1 Samuel 16:7
But the Lord told him, “Samuel, don’t think Eliab is the one just because he’s tall and handsome. He isn’t the one I’ve chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We don’t have to look very far to see people who appear to have it all… yet their lives are falling apart. Have you ever asked yourself why “hunks” and “leading ladies” seem to have trouble staying in a relationship or marriage? Have you ever heard celebrities who were being interviewed by a talk show host declare that they would like to find love, but it kept eluding them? Do you notice how many “rich and famous” people seem to have trouble with addictions, money management, and more?
Looks are deceiving… and I, for one, am thankful that God sees beyond appearances. I’m glad that He doesn’t choose to love us based on the success of our last movie, whether our nose is shaped just right, or because we have the perfect abs and a full head of gorgeous (natural) hair! God loves us… He cares what we think and feel, how we treat others, and how we serve Him!
What about you? How do you judge others? Do you look at their skin color, socio-economic status, political leanings, sexual preferences, nationality, or whether or not society deems them to be “beautiful”? Are they too young, too old, too fat, too thin, or just too ugly? Or do you choose to look at their heart… to see them as God sees them… to recognize their innate sense of right and wrong - and whether they desire to serve God and share His love with their fellow man?
We are all far too judgmental… for all the wrong reasons. We put way too much emphasis on appearances… physical, material, and otherwise. It’s time we started getting to know people and looking at their character - their heart - and their potential to serve as a disciple of Christ. We need to choose to see what God sees. What are you choosing?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label appearances. Show all posts
Showing posts with label appearances. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for June 24, 2013
Galatians 3:28-29
In Christ’s family there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us you are all equal. That is, we are all in a common relationship with Jesus Christ. Also, since you are Christ’s family, then you are Abraham’s famous “descendant,” heirs according to the covenant promises.
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.
This morning I worked on some baby bibs for my little nephew, Nathan. I thought about all of the cute clothes I make for my nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. While clothes shouldn’t matter all that much… they do. In our culture, children are judged by other children – and adults – even at an early age. The child who is dirty and always dressed in stained, tattered or worn-out clothing is not valued (or treated as nicely) by some as much as children who look like they just stepped out of Baby Gap or even Old Navy! This morning I also thought of another child of “ours” – Timothy Kodjo Owusu Frim, who lives in Ghana. My husband and I have sponsored “Kodjo” through Compassion International since May 2006.
Kodjo will be 13 in October. We exchange letters somewhere around once a month, and each year, we receive an updated picture of our guy. I wish I could share the pictures with you. Each time, Kodjo is dressed in clothing that is either undersized, oversized… or simply what many would consider a fashion faux pas. I am pretty sure the jeans he was wearing in the last photo we received were designed for girls. Yet he appears grateful to have this clothing… and I figure in his poor fishing village in Ghana, this is the norm rather than the exception. Still, it breaks my heart… and I sometimes wish I could hop a plane to Africa and scoop this little man up and bring him home to live with us!
I know that this would not solve the world’s problems – or even be the right thing for Kodjo, who has a family (albeit a somewhat disjointed one) in Ghana. But here’s what I know…at the end of the day, this tall, very-dark skinned brown-eyed child is just as precious as our little fair-skinned, blue-eyed Timothy and his brother Nathan. This little boy holds the same importance in God’s eyes as our brown-eyed, curly-headed Zola. The drawings from Kodjo that started out as stick figures and progressed over the years to detailed renderings of race cars and people demonstrate a mind that is growing and developing just like the creative brain of my red-headed, freckled-faced cousin Olivia.
When thinking of all of these children, the most important thing to remember is that they are all members of Christ’s family. God doesn’t see them as black, white, male, female, poor, rich, intelligent or intellectually challenged, creative or “less-than-average.” God loves each and every one of them equally. I try to remind each of these children as often as possible how much I love them… and that God loves them even more! I know that most of them are still too young to fully comprehend this… but someday, I pray that this concept will give each of them a tremendous sense of peace.
Take a minute to consider just how important you are to God. Reflect upon the incredible sacrifices He made for you through the blood of His only Son – Jesus Christ. Remind yourself that God planned for you from before the time of Abraham and Moses… He thought about you centuries before you were ever a living, breathing soul. Let it soak in just how much God loves you…how deeply He cares about you and your every need. If this doesn’t give you a sense of peace and calm even in the midst of whatever may be happening in your life today… I can’t imagine what will.
At the end of the day, I cannot truly change how I - or anyone I know and love - will be treated by others, based on appearance, race, gender, ethnicity, social or economic status, and more. But I can take comfort in knowing that God sees none of this. All He sees are His precious creations. All He wants is to be loved by each one of us… and to grant us blessings, salvation and peace in return. He wants us to “put on blinders” when we look at others … to only see members of His family and not the “labels” placed on them by man.
Whenever you feel you are being judged unfairly, remind yourself Whose you are. Thank God for such amazing, unconditional love. Find peace and comfort in knowing that you belong to Him. Look past the “outer coverings” of others and uncover the intrinsic value that God sees within them, as well. Offer His grace and peace to each person you encounter…and allow harmony a chance to prosper in all of us.
©2013 Debbie Robus
In Christ’s family there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us you are all equal. That is, we are all in a common relationship with Jesus Christ. Also, since you are Christ’s family, then you are Abraham’s famous “descendant,” heirs according to the covenant promises.
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.
This morning I worked on some baby bibs for my little nephew, Nathan. I thought about all of the cute clothes I make for my nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. While clothes shouldn’t matter all that much… they do. In our culture, children are judged by other children – and adults – even at an early age. The child who is dirty and always dressed in stained, tattered or worn-out clothing is not valued (or treated as nicely) by some as much as children who look like they just stepped out of Baby Gap or even Old Navy! This morning I also thought of another child of “ours” – Timothy Kodjo Owusu Frim, who lives in Ghana. My husband and I have sponsored “Kodjo” through Compassion International since May 2006.
Kodjo will be 13 in October. We exchange letters somewhere around once a month, and each year, we receive an updated picture of our guy. I wish I could share the pictures with you. Each time, Kodjo is dressed in clothing that is either undersized, oversized… or simply what many would consider a fashion faux pas. I am pretty sure the jeans he was wearing in the last photo we received were designed for girls. Yet he appears grateful to have this clothing… and I figure in his poor fishing village in Ghana, this is the norm rather than the exception. Still, it breaks my heart… and I sometimes wish I could hop a plane to Africa and scoop this little man up and bring him home to live with us!
I know that this would not solve the world’s problems – or even be the right thing for Kodjo, who has a family (albeit a somewhat disjointed one) in Ghana. But here’s what I know…at the end of the day, this tall, very-dark skinned brown-eyed child is just as precious as our little fair-skinned, blue-eyed Timothy and his brother Nathan. This little boy holds the same importance in God’s eyes as our brown-eyed, curly-headed Zola. The drawings from Kodjo that started out as stick figures and progressed over the years to detailed renderings of race cars and people demonstrate a mind that is growing and developing just like the creative brain of my red-headed, freckled-faced cousin Olivia.
When thinking of all of these children, the most important thing to remember is that they are all members of Christ’s family. God doesn’t see them as black, white, male, female, poor, rich, intelligent or intellectually challenged, creative or “less-than-average.” God loves each and every one of them equally. I try to remind each of these children as often as possible how much I love them… and that God loves them even more! I know that most of them are still too young to fully comprehend this… but someday, I pray that this concept will give each of them a tremendous sense of peace.
Take a minute to consider just how important you are to God. Reflect upon the incredible sacrifices He made for you through the blood of His only Son – Jesus Christ. Remind yourself that God planned for you from before the time of Abraham and Moses… He thought about you centuries before you were ever a living, breathing soul. Let it soak in just how much God loves you…how deeply He cares about you and your every need. If this doesn’t give you a sense of peace and calm even in the midst of whatever may be happening in your life today… I can’t imagine what will.
At the end of the day, I cannot truly change how I - or anyone I know and love - will be treated by others, based on appearance, race, gender, ethnicity, social or economic status, and more. But I can take comfort in knowing that God sees none of this. All He sees are His precious creations. All He wants is to be loved by each one of us… and to grant us blessings, salvation and peace in return. He wants us to “put on blinders” when we look at others … to only see members of His family and not the “labels” placed on them by man.
Whenever you feel you are being judged unfairly, remind yourself Whose you are. Thank God for such amazing, unconditional love. Find peace and comfort in knowing that you belong to Him. Look past the “outer coverings” of others and uncover the intrinsic value that God sees within them, as well. Offer His grace and peace to each person you encounter…and allow harmony a chance to prosper in all of us.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 7, 2012
Luke 12:25-28
“Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can’t even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don’t fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for 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.
For several years, a couple of my closest friends and I exchanged Christmas gifts. As circumstances changed in our lives, children came along, and we got busier, it became harder to get together… especially during the holidays. Before long, picking out gifts for each other was more of a chore than a blessing. The year I took a simple gift to one of these friends and her family… and she reciprocated with a lavish gift certificate to a local specialty store… I said, “No more!” We are not doing this out of love for each other as much as a made-up obligation to reciprocate.
This was the last year we exchanged Christmas gifts. And I can tell you, we both love each other as much as ever. The only thing that has changed is that we stopped worrying about appearances and started caring more about the heart and what makes us friends in the first place. Sure, we’ve exchanged some gifts over the years that we will both treasure. But our friendship is not defined by material objects. I am not her friend because of a Christmas Santa I gave her one Christmas… or the holiday decoration I bought for with her gift certificate. It’s far more important to me to know that I can pick up the phone and call her anytime, and she will be there for me in whatever way I need.
We worry so much about appearances… what will this person think… will we be under-dressed/over-dressed… will they like our gift… did we do enough… did we say the right thing (or the wrong thing)… whether people will think we are a good person – or a bad one! What we need to concentrate on is being the best that God created us to be… in all aspects of our life. We need to be the best disciple… the best friend… the best parent/grandparent/aunt/uncle/cousin/sibling… the best student/teacher/coach/mentor - or the best worker…the best community supporter… even the best patient when we are sick! Whatever God puts before us… whatever situation we find ourselves in at the moment… we should focus on being the most stellar example of a Godly creation that we can be.
I don’t know where you find yourself these days. I have no clue what challenges, frustrations, obstacles, joys, hopes and dreams you have. But I know that God wants you to concentrate on being YOU… to serve HIM… and to stand tall like the most beautiful wildflower in the field – because in His eyes, you are!
What sort of “flower” will you be today? Will you worry and fret about what others think and how you appear? Will you be a shabby “flower” in one of God’s fields… or will you be spectacular?
©2012 Debbie Robus
“Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can’t even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don’t fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for 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.
For several years, a couple of my closest friends and I exchanged Christmas gifts. As circumstances changed in our lives, children came along, and we got busier, it became harder to get together… especially during the holidays. Before long, picking out gifts for each other was more of a chore than a blessing. The year I took a simple gift to one of these friends and her family… and she reciprocated with a lavish gift certificate to a local specialty store… I said, “No more!” We are not doing this out of love for each other as much as a made-up obligation to reciprocate.
This was the last year we exchanged Christmas gifts. And I can tell you, we both love each other as much as ever. The only thing that has changed is that we stopped worrying about appearances and started caring more about the heart and what makes us friends in the first place. Sure, we’ve exchanged some gifts over the years that we will both treasure. But our friendship is not defined by material objects. I am not her friend because of a Christmas Santa I gave her one Christmas… or the holiday decoration I bought for with her gift certificate. It’s far more important to me to know that I can pick up the phone and call her anytime, and she will be there for me in whatever way I need.
We worry so much about appearances… what will this person think… will we be under-dressed/over-dressed… will they like our gift… did we do enough… did we say the right thing (or the wrong thing)… whether people will think we are a good person – or a bad one! What we need to concentrate on is being the best that God created us to be… in all aspects of our life. We need to be the best disciple… the best friend… the best parent/grandparent/aunt/uncle/cousin/sibling… the best student/teacher/coach/mentor - or the best worker…the best community supporter… even the best patient when we are sick! Whatever God puts before us… whatever situation we find ourselves in at the moment… we should focus on being the most stellar example of a Godly creation that we can be.
I don’t know where you find yourself these days. I have no clue what challenges, frustrations, obstacles, joys, hopes and dreams you have. But I know that God wants you to concentrate on being YOU… to serve HIM… and to stand tall like the most beautiful wildflower in the field – because in His eyes, you are!
What sort of “flower” will you be today? Will you worry and fret about what others think and how you appear? Will you be a shabby “flower” in one of God’s fields… or will you be spectacular?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 15, 2012
Matthew 6:25-34
"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.
"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.
"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.
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 mom took her mother to the doctor once, and my grandmother announced that she would never return to that particular physician. When Mom questioned her, my grandmother said, “He wasn’t a real doctor… he didn’t wear a white coat or a tie.” Years later, my dad’s mother complained to me about another doctor… “He didn’t even touch me.” Do you see the difference? In reference to one of her caregivers, I recently told my grandmother, “I don’t care if she wears a clown wig and a red nose… if she takes good care of you, nothing else matters!”
We are so obsessed with appearances and STUFF. We care about the wrong things. We rush from one thing to the next and never notice the intricacies of how God knit together the feathers on a bird… how He gave spiders the ability to create the most spectacular woven creations… how the body of a tiny baby is perfectly formed – a miniature of our own larger selves. Worry is one of the devil’s biggest tools… and he surely knows how to use it!
But God is the King of “worry-busters.” If we trust Him in everything, He will handle it all, starting with the small stuff. Even those of us who trust Him for big things often forget this and begin to stress out over things like how we look, what we drive, how much money we make, and more. We focus more on what we don’t have than how much God has blessed us.
This is not a license to stop caring… to let yourself go and become a slob or a bum. God wants us to use what He has given us to the best of our ability - and represent Him well. But that doesn’t mean we will all look like cover models or superstars. Can I tell you something? The most attractively dressed person is the one who exudes faith, confidence, grace, joy, and love. We all know someone who is universally loved and respected – and looks less than perfect… and it doesn’t matter one whit! In fact, we really don’t even think about his/her looks. We’re too busy enjoying this person’s company and admiring him/her for making the most of God’s gifts.
Let’s face it… worry is excess baggage that we need to remove. Can we set it down, once and for all, and make this the day we start to fully operate in faith that God will meet our needs? Can we truly “let go and let God?” Can we recognize that our God, Who cares about the least wildflower in the field - or the tiniest bird in the air - cares deeply for each of us, as well? It is time to step away from the mirror and trust God to “cloak you in beauty.”
Let’s stop worrying about the “white coat and tie” and focus on the “touch.” The time has come for us to step up and be who God called us to be – and to trust Him to meet ALL of our needs. Are you ready to take this leap of faith?
©2012 Debbie Robus
"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.
"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.
"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.
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 mom took her mother to the doctor once, and my grandmother announced that she would never return to that particular physician. When Mom questioned her, my grandmother said, “He wasn’t a real doctor… he didn’t wear a white coat or a tie.” Years later, my dad’s mother complained to me about another doctor… “He didn’t even touch me.” Do you see the difference? In reference to one of her caregivers, I recently told my grandmother, “I don’t care if she wears a clown wig and a red nose… if she takes good care of you, nothing else matters!”
We are so obsessed with appearances and STUFF. We care about the wrong things. We rush from one thing to the next and never notice the intricacies of how God knit together the feathers on a bird… how He gave spiders the ability to create the most spectacular woven creations… how the body of a tiny baby is perfectly formed – a miniature of our own larger selves. Worry is one of the devil’s biggest tools… and he surely knows how to use it!
But God is the King of “worry-busters.” If we trust Him in everything, He will handle it all, starting with the small stuff. Even those of us who trust Him for big things often forget this and begin to stress out over things like how we look, what we drive, how much money we make, and more. We focus more on what we don’t have than how much God has blessed us.
This is not a license to stop caring… to let yourself go and become a slob or a bum. God wants us to use what He has given us to the best of our ability - and represent Him well. But that doesn’t mean we will all look like cover models or superstars. Can I tell you something? The most attractively dressed person is the one who exudes faith, confidence, grace, joy, and love. We all know someone who is universally loved and respected – and looks less than perfect… and it doesn’t matter one whit! In fact, we really don’t even think about his/her looks. We’re too busy enjoying this person’s company and admiring him/her for making the most of God’s gifts.
Let’s face it… worry is excess baggage that we need to remove. Can we set it down, once and for all, and make this the day we start to fully operate in faith that God will meet our needs? Can we truly “let go and let God?” Can we recognize that our God, Who cares about the least wildflower in the field - or the tiniest bird in the air - cares deeply for each of us, as well? It is time to step away from the mirror and trust God to “cloak you in beauty.”
Let’s stop worrying about the “white coat and tie” and focus on the “touch.” The time has come for us to step up and be who God called us to be – and to trust Him to meet ALL of our needs. Are you ready to take this leap of faith?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 18, 2012
1 Samuel 16:6-7
When Jesse and his sons arrived, Samuel noticed Jesse's oldest son, Eliab. "He has to be the one the LORD has chosen," Samuel said to himself.
But the LORD told him, "Samuel, don't think Eliab is the one just because he's tall and handsome. He isn't the one I've chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There was a time in my early marriage where I got out of bed each morning and immediately dashed to the bathroom to apply my makeup. It wasn’t as if my husband had never seen my bare face, but I felt more confident behind the mask of some foundation, eye shadow and mascara. I would never venture out in public without “having my face on.” When something caught me off guard – an emergency, for instance – and I had to meet the world sans makeup, I felt self-conscious.
There is nothing wrong with looking nice. Dressing neatly, cleanliness, and looking your best says a lot about you. If you care about your appearance, you probably care about other things, like responsibility, hard work, and being conscientious in many areas of life. But sometimes, “life” happens when we are not looking our best. Just ask the ER staff at your local hospital. They see us at all hours of the night and day… often at our worst. My prayer is that these folks have learned to look beyond a person’s outward appearance and see each person authentically. Unfortunately, we humans have a bad habit of judging others by their outward appearance, which fed into my compulsion to always be “made up” for so many years.
Last summer, Timothy woke me very early one morning. He was rarin’ to go, and I did all I could to keep him quiet so that his Uncle Greg could continue to sleep. We went outside to play… he squealed and yelled. I suggested a stroll down the street. We got in front of a neighbor’s house, and he had a screaming meltdown that could wake the dead! (He did not want to ride in the stroller.) It was not even 6:30 a.m. At my wits’ end, I grabbed my purse, quite literally ran my fingers through my hair, plopped Timothy into his car seat, and headed for Wal-Mart. I was wearing a t-shirt and sweat pants… Timothy was dressed in his pj’s and sandals.
We shopped for groceries. People smiled at us and admired the adorable little boy with the beautiful blue eyes. Nobody cared that Timmy was wearing his pajamas – or that I wasn’t wearing makeup and looked like a train wreck. On the ride home, Timothy fell asleep, and I let him snooze in his car seat while I unloaded the groceries. By 7:30 a.m., we had finished our shopping, enjoyed a little power nap, and were ready for breakfast with Uncle Greg.
Several years ago, a youth minister friend of mine named Noble didn’t bathe for a week. He put on really dirty clothes and drove to a nearby town where nobody knew him. A church there was holding a revival, and my friend attended one of the services. Unbeknownst to others in attendance, Noble was friends with the local youth minister, and they had set up this experiment to see how people would react. Noble will tell you that he smelled terrible… he was filthy… and he took a seat front and center in the sanctuary. And as you would expect, people reacted – and not always nicely. Then Noble was introduced by the host minister as his friend – and fellow youth leader. You can imagine the reaction of those who were attending this worship service after hearing this news!
The point is that we are all disheveled and covered with the filth and smell of sin, but God sees beyond this. He doesn’t judge us for our appearance – He looks at our heart. And while we should be respectful of the bodies God has given us and treat them as His temple (which means we need to be as neat and clean as possible and “present” well), we should focus more on what (and WHO) is within us – and how we share this with others.
Do people know you for your possessions, your nice clothes or the car you drive? Do people in your church, school and community circles know you as the person who is always front and center on this committee and project or that one – or the person who can be relied upon to truly get things done? There is a difference! There are plenty of people who want to be in the limelight… to capitalize on the opportunities of appearance… but far fewer who want to authentically show up in the lives of others and be God’s agent on this earth.
When others look at you, who and what do they see? Are you merely “tall and handsome”… or are you the one God has chosen? Today, let’s make our prayer a request to God to humble us and fill us with His wisdom and a genuine desire to serve Him from the depths of our heart. In my notes, I have written, “God formed man… then filled him with life. He doesn’t waste his breath blowing into things that leak.” What about you? Do you “leak” these days… or are you a solid vessel for the LORD and His work? How do others truly see you? More importantly, how are you seen by God?
©2012 Debbie Robus
When Jesse and his sons arrived, Samuel noticed Jesse's oldest son, Eliab. "He has to be the one the LORD has chosen," Samuel said to himself.
But the LORD told him, "Samuel, don't think Eliab is the one just because he's tall and handsome. He isn't the one I've chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There was a time in my early marriage where I got out of bed each morning and immediately dashed to the bathroom to apply my makeup. It wasn’t as if my husband had never seen my bare face, but I felt more confident behind the mask of some foundation, eye shadow and mascara. I would never venture out in public without “having my face on.” When something caught me off guard – an emergency, for instance – and I had to meet the world sans makeup, I felt self-conscious.
There is nothing wrong with looking nice. Dressing neatly, cleanliness, and looking your best says a lot about you. If you care about your appearance, you probably care about other things, like responsibility, hard work, and being conscientious in many areas of life. But sometimes, “life” happens when we are not looking our best. Just ask the ER staff at your local hospital. They see us at all hours of the night and day… often at our worst. My prayer is that these folks have learned to look beyond a person’s outward appearance and see each person authentically. Unfortunately, we humans have a bad habit of judging others by their outward appearance, which fed into my compulsion to always be “made up” for so many years.
Last summer, Timothy woke me very early one morning. He was rarin’ to go, and I did all I could to keep him quiet so that his Uncle Greg could continue to sleep. We went outside to play… he squealed and yelled. I suggested a stroll down the street. We got in front of a neighbor’s house, and he had a screaming meltdown that could wake the dead! (He did not want to ride in the stroller.) It was not even 6:30 a.m. At my wits’ end, I grabbed my purse, quite literally ran my fingers through my hair, plopped Timothy into his car seat, and headed for Wal-Mart. I was wearing a t-shirt and sweat pants… Timothy was dressed in his pj’s and sandals.
We shopped for groceries. People smiled at us and admired the adorable little boy with the beautiful blue eyes. Nobody cared that Timmy was wearing his pajamas – or that I wasn’t wearing makeup and looked like a train wreck. On the ride home, Timothy fell asleep, and I let him snooze in his car seat while I unloaded the groceries. By 7:30 a.m., we had finished our shopping, enjoyed a little power nap, and were ready for breakfast with Uncle Greg.
Several years ago, a youth minister friend of mine named Noble didn’t bathe for a week. He put on really dirty clothes and drove to a nearby town where nobody knew him. A church there was holding a revival, and my friend attended one of the services. Unbeknownst to others in attendance, Noble was friends with the local youth minister, and they had set up this experiment to see how people would react. Noble will tell you that he smelled terrible… he was filthy… and he took a seat front and center in the sanctuary. And as you would expect, people reacted – and not always nicely. Then Noble was introduced by the host minister as his friend – and fellow youth leader. You can imagine the reaction of those who were attending this worship service after hearing this news!
The point is that we are all disheveled and covered with the filth and smell of sin, but God sees beyond this. He doesn’t judge us for our appearance – He looks at our heart. And while we should be respectful of the bodies God has given us and treat them as His temple (which means we need to be as neat and clean as possible and “present” well), we should focus more on what (and WHO) is within us – and how we share this with others.
Do people know you for your possessions, your nice clothes or the car you drive? Do people in your church, school and community circles know you as the person who is always front and center on this committee and project or that one – or the person who can be relied upon to truly get things done? There is a difference! There are plenty of people who want to be in the limelight… to capitalize on the opportunities of appearance… but far fewer who want to authentically show up in the lives of others and be God’s agent on this earth.
When others look at you, who and what do they see? Are you merely “tall and handsome”… or are you the one God has chosen? Today, let’s make our prayer a request to God to humble us and fill us with His wisdom and a genuine desire to serve Him from the depths of our heart. In my notes, I have written, “God formed man… then filled him with life. He doesn’t waste his breath blowing into things that leak.” What about you? Do you “leak” these days… or are you a solid vessel for the LORD and His work? How do others truly see you? More importantly, how are you seen by God?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 15, 2012
Philippians 2:5-11
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn't think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn't claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.
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.
All someone has to say to me is some form of “Do you realize who you are dealing with?”… “Do you realize who I am?” and my hackles are raised immediately. There are plenty of people in this world who think that others should bow down and cater to their every whim because of who they are… or who their parents are… how wealthy they may be… or their “position” in life as a business person, politician, or celebrity (if only in their own mind!).
Wouldn’t it have been easy for Jesus to ask this question…“Do you realize who I am? Do you know you are dealing with the Son of God?” He could have stood tall against the Roman soldiers and said, “STOP! You are in the presence of Greatness! You cannot treat me this way.” And yes, He could have stopped all of the torture and the crucifixion any time He wanted. Instead, Jesus chose to suffer and die… for you and me. He chose to minister to people by meeting them where they were… on a level playing field… rather than riding in on a white horse wearing a flowing robe and crown and carrying a royal scepter.
Let me ask you something… who would you rather encounter – someone who is genuine, humble and truly seems to care about you and what you have to say? Or would you rather be in the presence of someone who perceives himself/herself to be superior – and expects you to recognize this and react accordingly? When you go about your day, will others be drawn to you because you are warm, real and sincere… or will you turn them off with your arrogance and piety?
Who do you think you are? Who are you really? There may be a difference! We need to recognize that we are the children of God Almighty – cleansed by the blood of Jesus and heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven. But we also need to behave as Jesus did… humbly and gently… never lording it over others or giving them even one hint of superiority or condescension. If we have any hope of being effective ministers for Christ, we have to follow His model of humility. We have to focus on relating to people in their comfort zone … to help them to discover the Good News of Jesus and experience the promises of God in their own lives.
If we “keep it real,” we can be assured that God will bless us… that we will be rewarded with the applause of Heaven. I don’t know about you, but that is more than enough recognition for me! I know who I am already… and I’m not keeping it a secret. But I hope I never give anyone else the impression that I am unapproachable or superior in any way – especially because of my relationship with God. Someday, I hope to proudly claim my place as an heir to God’s Kingdom!” That will be all of the recognition I ever need. What about you? Who do others think you are these days? Is it time for a “humility check?”
©2012 Debbie Robus
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn't think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn't claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.
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.
All someone has to say to me is some form of “Do you realize who you are dealing with?”… “Do you realize who I am?” and my hackles are raised immediately. There are plenty of people in this world who think that others should bow down and cater to their every whim because of who they are… or who their parents are… how wealthy they may be… or their “position” in life as a business person, politician, or celebrity (if only in their own mind!).
Wouldn’t it have been easy for Jesus to ask this question…“Do you realize who I am? Do you know you are dealing with the Son of God?” He could have stood tall against the Roman soldiers and said, “STOP! You are in the presence of Greatness! You cannot treat me this way.” And yes, He could have stopped all of the torture and the crucifixion any time He wanted. Instead, Jesus chose to suffer and die… for you and me. He chose to minister to people by meeting them where they were… on a level playing field… rather than riding in on a white horse wearing a flowing robe and crown and carrying a royal scepter.
Let me ask you something… who would you rather encounter – someone who is genuine, humble and truly seems to care about you and what you have to say? Or would you rather be in the presence of someone who perceives himself/herself to be superior – and expects you to recognize this and react accordingly? When you go about your day, will others be drawn to you because you are warm, real and sincere… or will you turn them off with your arrogance and piety?
Who do you think you are? Who are you really? There may be a difference! We need to recognize that we are the children of God Almighty – cleansed by the blood of Jesus and heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven. But we also need to behave as Jesus did… humbly and gently… never lording it over others or giving them even one hint of superiority or condescension. If we have any hope of being effective ministers for Christ, we have to follow His model of humility. We have to focus on relating to people in their comfort zone … to help them to discover the Good News of Jesus and experience the promises of God in their own lives.
If we “keep it real,” we can be assured that God will bless us… that we will be rewarded with the applause of Heaven. I don’t know about you, but that is more than enough recognition for me! I know who I am already… and I’m not keeping it a secret. But I hope I never give anyone else the impression that I am unapproachable or superior in any way – especially because of my relationship with God. Someday, I hope to proudly claim my place as an heir to God’s Kingdom!” That will be all of the recognition I ever need. What about you? Who do others think you are these days? Is it time for a “humility check?”
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 14, 2012
Proverbs 3:33-35
God's curse blights the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. He gives proud skeptics a cold shoulder, but if you're down on your luck, he's right there to help. Wise living gets rewarded with honor; stupid living gets the booby prize.
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 heard the Chairman of the NCAA interviewed, about how many college football and basketball players have aspirations to become professional athletes. Obviously many Division I athletes have hopes of “going pro.” However, to emphasize his point, the chairman stated that 50% of all of Division II football and basketball players (including those at schools like Harding, Arkansas Tech, and others where student athletes may not even be on full scholarships) hope to “go pro.” In reality, only 1% actually make it to “the big leagues.” Clearly the expectations exceed realizations!
I am not criticizing these young people for having hopes and dreams. In fact, I commend their determination. At the same time, I wonder who has convinced them they may have what it takes to become a professional athlete. How many have unrealistic opinions of themselves and their abilities… and expect to be rewarded for their talents in this manner? As Graduation Day approaches for many high school and college students, I wonder who is looking toward a future in a career that God did not sanction. Who is anticipating being a “star” athlete in college or the pro ranks… or pursuing a degree that meets his/her choices rather than God’s?
Many of us spend a lot of time creating an image of wealth, intelligence, and general “success”. We care far too much about how others see us, and far too little about how we are truly seen. How many times have you heard it said that someone appeared to be beautiful and truly amazing, until this person opened his/her mouth? How many celebrities do you know who appear to have it all… wealth, fame, good looks… a great life… but in reality their life is falling apart? I could give you a laundry list of names, but you probably have your own already.
Regardless of our age or stage in life, we all need to focus on living humbly instead of playing the game. We need to seek God’s will for our lives. If God directs us to do the things that put us in line for wealth, fame… or even a chance to play a professional sport… then He will show us how to do the work to accomplish this. He will use us in this capacity to serve Him and share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others in these arenas. If God calls us to operate in the background, He will equip us with the necessary guidance and gifts for this, as well.
God needs all kinds of people in His army… He can use celebrities and “regular Joes” alike. But God is not amused by those who try to be something or someone other than who He has called them to become. If God wants a college athlete to become a high school coach and help mold and shape the lives of countless teenagers, He will bless these efforts far more than the “riches” this athlete could ever accrue on the pro circuit. One has to recognize that the coach and the “pro” athlete are both professionals… just with a different vehicle for serving potential service. There is no shame in changing your major, your career, or even your hobby, if you feel that God is moving you in a different direction.
Who are you trying to be? What are you working toward… and does it line up with what God wants for your life? Have you truly shown up for life… the life that God has planned for you? Or are you determined to be something or someone else? Ask God to show you how to show up for the life that He has chosen. Humbly seek His will for your life… then get busy fulfilling His desires. You will be amazed at how He shows up for you as a result!
©2012 Debbie Robus
God's curse blights the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. He gives proud skeptics a cold shoulder, but if you're down on your luck, he's right there to help. Wise living gets rewarded with honor; stupid living gets the booby prize.
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 heard the Chairman of the NCAA interviewed, about how many college football and basketball players have aspirations to become professional athletes. Obviously many Division I athletes have hopes of “going pro.” However, to emphasize his point, the chairman stated that 50% of all of Division II football and basketball players (including those at schools like Harding, Arkansas Tech, and others where student athletes may not even be on full scholarships) hope to “go pro.” In reality, only 1% actually make it to “the big leagues.” Clearly the expectations exceed realizations!
I am not criticizing these young people for having hopes and dreams. In fact, I commend their determination. At the same time, I wonder who has convinced them they may have what it takes to become a professional athlete. How many have unrealistic opinions of themselves and their abilities… and expect to be rewarded for their talents in this manner? As Graduation Day approaches for many high school and college students, I wonder who is looking toward a future in a career that God did not sanction. Who is anticipating being a “star” athlete in college or the pro ranks… or pursuing a degree that meets his/her choices rather than God’s?
Many of us spend a lot of time creating an image of wealth, intelligence, and general “success”. We care far too much about how others see us, and far too little about how we are truly seen. How many times have you heard it said that someone appeared to be beautiful and truly amazing, until this person opened his/her mouth? How many celebrities do you know who appear to have it all… wealth, fame, good looks… a great life… but in reality their life is falling apart? I could give you a laundry list of names, but you probably have your own already.
Regardless of our age or stage in life, we all need to focus on living humbly instead of playing the game. We need to seek God’s will for our lives. If God directs us to do the things that put us in line for wealth, fame… or even a chance to play a professional sport… then He will show us how to do the work to accomplish this. He will use us in this capacity to serve Him and share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others in these arenas. If God calls us to operate in the background, He will equip us with the necessary guidance and gifts for this, as well.
God needs all kinds of people in His army… He can use celebrities and “regular Joes” alike. But God is not amused by those who try to be something or someone other than who He has called them to become. If God wants a college athlete to become a high school coach and help mold and shape the lives of countless teenagers, He will bless these efforts far more than the “riches” this athlete could ever accrue on the pro circuit. One has to recognize that the coach and the “pro” athlete are both professionals… just with a different vehicle for serving potential service. There is no shame in changing your major, your career, or even your hobby, if you feel that God is moving you in a different direction.
Who are you trying to be? What are you working toward… and does it line up with what God wants for your life? Have you truly shown up for life… the life that God has planned for you? Or are you determined to be something or someone else? Ask God to show you how to show up for the life that He has chosen. Humbly seek His will for your life… then get busy fulfilling His desires. You will be amazed at how He shows up for you as a result!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 14, 2012
James 3:13-16
Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Here's what you do: Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It's the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. Mean-spirited ambition isn't wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isn't wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn't wisdom. It's the furthest thing from wisdom—it's animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you're trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others' throats.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On ABC’s The View, Barbara Walters said she wished children did not take Valentines to school on Valentine’s Day. Several of her co-workers gasped and questioned her about this remark. She explained that there always seemed to be a few children who brought Valentines for everyone and had a big fancy box to collect those which they received in return. However, not all children could afford to bring Valentines for others. And just as hurtful, some children were excluded from the exchange on purpose. Walters’ own daughter experienced this as a tall-for-her-age, gawky 6th grader who took a Valentine for every classmate… yet some deliberately did not reciprocate and made her feel inferior and ugly.
We start early building competitive spirit - and downright arrogance, prejudice, and meanness – into our children. By the time they are in upper elementary school, many have drawn a line in the sand between the “Haves” and the “Have-nots”… the “pretty” and the “ugly”… the popular and the unpopular people. Some spend lot of time and energy trying to be in the former camps, rather than the latter… and they will do almost anything to belong.
In my adult life, I have found it interesting to reconnect with some of the people who were so busy talking, boasting, twisting the truth, conniving and bullying others in order to appear wise, popular, or more important. Often, their lives turned out anything but well… filled with heartaches, missteps, and disappointments – if not utter failure. Some of those who lived in the shadows, quietly and humbly minding their own business, have gone on to accomplish great success… to become wise, well-respected, honorable and productive human beings who glorify God and bless others in their path.
Today, I challenge you to spend a few minutes thinking about your actions – and reactions – toward others. What image are you projecting? Are you boastful, judgmental, prejudiced, conniving? Do you take whatever steps are necessary to get ahead, make yourself look better, appear wise and affluent, and get what you want… at the expense of anything or anyone in your way? Has this become so much a part of your psyche that you don’t even realize you behave this way?
Ask God to show you where – and how – you need to become more humble. Call on Him to help you control your mouth… and your actions. It’s never too late to grow in wisdom… to more closely resemble the person God has called you to be. You may not be able to go back to 6th grade and give every classmate a Valentine, but you can start to be a nicer person in your present circle of friends and acquaintances. Are you building a reputation for wisdom? Will this be the Valentine’s Day you truly begin to operate in God’s love for you and those around you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Here's what you do: Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It's the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. Mean-spirited ambition isn't wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isn't wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn't wisdom. It's the furthest thing from wisdom—it's animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you're trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others' throats.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On ABC’s The View, Barbara Walters said she wished children did not take Valentines to school on Valentine’s Day. Several of her co-workers gasped and questioned her about this remark. She explained that there always seemed to be a few children who brought Valentines for everyone and had a big fancy box to collect those which they received in return. However, not all children could afford to bring Valentines for others. And just as hurtful, some children were excluded from the exchange on purpose. Walters’ own daughter experienced this as a tall-for-her-age, gawky 6th grader who took a Valentine for every classmate… yet some deliberately did not reciprocate and made her feel inferior and ugly.
We start early building competitive spirit - and downright arrogance, prejudice, and meanness – into our children. By the time they are in upper elementary school, many have drawn a line in the sand between the “Haves” and the “Have-nots”… the “pretty” and the “ugly”… the popular and the unpopular people. Some spend lot of time and energy trying to be in the former camps, rather than the latter… and they will do almost anything to belong.
In my adult life, I have found it interesting to reconnect with some of the people who were so busy talking, boasting, twisting the truth, conniving and bullying others in order to appear wise, popular, or more important. Often, their lives turned out anything but well… filled with heartaches, missteps, and disappointments – if not utter failure. Some of those who lived in the shadows, quietly and humbly minding their own business, have gone on to accomplish great success… to become wise, well-respected, honorable and productive human beings who glorify God and bless others in their path.
Today, I challenge you to spend a few minutes thinking about your actions – and reactions – toward others. What image are you projecting? Are you boastful, judgmental, prejudiced, conniving? Do you take whatever steps are necessary to get ahead, make yourself look better, appear wise and affluent, and get what you want… at the expense of anything or anyone in your way? Has this become so much a part of your psyche that you don’t even realize you behave this way?
Ask God to show you where – and how – you need to become more humble. Call on Him to help you control your mouth… and your actions. It’s never too late to grow in wisdom… to more closely resemble the person God has called you to be. You may not be able to go back to 6th grade and give every classmate a Valentine, but you can start to be a nicer person in your present circle of friends and acquaintances. Are you building a reputation for wisdom? Will this be the Valentine’s Day you truly begin to operate in God’s love for you and those around you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 28, 2011
John 7:21-24
Jesus answered: I worked one miracle, and it amazed you. Moses commanded you to circumcise your sons. But it wasn't really Moses who gave you this command. It was your ancestors, and even on the Sabbath you circumcise your sons in order to obey the Law of Moses. Why are you angry with me for making someone completely well on the Sabbath? Don't judge by appearances. Judge by what is right.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl, most stores were not open on Sunday. There was a law, known as the “Blue Law” that prohibited the sale of certain items on Sunday, including groceries, clothing, and other items. We could go to a restaurant and eat, but we couldn’t go to a grocery store and buy a gallon of milk and a hunk of bologna! Sunday was truly considered a day of rest for many. I remember my mother finding me at the sewing machine one Sunday afternoon when I was a young teenager, and she asked, “You’re sewing on Sunday?”
While it’s too bad that some people have to work every single Sunday and have limited opportunities to attend church services, it’s also pretty hypocritical to say that it is okay for restaurant staff to serve us a meal… or for doctors and nurses to treat us in a hospital on Sunday, but it is wrong for people to sell baby food and other groceries, clothing, medicine, and more. Why was it acceptable for my grandfather to feed his livestock on Sunday morning before church, but considered questionable for me to spend Sunday afternoon between services sewing a new garment? I will tell you that my mother has changed her thinking about this through the years… as have many.
The bigger question… as posed by Jesus in Judea… is “Who are we to judge?” Do we assume that someone who works on Sunday doesn’t care about their faith? Just because we know someone who doesn’t attend services every time the doors are open, do we think they are a lesser Christian? Do we make all sorts of assumptions about those who don’t appear to be as active in the church as others? In The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says some of the most important service ever done for the LORD is some of the seemingly most insignificant…and certainly least visible. In truth, is our judgment of someone who works on Sunday masking a more deep-seated judgment of that person in general? Like the people of Judea who were challenging Jesus, do we have a hidden agenda?
We cannot make judgments based on what day it is, or what we observe and hear. There is always so much more that we do not know. So often, we don’t have all the facts. Jesus is reminding us in this passage to judge what is right… to look at the outcome – the end result. Never judge based on appearance. Always remember that you don’t have all the facts and cannot assume anything. At the end of the day, only God can decide whether another is doing the right thing… living correctly and making the best use of his/her time.
I don’t know about you, but I’m glad I can dash into the store after church on Sunday and pick up bread and milk. I’m thankful that there are people willing to work weekends… and I pray that they have a Sunday off here and there to be with their family and attend church if they wish. I’m grateful that someone is running a gas station, in case I need to fuel up on the Sabbath… and I honestly don’t think God minds if I spend my Sunday afternoon shopping instead of napping.
It is important that we know where we stand with God… and that we behave in a way that models the teachings of Jesus. But at the end of the day, nobody knows our heart but us and God. Surely we want others to remember this when they begin to judge us… and we must do the same in return.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus answered: I worked one miracle, and it amazed you. Moses commanded you to circumcise your sons. But it wasn't really Moses who gave you this command. It was your ancestors, and even on the Sabbath you circumcise your sons in order to obey the Law of Moses. Why are you angry with me for making someone completely well on the Sabbath? Don't judge by appearances. Judge by what is right.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl, most stores were not open on Sunday. There was a law, known as the “Blue Law” that prohibited the sale of certain items on Sunday, including groceries, clothing, and other items. We could go to a restaurant and eat, but we couldn’t go to a grocery store and buy a gallon of milk and a hunk of bologna! Sunday was truly considered a day of rest for many. I remember my mother finding me at the sewing machine one Sunday afternoon when I was a young teenager, and she asked, “You’re sewing on Sunday?”
While it’s too bad that some people have to work every single Sunday and have limited opportunities to attend church services, it’s also pretty hypocritical to say that it is okay for restaurant staff to serve us a meal… or for doctors and nurses to treat us in a hospital on Sunday, but it is wrong for people to sell baby food and other groceries, clothing, medicine, and more. Why was it acceptable for my grandfather to feed his livestock on Sunday morning before church, but considered questionable for me to spend Sunday afternoon between services sewing a new garment? I will tell you that my mother has changed her thinking about this through the years… as have many.
The bigger question… as posed by Jesus in Judea… is “Who are we to judge?” Do we assume that someone who works on Sunday doesn’t care about their faith? Just because we know someone who doesn’t attend services every time the doors are open, do we think they are a lesser Christian? Do we make all sorts of assumptions about those who don’t appear to be as active in the church as others? In The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says some of the most important service ever done for the LORD is some of the seemingly most insignificant…and certainly least visible. In truth, is our judgment of someone who works on Sunday masking a more deep-seated judgment of that person in general? Like the people of Judea who were challenging Jesus, do we have a hidden agenda?
We cannot make judgments based on what day it is, or what we observe and hear. There is always so much more that we do not know. So often, we don’t have all the facts. Jesus is reminding us in this passage to judge what is right… to look at the outcome – the end result. Never judge based on appearance. Always remember that you don’t have all the facts and cannot assume anything. At the end of the day, only God can decide whether another is doing the right thing… living correctly and making the best use of his/her time.
I don’t know about you, but I’m glad I can dash into the store after church on Sunday and pick up bread and milk. I’m thankful that there are people willing to work weekends… and I pray that they have a Sunday off here and there to be with their family and attend church if they wish. I’m grateful that someone is running a gas station, in case I need to fuel up on the Sabbath… and I honestly don’t think God minds if I spend my Sunday afternoon shopping instead of napping.
It is important that we know where we stand with God… and that we behave in a way that models the teachings of Jesus. But at the end of the day, nobody knows our heart but us and God. Surely we want others to remember this when they begin to judge us… and we must do the same in return.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 7, 2011
1 Samuel 16:6-7
When Jesse and his sons arrived, Samuel noticed Jesse's oldest son, Eliab. "He has to be the one the LORD has chosen," Samuel said to himself.
But the LORD told him, "Samuel, don't think Eliab is the one just because he's tall and handsome. He isn't the one I've chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of Timothy’s favorite books at the moment is Olivia, by Ian Falconer - the story of a little piglet and her family… father, mother, brother Ian, dog Perry, and Edwin the cat. The illustrations of Olivia are not bright and bold, like those in many of Timmy’s books. They are all done in black and red on a white background, with some grey shading. Olivia only wears red, and she is depicted somewhat realistically and not “prettied up” as pigs go. Yet Timothy loves her. Olivia is extremely energetic, and the story line is that “she is very good at wearing people out.”
In one part of the story, Olivia goes to the museum on a rainy day, and she studies a painting of beautiful ballerinas. The story says she looks at it for a long time. She also looks at an abstract painting – blobs of paint that appear to have been splattered on the canvas. She remarks to her mother, “I could do that in about five minutes,” and then she proceeds to go home and try it on a wall of her home. Of course, the next text is… “Time out!”
The point is, Olivia did not see the beauty in the abstract painting. She did not see the “heart” in the work that the artist – and apparently other admirers – saw. Timothy sees beyond the simple black and red line drawings and colorings of this little piglet and judges her heart… her similarities in behavior to him… and her exuberance for life. He doesn’t seem to notice her appearance… in fact, I bet he would tell you she is quite beautiful.
We live in a society where looks are everything. People obsess over all sorts of cosmetic concerns… from a “bad hair day” to the extra weight they are carrying to a face covered in freckles. You feel like the blemish or mole on your face is all people see when they look at you… while many hardly notice it. We let our self-awareness of the “muffin top” we’re carrying or that bald spot on our head overshadow our ability to be present in the moment and serve others… and God.
We need to be more like Olivia, the piglet. I don’t mean that we need to get so out of control that we start painting abstract art on our walls… but we need to focus more on life and what matters - and less on appearances. And we need to stop judging others based on looks and first impressions. That zany, overly exuberant, talkative person who drives you nuts may be a loving, caring person who would do anything he/she could to help someone else. The person who is dirty and disheveled… the one who always seems aloof or disinterested… the guy who is so scatterbrained you figure he would lose his head if it weren’t attached… may be just the people God uses to relate to others and serve them right where they are.
The people who are always “dressed to the nines”, drive fancy cars and have lots of money, or have impressive degrees from major colleges and universities may be the very people who are too busy focusing on their own agendas… and not the needs of others or God’s plans. People who are tall and handsome… smart, rich and successful… athletic and talented… may not necessarily be the ones who are serving God the most – or to the best of their ability.
We must stop judging people by appearance. And we need to check our own behavior and see where we are letting our appearance hamper our ability to serve. Are we self-conscious and timid? Are we egotistical and arrogant? What is in our heart? When God looks there, what does He see… and does it please Him? Are you one of God’s chosen servants? What changes do you need to make to become more like Him? Are you ready to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
When Jesse and his sons arrived, Samuel noticed Jesse's oldest son, Eliab. "He has to be the one the LORD has chosen," Samuel said to himself.
But the LORD told him, "Samuel, don't think Eliab is the one just because he's tall and handsome. He isn't the one I've chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of Timothy’s favorite books at the moment is Olivia, by Ian Falconer - the story of a little piglet and her family… father, mother, brother Ian, dog Perry, and Edwin the cat. The illustrations of Olivia are not bright and bold, like those in many of Timmy’s books. They are all done in black and red on a white background, with some grey shading. Olivia only wears red, and she is depicted somewhat realistically and not “prettied up” as pigs go. Yet Timothy loves her. Olivia is extremely energetic, and the story line is that “she is very good at wearing people out.”
In one part of the story, Olivia goes to the museum on a rainy day, and she studies a painting of beautiful ballerinas. The story says she looks at it for a long time. She also looks at an abstract painting – blobs of paint that appear to have been splattered on the canvas. She remarks to her mother, “I could do that in about five minutes,” and then she proceeds to go home and try it on a wall of her home. Of course, the next text is… “Time out!”
The point is, Olivia did not see the beauty in the abstract painting. She did not see the “heart” in the work that the artist – and apparently other admirers – saw. Timothy sees beyond the simple black and red line drawings and colorings of this little piglet and judges her heart… her similarities in behavior to him… and her exuberance for life. He doesn’t seem to notice her appearance… in fact, I bet he would tell you she is quite beautiful.
We live in a society where looks are everything. People obsess over all sorts of cosmetic concerns… from a “bad hair day” to the extra weight they are carrying to a face covered in freckles. You feel like the blemish or mole on your face is all people see when they look at you… while many hardly notice it. We let our self-awareness of the “muffin top” we’re carrying or that bald spot on our head overshadow our ability to be present in the moment and serve others… and God.
We need to be more like Olivia, the piglet. I don’t mean that we need to get so out of control that we start painting abstract art on our walls… but we need to focus more on life and what matters - and less on appearances. And we need to stop judging others based on looks and first impressions. That zany, overly exuberant, talkative person who drives you nuts may be a loving, caring person who would do anything he/she could to help someone else. The person who is dirty and disheveled… the one who always seems aloof or disinterested… the guy who is so scatterbrained you figure he would lose his head if it weren’t attached… may be just the people God uses to relate to others and serve them right where they are.
The people who are always “dressed to the nines”, drive fancy cars and have lots of money, or have impressive degrees from major colleges and universities may be the very people who are too busy focusing on their own agendas… and not the needs of others or God’s plans. People who are tall and handsome… smart, rich and successful… athletic and talented… may not necessarily be the ones who are serving God the most – or to the best of their ability.
We must stop judging people by appearance. And we need to check our own behavior and see where we are letting our appearance hamper our ability to serve. Are we self-conscious and timid? Are we egotistical and arrogant? What is in our heart? When God looks there, what does He see… and does it please Him? Are you one of God’s chosen servants? What changes do you need to make to become more like Him? Are you ready to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 16, 2010
James 2:9
But if you treat some people better than others, you have done wrong, and the Scriptures teach that you have sinned.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I read a letter to the editor of our local paper from someone who was terribly upset because our annual area Lake and River Cleanup was held on September 11th. The writer felt that this was disrespectful, and he was incensed that the event was not changed to another date. I have maintained correspondence with the families of two New York firefighters killed on September 11, 2001, and I can assure you, they would disagree. I think they would feel that the act of a community coming together for a common cause – i.e. picking up trash and litter – would be a fantastic way to honor the lives and service of their loved ones.
Isn’t the point of remembering 9.11 in large part the unity of us as a citizenry? Isn’t actually doing something constructive as a group as much of a tribute as standing underneath an American flag and listening to “Taps”? And for the record, probably very few of us did anything to mark the day, short of turning on our televisions and listening to news reports about ceremonies taking place in faraway cities.
So what’s my point with regard to James 2:9? I believe we are way too quick to judge others … and to treat them accordingly. Many editorial comments and recent “Letters to the Editor” in our local paper and elsewhere have disturbed me. People are claiming Christianity and passing judgment in the same sentences. If someone doesn’t totally agree with our thinking, we decide – consciously or subconsciously – that this person is beneath us and deserves to be treated as lesser … or even in an unkind manner. We say hateful things. We pick sides. We decide they are beneath us.
So when we go to church, we won’t sit near “So-and-so” because he belongs to “the other party.” At school, we make sure people know us by the crowd with whom we run … and we make it clear that certain people are not included. We look down our noses at people in the grocery store who don’t look like us. I’ll tell you, I have laughed as hard as the next person over those e-mails with the “People of Wal-Mart.” But I do not think of them as beneath me. I’m sure on any given day, God wonders about my “style” and dress just as much as these people – and I’ve become very aware of trying not to give them a sideways glance in person!
We don’t have to “dress down.” We don’t have to live in hovel … or even sell all of our earthly belongings … in order to humble ourselves and become more in tune with others. But we need to drop the attitudes and opinions. We need to realize that God is no respecter of person – and we shouldn’t be, either. We cannot truly begin to serve until we become more like Him … and that means losing the sin of judgment. Remember … people are watching. They will know by your body language, the tone of your voice, what you say and how you act, and whether you are loving others unconditionally – or looking down your nose at some. Don’t be guilty of the latter. God would never look down His nose at you – so what makes you think this is acceptable behavior?
Today, I pray we will all find time to humble ourselves before God and ask Him to show us where we need to drop the attitude and the condescension. Ask Him to forgive you for judging others and to reveal to you areas where you could use improvement. Ask God to bless you with an attitude of love, grace, and mercy toward all people. Then receive His forgiveness and blessings … and go get busy serving honorably.
©2010 Debbie Robus
But if you treat some people better than others, you have done wrong, and the Scriptures teach that you have sinned.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I read a letter to the editor of our local paper from someone who was terribly upset because our annual area Lake and River Cleanup was held on September 11th. The writer felt that this was disrespectful, and he was incensed that the event was not changed to another date. I have maintained correspondence with the families of two New York firefighters killed on September 11, 2001, and I can assure you, they would disagree. I think they would feel that the act of a community coming together for a common cause – i.e. picking up trash and litter – would be a fantastic way to honor the lives and service of their loved ones.
Isn’t the point of remembering 9.11 in large part the unity of us as a citizenry? Isn’t actually doing something constructive as a group as much of a tribute as standing underneath an American flag and listening to “Taps”? And for the record, probably very few of us did anything to mark the day, short of turning on our televisions and listening to news reports about ceremonies taking place in faraway cities.
So what’s my point with regard to James 2:9? I believe we are way too quick to judge others … and to treat them accordingly. Many editorial comments and recent “Letters to the Editor” in our local paper and elsewhere have disturbed me. People are claiming Christianity and passing judgment in the same sentences. If someone doesn’t totally agree with our thinking, we decide – consciously or subconsciously – that this person is beneath us and deserves to be treated as lesser … or even in an unkind manner. We say hateful things. We pick sides. We decide they are beneath us.
So when we go to church, we won’t sit near “So-and-so” because he belongs to “the other party.” At school, we make sure people know us by the crowd with whom we run … and we make it clear that certain people are not included. We look down our noses at people in the grocery store who don’t look like us. I’ll tell you, I have laughed as hard as the next person over those e-mails with the “People of Wal-Mart.” But I do not think of them as beneath me. I’m sure on any given day, God wonders about my “style” and dress just as much as these people – and I’ve become very aware of trying not to give them a sideways glance in person!
We don’t have to “dress down.” We don’t have to live in hovel … or even sell all of our earthly belongings … in order to humble ourselves and become more in tune with others. But we need to drop the attitudes and opinions. We need to realize that God is no respecter of person – and we shouldn’t be, either. We cannot truly begin to serve until we become more like Him … and that means losing the sin of judgment. Remember … people are watching. They will know by your body language, the tone of your voice, what you say and how you act, and whether you are loving others unconditionally – or looking down your nose at some. Don’t be guilty of the latter. God would never look down His nose at you – so what makes you think this is acceptable behavior?
Today, I pray we will all find time to humble ourselves before God and ask Him to show us where we need to drop the attitude and the condescension. Ask Him to forgive you for judging others and to reveal to you areas where you could use improvement. Ask God to bless you with an attitude of love, grace, and mercy toward all people. Then receive His forgiveness and blessings … and go get busy serving honorably.
©2010 Debbie Robus
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