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
Showing posts with label attitude. Show all posts
Showing posts with label attitude. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for February 1, 2012
Romans 7:21-23
It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.
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.
Suppose you want to watch the Super Bowl at home, in your sweats, while eating a big bowl of popcorn or a frozen pizza. But your parents, significant other, or best friend want you to go with them to a Super Bowl party with lots of people – many of whom you don’t know all that well. You know you won’t be able to see much of the game… and the other guests may be rooting for the opposing team. You don’t want to get dressed up and socialize with others… but you don’t want to disappoint the person who is asking you to come along. So you “play nice,” squelch your true feelings and agree to go. Whether anyone else knows or not, your heart truly is not in this.
Let’s be honest… a lot of life is about compromises. And that often means doing something when our heart truly isn’t in it, because it’s the right thing to do… on several levels. But compromising in matters of faith is another story altogether. Concessions in the natural have to do with the body… compromises in our faith have to do with the spirit. In Spiritual terms, your heart is where God resides. He has given you the Holy Spirit to live in your heart… to guide you and help you to make choices that honor Jesus and your commitment to Him.
While agreeing to go to a party that really doesn’t interest you is more a gesture of cooperation, choosing to join in a conversation that includes gossip and disrespectful talk about someone else is a rebellion against the Holy Spirit. It may be fun or feel good at the time… but on some level, we usually know (or we should know!) that this is wrong. If your “heart isn’t in” working out and eating right, that’s one thing. But if you don’t have a heart for the obeying God’s word and seeking Him in prayer, that’s another.
So often, we want to pat ourselves on the back for the smallest of gestures toward our faith. We want “brownie points” for attending worship services or helping the needy. We ask God to give us guidance – or we pray for someone in need – and we read our Bible every day for a week… then we congratulate ourselves on how well we are demonstrating our faith and living for Jesus. Even worse… we compare ourselves to others and decide that we’re really doing pretty well. After all… they aren’t serving on a committee or in a leadership role at church. They don’t go on mission trips or work in local charities. Hey… they don’t even come to church very often!
The truth is that they may have more of a heart for God than we ever will. The heart is the “hidden, inner man” and shows us God’s definition of your spirit. No one can truly know what is in your heart except for you and God. But we both know that often, what we say is in our heart… and what is truly there… are two very different things.
It’s time to reconcile our Spiritual heart with the Holy Spirit. It’s time for us to truly focus on what God has placed in our heart… and to operate from that position. We need to be deeply aware of the devil’s attempt to creep in and lure us into a false sense of security… to convince us that his way is more enjoyable. Many of us operate on the premise that as long as we do “enough” to appease God, we can do whatever feels good the rest of the time.
Remember… God knows your heart. He knows when you are operating from a place of honor and glory to Him… and when someone else has captured your attention. Don’t live in this state of limbo. Choose to seek God… to believe and serve Him with your full heart - and never miss the mark. Ask Him to give you wisdom and courage to resist the temptations that will surely come… and to stay on course.
Renew your commitment to delight in God’s commands… and to defy the devil’s petition for your attention. Give your heart fully to God… and live in the confidence that He is always in charge. You still may not have your heart in attending a Super Bowl party. But if God is telling you to in your “Spiritual heart” go, He will equip you with an attitude of love and generosity… and the grace to smile all evening.
©2012 Debbie Robus
It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.
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.
Suppose you want to watch the Super Bowl at home, in your sweats, while eating a big bowl of popcorn or a frozen pizza. But your parents, significant other, or best friend want you to go with them to a Super Bowl party with lots of people – many of whom you don’t know all that well. You know you won’t be able to see much of the game… and the other guests may be rooting for the opposing team. You don’t want to get dressed up and socialize with others… but you don’t want to disappoint the person who is asking you to come along. So you “play nice,” squelch your true feelings and agree to go. Whether anyone else knows or not, your heart truly is not in this.
Let’s be honest… a lot of life is about compromises. And that often means doing something when our heart truly isn’t in it, because it’s the right thing to do… on several levels. But compromising in matters of faith is another story altogether. Concessions in the natural have to do with the body… compromises in our faith have to do with the spirit. In Spiritual terms, your heart is where God resides. He has given you the Holy Spirit to live in your heart… to guide you and help you to make choices that honor Jesus and your commitment to Him.
While agreeing to go to a party that really doesn’t interest you is more a gesture of cooperation, choosing to join in a conversation that includes gossip and disrespectful talk about someone else is a rebellion against the Holy Spirit. It may be fun or feel good at the time… but on some level, we usually know (or we should know!) that this is wrong. If your “heart isn’t in” working out and eating right, that’s one thing. But if you don’t have a heart for the obeying God’s word and seeking Him in prayer, that’s another.
So often, we want to pat ourselves on the back for the smallest of gestures toward our faith. We want “brownie points” for attending worship services or helping the needy. We ask God to give us guidance – or we pray for someone in need – and we read our Bible every day for a week… then we congratulate ourselves on how well we are demonstrating our faith and living for Jesus. Even worse… we compare ourselves to others and decide that we’re really doing pretty well. After all… they aren’t serving on a committee or in a leadership role at church. They don’t go on mission trips or work in local charities. Hey… they don’t even come to church very often!
The truth is that they may have more of a heart for God than we ever will. The heart is the “hidden, inner man” and shows us God’s definition of your spirit. No one can truly know what is in your heart except for you and God. But we both know that often, what we say is in our heart… and what is truly there… are two very different things.
It’s time to reconcile our Spiritual heart with the Holy Spirit. It’s time for us to truly focus on what God has placed in our heart… and to operate from that position. We need to be deeply aware of the devil’s attempt to creep in and lure us into a false sense of security… to convince us that his way is more enjoyable. Many of us operate on the premise that as long as we do “enough” to appease God, we can do whatever feels good the rest of the time.
Remember… God knows your heart. He knows when you are operating from a place of honor and glory to Him… and when someone else has captured your attention. Don’t live in this state of limbo. Choose to seek God… to believe and serve Him with your full heart - and never miss the mark. Ask Him to give you wisdom and courage to resist the temptations that will surely come… and to stay on course.
Renew your commitment to delight in God’s commands… and to defy the devil’s petition for your attention. Give your heart fully to God… and live in the confidence that He is always in charge. You still may not have your heart in attending a Super Bowl party. But if God is telling you to in your “Spiritual heart” go, He will equip you with an attitude of love and generosity… and the grace to smile all evening.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 15, 2011
Proverbs 21:2-3
We may think we are doing the right thing, but the LORD always knows what is in our hearts. Doing what is right and fair pleases the LORD more than an offering.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am continually in awe of how God uses His word to feed us – to give us exactly what we need when we need it. And I really needed this scripture passage now. At a recent funeral, the pastor shared a memory of “offerings and collections” that occurred when we were children. He talked about this lovingly… and about the genuine servitude of those who collected and gave. But for me, this memory spurred something far less heartwarming.
My parents worked hard when I was a child… both often holding down more than one job at a time. While my sister, brother and I had all of our basic needs met plus a few extras, there wasn’t a lot of spare change. So when the March of Dimes volunteer handed out the cards for us to fill with our dimes, we didn’t have very much to contribute. When our church had an annual “Lottie Moon” Mission drive, we put our change in little boxes to turn in on the designated day. But some church members gave large amounts of money and got to light up a bulb on a giant map that hung in our church sanctuary. I know it sounds silly, but when I was a kid, I so wanted to be able to light up one of those bulbs… to be one of those people who could afford to give that much money to missions.
So recollections of giving to missions and fundraisers are not happy ones for me, because I never felt my “gift” was enough. Now I know differently. Now I get that God was more interested in my heart than my handout. He was more concerned that I do the right thing… more concerned that I love Him and serve Him to the best of my ability than He was that I fill a card with dimes or light up a bulb on a silly map.
I know that those who were in charge of the drives had no intention of making anyone feel badly… especially a little kid. I know that there are those who can readily afford to give a lot of money to missions and other projects that serve the LORD… and we should all give to the best of our ability. But tossing money at God without the right heart and attitude does not please Him nearly as much as those who have little to give, but serve with a loving, willing heart in whatever manner they can.
We should get two things from this passage today… 1) we must never pressure others to give a certain amount – or to serve God in a particular way, and 2) God doesn’t expect us to give what we don’t have… time, service or money. He only asks that we serve Him with a loving, willing heart – to the best of our ability. If we do the right thing and keep our motives pure, God will honor and bless whatever we are able to do in His name. I know He has done this for me over and again. And now I know for certain that serving in whatever way I can from a sincere, humble heart is the best, most pleasing offering He could ever desire.
What is in your heart? Are you doing the right thing and pleasing God with your offerings? How are you serving Him today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
We may think we are doing the right thing, but the LORD always knows what is in our hearts. Doing what is right and fair pleases the LORD more than an offering.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am continually in awe of how God uses His word to feed us – to give us exactly what we need when we need it. And I really needed this scripture passage now. At a recent funeral, the pastor shared a memory of “offerings and collections” that occurred when we were children. He talked about this lovingly… and about the genuine servitude of those who collected and gave. But for me, this memory spurred something far less heartwarming.
My parents worked hard when I was a child… both often holding down more than one job at a time. While my sister, brother and I had all of our basic needs met plus a few extras, there wasn’t a lot of spare change. So when the March of Dimes volunteer handed out the cards for us to fill with our dimes, we didn’t have very much to contribute. When our church had an annual “Lottie Moon” Mission drive, we put our change in little boxes to turn in on the designated day. But some church members gave large amounts of money and got to light up a bulb on a giant map that hung in our church sanctuary. I know it sounds silly, but when I was a kid, I so wanted to be able to light up one of those bulbs… to be one of those people who could afford to give that much money to missions.
So recollections of giving to missions and fundraisers are not happy ones for me, because I never felt my “gift” was enough. Now I know differently. Now I get that God was more interested in my heart than my handout. He was more concerned that I do the right thing… more concerned that I love Him and serve Him to the best of my ability than He was that I fill a card with dimes or light up a bulb on a silly map.
I know that those who were in charge of the drives had no intention of making anyone feel badly… especially a little kid. I know that there are those who can readily afford to give a lot of money to missions and other projects that serve the LORD… and we should all give to the best of our ability. But tossing money at God without the right heart and attitude does not please Him nearly as much as those who have little to give, but serve with a loving, willing heart in whatever manner they can.
We should get two things from this passage today… 1) we must never pressure others to give a certain amount – or to serve God in a particular way, and 2) God doesn’t expect us to give what we don’t have… time, service or money. He only asks that we serve Him with a loving, willing heart – to the best of our ability. If we do the right thing and keep our motives pure, God will honor and bless whatever we are able to do in His name. I know He has done this for me over and again. And now I know for certain that serving in whatever way I can from a sincere, humble heart is the best, most pleasing offering He could ever desire.
What is in your heart? Are you doing the right thing and pleasing God with your offerings? How are you serving Him today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 21, 2011
2 Samuel 12:16-23
So David went without eating to show his sorrow, and he begged God to make the boy well. David would not sleep on his bed, but spent each night lying on the floor. His officials stood beside him and tried to talk him into getting up. But he would not get up or eat with them.
After the child had been sick for seven days, he died, but the officials were afraid to tell David. They said to each other, "Even when the boy was alive, David wouldn't listen to us. How can we tell him his son is dead? He might do something terrible!"
David noticed his servants whispering, and he knew the boy was dead. "Did my son die?" he asked his servants. "Yes, he did," they answered.
David got up off the floor; he took a bath, combed his hair, and dressed. He went into the LORD's tent and worshiped, then he went back home. David asked for something to eat, and when his servants brought him some food, he ate it.
His officials said, "What are you doing? You went without eating and cried for your son while he was alive! But now that he's dead, you're up and eating.
David answered: While he was still alive, I went without food and cried because there was still hope. I said to myself, "Who knows? Maybe the LORD will have pity on me and let the child live." But now that he's dead, why should I go without eating? I can't bring him back! Someday I will join him in death, but he can't return to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever prayed for something specific, and God answered in a different way? How did you react? Did you pout… rant and rave… or mope around feeling sad and mistreated because God didn’t answer as you had wished?
We have clear examples in the Bible of God answering prayers… but not always in the way we want or expect. David had done some terrible things, and he was told that God would allow him to live… his baby boy would die because of his sin. David begged and pleaded with God not to take the baby… but that is exactly what God did.
In the New Testament, we read that Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane and asked God if there was any other way to accomplish His will without the crucifixion. Jesus prayed so hard he sweated blood! But in this case… as in the case of David… God answered differently… and both got up, dusted themselves off, and moved forward.
There is a great example here for each of us, and it has two components. First, we must always pray for God’s will… not our own. Beyond this, we must accept God’s answers – with dignity and grace. To do otherwise belies our faith. If we walk around saying, “I asked God to heal me, but I’m still sick,” we’re saying, “I don’t believe in God’s wisdom… I don’t trust His outcomes.” If we say, “I begged God not to let such-and-such happen, but it did anyway,” we are saying, “I know better than God how things ought to go. He should have listened to me!” Instead, we should be saying, “I prayed for God’s will. I will trust Him for the right outcome,” or “I asked God to heal me according to His will… and I know He will do just that!” The difference is a shift in attitude… operating in faith rather than specific requests and results.
There is nothing wrong with praying, “Lord, please dissolve this tumor,” or “Father, please protect my children.” But we must always follow with “… according to your will.” More than this, we must mean what we say. We must truly ask God to be present in our lives according to His will, and when He speaks, we must do as David did… dust ourselves off, dress and move ahead. We must look at Jesus’ example and put one foot in front of the other, regardless of what God calls us to endure.
I will be the first to admit that God has not always answered my prayers as I would like. In fact, He often answers quite differently. I’m learning to look at God’s answers and see that His outcomes are always better. Notice I didn’t say they were easier… but somewhere down the road, I can almost always see that He had a better plan. And honestly, it doesn’t matter whether I see the plan or not… what matters is that I trust God for His perfect outcome.
Think about what you are asking God for these days. Consider what you are expecting… is it His will – or your own? Where do you need to shift your attitude… and your level of trust? Have you dusted off your clothes and stepped out in faith for God’s answers lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
So David went without eating to show his sorrow, and he begged God to make the boy well. David would not sleep on his bed, but spent each night lying on the floor. His officials stood beside him and tried to talk him into getting up. But he would not get up or eat with them.
After the child had been sick for seven days, he died, but the officials were afraid to tell David. They said to each other, "Even when the boy was alive, David wouldn't listen to us. How can we tell him his son is dead? He might do something terrible!"
David noticed his servants whispering, and he knew the boy was dead. "Did my son die?" he asked his servants. "Yes, he did," they answered.
David got up off the floor; he took a bath, combed his hair, and dressed. He went into the LORD's tent and worshiped, then he went back home. David asked for something to eat, and when his servants brought him some food, he ate it.
His officials said, "What are you doing? You went without eating and cried for your son while he was alive! But now that he's dead, you're up and eating.
David answered: While he was still alive, I went without food and cried because there was still hope. I said to myself, "Who knows? Maybe the LORD will have pity on me and let the child live." But now that he's dead, why should I go without eating? I can't bring him back! Someday I will join him in death, but he can't return to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever prayed for something specific, and God answered in a different way? How did you react? Did you pout… rant and rave… or mope around feeling sad and mistreated because God didn’t answer as you had wished?
We have clear examples in the Bible of God answering prayers… but not always in the way we want or expect. David had done some terrible things, and he was told that God would allow him to live… his baby boy would die because of his sin. David begged and pleaded with God not to take the baby… but that is exactly what God did.
In the New Testament, we read that Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane and asked God if there was any other way to accomplish His will without the crucifixion. Jesus prayed so hard he sweated blood! But in this case… as in the case of David… God answered differently… and both got up, dusted themselves off, and moved forward.
There is a great example here for each of us, and it has two components. First, we must always pray for God’s will… not our own. Beyond this, we must accept God’s answers – with dignity and grace. To do otherwise belies our faith. If we walk around saying, “I asked God to heal me, but I’m still sick,” we’re saying, “I don’t believe in God’s wisdom… I don’t trust His outcomes.” If we say, “I begged God not to let such-and-such happen, but it did anyway,” we are saying, “I know better than God how things ought to go. He should have listened to me!” Instead, we should be saying, “I prayed for God’s will. I will trust Him for the right outcome,” or “I asked God to heal me according to His will… and I know He will do just that!” The difference is a shift in attitude… operating in faith rather than specific requests and results.
There is nothing wrong with praying, “Lord, please dissolve this tumor,” or “Father, please protect my children.” But we must always follow with “… according to your will.” More than this, we must mean what we say. We must truly ask God to be present in our lives according to His will, and when He speaks, we must do as David did… dust ourselves off, dress and move ahead. We must look at Jesus’ example and put one foot in front of the other, regardless of what God calls us to endure.
I will be the first to admit that God has not always answered my prayers as I would like. In fact, He often answers quite differently. I’m learning to look at God’s answers and see that His outcomes are always better. Notice I didn’t say they were easier… but somewhere down the road, I can almost always see that He had a better plan. And honestly, it doesn’t matter whether I see the plan or not… what matters is that I trust God for His perfect outcome.
Think about what you are asking God for these days. Consider what you are expecting… is it His will – or your own? Where do you need to shift your attitude… and your level of trust? Have you dusted off your clothes and stepped out in faith for God’s answers lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 13, 2011
Psalm 66:16-20
All who worship God, come here and listen; I will tell you everything God has done for me. I prayed to the Lord, and I praised him. If my thoughts had been sinful, he would have refused to hear me. But God did listen and answered my prayer. Let's praise God! He listened when I prayed, and he is always kind.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we see a friend or family member and ask, “What’s new?”… we often get an earful. People are ready to share their latest ailments, challenges, mishaps, and more… and I am as guilty as the next person. Wouldn’t we be surprised if we asked “What’s new?” and someone replied, “God is meeting all my needs… He blessed me with a good night’s rest and I’m feeling great. All of my bills are paid and I have plenty to eat… and best of all, He’s got a mansion waiting for me when I get to heaven!”?!
Honestly, we would probably 1) take a step backward, and 2) wonder if the person speaking was thinking clearly! We are just not accustomed to hearing such good news… people simply do not express their blessings as frequently as they detail their misfortunes and the negative aspects of their lives. It’s as if we think people either won’t be interested in hearing that we have no complaints… or they will think we are bragging.
The truth is that we have no basis for this thinking… because most of us have never tried speaking positively – at least not without peppering in negative comments, as well. The late TV broadcaster Paul Eells said that he tried to make every person he encountered feel like they were the only person in the room. He did this, in part, by focusing on that person and his/her needs rather than his own. And I can’t help but believe that when Paul did share about himself with others, it was more often positive in nature than negative.
We really do need to change our attitude in this area. We need to start making a concerted effort to speak positively… to share Good News and talk about the great things God is doing for us each and every minute of the day. This is not a denial that you have problems… everyone does! But what if instead of sharing your problem… you shared how God is solving it?! The difference is simply a shift in attitude. Surely our great God deserves this… and more. Isn’t it time we started speaking of His power and how He answers our prayers? Are you willing to give this a try?
©2011 Debbie Robus
All who worship God, come here and listen; I will tell you everything God has done for me. I prayed to the Lord, and I praised him. If my thoughts had been sinful, he would have refused to hear me. But God did listen and answered my prayer. Let's praise God! He listened when I prayed, and he is always kind.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we see a friend or family member and ask, “What’s new?”… we often get an earful. People are ready to share their latest ailments, challenges, mishaps, and more… and I am as guilty as the next person. Wouldn’t we be surprised if we asked “What’s new?” and someone replied, “God is meeting all my needs… He blessed me with a good night’s rest and I’m feeling great. All of my bills are paid and I have plenty to eat… and best of all, He’s got a mansion waiting for me when I get to heaven!”?!
Honestly, we would probably 1) take a step backward, and 2) wonder if the person speaking was thinking clearly! We are just not accustomed to hearing such good news… people simply do not express their blessings as frequently as they detail their misfortunes and the negative aspects of their lives. It’s as if we think people either won’t be interested in hearing that we have no complaints… or they will think we are bragging.
The truth is that we have no basis for this thinking… because most of us have never tried speaking positively – at least not without peppering in negative comments, as well. The late TV broadcaster Paul Eells said that he tried to make every person he encountered feel like they were the only person in the room. He did this, in part, by focusing on that person and his/her needs rather than his own. And I can’t help but believe that when Paul did share about himself with others, it was more often positive in nature than negative.
We really do need to change our attitude in this area. We need to start making a concerted effort to speak positively… to share Good News and talk about the great things God is doing for us each and every minute of the day. This is not a denial that you have problems… everyone does! But what if instead of sharing your problem… you shared how God is solving it?! The difference is simply a shift in attitude. Surely our great God deserves this… and more. Isn’t it time we started speaking of His power and how He answers our prayers? Are you willing to give this a try?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 26, 2011
Ecclesiastes 5:6
Don't let your mouth get you in trouble! And don't say to the worship leader, "I didn't mean what I said." God can destroy everything you have worked for, so don't say something that makes God angry.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve attended several basketball games lately… and watched a few more on television… and I’ve noticed that, when it comes to a sporting event, it doesn’t take much to make us angry! One common source of our wrath is the referees, who are all probably nice enough guys off the court. But to our way of thinking, they need glasses, they don’t know anything about the game, and they are just downright biased and “in cahoots” with the opposing team.
I’m all for having a good time at a ballgame. And I’ll admit, there have been plenty of times when I’ve stood and yelled, “C’mon ref… he walked… she was over the back…he’s all over him!” I’m not excusing my behavior, but compared to others who yell and scream the whole game, I’m a lightweight.
We recently attended a basketball game played by our college alma mater on an opposing court. The gym was small and filled with extremely loud fans. They frequently chanted in unison… “D-fense”,”Let’s Go, Let’s Go!”, and more. BUT… when an opponent fouled out of the game, they chanted as he/she stepped off the court… “Right, left, right, left” until the player sat down, and then they yelled, somewhat hatefully, “Now SIT DOWN!”
This was all in good fun, and relatively harmless, I suppose… and maybe our players didn’t even notice (but I bet they did). But let’s be honest… it’s only funny when you are the one doing the chanting. And more importantly, a lot of times the things we chant and yell… the comments and gestures we make… are not behavior that pleases God. I remind you again, people are watching. I would never want someone to see me behaving at a ballgame – or anywhere else – in a way that would make them say… “She is supposed to be a Christian. If that’s how Christians act, I’m not sure I’m interested!”
I admit, I need to check my own behavior. I don’t want someone to ask themselves, “How can she say this or act like that and then turn around and write these devos about serving God well and behaving in a way that pleases and honors Him?” And I have been convicted more than once over something I wrote and then didn’t follow. We all fall short daily, and that’s why we need to be covered in God’s grace and continually seeking renewal through Him.
So where do you stand? Are you the guy in the stands that nobody wants to sit near, because you rant and rave at the refs, players and coaches? Are you the person who posts in Facebook that “we wuz robbed by the refs” every time your team has a bad performance or the opponent plays better? Let’s be honest… most games do not come down to one call. On the other hand, one call can make a huge difference, and if that “one call” is your public outburst in an unbecoming way, it can have a lasting effect on those who witness it.
Let’s give ourselves a good check today. “I didn’t mean it” is usually uttered too late to be of much help. Let’s look at our attitudes and see if we can make some corrections before we speak or act… not afterward. Let’s make a concerted effort to honor God all the time… and to seek His protection and guidance. And when we do fail, let’s be quick to ask for grace, mercy, and God’s correction. With God’s help, our mouth can become less apt to get us into trouble… and that’s a very good thing!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Don't let your mouth get you in trouble! And don't say to the worship leader, "I didn't mean what I said." God can destroy everything you have worked for, so don't say something that makes God angry.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve attended several basketball games lately… and watched a few more on television… and I’ve noticed that, when it comes to a sporting event, it doesn’t take much to make us angry! One common source of our wrath is the referees, who are all probably nice enough guys off the court. But to our way of thinking, they need glasses, they don’t know anything about the game, and they are just downright biased and “in cahoots” with the opposing team.
I’m all for having a good time at a ballgame. And I’ll admit, there have been plenty of times when I’ve stood and yelled, “C’mon ref… he walked… she was over the back…he’s all over him!” I’m not excusing my behavior, but compared to others who yell and scream the whole game, I’m a lightweight.
We recently attended a basketball game played by our college alma mater on an opposing court. The gym was small and filled with extremely loud fans. They frequently chanted in unison… “D-fense”,”Let’s Go, Let’s Go!”, and more. BUT… when an opponent fouled out of the game, they chanted as he/she stepped off the court… “Right, left, right, left” until the player sat down, and then they yelled, somewhat hatefully, “Now SIT DOWN!”
This was all in good fun, and relatively harmless, I suppose… and maybe our players didn’t even notice (but I bet they did). But let’s be honest… it’s only funny when you are the one doing the chanting. And more importantly, a lot of times the things we chant and yell… the comments and gestures we make… are not behavior that pleases God. I remind you again, people are watching. I would never want someone to see me behaving at a ballgame – or anywhere else – in a way that would make them say… “She is supposed to be a Christian. If that’s how Christians act, I’m not sure I’m interested!”
I admit, I need to check my own behavior. I don’t want someone to ask themselves, “How can she say this or act like that and then turn around and write these devos about serving God well and behaving in a way that pleases and honors Him?” And I have been convicted more than once over something I wrote and then didn’t follow. We all fall short daily, and that’s why we need to be covered in God’s grace and continually seeking renewal through Him.
So where do you stand? Are you the guy in the stands that nobody wants to sit near, because you rant and rave at the refs, players and coaches? Are you the person who posts in Facebook that “we wuz robbed by the refs” every time your team has a bad performance or the opponent plays better? Let’s be honest… most games do not come down to one call. On the other hand, one call can make a huge difference, and if that “one call” is your public outburst in an unbecoming way, it can have a lasting effect on those who witness it.
Let’s give ourselves a good check today. “I didn’t mean it” is usually uttered too late to be of much help. Let’s look at our attitudes and see if we can make some corrections before we speak or act… not afterward. Let’s make a concerted effort to honor God all the time… and to seek His protection and guidance. And when we do fail, let’s be quick to ask for grace, mercy, and God’s correction. With God’s help, our mouth can become less apt to get us into trouble… and that’s a very good thing!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 7, 2011
Proverbs 30:6
Don't change what God has said! He will correct you and show that you are a liar.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Years ago, my husband worked with a man who liked to say, “If you lie, you fry. – Hezekiah 3:5.” For the record, there is no book of Hezekiah in the Bible… and this is not an actual scripture passage. We’ve laughed at this phrase and used it as a running joke for years. But there are other phrases that people use and claim to be scriptural… such as “God helps those who help themselves”… that are not actually found in the Bible, either.
While these phrases and others like them are relatively harmless… and they may even hint at an actual Biblical truth… some people want to interpret scripture to suit their own situation or desires… and this is very dangerous. When you hear someone say, “That may be what the scripture says, but that’s not what God meant,” your antenna should automatically be raised. A lot of us would like to twist God’s words to justify our own desires and behaviors. But this simply is not how we Christians should operate!
Everybody makes mistakes, and we will all have to admit at some point that we were wrong about one thing or another. But nothing will ever compare with the humility of having to admit you twisted God’s words to suit yourself. God will not be pleased, mocked, or misrepresented! If you believe there is “wiggle room” with the laws of God, you are greatly mistaken. The devil – the king of liars – has convinced you that God can be swayed… and I assure you, He cannot!
We cannot change what God has declared… and honestly, we don’t want to do this. His ways are perfect… His plans are exactly right for us… His will is for us to have everything He designed for us and to experience peace, prosperity and joy in Him. The only change necessary is how we are thinking… our attitude and our reactions to life circumstances. Don’t try to change what God has said… instead, ask Him to change YOU… to give you an attitude of humility and servitude - and confidence in His plans for your life.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't change what God has said! He will correct you and show that you are a liar.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Years ago, my husband worked with a man who liked to say, “If you lie, you fry. – Hezekiah 3:5.” For the record, there is no book of Hezekiah in the Bible… and this is not an actual scripture passage. We’ve laughed at this phrase and used it as a running joke for years. But there are other phrases that people use and claim to be scriptural… such as “God helps those who help themselves”… that are not actually found in the Bible, either.
While these phrases and others like them are relatively harmless… and they may even hint at an actual Biblical truth… some people want to interpret scripture to suit their own situation or desires… and this is very dangerous. When you hear someone say, “That may be what the scripture says, but that’s not what God meant,” your antenna should automatically be raised. A lot of us would like to twist God’s words to justify our own desires and behaviors. But this simply is not how we Christians should operate!
Everybody makes mistakes, and we will all have to admit at some point that we were wrong about one thing or another. But nothing will ever compare with the humility of having to admit you twisted God’s words to suit yourself. God will not be pleased, mocked, or misrepresented! If you believe there is “wiggle room” with the laws of God, you are greatly mistaken. The devil – the king of liars – has convinced you that God can be swayed… and I assure you, He cannot!
We cannot change what God has declared… and honestly, we don’t want to do this. His ways are perfect… His plans are exactly right for us… His will is for us to have everything He designed for us and to experience peace, prosperity and joy in Him. The only change necessary is how we are thinking… our attitude and our reactions to life circumstances. Don’t try to change what God has said… instead, ask Him to change YOU… to give you an attitude of humility and servitude - and confidence in His plans for your life.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 29, 2010
2 Thessalonians 2:15-17
My friends, that's why you must remain faithful and follow closely what we taught you in person and by our letters. God our Father loves us. He is kind and has given us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope. We pray that our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father will encourage you and help you always to do and say the right thing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1872, Christina Rosetti wrote the hymn “In the Bleak Midwinter” in response to a contest by Scribner’s Magazine for a Christmas poem. The first lines read:
In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow,
In the bleak midwinter, long ago.
Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him, nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign.
In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.
We can’t know what the next couple of months will bring us… sunny warm days, or layers of fluffy white snow to cover our landscape. There will surely be days when we think spring has come early… and possibly days when we feel winter will never end. For many, the “bleak midwinter” is a time of sadness and depression. Some truly sink into a serious “funk” on days when we have no sunshine… and if this lasts for very long, these people can be seriously affected. It has even been suggested by some that spending time in front of a lamp that mimics natural sunlight can help. This disorder even has a name… “SADD” – Seasonal Affective Disorder Depression – and it is very real.
I know several people who appear to suffer from this. And maybe you are one of them. Feeling a little sad or melancholy in a dreary winter day is okay… but wallowing in it or allowing these feelings to overcome you is another. I would like to suggest that we take the bleak midwinter days of this year and use them to grow in our walk with Christ – to rest and restore our souls. Wouldn’t it be great if we could learn to anticipate cold dreary days with enthusiasm?
So how do we do this? There are the tried and true activities… curling up with a good book or watching movies… working a jigsaw puzzle or playing board games… sledding if there is a decent snowfall. But what about using the dreary days of winter to grow as a Christian? We could spend some time sitting at a window watching birds at a feeder – marveling at how God designed every single feather and made the color patterns integrate in such incredible ways.
We could take a walk or a drive and look at all that is laid bare in this season… the things we never see in the other three seasons because of the cover of foliage… the intricacy of tree branches… the beauty of blue cedar berries and other “colors” of winter… swans and other waterfowl swimming on a nearby lake. What if we made a steamy pot of hearty soup and invited friends or neighbors to share it… or we took a container to someone who was elderly or sick and in need of physical – and emotional – nourishment?
We could look around for an elderly neighbor who has trouble getting his/her garbage to the curb for trash day in the cold of winter. We could offer to fill bird feeders – or even shovel/sweep an icy sidewalk. We could at least make phone calls and send cards and notes to cheer our friends who are feeling blue… and we could include a scripture of encouragement.
The bottom line is that we must not allow the bleak midwinter to be our crutch for wallowing in sadness and self-pity. We must find the glory of the Lord even in the dreary days. It’s not a matter of looking ahead to spring… but rather, we must enjoy this season, which is also a gift from God. This is a time to sit back a little and focus on God’s creations and the needs of others instead of the “busyness” of our lives and the activities of spring/summer/fall. We don’t have to hibernate like bears, but we can slow down a bit and use this time to recharge our batteries.
When the first days of “bleak midwinter” arrive, remember the eternal comfort and wonderful hope of God our Father. Bask in these promises… and find ways to share them with others. Spring will come again… and we will be rested and ready!
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/i/n/intbleak.htm
©2010 Debbie Robus
My friends, that's why you must remain faithful and follow closely what we taught you in person and by our letters. God our Father loves us. He is kind and has given us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope. We pray that our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father will encourage you and help you always to do and say the right thing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1872, Christina Rosetti wrote the hymn “In the Bleak Midwinter” in response to a contest by Scribner’s Magazine for a Christmas poem. The first lines read:
In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow,
In the bleak midwinter, long ago.
Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him, nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign.
In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.
We can’t know what the next couple of months will bring us… sunny warm days, or layers of fluffy white snow to cover our landscape. There will surely be days when we think spring has come early… and possibly days when we feel winter will never end. For many, the “bleak midwinter” is a time of sadness and depression. Some truly sink into a serious “funk” on days when we have no sunshine… and if this lasts for very long, these people can be seriously affected. It has even been suggested by some that spending time in front of a lamp that mimics natural sunlight can help. This disorder even has a name… “SADD” – Seasonal Affective Disorder Depression – and it is very real.
I know several people who appear to suffer from this. And maybe you are one of them. Feeling a little sad or melancholy in a dreary winter day is okay… but wallowing in it or allowing these feelings to overcome you is another. I would like to suggest that we take the bleak midwinter days of this year and use them to grow in our walk with Christ – to rest and restore our souls. Wouldn’t it be great if we could learn to anticipate cold dreary days with enthusiasm?
So how do we do this? There are the tried and true activities… curling up with a good book or watching movies… working a jigsaw puzzle or playing board games… sledding if there is a decent snowfall. But what about using the dreary days of winter to grow as a Christian? We could spend some time sitting at a window watching birds at a feeder – marveling at how God designed every single feather and made the color patterns integrate in such incredible ways.
We could take a walk or a drive and look at all that is laid bare in this season… the things we never see in the other three seasons because of the cover of foliage… the intricacy of tree branches… the beauty of blue cedar berries and other “colors” of winter… swans and other waterfowl swimming on a nearby lake. What if we made a steamy pot of hearty soup and invited friends or neighbors to share it… or we took a container to someone who was elderly or sick and in need of physical – and emotional – nourishment?
We could look around for an elderly neighbor who has trouble getting his/her garbage to the curb for trash day in the cold of winter. We could offer to fill bird feeders – or even shovel/sweep an icy sidewalk. We could at least make phone calls and send cards and notes to cheer our friends who are feeling blue… and we could include a scripture of encouragement.
The bottom line is that we must not allow the bleak midwinter to be our crutch for wallowing in sadness and self-pity. We must find the glory of the Lord even in the dreary days. It’s not a matter of looking ahead to spring… but rather, we must enjoy this season, which is also a gift from God. This is a time to sit back a little and focus on God’s creations and the needs of others instead of the “busyness” of our lives and the activities of spring/summer/fall. We don’t have to hibernate like bears, but we can slow down a bit and use this time to recharge our batteries.
When the first days of “bleak midwinter” arrive, remember the eternal comfort and wonderful hope of God our Father. Bask in these promises… and find ways to share them with others. Spring will come again… and we will be rested and ready!
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/i/n/intbleak.htm
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 6, 2010
Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few months, I’ve become more aware of the use of the word “hate.” We so casually say, “Oh, I hate such-and-such.” Or “So-and-so hates me!” And maybe we don’t literally mean “hate” – but use of this word leaves room for a lot of misinterpretation… and the Bible warns us not to operate in hate. In truth, this word shouldn’t be in our vocabulary!
Newton’s law of motion says for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. For hate, the equal/opposite reaction is love. For negativity, this reaction is positivity. It’s time for us to “spin the dial”, so to speak. It’s time for us to start operating in love and positives rather than hate and negativity. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, we need to see it half full.
We must learn to look for the good in others. We must learn to see them as children of God, not the devil’s agents. We must try to find a positive side to situations we deem hopeless or unpleasant. One exercise that has helped me lately is to view others through the eyes of a parent. Every single person we encounter was once someone’s precious baby. We all know how cute and adorable babies are… how we overlook their flaws and stand ready to gently correct them and forgive them.
If you will stop and picture the person or persons involved in a situation you are drawn to “hate” as a once innocent baby or toddler, you will be more apt to find a loving solution. How would you correct the youngster? How much would you be willing to tolerate and “love away?” What is different now? Sure, the older we get, the more responsible we must become for our actions. But the principle of finding a loving solution still applies.
In everything we do, we are called to look at others with God’s eyes… to see HIS child – the one He loves – and to find a peaceful solution to the problem. Operating in hate is a tool of the devil… not our Heavenly Father. Who are you emulating these days? Whose tools are in your arsenal?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few months, I’ve become more aware of the use of the word “hate.” We so casually say, “Oh, I hate such-and-such.” Or “So-and-so hates me!” And maybe we don’t literally mean “hate” – but use of this word leaves room for a lot of misinterpretation… and the Bible warns us not to operate in hate. In truth, this word shouldn’t be in our vocabulary!
Newton’s law of motion says for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. For hate, the equal/opposite reaction is love. For negativity, this reaction is positivity. It’s time for us to “spin the dial”, so to speak. It’s time for us to start operating in love and positives rather than hate and negativity. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, we need to see it half full.
We must learn to look for the good in others. We must learn to see them as children of God, not the devil’s agents. We must try to find a positive side to situations we deem hopeless or unpleasant. One exercise that has helped me lately is to view others through the eyes of a parent. Every single person we encounter was once someone’s precious baby. We all know how cute and adorable babies are… how we overlook their flaws and stand ready to gently correct them and forgive them.
If you will stop and picture the person or persons involved in a situation you are drawn to “hate” as a once innocent baby or toddler, you will be more apt to find a loving solution. How would you correct the youngster? How much would you be willing to tolerate and “love away?” What is different now? Sure, the older we get, the more responsible we must become for our actions. But the principle of finding a loving solution still applies.
In everything we do, we are called to look at others with God’s eyes… to see HIS child – the one He loves – and to find a peaceful solution to the problem. Operating in hate is a tool of the devil… not our Heavenly Father. Who are you emulating these days? Whose tools are in your arsenal?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 4, 2010
1 Peter 2:1
Stop being hateful! Quit trying to fool people, and start being sincere. Don't be jealous or say cruel things about others.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Your mom has probably told you at some point, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Good advice! People can usually spot a phony a mile away… especially if that person makes a habit of telling others what they want to hear. You know the type… “fitting in” by being critical or cruel toward others, spreading gossip, and cutting down others in order to make themselves look better. These same people can turn on the charm when they come face-to-face with the very people they have criticized or berated. They know how to “work a crowd”… but not in a good way. Hopefully you are not one of these people!
There is no room in the life of a Christian for such phoniness. We don’t have time and energy to expend on anything except the things of Jesus… sharing love, grace, mercy, kindness, understanding… GOOD NEWS!
I dare you to make a concerted effort to smile more and see what happens! I challenge you to speak only kindness toward others – and about them. I beg you to realize that you don’t have to be jealous of anyone else. YOU are a child of the Most High God… heir to His throne and all the glory and riches of heaven. You don’t have to compare yourself to anyone else for even one second. In God’s eyes, you are second to none!
Also recognize this… the very people that you may speak unkindly toward – or talk about – the very ones you dislike or treat hypocritically… the ones you “love to hate” are also God’s children. They are equal to you in God’s eyes. So when you mistreat them, you are in essence mistreating God! Think about this. Do you really want to be even remotely guilty of mistreating your Heavenly Father? Do you want Him to think for even a split second that you could be less than all He has called you to be?
Kick jealousy, gossip, unkind speech, hypocrisy, deceit, and all forms of evil behavior to the curb. Be the child of God you have been called to be... operate in His goodness and mercy… and be the real deal for Jesus Christ. Truly… nothing less is good enough.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Stop being hateful! Quit trying to fool people, and start being sincere. Don't be jealous or say cruel things about others.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Your mom has probably told you at some point, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Good advice! People can usually spot a phony a mile away… especially if that person makes a habit of telling others what they want to hear. You know the type… “fitting in” by being critical or cruel toward others, spreading gossip, and cutting down others in order to make themselves look better. These same people can turn on the charm when they come face-to-face with the very people they have criticized or berated. They know how to “work a crowd”… but not in a good way. Hopefully you are not one of these people!
There is no room in the life of a Christian for such phoniness. We don’t have time and energy to expend on anything except the things of Jesus… sharing love, grace, mercy, kindness, understanding… GOOD NEWS!
I dare you to make a concerted effort to smile more and see what happens! I challenge you to speak only kindness toward others – and about them. I beg you to realize that you don’t have to be jealous of anyone else. YOU are a child of the Most High God… heir to His throne and all the glory and riches of heaven. You don’t have to compare yourself to anyone else for even one second. In God’s eyes, you are second to none!
Also recognize this… the very people that you may speak unkindly toward – or talk about – the very ones you dislike or treat hypocritically… the ones you “love to hate” are also God’s children. They are equal to you in God’s eyes. So when you mistreat them, you are in essence mistreating God! Think about this. Do you really want to be even remotely guilty of mistreating your Heavenly Father? Do you want Him to think for even a split second that you could be less than all He has called you to be?
Kick jealousy, gossip, unkind speech, hypocrisy, deceit, and all forms of evil behavior to the curb. Be the child of God you have been called to be... operate in His goodness and mercy… and be the real deal for Jesus Christ. Truly… nothing less is good enough.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 3, 2010
Psalm 28:3
Don't drag me away, LORD, with those cruel people, who speak kind words, while planning trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever uttered the words, “I hope nobody sees me here,” or “I was there, but I was not participating,” this passage is for you. For years, I have been telling others, particularly teenagers and young children, “Whether you are doing anything wrong or not, if you are with those who are, you are likely to be accused, also.” But this has merit for adults, too.
When we go to a sporting event and sit on the sidelines, don’t people naturally assume that we are sitting on the side of “our” team? When you attend a particular church or belong to a certain club, don’t people assume you believe in the tenets of that group? So if we go to a party where people are engaged in underage drinking or doing drugs, doesn’t it appear we are involved… or at the very least that we approve? When you laugh at a joke or comment that is obscene or disrespects a particular race, ethnicity, or lifestyle, doesn’t this imply you agree? When you gossip or talk badly about someone, don’t those in the group have to ask themselves, “What does he/she say about me when I’m not around?”
Ask God to show you where you should spend time… with whom you should keep company… when you should walk away from improper comments – or speak up against them… and how to conduct yourself in a manner that pleases Him. Talk to God and see where He wants you to hang out and how He wishes for you to handle challenging situations.
It is important that we keep all of our behavior in check. People are watching, and what we say and do matters! Are you pleasing God with your words and actions? Has He rescued you from the potential for trouble?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't drag me away, LORD, with those cruel people, who speak kind words, while planning trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever uttered the words, “I hope nobody sees me here,” or “I was there, but I was not participating,” this passage is for you. For years, I have been telling others, particularly teenagers and young children, “Whether you are doing anything wrong or not, if you are with those who are, you are likely to be accused, also.” But this has merit for adults, too.
When we go to a sporting event and sit on the sidelines, don’t people naturally assume that we are sitting on the side of “our” team? When you attend a particular church or belong to a certain club, don’t people assume you believe in the tenets of that group? So if we go to a party where people are engaged in underage drinking or doing drugs, doesn’t it appear we are involved… or at the very least that we approve? When you laugh at a joke or comment that is obscene or disrespects a particular race, ethnicity, or lifestyle, doesn’t this imply you agree? When you gossip or talk badly about someone, don’t those in the group have to ask themselves, “What does he/she say about me when I’m not around?”
Ask God to show you where you should spend time… with whom you should keep company… when you should walk away from improper comments – or speak up against them… and how to conduct yourself in a manner that pleases Him. Talk to God and see where He wants you to hang out and how He wishes for you to handle challenging situations.
It is important that we keep all of our behavior in check. People are watching, and what we say and do matters! Are you pleasing God with your words and actions? Has He rescued you from the potential for trouble?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 2, 2010
Ephesians 4:31
Stop being bitter and angry and mad at others. Don't yell at one another or curse each other or ever be rude.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching a report on ESPN about the Miami Heat going to Cleveland, Ohio, to play the Cleveland Cavaliers in a pro basketball game. Many of the residents of Cleveland are absolutely furious that LeBron James, dubbed “The King of Cleveland”, left their beloved city to play basketball in Miami. They feel James disrespected the city by announcing his free agency on national television before giving notice to his Cavaliers team. Lest you think I am exaggerating this whole thing, the ESPN report said that security, both at the Quicken Loans Arena, and that provided by the Cleveland police force, has been beefed up for the 8:00 p.m. game to an unprecedented level… and there will be extra security around the Miami bench. One Cleveland resident said, “There needs to be!”
This is an overblown example of everything Ephesians 4:31 says NOT to do... and I believe that most of us see how foolish it all is. But the businessmen who say their restaurant revenues are down because James left town don’t see it the same way, nor do countless other Cleveland residents who feel their “beef” is valid. And honestly, even if it is on a much smaller scale, we often act just like these people about equally ridiculous things. And yet they don’t seem ridiculous to us… at least at the time.
We seem to have a knack for getting upset, mad, angry, bitter, frustrated and resentful over the craziest things. We show out, act up, and treat others rudely in the bargain. “I let him/her know such and such!” or “I showed him/her who was boss,” or “You have got to be kidding me! They can’t treat me this way!” We get mad at the wait staff, so we don’t leave a tip. We get angry at referees at every sporting event from Little League to the pros. We plot our “revenge” against friends, family members… you name it. We’ll show them!
In the end, the only person who truly suffers is us… and those who have to be subjected to our tirades! We end up being regarded as someone who is negative, difficult, and unpleasant. People start to avoid us like the plague and think up excuses to escape our company. Who wants to be around a grump or a chronic complainer? Who wants to subject themselves to the potential to be mistreated or berated? Who in their right mind would think that we are living with a heart filled with Jesus Christ by the way we behave?
Do you see my point? We can’t be true disciples of Jesus and act this way. Nobody will believe us. Nobody will see His face in ours if we are negative, angry, resentful, or rude. No one will look at us and say, “I want what he/she has! I want to feel like that!” I have to imagine that this sort of behavior causes God to hang His head and feel extremely sad and disappointed.
I pray that we would start to examine our lives… our hearts… our motives – TODAY! It’s especially easy to get caught up in the “stress” of what should be one of the most blessed seasons of the year and let our tempers flare and our feelings hang out on our sleeves. But that totally belies our faith and the Reason for this season! Take a good hard look at yourself today. See where you are letting your emotions get the better of you… and ask God to change your heart… now and all through the year.
Begin to operate in positives, blessings, grace, mercy… and the love of Christ. Make needed changes to improve your attitude… and the sentiments of those around you in the bargain… and make these changes for good!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Stop being bitter and angry and mad at others. Don't yell at one another or curse each other or ever be rude.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching a report on ESPN about the Miami Heat going to Cleveland, Ohio, to play the Cleveland Cavaliers in a pro basketball game. Many of the residents of Cleveland are absolutely furious that LeBron James, dubbed “The King of Cleveland”, left their beloved city to play basketball in Miami. They feel James disrespected the city by announcing his free agency on national television before giving notice to his Cavaliers team. Lest you think I am exaggerating this whole thing, the ESPN report said that security, both at the Quicken Loans Arena, and that provided by the Cleveland police force, has been beefed up for the 8:00 p.m. game to an unprecedented level… and there will be extra security around the Miami bench. One Cleveland resident said, “There needs to be!”
This is an overblown example of everything Ephesians 4:31 says NOT to do... and I believe that most of us see how foolish it all is. But the businessmen who say their restaurant revenues are down because James left town don’t see it the same way, nor do countless other Cleveland residents who feel their “beef” is valid. And honestly, even if it is on a much smaller scale, we often act just like these people about equally ridiculous things. And yet they don’t seem ridiculous to us… at least at the time.
We seem to have a knack for getting upset, mad, angry, bitter, frustrated and resentful over the craziest things. We show out, act up, and treat others rudely in the bargain. “I let him/her know such and such!” or “I showed him/her who was boss,” or “You have got to be kidding me! They can’t treat me this way!” We get mad at the wait staff, so we don’t leave a tip. We get angry at referees at every sporting event from Little League to the pros. We plot our “revenge” against friends, family members… you name it. We’ll show them!
In the end, the only person who truly suffers is us… and those who have to be subjected to our tirades! We end up being regarded as someone who is negative, difficult, and unpleasant. People start to avoid us like the plague and think up excuses to escape our company. Who wants to be around a grump or a chronic complainer? Who wants to subject themselves to the potential to be mistreated or berated? Who in their right mind would think that we are living with a heart filled with Jesus Christ by the way we behave?
Do you see my point? We can’t be true disciples of Jesus and act this way. Nobody will believe us. Nobody will see His face in ours if we are negative, angry, resentful, or rude. No one will look at us and say, “I want what he/she has! I want to feel like that!” I have to imagine that this sort of behavior causes God to hang His head and feel extremely sad and disappointed.
I pray that we would start to examine our lives… our hearts… our motives – TODAY! It’s especially easy to get caught up in the “stress” of what should be one of the most blessed seasons of the year and let our tempers flare and our feelings hang out on our sleeves. But that totally belies our faith and the Reason for this season! Take a good hard look at yourself today. See where you are letting your emotions get the better of you… and ask God to change your heart… now and all through the year.
Begin to operate in positives, blessings, grace, mercy… and the love of Christ. Make needed changes to improve your attitude… and the sentiments of those around you in the bargain… and make these changes for good!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 1, 2010
1 John 2:11
If we hate others, we are living and walking in the dark. We don't know where we are going, because we can't see in the dark.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are never truly in the dark these days. Something is blinking or shining somewhere – smoke alarms, radon detectors, digital clocks, LED screens on electronics of all sorts. I heard an older person say “I turn out the lights, and I’m still not in the dark!”
I can remember when I was a child and my grandparents lived “out in the country” on a dirt road with thickly wooded forest on one side of their house and open pasture on the others. When they turned out the lights at night, it was DARK! Once we got in bed for the night, we didn’t dare move, because there was no way to see where we were going!
I don’t know about you, but I’ve grown accustomed to the “darkness” of this century. I had to stop and think about what the older woman said, because it had not really occurred to me in quite some time just how dark the nights were when I was a child spending time on that farm. I really like getting up in the night and having the comforting illumination of a glow-in-the-dark nightlight and our digital alarm clocks with the bright LED numerals giving me the time.
This passage is not literally about “hating others.” It speaks to much more than that. Hating others… harboring bitterness and resentment… always walking around griping and grumbling about this, that, or the other thing… having a negative attitude… “seeing the glass half empty” rather than half full… all of these things add up to walking and living in the dark. These things create an atmosphere of confusion and bumbling around… a lack of direction… no purpose. And that should not in any way, shape or form describe the life of a true Christian.
What about you? Have you “grown with the times” in your faith walk? As you have learned more about God, studied His word, spent time communicating with Him in prayer and fellowship, have “the lights come on” in your world? Have you found a way to love those who are hard to love, to tolerate those who think differently, to find the positive in each situation… or a solution to problems?
Jesus IS the Light of the World. If He lives in and through us, there can be no darkness. How light is your world these days? Are you done with the dark? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
If we hate others, we are living and walking in the dark. We don't know where we are going, because we can't see in the dark.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are never truly in the dark these days. Something is blinking or shining somewhere – smoke alarms, radon detectors, digital clocks, LED screens on electronics of all sorts. I heard an older person say “I turn out the lights, and I’m still not in the dark!”
I can remember when I was a child and my grandparents lived “out in the country” on a dirt road with thickly wooded forest on one side of their house and open pasture on the others. When they turned out the lights at night, it was DARK! Once we got in bed for the night, we didn’t dare move, because there was no way to see where we were going!
I don’t know about you, but I’ve grown accustomed to the “darkness” of this century. I had to stop and think about what the older woman said, because it had not really occurred to me in quite some time just how dark the nights were when I was a child spending time on that farm. I really like getting up in the night and having the comforting illumination of a glow-in-the-dark nightlight and our digital alarm clocks with the bright LED numerals giving me the time.
This passage is not literally about “hating others.” It speaks to much more than that. Hating others… harboring bitterness and resentment… always walking around griping and grumbling about this, that, or the other thing… having a negative attitude… “seeing the glass half empty” rather than half full… all of these things add up to walking and living in the dark. These things create an atmosphere of confusion and bumbling around… a lack of direction… no purpose. And that should not in any way, shape or form describe the life of a true Christian.
What about you? Have you “grown with the times” in your faith walk? As you have learned more about God, studied His word, spent time communicating with Him in prayer and fellowship, have “the lights come on” in your world? Have you found a way to love those who are hard to love, to tolerate those who think differently, to find the positive in each situation… or a solution to problems?
Jesus IS the Light of the World. If He lives in and through us, there can be no darkness. How light is your world these days? Are you done with the dark? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 22, 2010
Romans 10:14-17
How can people have faith in the Lord and ask him to save them, if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear, unless someone tells them? And how can anyone tell them without being sent by the Lord? The Scriptures say it is a beautiful sight to see even the feet of someone coming to preach the good news. Yet not everyone has believed the message. For example, the prophet Isaiah asked, "Lord, has anyone believed what we said?"
No one can have faith without hearing the message about Christ.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It is said that some dogs recognize the hum of their owner’s car motor. And surely more than one of us has had a pet… particularly a dog… that seemed to know when we were arriving and ran to greet us. To them, we must be “a beautiful sight to see.” Think about how excited your pets are to see you… how glad they are to be in your presence. Think about how they trust you to see after their needs… to nurture them and love them unconditionally.
Who else is eager to see you? Are others glad to “see your feet coming?” Do you represent joy and peace and the love of Christ? Do you share how God has blessed you and spread His good news with others?
Consider this… if all others see of you is someone who is negative, griping, complaining, and “mad at the world,” do you suppose they get a good picture of the love of Jesus? Even if you think you are “sharing the Gospel,” if your message is continually one that tells others, “This world is coming to an end”… or speaking negatively about this group or that one… are you offering others a message of hope and faith?
See, what we say and how we say it matters. “But you can’t sugar coat the truth!” you may say. I agree. Satan is real. Sin is real. We live in a “fallen world.” But beating people over the head with this is not helping. In fact, don’t we all know people who cause us to cringe and want to hide when they approach, simply because we know that they are going to present a negative attitude or message?
Think about the image you are projecting. Think about what you are saying with your body language and your attitude. Consider the words you speak and how you say them. Are you someone whose very feet present a “beautiful sight to see” for Christ… or do you make others want to run in the opposite direction? We all need to be good witnesses for the Lord… but I honestly don’t think He’s sending us out to be grumps! It’s one thing to share the message of Christ with others… but it’s quite another to share it in a way that makes them want to listen!
How are you sharing your faith with others? What sort of image are you presenting? Are you a “beautiful sight to see” or a grump? Who wants to hear what you have to share these days? Are you living your faith in a way that honors Christ… or disheartens Him? Ask God to help you work on your Christian witness. Ask Him to grant you grace and mercy… and to make you a “beautiful sight to see” in His name.
©2010 Debbie Robus
How can people have faith in the Lord and ask him to save them, if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear, unless someone tells them? And how can anyone tell them without being sent by the Lord? The Scriptures say it is a beautiful sight to see even the feet of someone coming to preach the good news. Yet not everyone has believed the message. For example, the prophet Isaiah asked, "Lord, has anyone believed what we said?"
No one can have faith without hearing the message about Christ.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It is said that some dogs recognize the hum of their owner’s car motor. And surely more than one of us has had a pet… particularly a dog… that seemed to know when we were arriving and ran to greet us. To them, we must be “a beautiful sight to see.” Think about how excited your pets are to see you… how glad they are to be in your presence. Think about how they trust you to see after their needs… to nurture them and love them unconditionally.
Who else is eager to see you? Are others glad to “see your feet coming?” Do you represent joy and peace and the love of Christ? Do you share how God has blessed you and spread His good news with others?
Consider this… if all others see of you is someone who is negative, griping, complaining, and “mad at the world,” do you suppose they get a good picture of the love of Jesus? Even if you think you are “sharing the Gospel,” if your message is continually one that tells others, “This world is coming to an end”… or speaking negatively about this group or that one… are you offering others a message of hope and faith?
See, what we say and how we say it matters. “But you can’t sugar coat the truth!” you may say. I agree. Satan is real. Sin is real. We live in a “fallen world.” But beating people over the head with this is not helping. In fact, don’t we all know people who cause us to cringe and want to hide when they approach, simply because we know that they are going to present a negative attitude or message?
Think about the image you are projecting. Think about what you are saying with your body language and your attitude. Consider the words you speak and how you say them. Are you someone whose very feet present a “beautiful sight to see” for Christ… or do you make others want to run in the opposite direction? We all need to be good witnesses for the Lord… but I honestly don’t think He’s sending us out to be grumps! It’s one thing to share the message of Christ with others… but it’s quite another to share it in a way that makes them want to listen!
How are you sharing your faith with others? What sort of image are you presenting? Are you a “beautiful sight to see” or a grump? Who wants to hear what you have to share these days? Are you living your faith in a way that honors Christ… or disheartens Him? Ask God to help you work on your Christian witness. Ask Him to grant you grace and mercy… and to make you a “beautiful sight to see” in His name.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 12, 2010
Proverbs 12:18
Sharp words cut like a sword, but words of wisdom heal.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
About a year ago, my husband and I went to the Historic Arkansas Museum in downtown Little Rock. One of the permanent exhibits there is a collection of knives and swords from around the world. Some are centuries old. I am not a big fan of swords, but the intricacy and detail presented in some of these specimens was truly amazing … particularly in light of their age and the methods that must have been employed to create them. Someone put a lot of time and energy into creating something meant to be used as a lethal weapon!
Conversely, many of us don’t spend much time and effort at all thinking about what we say to others, so our words are often painful, cutting, or even lethal, i.e. they destroy the heart and soul of the person who hears them. And we toss them out without any care for how they will affect the other person. Or maybe we do care … but not as we should. Sometimes, we mean for our words to be hurtful and “cut like a sword.”
Just recently, I received a message from a young woman to whom I had sent a note of sympathy and encouragement a few years ago when she miscarried. She told me…”The words were perfect and I still have it. I read it from time to time and cry every time. It brought me a lot of comfort.” Today, she and her husband are the proud parents of a beautiful baby girl. I don’t remember exactly what I said, but I think I acknowledged the pain of their loss and assured her that God understood … and that their unborn baby would be waiting for them in heaven. The point is that whatever God laid on my heart to say to this young woman helped her to heal from her grief.
God gives us wisdom in many forms – through our own life experiences, through His word, through prayer, through study and fellowship with others. And we can prayerfully use this wisdom to help others in their struggles and even their daily living. God can use our words of wisdom to heal others. But words of wisdom do not come easily – they require as much time and energy as is needed for the craftsmanship of ancient swords.
We have a choice… lethal words that cut like a knife, or healing words filled with the wisdom of our Heavenly Father. From time to time, we all choose both. My prayer is that we devote the time and energy necessary to gain wisdom and cultivate a life filled with healing words … not those that hurt. Ask God to help you in this area. Let’s start to build up a community of believers who speak positive, healing, wise, faith-filled messages of hope and promise. Let’s leave the sharp words in the past and move ahead with care and kindness.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Sharp words cut like a sword, but words of wisdom heal.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
About a year ago, my husband and I went to the Historic Arkansas Museum in downtown Little Rock. One of the permanent exhibits there is a collection of knives and swords from around the world. Some are centuries old. I am not a big fan of swords, but the intricacy and detail presented in some of these specimens was truly amazing … particularly in light of their age and the methods that must have been employed to create them. Someone put a lot of time and energy into creating something meant to be used as a lethal weapon!
Conversely, many of us don’t spend much time and effort at all thinking about what we say to others, so our words are often painful, cutting, or even lethal, i.e. they destroy the heart and soul of the person who hears them. And we toss them out without any care for how they will affect the other person. Or maybe we do care … but not as we should. Sometimes, we mean for our words to be hurtful and “cut like a sword.”
Just recently, I received a message from a young woman to whom I had sent a note of sympathy and encouragement a few years ago when she miscarried. She told me…”The words were perfect and I still have it. I read it from time to time and cry every time. It brought me a lot of comfort.” Today, she and her husband are the proud parents of a beautiful baby girl. I don’t remember exactly what I said, but I think I acknowledged the pain of their loss and assured her that God understood … and that their unborn baby would be waiting for them in heaven. The point is that whatever God laid on my heart to say to this young woman helped her to heal from her grief.
God gives us wisdom in many forms – through our own life experiences, through His word, through prayer, through study and fellowship with others. And we can prayerfully use this wisdom to help others in their struggles and even their daily living. God can use our words of wisdom to heal others. But words of wisdom do not come easily – they require as much time and energy as is needed for the craftsmanship of ancient swords.
We have a choice… lethal words that cut like a knife, or healing words filled with the wisdom of our Heavenly Father. From time to time, we all choose both. My prayer is that we devote the time and energy necessary to gain wisdom and cultivate a life filled with healing words … not those that hurt. Ask God to help you in this area. Let’s start to build up a community of believers who speak positive, healing, wise, faith-filled messages of hope and promise. Let’s leave the sharp words in the past and move ahead with care and kindness.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 7, 2010
Jude 1:20-22
But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life! Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One of the hardest things we will ever do is to stay faithful and positive when others are trying to tear us down. And often, in serving God, this is what happens. When people operate out of fear, unbelief, or even weakened faith, they frequently lash out, mistreat others, and reject love and kindness shown to them. Does this mean we must stop offering it? Absolutely not? Does this mean we can become discouraged and feel defeated? No way! I love the last few sentences of this scripture passage … go easy on those who hesitate and after those who take the wrong way.
Have you ever had someone apologize or make excuses for being unpleasant, saying, “I’m just having a bad day.”? Sometimes, when things are not right in our own life – or in our Spiritual life – we compensate by lashing out at others … or avoiding them. Some of this is done consciously – and some is done subconsciously. But either way, when someone does this toward us, we must be merciful and try to understand where they are coming from – and to be tender with them.
So the next time someone treats you unkindly, doesn’t return a phone call, fails to show up for an appointment, says something hurtful, ignores you in the store or on the street, and more … give them love and kindness in return. You don’t have to excuse their behavior or become a doormat for it … but you must show the love and mercy of Jesus to them. As someone pointed out recently, Jesus was mistreated all the way to the cross and still showed love and mercy there, asking God to forgive his persecutors. Why should we do any less for our friends and neighbors?
Nobody ever said being a faithful Christian was easy. Nobody ever said we wouldn’t be mistreated by others for our faith and kindness … or that everyone we encountered would welcome us with open arms and receive all we offer. But we must keep trying, in Jesus’ name. How do we do this? By following the first part of this passage … carefully building ourselves up in prayer and holy faith – by calling on the Holy Spirit to guide us each and every step of the way.
We must keep being tender with sinners, but not soft on sin. Our arms must be outstretched and ready not only for the mercy and love of Jesus for ourselves… but also to share it with those we encounter. Are your arms open wide to Jesus today? Are they open toward others, as well?
©2010 Debbie Robus
But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life! Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One of the hardest things we will ever do is to stay faithful and positive when others are trying to tear us down. And often, in serving God, this is what happens. When people operate out of fear, unbelief, or even weakened faith, they frequently lash out, mistreat others, and reject love and kindness shown to them. Does this mean we must stop offering it? Absolutely not? Does this mean we can become discouraged and feel defeated? No way! I love the last few sentences of this scripture passage … go easy on those who hesitate and after those who take the wrong way.
Have you ever had someone apologize or make excuses for being unpleasant, saying, “I’m just having a bad day.”? Sometimes, when things are not right in our own life – or in our Spiritual life – we compensate by lashing out at others … or avoiding them. Some of this is done consciously – and some is done subconsciously. But either way, when someone does this toward us, we must be merciful and try to understand where they are coming from – and to be tender with them.
So the next time someone treats you unkindly, doesn’t return a phone call, fails to show up for an appointment, says something hurtful, ignores you in the store or on the street, and more … give them love and kindness in return. You don’t have to excuse their behavior or become a doormat for it … but you must show the love and mercy of Jesus to them. As someone pointed out recently, Jesus was mistreated all the way to the cross and still showed love and mercy there, asking God to forgive his persecutors. Why should we do any less for our friends and neighbors?
Nobody ever said being a faithful Christian was easy. Nobody ever said we wouldn’t be mistreated by others for our faith and kindness … or that everyone we encountered would welcome us with open arms and receive all we offer. But we must keep trying, in Jesus’ name. How do we do this? By following the first part of this passage … carefully building ourselves up in prayer and holy faith – by calling on the Holy Spirit to guide us each and every step of the way.
We must keep being tender with sinners, but not soft on sin. Our arms must be outstretched and ready not only for the mercy and love of Jesus for ourselves… but also to share it with those we encounter. Are your arms open wide to Jesus today? Are they open toward others, as well?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 5, 2010
1 Peter 3:15
Honor Christ and let him be the Lord of your life. Always be ready to give an answer when someone asks you about your hope.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I don’t know what is going on, but it seems I haven’t had to look very far lately to see plenty of negativity, despair, discouragement, and misery. People who claim to be Christians are bemoaning how our world is going down the tubes … complaining about everything from the economy to our political leaders to their next-door neighbor! You ask someone how they are doing, and they frown and say pitifully, “Oh, okay, I guess.”
C’mon, people! Is this really the way Christians are supposed to behave? Do we truly believe what we claim in the name of Jesus? Or are we just giving Him lip service?
No matter how bad things seem in our lives – and believe me, I know there are some really bad, hard things that happen to many of us – we basically have two choices:
How are you living today? Are people afraid to approach you for fear of the reaction they will get? Or are they eager to be around you … encouraged by your enthusiasm, hope and faith? Are they seeing your confidence in Christ Jesus and an attitude that honors Him? Who has your heart and your mind-set … the devil or the Holy Spirit? The choice is ours … whaddya say? Is your attitude a true reflection of your faith?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Honor Christ and let him be the Lord of your life. Always be ready to give an answer when someone asks you about your hope.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I don’t know what is going on, but it seems I haven’t had to look very far lately to see plenty of negativity, despair, discouragement, and misery. People who claim to be Christians are bemoaning how our world is going down the tubes … complaining about everything from the economy to our political leaders to their next-door neighbor! You ask someone how they are doing, and they frown and say pitifully, “Oh, okay, I guess.”
C’mon, people! Is this really the way Christians are supposed to behave? Do we truly believe what we claim in the name of Jesus? Or are we just giving Him lip service?
No matter how bad things seem in our lives – and believe me, I know there are some really bad, hard things that happen to many of us – we basically have two choices:
- We can wallow in self-pity, give the devil all the satisfaction, and drag those around us down, as well; or
- We can operate in the hope and confidence of the promises of Christ Jesus, believing that no matter how “bad” it seems, our worst day with Him is better than our best day without Him.
How are you living today? Are people afraid to approach you for fear of the reaction they will get? Or are they eager to be around you … encouraged by your enthusiasm, hope and faith? Are they seeing your confidence in Christ Jesus and an attitude that honors Him? Who has your heart and your mind-set … the devil or the Holy Spirit? The choice is ours … whaddya say? Is your attitude a true reflection of your faith?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 4, 2010
1 Peter 3:9
Don't be hateful and insult people just because they are hateful and insult you. Instead, treat everyone with kindness. You are God's chosen ones, and he will bless you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have to admit, I really struggle with this sometimes. Our human nature tells us to “fight fire with fire.” And while even the most patient, reserved person reaches his/her limit at one time or another, for some of us, the “fuse” is often pretty short. Don’t we all know someone who “tells it like it is” with seemingly little or no regard for the other person’s feelings? Are we that person?
Many years ago, I was doing contract publishing work for several area businesses. One morning, I had a company newsletter to deliver, and the manager to whom I reported greeted me with a smile and received the package of newsletters. He was always very kind and complimentary toward me, and this morning, his parting words were, “I hope you have a nice day.”
What this man could not possibly have known was that my grandfather had died the previous afternoon. Now, I could have made him feel horrible and offered some retort about how “nice” my day would be. But I knew that he had no idea about what was happening in my life, and he was offering a kind, pleasant send-off to me … and I appreciated his gesture for what it was.
But I also have never forgotten this incident, because I learned a valuable lesson from it. See, we never truly know what is happening with someone else. So we make a lot of assumptions and are quick to judge. And the person who seems hateful or insulting may very well be having the worst day ever. On the other hand, this person may be generally miserable pretty much every day. It really doesn’t matter. Our job, as Christians, is to be kind no matter what. Tall order? Absolutely! Hard to do? You bet!
Conversely, when we brush by people and ask casually, “How are you?” without really caring about the response, the person may reply, “I’m fine,” when the truth is something entirely different. A dear friend of mine who was battling cancer used to always tell me, “I’m fine.” I would say, “This is me (a close friend since childhood) you are talking to … how are you really?” and she would then tell me what was happening with her treatments and her life in general.
The point is that we don’t always take the other guy into consideration. We “judge the book by its cover,” and we miss a chance to truly share the love of Christ. We fail to act in a manner that represents our stature as God’s chosen ones … disciples of Christ. We are hateful and insulting – or uncaring. At the very least, we are insincere.
Our goal should be to always be genuine and kind. Think of Jesus. Was He hateful and insulting? If anyone had reason to be, it was He! But that was not the example we were given … so why do we think it’s okay now? Take the time to really look at people and listen. Tune in to what is really happening with them, and be as sensitive as you possibly can. Show kindness and sincerity, and try your hardest never to “act a fool!” Remember Who chose you … and act in a way that says, “He chose well!”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't be hateful and insult people just because they are hateful and insult you. Instead, treat everyone with kindness. You are God's chosen ones, and he will bless you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have to admit, I really struggle with this sometimes. Our human nature tells us to “fight fire with fire.” And while even the most patient, reserved person reaches his/her limit at one time or another, for some of us, the “fuse” is often pretty short. Don’t we all know someone who “tells it like it is” with seemingly little or no regard for the other person’s feelings? Are we that person?
Many years ago, I was doing contract publishing work for several area businesses. One morning, I had a company newsletter to deliver, and the manager to whom I reported greeted me with a smile and received the package of newsletters. He was always very kind and complimentary toward me, and this morning, his parting words were, “I hope you have a nice day.”
What this man could not possibly have known was that my grandfather had died the previous afternoon. Now, I could have made him feel horrible and offered some retort about how “nice” my day would be. But I knew that he had no idea about what was happening in my life, and he was offering a kind, pleasant send-off to me … and I appreciated his gesture for what it was.
But I also have never forgotten this incident, because I learned a valuable lesson from it. See, we never truly know what is happening with someone else. So we make a lot of assumptions and are quick to judge. And the person who seems hateful or insulting may very well be having the worst day ever. On the other hand, this person may be generally miserable pretty much every day. It really doesn’t matter. Our job, as Christians, is to be kind no matter what. Tall order? Absolutely! Hard to do? You bet!
Conversely, when we brush by people and ask casually, “How are you?” without really caring about the response, the person may reply, “I’m fine,” when the truth is something entirely different. A dear friend of mine who was battling cancer used to always tell me, “I’m fine.” I would say, “This is me (a close friend since childhood) you are talking to … how are you really?” and she would then tell me what was happening with her treatments and her life in general.
The point is that we don’t always take the other guy into consideration. We “judge the book by its cover,” and we miss a chance to truly share the love of Christ. We fail to act in a manner that represents our stature as God’s chosen ones … disciples of Christ. We are hateful and insulting – or uncaring. At the very least, we are insincere.
Our goal should be to always be genuine and kind. Think of Jesus. Was He hateful and insulting? If anyone had reason to be, it was He! But that was not the example we were given … so why do we think it’s okay now? Take the time to really look at people and listen. Tune in to what is really happening with them, and be as sensitive as you possibly can. Show kindness and sincerity, and try your hardest never to “act a fool!” Remember Who chose you … and act in a way that says, “He chose well!”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 21, 2010
Colossians 3:12
God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I think of living in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ, I think of a certain woman who attends my church. I don’t know her very well, but she has got to be one of the kindest, most gentle and loving people I’ve ever met. She radiates with a love for Jesus and an abiding faith in Him. She is like a magnet … her spirit is contagious! Just thinking of her makes me smile … and she is almost always smiling!
On the other hand, when I hear the names of a few other people, I feel my skin bristle. It’s as if I know that any encounter with them will be unpleasant, based on past experience. At some point we will disagree, or something will not suit them, and they will let everyone know. I know that these are Christian people who have big hearts and the potential to love and serve God with a gentle, kind, patient spirit. I’ve seen them do it. But more often, I’ve seen them behave in the opposite manner.
You surely know people who are like the lady in my church – you may even know her! You know those who are always gentle, kind and loving … patient and ready to help … and humble. Sadly, you probably know people who are arrogant or spoiled, grumpy … who always have to have their own way, and are restless at best.
If someone lined up a group of people … a mix of both gentle, kind, humble, patient folks and those who behaved in the opposite manner … and then told you that all of these people were faith-filled Christians – disciples of Christ – would you believe them? If you were told to interview each one, and then choose a half dozen or so to get to know better, which ones would you choose? If you were told that you should pick one to be your spiritual friend or mentor … someone with whom to study the word of God and the teachings of Jesus … would you choose the grump? Would you believe what he/she had to say about a faith-filled life in Christ?
Attitude does matter. I’m not saying we should be phony and pretend to be happy and kind when we are not feeling it. But I know for a fact that God can help us overcome a lot of negativity in our lives. He can help us rise above it. He can give us joy and kindness, humility and meekness, gentleness and patience – even when our world seems to be crumbling around us. He can use us to show others how to walk in these traits even when their worlds are crumbling or less than perfect.
So today, I challenge all of us to ask God to help us be more gentle, kind, humble, meek and patient … in all circumstances! I pray that we will all become “magnets” for Jesus … drawing others to us so that we can share His love and the message of the cross. What’s your attitude these days? Are you behaving like the apple of God’s eye … or could you use a little “spit and polish?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I think of living in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ, I think of a certain woman who attends my church. I don’t know her very well, but she has got to be one of the kindest, most gentle and loving people I’ve ever met. She radiates with a love for Jesus and an abiding faith in Him. She is like a magnet … her spirit is contagious! Just thinking of her makes me smile … and she is almost always smiling!
On the other hand, when I hear the names of a few other people, I feel my skin bristle. It’s as if I know that any encounter with them will be unpleasant, based on past experience. At some point we will disagree, or something will not suit them, and they will let everyone know. I know that these are Christian people who have big hearts and the potential to love and serve God with a gentle, kind, patient spirit. I’ve seen them do it. But more often, I’ve seen them behave in the opposite manner.
You surely know people who are like the lady in my church – you may even know her! You know those who are always gentle, kind and loving … patient and ready to help … and humble. Sadly, you probably know people who are arrogant or spoiled, grumpy … who always have to have their own way, and are restless at best.
If someone lined up a group of people … a mix of both gentle, kind, humble, patient folks and those who behaved in the opposite manner … and then told you that all of these people were faith-filled Christians – disciples of Christ – would you believe them? If you were told to interview each one, and then choose a half dozen or so to get to know better, which ones would you choose? If you were told that you should pick one to be your spiritual friend or mentor … someone with whom to study the word of God and the teachings of Jesus … would you choose the grump? Would you believe what he/she had to say about a faith-filled life in Christ?
Attitude does matter. I’m not saying we should be phony and pretend to be happy and kind when we are not feeling it. But I know for a fact that God can help us overcome a lot of negativity in our lives. He can help us rise above it. He can give us joy and kindness, humility and meekness, gentleness and patience – even when our world seems to be crumbling around us. He can use us to show others how to walk in these traits even when their worlds are crumbling or less than perfect.
So today, I challenge all of us to ask God to help us be more gentle, kind, humble, meek and patient … in all circumstances! I pray that we will all become “magnets” for Jesus … drawing others to us so that we can share His love and the message of the cross. What’s your attitude these days? Are you behaving like the apple of God’s eye … or could you use a little “spit and polish?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 20, 2010
Philippians 1:27
Above all else, you must live in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ. Then, whether I visit you or not, I will hear that all of you think alike. I will know that you are working together and that you are struggling side by side to get others to believe the good news.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you are old enough – or you have seen the modern-day movies – you know about Dennis the Menace. He was really just a typical kid, but he gave his next-door neighbors, the Wilsons, “the business” – as Beaver Cleaver would put it! He was a thorn in Mr. Wilson’s side from sun-up to sundown, and Mr. Wilson did not react kindly. Mrs. Wilson, on the other hand, saw Dennis for who he was, and she accepted him and loved him.
We don’t know a whole lot about Mr. Wilson, aside from his interaction with Dennis. He may have been a really “stand-up” guy … a pillar of his community, good boss, and wonderful friend to many. But all we saw was a cranky old codger who grumbled, griped, complained and disliked children - especially Dennis. On the other hand, we saw Mrs. Wilson as someone who extended grace and mercy. She was loving and gentle … someone we wanted to be around and get to know. And then there was Dennis … innocent, precocious, and curious … and something of a “sponge,” soaking up the characteristics and behaviors of those around him.
In real life, you probably know at least a few “Mr. Wilsons.” They may be Christians who read their Bible daily, go to church every Sunday, pray often, and help with a handful of ministry projects. But to be around them, you would be hard-pressed to see Christian love, grace and mercy in action. Something is always irritating them. They grumble and/or speak with an unkind tone to their voice, and the least little thing sets them off. They are always negative about something or someone, and frankly, they appear to be somewhat miserable.
God wants us to be more like Mrs. Wilson. Oh, sure, the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world may tromp through our rose garden and pester the tar out of us from time to time, but we don’t let it get us down. We look upon everyone with the same love, grace and mercy that Christ extends to us each and every day. We realize that we are all His children … loved equally … and we do our best to share that love with others in the hopes they will catch a glimpse of Christ in us.
Our goal as Christians is to live in a way that honors Christ – to work together with other Christians to share His Good News … to offer love, grace and mercy to those in our path. If we are modern-day “Mr. Wilsons,” we are missing the mark, and we fail to honor the gift of the cross. Everybody has an occasional bad day, but even on those, we must work hard to live honorably for Jesus.
Who do you more closely resemble today – Mr. Wilson or Mrs. Wilson? How are the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world reading you? Are you honoring the good news of Christ or giving your faith walk a black eye? It comes down to a choice … what will you decide?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Above all else, you must live in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ. Then, whether I visit you or not, I will hear that all of you think alike. I will know that you are working together and that you are struggling side by side to get others to believe the good news.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you are old enough – or you have seen the modern-day movies – you know about Dennis the Menace. He was really just a typical kid, but he gave his next-door neighbors, the Wilsons, “the business” – as Beaver Cleaver would put it! He was a thorn in Mr. Wilson’s side from sun-up to sundown, and Mr. Wilson did not react kindly. Mrs. Wilson, on the other hand, saw Dennis for who he was, and she accepted him and loved him.
We don’t know a whole lot about Mr. Wilson, aside from his interaction with Dennis. He may have been a really “stand-up” guy … a pillar of his community, good boss, and wonderful friend to many. But all we saw was a cranky old codger who grumbled, griped, complained and disliked children - especially Dennis. On the other hand, we saw Mrs. Wilson as someone who extended grace and mercy. She was loving and gentle … someone we wanted to be around and get to know. And then there was Dennis … innocent, precocious, and curious … and something of a “sponge,” soaking up the characteristics and behaviors of those around him.
In real life, you probably know at least a few “Mr. Wilsons.” They may be Christians who read their Bible daily, go to church every Sunday, pray often, and help with a handful of ministry projects. But to be around them, you would be hard-pressed to see Christian love, grace and mercy in action. Something is always irritating them. They grumble and/or speak with an unkind tone to their voice, and the least little thing sets them off. They are always negative about something or someone, and frankly, they appear to be somewhat miserable.
God wants us to be more like Mrs. Wilson. Oh, sure, the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world may tromp through our rose garden and pester the tar out of us from time to time, but we don’t let it get us down. We look upon everyone with the same love, grace and mercy that Christ extends to us each and every day. We realize that we are all His children … loved equally … and we do our best to share that love with others in the hopes they will catch a glimpse of Christ in us.
Our goal as Christians is to live in a way that honors Christ – to work together with other Christians to share His Good News … to offer love, grace and mercy to those in our path. If we are modern-day “Mr. Wilsons,” we are missing the mark, and we fail to honor the gift of the cross. Everybody has an occasional bad day, but even on those, we must work hard to live honorably for Jesus.
Who do you more closely resemble today – Mr. Wilson or Mrs. Wilson? How are the “Dennis the Menaces” of the world reading you? Are you honoring the good news of Christ or giving your faith walk a black eye? It comes down to a choice … what will you decide?
©2010 Debbie Robus
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