choice is totally within their hands.
Nobody made Jesus die on the cross for us – not even God! Do you get this? Even Jesus had free will. He could have supernaturally come down off the cross at any time and said, “Nope – don’t think so – I’m not doing this!” He could have spun around and wiped out all of the Roman soldiers who abused and tortured Him. He could have knelt in the Garden of Gethsemane and said, “Find someone else, God… I can’t do this.” But He did it. He saw that by giving His life in this manner, He not only gained it back – He also gained the salvation of those who would follow Him… for all eternity. This was the most important choice ever made… and Jesus made it for US!
We have a choice, too. We choose to “give up” our old, sinful nature. In return, we receive a new life in Christ Jesus – and the privilege of spending eternity in His presence. When you start to feel the “cost” might be too high, consider Jesus. When you start to feel like you can’t part with your friends, your money, your addiction, your partying ways, your old bad habits of whatever sort and more, consider what Jesus sacrificed just so you could have a choice in the first place. Consider the concept that giving up your “old self” means gaining a new life… not necessarily an easy life or one filled with fun and excitement every minute of every day… but a blessed life in Christ. Think about your choice in terms of giving up short-term, “for-the-moment” satisfactions for the opportunity to spend eternity in the presence of God Almighty.
We have a choice… and believe it or not, we have the power. We can use it to choose life in Christ in exchange for our old nature, as God commands us to do. Or we can go our own way and choose to live for today only. We can “take the cash and run,” or choose what is behind Door #1, so to speak. The difference is that we KNOW what is “behind the door”… so why would we settle for less?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 23, 2010
March 23 ~ Mark 14:27-28
Jesus said to his disciples, "All of you will reject me, as the Scriptures say, `I will strike down the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But after I am raised to life, I will go ahead of you to Galilee."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few months ago, a friend of mine wrote to say that “Not Me” had cut the hair of one of her young sons. She said that “Not Me” visits often, along with “I Don’t Know.” Since no one would own up to cutting the little boy’s hair, all three of her children had to go to their rooms. Soon one of the children said, “MAYBE I know something about this.” It’s a funny story, if one that is too familiar to parents and teachers. It seems like “Not Me” and “I Don’t Know” must live in a lot of houses from time to time!
What isn’t funny is that “Not Me” and “I Don’t Know” also live among adults, quite often. We are quick to pass the buck, place blame on others, or claim, “The devil made me do it.” And in many cases, the devil surely did make us do things we should not - but in the offing, we frequently deny Jesus Christ. Oh, we don’t out-and-out say, “I don’t know Him.” We’re more subtle about it. But the end result is the same. We are just like Peter and the others… we don’t know Him.
See, we can’t say we know Jesus and lie, cheat and steal. We can’t say we know Jesus and mistreat others. We can’t say we know Jesus and use His name as a curse word – or ride the fence about such things as whether there is one God and one way to know Him. We can’t pick and choose when and how we serve Him, and we can’t live for the moment and expect God to save us later. We must learn from Peter and Judas and the other disciples. We must take responsibility for our thoughts and actions – and we must be very careful to live a life that honors God and does not disappoint or disrespect Him.
We have been given the greatest gift ever in Christ Jesus. We must acknowledge Jesus and His great love, grace and mercy by welcoming Him into our hearts and lives and giving Him “the best seat in the house.” “Not Me” and “I Don’t Know” should never be welcome… it’s time to kick them - and the devil - to the curb for good!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples, "All of you will reject me, as the Scriptures say, `I will strike down the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But after I am raised to life, I will go ahead of you to Galilee."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few months ago, a friend of mine wrote to say that “Not Me” had cut the hair of one of her young sons. She said that “Not Me” visits often, along with “I Don’t Know.” Since no one would own up to cutting the little boy’s hair, all three of her children had to go to their rooms. Soon one of the children said, “MAYBE I know something about this.” It’s a funny story, if one that is too familiar to parents and teachers. It seems like “Not Me” and “I Don’t Know” must live in a lot of houses from time to time!
What isn’t funny is that “Not Me” and “I Don’t Know” also live among adults, quite often. We are quick to pass the buck, place blame on others, or claim, “The devil made me do it.” And in many cases, the devil surely did make us do things we should not - but in the offing, we frequently deny Jesus Christ. Oh, we don’t out-and-out say, “I don’t know Him.” We’re more subtle about it. But the end result is the same. We are just like Peter and the others… we don’t know Him.
See, we can’t say we know Jesus and lie, cheat and steal. We can’t say we know Jesus and mistreat others. We can’t say we know Jesus and use His name as a curse word – or ride the fence about such things as whether there is one God and one way to know Him. We can’t pick and choose when and how we serve Him, and we can’t live for the moment and expect God to save us later. We must learn from Peter and Judas and the other disciples. We must take responsibility for our thoughts and actions – and we must be very careful to live a life that honors God and does not disappoint or disrespect Him.
We have been given the greatest gift ever in Christ Jesus. We must acknowledge Jesus and His great love, grace and mercy by welcoming Him into our hearts and lives and giving Him “the best seat in the house.” “Not Me” and “I Don’t Know” should never be welcome… it’s time to kick them - and the devil - to the curb for good!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 22, 2010
March 22 ~ Matthew 20:18-19
We are now on our way to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses. They will sentence him to death, and then they will hand him over to foreigners who will make fun of him. They will beat him and nail him to a cross. But on the third day he will rise from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a new show on NBC called “Who Do You Think You Are?” in which celebrities trace their family roots. The first episode followed actress Lisa Kudrow, of “Friends” fame, as she traveled to Poland to search for her ancestors. What she found there was heartbreaking. Her great-grandmother and other family members had been marched to their death by the Nazis in a small village called Ilya. History indicates that these Jewish men, women, and children were stripped naked and led in groups of three or four to the edge of a large concrete cellar and shot, then dumped into the cellar. Later, the bodies were burned.
Lisa was visibly shaken as she stood where her great-grandmother had stood and thought of her and the others, waiting there and knowing what was about to happen. She said, “I keep thinking of the children.” As I watched this story, I thought of the children, too. What did her great-grandmother say to them? Did she comfort them and reassure them it would be okay? Or was she visibly frightened – and did she convey that fear to the others?
I also thought of another “child” – Jesus, the Son of God. He knew what was going to happen, and He knew how horrific His torture and death would be. But He endured it anyway – for each of us. God knew that the sacrifice of His son would ensure that His children – you and I – would have eternal life. He apparently felt it was a reasonable exchange. Personally, I don’t think I could sacrifice the life of my own child…even to save the masses. But then, I don’t have God’s capacity for unconditional love, grace and mercy!
I am so humbled and grateful for the sacrifices of Jesus. I am heartbroken for the horrific injustices that were inflicted upon the Jews and others throughout history. But I know a God who makes everything new… a God who holds our hand through even the most heinous experiences and says, “I’m with you. I love you. Trust me, and I will save you.” I don’t understand God’s love for us, but I don’t have to – all I have to do is accept Him. God’s love is a gift – freely given to all who will believe in Him. Are you ready to receive this love and claim victory over sin and death? Are you ready to live in Christ Jesus and look forward to spending eternity with Him? If you have not already chosen a life in Christ, today is the perfect time to do so. If you have, perhaps you need to spend some time in prayer and thanksgiving for all God has done in your life. Jesus Christ rose from the dead and will return for us. Will you be ready?
©2010 Debbie Robus
We are now on our way to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses. They will sentence him to death, and then they will hand him over to foreigners who will make fun of him. They will beat him and nail him to a cross. But on the third day he will rise from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a new show on NBC called “Who Do You Think You Are?” in which celebrities trace their family roots. The first episode followed actress Lisa Kudrow, of “Friends” fame, as she traveled to Poland to search for her ancestors. What she found there was heartbreaking. Her great-grandmother and other family members had been marched to their death by the Nazis in a small village called Ilya. History indicates that these Jewish men, women, and children were stripped naked and led in groups of three or four to the edge of a large concrete cellar and shot, then dumped into the cellar. Later, the bodies were burned.
Lisa was visibly shaken as she stood where her great-grandmother had stood and thought of her and the others, waiting there and knowing what was about to happen. She said, “I keep thinking of the children.” As I watched this story, I thought of the children, too. What did her great-grandmother say to them? Did she comfort them and reassure them it would be okay? Or was she visibly frightened – and did she convey that fear to the others?
I also thought of another “child” – Jesus, the Son of God. He knew what was going to happen, and He knew how horrific His torture and death would be. But He endured it anyway – for each of us. God knew that the sacrifice of His son would ensure that His children – you and I – would have eternal life. He apparently felt it was a reasonable exchange. Personally, I don’t think I could sacrifice the life of my own child…even to save the masses. But then, I don’t have God’s capacity for unconditional love, grace and mercy!
I am so humbled and grateful for the sacrifices of Jesus. I am heartbroken for the horrific injustices that were inflicted upon the Jews and others throughout history. But I know a God who makes everything new… a God who holds our hand through even the most heinous experiences and says, “I’m with you. I love you. Trust me, and I will save you.” I don’t understand God’s love for us, but I don’t have to – all I have to do is accept Him. God’s love is a gift – freely given to all who will believe in Him. Are you ready to receive this love and claim victory over sin and death? Are you ready to live in Christ Jesus and look forward to spending eternity with Him? If you have not already chosen a life in Christ, today is the perfect time to do so. If you have, perhaps you need to spend some time in prayer and thanksgiving for all God has done in your life. Jesus Christ rose from the dead and will return for us. Will you be ready?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 21, 2010
March 21 ~ Isaiah 26:19
Your people will rise to life! Tell them to leave their graves and celebrate with shouts. You refresh the earth like morning dew; you give life to the dead.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In late February and early March, the landscape around our area gets about as bare as bare can get! It almost looks like everything is dead except for the green of the pine and cedar trees. Then, almost overnight, things start to burst open with buds and color. Little flowers dot the yards, and jonquils, crocus and hyacinth rise and bloom and brighten what had been a dreary scene. Yellow forsythia and red-pink japonica bushes remind us that spring has sprung, and plant life is reborn before our very eyes. People come out of their houses and work in their yards, play ball, and start a new exercise routine. The doldrums of winter are over, and we all get a burst of rejuvenation and refreshment!
In Isaiah, we read about people rising from their graves to new life, refreshed like morning dew. This refers to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Who rose from the grave and ascended into Heaven to reign forever. It also refers to us – how we have a new life in Christ. Our old, sinful lives are dead, but a new life has risen. Just like the jonquils and the forsythia, we bloom and are called to brighten the day with the light of Christ!
Spring is a great time to regroup – to shake off the winter doldrums and revive ourselves. It is a great time to evaluate our Spiritual lives and see where we need a rebirth… and to ask Jesus to refresh us. Rise from your grave and celebrate with shouts! Because of Jesus, we have LIFE everlasting! Be filled with joy and new energy, and share His Good News with everyone you meet. Jesus is alive… and so are we who believe in Him! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Your people will rise to life! Tell them to leave their graves and celebrate with shouts. You refresh the earth like morning dew; you give life to the dead.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In late February and early March, the landscape around our area gets about as bare as bare can get! It almost looks like everything is dead except for the green of the pine and cedar trees. Then, almost overnight, things start to burst open with buds and color. Little flowers dot the yards, and jonquils, crocus and hyacinth rise and bloom and brighten what had been a dreary scene. Yellow forsythia and red-pink japonica bushes remind us that spring has sprung, and plant life is reborn before our very eyes. People come out of their houses and work in their yards, play ball, and start a new exercise routine. The doldrums of winter are over, and we all get a burst of rejuvenation and refreshment!
In Isaiah, we read about people rising from their graves to new life, refreshed like morning dew. This refers to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Who rose from the grave and ascended into Heaven to reign forever. It also refers to us – how we have a new life in Christ. Our old, sinful lives are dead, but a new life has risen. Just like the jonquils and the forsythia, we bloom and are called to brighten the day with the light of Christ!
Spring is a great time to regroup – to shake off the winter doldrums and revive ourselves. It is a great time to evaluate our Spiritual lives and see where we need a rebirth… and to ask Jesus to refresh us. Rise from your grave and celebrate with shouts! Because of Jesus, we have LIFE everlasting! Be filled with joy and new energy, and share His Good News with everyone you meet. Jesus is alive… and so are we who believe in Him! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 20, 2010
March 20 ~ Psalm 52:8
But I am like an olive tree growing in God's house, and I can count on his love forever and ever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother-in-law took a Mississippi River cruise several years ago with her aunt. Along the way, they saw a gingko tree, and my mother-in-law picked up a seed, brought it home, and planted it. Today, she has a beautiful tree in her front yard. She has carefully nurtured this gingko tree, and it stands almost two stories high now and produces leaves that turn a vivid yellow-gold in the fall. Recently, she asked my husband to prune a “second trunk” that was developing to give it an even nicer shape. As long as she is able, she will love and care for this tree, and it will thrive and continue to grow.
As crazy as this sounds, God cares about this gingko tree, too, just as He cares for all of His creations. But more importantly, as much as God cares about this tree, He cares for us even more. He “planted” us and has nurtured us along the way, and we can count on His love forever and ever at every stage of our journey. I know this is not NEWS to you, but think about this carefully for a while. God has nurtured you since even before you were a “seed” planted in your mother’s womb. He has planned for you, seen that your every need was met, and provided you with all you need to grow into the person He planned you to be. He sometimes “prunes” us for better growth by allowing us to go through a few things. And He LOVES you – forever and ever.
Don’t you feel a little more special today? Isn’t it wonderful to remind yourself just how much God loves you? Do you have a better understanding of how and why you can trust Him to always want the best for you? I don’t know about you, but I am pretty humbled by this. And when I see the beauty and perfection in even a yellow-leafed gingko tree and how carefully God planned for it, I am excited about what He has in store for me! Thank God today for loving you so well. Trust Him to continue to nurture you and care for you in the days to come – and to love you forever and ever.
©2010 Debbie Robus
But I am like an olive tree growing in God's house, and I can count on his love forever and ever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother-in-law took a Mississippi River cruise several years ago with her aunt. Along the way, they saw a gingko tree, and my mother-in-law picked up a seed, brought it home, and planted it. Today, she has a beautiful tree in her front yard. She has carefully nurtured this gingko tree, and it stands almost two stories high now and produces leaves that turn a vivid yellow-gold in the fall. Recently, she asked my husband to prune a “second trunk” that was developing to give it an even nicer shape. As long as she is able, she will love and care for this tree, and it will thrive and continue to grow.
As crazy as this sounds, God cares about this gingko tree, too, just as He cares for all of His creations. But more importantly, as much as God cares about this tree, He cares for us even more. He “planted” us and has nurtured us along the way, and we can count on His love forever and ever at every stage of our journey. I know this is not NEWS to you, but think about this carefully for a while. God has nurtured you since even before you were a “seed” planted in your mother’s womb. He has planned for you, seen that your every need was met, and provided you with all you need to grow into the person He planned you to be. He sometimes “prunes” us for better growth by allowing us to go through a few things. And He LOVES you – forever and ever.
Don’t you feel a little more special today? Isn’t it wonderful to remind yourself just how much God loves you? Do you have a better understanding of how and why you can trust Him to always want the best for you? I don’t know about you, but I am pretty humbled by this. And when I see the beauty and perfection in even a yellow-leafed gingko tree and how carefully God planned for it, I am excited about what He has in store for me! Thank God today for loving you so well. Trust Him to continue to nurture you and care for you in the days to come – and to love you forever and ever.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 17, 2010
March 17 ~ Psalm 33:18-21
But the LORD watches over all who honor him and trust his kindness. He protects them from death and starvation. We depend on you, LORD, to help and protect us. You make our hearts glad because we trust you, the only God. Be kind and bless us! We depend on you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think about all of the people on whom you depend. If you are still living at home, you depend on your parents for food, clothing, and shelter – at least in part. You depend on your teachers to impart knowledge to you and help you learn. You depend on firefighters and law enforcement personnel to keep you safe. You depend on doctors to help you heal and stay well, the mail carrier to deliver your mail, and the banker to hold onto your money until you need it!
If any one of these people let you down, things start to go wrong in your life in a hurry! But we all know that people have limitations, and somewhere down the line, someone you are counting on for something will let you down, drop the ball, or totally fail you.
Aren’t you glad this is not the case with Jesus? Aren’t you glad we serve a God who protects us from death and starvation – both literally and Spiritually? Take comfort in knowing that the LORD watches over us and protects us. The next time you are fearful, worried, in need of some kind, overwhelmed, or some human being has let you down, think of Jesus. Remember that HE is always with us. Jesus never fails or disappoints. Honor Him and thank Him for loving us so well, and trust His kindness. Rest in the knowledge that you can always depend on Jesus to meet all of your needs!
©2010 Debbie Robus
But the LORD watches over all who honor him and trust his kindness. He protects them from death and starvation. We depend on you, LORD, to help and protect us. You make our hearts glad because we trust you, the only God. Be kind and bless us! We depend on you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think about all of the people on whom you depend. If you are still living at home, you depend on your parents for food, clothing, and shelter – at least in part. You depend on your teachers to impart knowledge to you and help you learn. You depend on firefighters and law enforcement personnel to keep you safe. You depend on doctors to help you heal and stay well, the mail carrier to deliver your mail, and the banker to hold onto your money until you need it!
If any one of these people let you down, things start to go wrong in your life in a hurry! But we all know that people have limitations, and somewhere down the line, someone you are counting on for something will let you down, drop the ball, or totally fail you.
Aren’t you glad this is not the case with Jesus? Aren’t you glad we serve a God who protects us from death and starvation – both literally and Spiritually? Take comfort in knowing that the LORD watches over us and protects us. The next time you are fearful, worried, in need of some kind, overwhelmed, or some human being has let you down, think of Jesus. Remember that HE is always with us. Jesus never fails or disappoints. Honor Him and thank Him for loving us so well, and trust His kindness. Rest in the knowledge that you can always depend on Jesus to meet all of your needs!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 16, 2010
March 16 ~ Psalm 25:1, 4-5
I offer you my heart, LORD God...
Show me your paths and teach me to follow; guide me by your truth and instruct me. You keep me safe, and I always trust you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I hiked up to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain one warm spring day. We had not been there in a few years, but the familiar path was still there, and in no time at all, we were at the spot where it is easiest – and relatively safest – to climb to the top. When we set out on our little hike, we trusted that the path was still there… that we would be able to find “Fat Man’s Squeeze” in the rocks and get to our final destination. And we were not disappointed. The path we had used many times as children led us where we wanted to go, just like an old friend.
Not all paths are familiar ones. There have been times when we have made treks that took us down unknown roads or over terrain which we had never seen before – both physically and figuratively. And sometimes in life, Satan is able to lead us down a path that ends in disappointment or destruction… and goes nowhere. The key to choosing the right “path” is to first seek God… ask Him to guide your steps and show you the way. This may involve prayer, meditation, Bible study, consulting Christian friends… or just plain reading a good map! But we can trust God to always get us where we need to go.
It starts with this prayer… “Show me your paths and teach me to follow… guide me by your truth, instruct me, and keep me safe.” He can… He will… are you trusting Him to do this?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I offer you my heart, LORD God...
Show me your paths and teach me to follow; guide me by your truth and instruct me. You keep me safe, and I always trust you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I hiked up to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain one warm spring day. We had not been there in a few years, but the familiar path was still there, and in no time at all, we were at the spot where it is easiest – and relatively safest – to climb to the top. When we set out on our little hike, we trusted that the path was still there… that we would be able to find “Fat Man’s Squeeze” in the rocks and get to our final destination. And we were not disappointed. The path we had used many times as children led us where we wanted to go, just like an old friend.
Not all paths are familiar ones. There have been times when we have made treks that took us down unknown roads or over terrain which we had never seen before – both physically and figuratively. And sometimes in life, Satan is able to lead us down a path that ends in disappointment or destruction… and goes nowhere. The key to choosing the right “path” is to first seek God… ask Him to guide your steps and show you the way. This may involve prayer, meditation, Bible study, consulting Christian friends… or just plain reading a good map! But we can trust God to always get us where we need to go.
It starts with this prayer… “Show me your paths and teach me to follow… guide me by your truth, instruct me, and keep me safe.” He can… He will… are you trusting Him to do this?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 3, 2010
March 3 ~ Isaiah 50:10
Who out there fears God, actually listens to the voice of his servant?
For anyone out there who doesn't know where you're going, anyone groping in the dark, Here's what: Trust in God. Lean on your God!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved. For copies of The Message call (800) 366-7788.
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to walk into a dark house or room. Throughout our house, there are always lamps or lights of some sort glowing – if only a solar night light to guide our steps in the middle of the night. I heard an older person complain that nowadays, we are never truly in the dark, because there are so many lights on electronics that continually glow in our houses.
We can choose to have a Spiritual “light” on all the time in our hearts. We can choose to lean on God and know that He is always with us, guiding our steps. We never have to stumble or fumble around in the dark. We never have to get lost and go down the wrong path. GOD can keep us headed in the right direction! We just have to trust Him. We have to respect His power and authority and LISTEN to His voice.
As much as I dislike a dark house, I dislike Spiritual darkness even more. I don’t like the empty, confused feeling of fumbling in the dark Spiritually and not knowing which direction to go. I don’t enjoy feeling distant from God and His guidance. But the good news is that I don’t HAVE to feel this way! I can “flip the switch” so to speak and do the things that keep me in right relationship with God. HE will light my way and keep me from groping in the dark. And that is a very comforting feeling. Who is lighting your way these days? Are you listening to God and the voice of His servant?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Who out there fears God, actually listens to the voice of his servant?
For anyone out there who doesn't know where you're going, anyone groping in the dark, Here's what: Trust in God. Lean on your God!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved. For copies of The Message call (800) 366-7788.
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to walk into a dark house or room. Throughout our house, there are always lamps or lights of some sort glowing – if only a solar night light to guide our steps in the middle of the night. I heard an older person complain that nowadays, we are never truly in the dark, because there are so many lights on electronics that continually glow in our houses.
We can choose to have a Spiritual “light” on all the time in our hearts. We can choose to lean on God and know that He is always with us, guiding our steps. We never have to stumble or fumble around in the dark. We never have to get lost and go down the wrong path. GOD can keep us headed in the right direction! We just have to trust Him. We have to respect His power and authority and LISTEN to His voice.
As much as I dislike a dark house, I dislike Spiritual darkness even more. I don’t like the empty, confused feeling of fumbling in the dark Spiritually and not knowing which direction to go. I don’t enjoy feeling distant from God and His guidance. But the good news is that I don’t HAVE to feel this way! I can “flip the switch” so to speak and do the things that keep me in right relationship with God. HE will light my way and keep me from groping in the dark. And that is a very comforting feeling. Who is lighting your way these days? Are you listening to God and the voice of His servant?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 2, 2010
March 2 ~ John 14:1
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“Prove it!” How many times have you heard this or said it yourself? We all want proof, don’t we?! If we can just see things for ourselves, we’ll believe them. If someone can just show us how everything is going to come together and work out well, we’ll go along with the plans. It’s sort of like those people who read the last page of the book first – we want to know how things end!
So often, we Christians are amazingly skeptical. We’re as bad as Thomas and the other disciples. We want nothing short of pyrotechnics, flashing lights and bright billboards on every corner to assure us that Jesus IS who He says He is and will do what He promised. We say we believe in Him. We say we trust Him. But then we act in the completely opposite manner. We need proof! We need to KNOW beyond a shadow of a doubt – and with physical evidence, please – that God is real and will handle our problems and deliver us from the devil and his agents. For many of us, the miracles all around us are not enough… we need more!
If you read on in John 14, you will see that Jesus tells the disciples, in essence, to relax. He tells them that they have been together a long time – long enough for the disciples to know that Jesus is a man of His word. So when He says that He is taking care of everything and preparing a place for them and will return, that should be enough to satisfy them. When He tells them that He is one with the Father, and therefore, we have a one-on-one, intimate relationship with God, we should believe Him. And then, as if He knows this won’t be sufficient, He calls on the Holy Spirit to come and be our constant companion.
I don’t know about you, but it seems rather tiresome to me to be continually wondering if God is who He says He is and will do what He promised. I’m ready to relax. I’m ready to let go and trust Him completely – to believe in Him and rely on the Holy Spirit each day to be my constant companion and guide. I’m ready rest in the Lord and let Him handle my days, nights, weekends… the whole shebang! Are you ready? What’s keeping you from trusting Him for yourself?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“Prove it!” How many times have you heard this or said it yourself? We all want proof, don’t we?! If we can just see things for ourselves, we’ll believe them. If someone can just show us how everything is going to come together and work out well, we’ll go along with the plans. It’s sort of like those people who read the last page of the book first – we want to know how things end!
So often, we Christians are amazingly skeptical. We’re as bad as Thomas and the other disciples. We want nothing short of pyrotechnics, flashing lights and bright billboards on every corner to assure us that Jesus IS who He says He is and will do what He promised. We say we believe in Him. We say we trust Him. But then we act in the completely opposite manner. We need proof! We need to KNOW beyond a shadow of a doubt – and with physical evidence, please – that God is real and will handle our problems and deliver us from the devil and his agents. For many of us, the miracles all around us are not enough… we need more!
If you read on in John 14, you will see that Jesus tells the disciples, in essence, to relax. He tells them that they have been together a long time – long enough for the disciples to know that Jesus is a man of His word. So when He says that He is taking care of everything and preparing a place for them and will return, that should be enough to satisfy them. When He tells them that He is one with the Father, and therefore, we have a one-on-one, intimate relationship with God, we should believe Him. And then, as if He knows this won’t be sufficient, He calls on the Holy Spirit to come and be our constant companion.
I don’t know about you, but it seems rather tiresome to me to be continually wondering if God is who He says He is and will do what He promised. I’m ready to relax. I’m ready to let go and trust Him completely – to believe in Him and rely on the Holy Spirit each day to be my constant companion and guide. I’m ready rest in the Lord and let Him handle my days, nights, weekends… the whole shebang! Are you ready? What’s keeping you from trusting Him for yourself?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 24, 2010
February 24 ~ Psalms 35:1-3
Fight my enemies, LORD! Attack my attackers! Shield me and help me. Aim your spear at everyone who hunts me down, but promise to save me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As I read this passage, I couldn’t help but envision action figures, ready to strike... Batman, Spiderman… even Indiana Jones! Okay, so maybe I’ve watched one too many adventure movies! But imagine God as the Ultimate Superhero! He takes on all attackers… He shields us from every sling and arrow. He hunts down the devil and his agents and destroys them before they can harm a hair on our heads!
Now, think about your action figure “superheroes” for a minute. What had to happen before they could strike? They had to be summoned! Someone had to let them know that their help was needed. Batman got the “Bat Signal.” Spiderman has a “sixth sense” when danger is near. Indiana Jones ends up in situations that call for faith and courage, and bravado…to save himself and those around him.
I know this is a bit of a stretch, but stick with me… we have to call on God (through prayer) to fight our enemies. Sure, He already knows we need help, but remember… He wants to hear from us. He wants us to voice our needs. He wants us to recognize Him as our Redeemer and call upon Him to avenge us.
Let’s be honest… the Bible is the best “action adventure” ever created. God really is the Ultimate Superhero. And He stands ready to fight for us at every turn… all we have to do is give Him the signal and believe in His power. Superheroes of the comics and movies may be figments of our imagination, but God is REAL and reigns forever. Are YOU trusting Him to save you today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Fight my enemies, LORD! Attack my attackers! Shield me and help me. Aim your spear at everyone who hunts me down, but promise to save me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As I read this passage, I couldn’t help but envision action figures, ready to strike... Batman, Spiderman… even Indiana Jones! Okay, so maybe I’ve watched one too many adventure movies! But imagine God as the Ultimate Superhero! He takes on all attackers… He shields us from every sling and arrow. He hunts down the devil and his agents and destroys them before they can harm a hair on our heads!
Now, think about your action figure “superheroes” for a minute. What had to happen before they could strike? They had to be summoned! Someone had to let them know that their help was needed. Batman got the “Bat Signal.” Spiderman has a “sixth sense” when danger is near. Indiana Jones ends up in situations that call for faith and courage, and bravado…to save himself and those around him.
I know this is a bit of a stretch, but stick with me… we have to call on God (through prayer) to fight our enemies. Sure, He already knows we need help, but remember… He wants to hear from us. He wants us to voice our needs. He wants us to recognize Him as our Redeemer and call upon Him to avenge us.
Let’s be honest… the Bible is the best “action adventure” ever created. God really is the Ultimate Superhero. And He stands ready to fight for us at every turn… all we have to do is give Him the signal and believe in His power. Superheroes of the comics and movies may be figments of our imagination, but God is REAL and reigns forever. Are YOU trusting Him to save you today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 23, 2010
February 23 ~ Luke 22:39-40
Jesus went out to the Mount of Olives, as he often did, and his disciples went with him. When they got there, he told them, "Pray that you won't be tested."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been in a situation where you have been warned to protect yourself in some way – “Be sure you wear your seatbelt,” or “Don’t do that without a helmet,” or even, “If you go in there, take a flashlight!”
In this passage, Jesus knows what is about to happen. He knows that He is going to be tortured, mocked, and crucified, and He knows that the Roman soldiers may try to trick and torture His disciples, too. So He tells them to “Pray that you won’t be tested.” In other words, He wants them to “put on the full armor of God.” He wants them to protect themselves fully by covering the hours/days ahead in prayer… asking God to watch over them and keep them from harm.
How often do you “pray that you won’t be tested?” When you get up in the morning, do you ask God to guide your day? When you go to bed at night, do you ask God to protect you as you sleep and give you a good night’s rest? Do you ask Him to help you with the answers on your test the next day? Do you ask Him to protect you as you drive to and from work or school? Are you praying so that you won’t be tempted, tested, or tormented? Are you fully protected each day against Satan and his attempts to harm you? Shouldn’t you be?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Jesus went out to the Mount of Olives, as he often did, and his disciples went with him. When they got there, he told them, "Pray that you won't be tested."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been in a situation where you have been warned to protect yourself in some way – “Be sure you wear your seatbelt,” or “Don’t do that without a helmet,” or even, “If you go in there, take a flashlight!”
In this passage, Jesus knows what is about to happen. He knows that He is going to be tortured, mocked, and crucified, and He knows that the Roman soldiers may try to trick and torture His disciples, too. So He tells them to “Pray that you won’t be tested.” In other words, He wants them to “put on the full armor of God.” He wants them to protect themselves fully by covering the hours/days ahead in prayer… asking God to watch over them and keep them from harm.
How often do you “pray that you won’t be tested?” When you get up in the morning, do you ask God to guide your day? When you go to bed at night, do you ask God to protect you as you sleep and give you a good night’s rest? Do you ask Him to help you with the answers on your test the next day? Do you ask Him to protect you as you drive to and from work or school? Are you praying so that you won’t be tempted, tested, or tormented? Are you fully protected each day against Satan and his attempts to harm you? Shouldn’t you be?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 22, 2010
February 22 ~ Habakkuk 3:2
I know your reputation, LORD, and I am amazed at what you have done. Please turn from your anger and be merciful; do for us what you did for our ancestors.
We don’t have to look very far in mainstream media to see examples of people who hurt or disappointed someone else… and received forgiveness. Often, they didn’t deserve this. Often, the initial reaction was anger and disgust. But then, mercy followed, and forgiveness at least appeared to be offered. We will never know for sure what transpired behind closed doors. We can never be certain that these people were truly forgiven for their misdeeds… or that time spent in jail or rehab or separation from family and friends really repaired the damage and helped them long term. But thankfully, we are not responsible in these situations, and quite frankly, they are none of our business either way!
What is our business is how we behave – and more importantly, how God deals with us. God knows that we are sinners and fall short of deserving His glory every day. When we ask Him for mercy, we must be willing to accept His decisions … including any consequences for our actions. We must humbly make every effort to correct our sin and be worthy of mercy. While we must do all we can to make amends with anyone we wrong, we must be especially certain that we set things right with God… that we beg Him for mercy and forgiveness – and then do everything we can to show that we have changed and deserve it.
We can’t rest on the assurance that “God forgave So-and-So for this in the past, so He will forgive me” or, as in the words of more than one little child… “I said I was sorry!” We have to stay in constant communication and relationship with God. And when we do fail, we have to be ready to ask for forgiveness and do everything necessary to receive it. I am amazed at what God has done for us… and for others. I am humbled that we serve a God who is so incredibly loving and forgiving. I praise Him for giving us a love and grace we do not deserve – and knowing how desperately we need His mercies.
©2009 Debbie RobusScripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I know your reputation, LORD, and I am amazed at what you have done. Please turn from your anger and be merciful; do for us what you did for our ancestors.
We don’t have to look very far in mainstream media to see examples of people who hurt or disappointed someone else… and received forgiveness. Often, they didn’t deserve this. Often, the initial reaction was anger and disgust. But then, mercy followed, and forgiveness at least appeared to be offered. We will never know for sure what transpired behind closed doors. We can never be certain that these people were truly forgiven for their misdeeds… or that time spent in jail or rehab or separation from family and friends really repaired the damage and helped them long term. But thankfully, we are not responsible in these situations, and quite frankly, they are none of our business either way!
What is our business is how we behave – and more importantly, how God deals with us. God knows that we are sinners and fall short of deserving His glory every day. When we ask Him for mercy, we must be willing to accept His decisions … including any consequences for our actions. We must humbly make every effort to correct our sin and be worthy of mercy. While we must do all we can to make amends with anyone we wrong, we must be especially certain that we set things right with God… that we beg Him for mercy and forgiveness – and then do everything we can to show that we have changed and deserve it.
We can’t rest on the assurance that “God forgave So-and-So for this in the past, so He will forgive me” or, as in the words of more than one little child… “I said I was sorry!” We have to stay in constant communication and relationship with God. And when we do fail, we have to be ready to ask for forgiveness and do everything necessary to receive it. I am amazed at what God has done for us… and for others. I am humbled that we serve a God who is so incredibly loving and forgiving. I praise Him for giving us a love and grace we do not deserve – and knowing how desperately we need His mercies.
©2009 Debbie RobusScripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Daily Devotional for February 21, 2010
February 21 ~ Romans 8:26
In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been talking with someone and trying to think of another person’s name… or the right word to use… and the person you are talking with fills in the gap for you? Sometimes, words just won’t come. And sometimes, we find ourselves at a loss of what to say or how to pray… the words simply will not come to us. Skipping prayer at this time is NOT the solution. In fact, this is when we really need prayer the most!
Understand just how powerful the Holy Spirit is within you. When things are at a point where you find yourself at a loss… when you are so overwhelmed that you cannot express what you are feeling… the Holy Spirit can pray for you. How does this work? Try this… when you find yourself in a situation where you are at a loss for words to pray, sit quietly. Meditate on God and visualize Him handling your situation. Listen for that “Inner Voice” – do you hear it? God is speaking to you and communicating with you through the Holy Spirit. Open your Bible and read scripture… try the Psalms, for starters… and see answers, peace and reassurance come to life right before your eyes. THAT is the Holy Spirit at work, guiding you, interpreting what you cannot express and manifesting it in prayer… then giving you answers and consolation.
When I find myself overwhelmed or at a loss, I like to find a quiet spot where I can sit, close my eyes, and whisper, “Come, Holy Spirit.” And He does… He calms me, soothes me, listens to what I cannot verbalize and works within me. I don’t get up until I sense a change… that God has heard me… that I am more peaceful and my mood has lifted. Then I know that God is working… that through the Holy Spirit, help is on the way. I’m rarely at a loss for words, but when I am, I know God will hear me anyway. I am so grateful to know God has given us His Holy Spirit to be our constant Companion. Are YOU counting on the Holy Spirit to speak for you when words fail?
©2009 Debbie Robus
In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been talking with someone and trying to think of another person’s name… or the right word to use… and the person you are talking with fills in the gap for you? Sometimes, words just won’t come. And sometimes, we find ourselves at a loss of what to say or how to pray… the words simply will not come to us. Skipping prayer at this time is NOT the solution. In fact, this is when we really need prayer the most!
Understand just how powerful the Holy Spirit is within you. When things are at a point where you find yourself at a loss… when you are so overwhelmed that you cannot express what you are feeling… the Holy Spirit can pray for you. How does this work? Try this… when you find yourself in a situation where you are at a loss for words to pray, sit quietly. Meditate on God and visualize Him handling your situation. Listen for that “Inner Voice” – do you hear it? God is speaking to you and communicating with you through the Holy Spirit. Open your Bible and read scripture… try the Psalms, for starters… and see answers, peace and reassurance come to life right before your eyes. THAT is the Holy Spirit at work, guiding you, interpreting what you cannot express and manifesting it in prayer… then giving you answers and consolation.
When I find myself overwhelmed or at a loss, I like to find a quiet spot where I can sit, close my eyes, and whisper, “Come, Holy Spirit.” And He does… He calms me, soothes me, listens to what I cannot verbalize and works within me. I don’t get up until I sense a change… that God has heard me… that I am more peaceful and my mood has lifted. Then I know that God is working… that through the Holy Spirit, help is on the way. I’m rarely at a loss for words, but when I am, I know God will hear me anyway. I am so grateful to know God has given us His Holy Spirit to be our constant Companion. Are YOU counting on the Holy Spirit to speak for you when words fail?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 20, 2010
February 20 ~ Jeremiah 42:2-3
"Please pray to the LORD your God for us. Judah used to have many people, but as you can see, only a few of us are left. Ask the LORD to tell us where he wants us to go and what he wants us to do."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you heard about the couple who used GPS to navigate on their trip and ended up going the wrong way and ultimately getting stuck in a snow bank? Thankfully, their family members used the same GPS software to locate them and provide rescue. But how often do we trust the wrong navigation in our lives and end up in much the same position, so to speak? How often do we listen to the wrong influences… or take bad advice… and we end up doing down the wrong road?
When we don’t include God in our plans… and when our plans don’t include genuine prayer… we often end up in the ditches of life. We need to ask God to tell us where He wants us to go and what HE wants us to do. And then we need to listen to His answers and trust them. Sometimes they are not what we wanted to hear… and that’s when we especially need to pay attention!
Ask God where you should go and what you should do. Trust His wisdom, and follow His lead. Don’t end up in the ditch or in a snow bank, waiting to be rescued. Keep communicating with God, and stay on course.
©2009 Debbie Robus
"Please pray to the LORD your God for us. Judah used to have many people, but as you can see, only a few of us are left. Ask the LORD to tell us where he wants us to go and what he wants us to do."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you heard about the couple who used GPS to navigate on their trip and ended up going the wrong way and ultimately getting stuck in a snow bank? Thankfully, their family members used the same GPS software to locate them and provide rescue. But how often do we trust the wrong navigation in our lives and end up in much the same position, so to speak? How often do we listen to the wrong influences… or take bad advice… and we end up doing down the wrong road?
When we don’t include God in our plans… and when our plans don’t include genuine prayer… we often end up in the ditches of life. We need to ask God to tell us where He wants us to go and what HE wants us to do. And then we need to listen to His answers and trust them. Sometimes they are not what we wanted to hear… and that’s when we especially need to pay attention!
Ask God where you should go and what you should do. Trust His wisdom, and follow His lead. Don’t end up in the ditch or in a snow bank, waiting to be rescued. Keep communicating with God, and stay on course.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 19, 2010
February 19 ~ Matthew 26:36-39
Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane. When they got there, he told them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
Jesus took along Peter and the two brothers, James and John. He was very sad and troubled, and he said to them, "I am so sad that I feel as if I am dying. Stay here and keep awake with me." Jesus walked on a little way. Then he knelt with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, don't make me suffer by having me drink from this cup. But do what you want, and not what I want."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you ever feel discouraged? Do you ever feel a little bit ashamed to admit this? Given all that God has done in your life – how blessed we are to live in America – all of the freedom and blessings we possess – doesn’t it seem like we are whining when we ask God to lift our burdens? And yet, we have an example of the only perfect person – Jesus Christ – asking God to prevent horrific events in His life. Even Jesus asked God for help.
There are two points to glean from this passage today. Even though we know that God will manage things for us, we all get discouraged from time to time and begin to lose a little faith. This is human nature – and in large part it is because we are allowing Satan to creep into some corner of our life. But there is a quick way out… ask God to help. Pour out your feelings to Him and admit that you are discouraged and your faith has weakened a bit, and allow Him to work in and through you to improve things.
The other point is that, while Jesus asked God to remove this “cup” – the torture and crucifixion that was coming – He prayed, “if it is possible” – or in some translations, He says (paraphrasing) “Your will, not Mine.” And we all know that God’s will (painful though it was for Him) was for Jesus to suffer… so that all of US could be saved and live for Eternity with Him. So, we must ask God for everything “if it is possible.” We must ask for God’s help, according to HIS will, not ours. And we must trust that God never answers poorly… He always gives us exactly what we need and what is best for His purposes and the bigger plan.
There is NOTHING we can’t share with God. There is NOTHING we can’t tell Him – NOTHING we can’t ask. Pour out your heart to Him today and receive His answers. Remember to say, “if it is possible,” and to trust His response.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane. When they got there, he told them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
Jesus took along Peter and the two brothers, James and John. He was very sad and troubled, and he said to them, "I am so sad that I feel as if I am dying. Stay here and keep awake with me." Jesus walked on a little way. Then he knelt with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, don't make me suffer by having me drink from this cup. But do what you want, and not what I want."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you ever feel discouraged? Do you ever feel a little bit ashamed to admit this? Given all that God has done in your life – how blessed we are to live in America – all of the freedom and blessings we possess – doesn’t it seem like we are whining when we ask God to lift our burdens? And yet, we have an example of the only perfect person – Jesus Christ – asking God to prevent horrific events in His life. Even Jesus asked God for help.
There are two points to glean from this passage today. Even though we know that God will manage things for us, we all get discouraged from time to time and begin to lose a little faith. This is human nature – and in large part it is because we are allowing Satan to creep into some corner of our life. But there is a quick way out… ask God to help. Pour out your feelings to Him and admit that you are discouraged and your faith has weakened a bit, and allow Him to work in and through you to improve things.
The other point is that, while Jesus asked God to remove this “cup” – the torture and crucifixion that was coming – He prayed, “if it is possible” – or in some translations, He says (paraphrasing) “Your will, not Mine.” And we all know that God’s will (painful though it was for Him) was for Jesus to suffer… so that all of US could be saved and live for Eternity with Him. So, we must ask God for everything “if it is possible.” We must ask for God’s help, according to HIS will, not ours. And we must trust that God never answers poorly… He always gives us exactly what we need and what is best for His purposes and the bigger plan.
There is NOTHING we can’t share with God. There is NOTHING we can’t tell Him – NOTHING we can’t ask. Pour out your heart to Him today and receive His answers. Remember to say, “if it is possible,” and to trust His response.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 18, 2010
February 18 ~ Matthew 26:26-27
During the meal Jesus took some bread in his hands. He blessed the bread and broke it. Then he gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and eat it. This is my body."
Jesus picked up a cup of wine and gave thanks to God. He then gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and drink it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Just prior to one of our big winter snows of late January/early February, I was shopping for groceries, along with dozens of other people. I met a fellow church member on the bread aisle, and he said, “I’ve got a jar of peanut butter and a loaf of bread… as long as you have that, you can survive just about anything.” For most of us, we figure if we have bread, we can survive a lot of things, including a snow storm!
Jesus characterized Himself often as “the Bread of Life.” He referred to His body as the bread, and His blood as the wine. As long as we have “the body and the blood,” we can survive anything that comes our way. I spent a lot of years participating in Holy Communion and hearing the words, “this is my body,” and “this is my blood.” I would eat the cracker or piece of bread and drink the juice that was offered. And in many ways, this was just a ritual of the church that we performed once a month… and also at Christmas and Easter.
Now I see that the simple act of eating a piece of bread and drinking a cup of juice – in the context of these things representing Jesus’ body and blood, given for me and my sins – is incredibly huge. I finally made the mental (and Spiritual?) connection between Jesus’ sacrifices on the cross – for me – and how they were represented in Holy Communion. It’s not about the Communion service itself… it is about the understanding that Jesus offered us HIS life in exchange for our sinful one. And because of this, He truly IS our Bread of Life. HIS blood was offered as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins – and this is represented by our communion juice or wine.
Now, when I participate in Holy Communion, I think of all of the daily challenges we face and how Jesus helps us meet them. I think of the sacrifices He made for me, and I am humbled at how unworthy I am – and even more so by the knowledge that Jesus doesn’t expect me to “deserve” or earn His sacrifices on my behalf. I am reminded that I can survive anything because I have my “Bread” and the Cup.
Today, thank Jesus for the “bread and the cup” – and for what they represent. Don’t wait for your church to offer the sacraments of Holy Communion again… celebrate what they represent each and every day. Consider that the bread and cup are given to remind us of how much Jesus loves us – and what He did for us on the cross. Express to God your desire to be sustained every day by the Bread of Life – and covered in the blood of Jesus. Thank Him for such a generous, unconditional gift. Celebrate the knowledge that you can survive anything… because you have the Bread that truly matters. Live in a way that honors Christ as you face head-on the challenges of life each day. A loaf of whole wheat and a jar of peanut butter may work in a snowstorm, but for the storms of life, give me the “bread” of Jesus!
©2009 Debbie Robus
During the meal Jesus took some bread in his hands. He blessed the bread and broke it. Then he gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and eat it. This is my body."
Jesus picked up a cup of wine and gave thanks to God. He then gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and drink it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Just prior to one of our big winter snows of late January/early February, I was shopping for groceries, along with dozens of other people. I met a fellow church member on the bread aisle, and he said, “I’ve got a jar of peanut butter and a loaf of bread… as long as you have that, you can survive just about anything.” For most of us, we figure if we have bread, we can survive a lot of things, including a snow storm!
Jesus characterized Himself often as “the Bread of Life.” He referred to His body as the bread, and His blood as the wine. As long as we have “the body and the blood,” we can survive anything that comes our way. I spent a lot of years participating in Holy Communion and hearing the words, “this is my body,” and “this is my blood.” I would eat the cracker or piece of bread and drink the juice that was offered. And in many ways, this was just a ritual of the church that we performed once a month… and also at Christmas and Easter.
Now I see that the simple act of eating a piece of bread and drinking a cup of juice – in the context of these things representing Jesus’ body and blood, given for me and my sins – is incredibly huge. I finally made the mental (and Spiritual?) connection between Jesus’ sacrifices on the cross – for me – and how they were represented in Holy Communion. It’s not about the Communion service itself… it is about the understanding that Jesus offered us HIS life in exchange for our sinful one. And because of this, He truly IS our Bread of Life. HIS blood was offered as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins – and this is represented by our communion juice or wine.
Now, when I participate in Holy Communion, I think of all of the daily challenges we face and how Jesus helps us meet them. I think of the sacrifices He made for me, and I am humbled at how unworthy I am – and even more so by the knowledge that Jesus doesn’t expect me to “deserve” or earn His sacrifices on my behalf. I am reminded that I can survive anything because I have my “Bread” and the Cup.
Today, thank Jesus for the “bread and the cup” – and for what they represent. Don’t wait for your church to offer the sacraments of Holy Communion again… celebrate what they represent each and every day. Consider that the bread and cup are given to remind us of how much Jesus loves us – and what He did for us on the cross. Express to God your desire to be sustained every day by the Bread of Life – and covered in the blood of Jesus. Thank Him for such a generous, unconditional gift. Celebrate the knowledge that you can survive anything… because you have the Bread that truly matters. Live in a way that honors Christ as you face head-on the challenges of life each day. A loaf of whole wheat and a jar of peanut butter may work in a snowstorm, but for the storms of life, give me the “bread” of Jesus!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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