Daily Devotional for December 23, 2016

Proverbs 3:27-29
Never walk away from someone who deserves help;
    your hand is God’s hand for that person.
Don’t tell your neighbor “Maybe some other time”
    or “Try me tomorrow”
    when the money’s right there in your pocket.
Don’t figure ways of taking advantage of your neighbor
    when he’s sitting there trusting and unsuspecting.

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.

Christmas Eve 2011, Greg and I were hosting our family for a mid-afternoon lunch.  Grandma E was here, and my sister and her husband were on their way.  My mother and her sister drove up at our front door with my Mam-ma Polly riding in the front passenger seat, and Greg went to the door to greet them.  I was busy in the kitchen when I heard my mother yell.  Mam-ma had stepped out of the car before anyone could get to her to assist her…and she had fallen.  I stopped what I was doing and rushed to the driveway, where my grandmother lay outside the car like a stunned little bird that had flown into a window.  She was motionless, and blood was pouring from her head - and running down our driveway.

Greg called 911 and ran to get towels, and I applied pressure to the wound while doing my best to keep my grandmother still. She had “come around” and was saying, “I need to get up.” I encouraged her not to move until the ambulance and EMTs arrived.

Needless to say, the dinner plans were changed in a split second.  Greg and I took turn sitting in the ER with my grandmother, while my mother and her sister finished preparing the almost-ready meal for the others, then cleaning the kitchen. My grandmother  was admitted to the hospital for a couple of days to treat a concussion, and trips back and forth to sit with her became our “Christmas.”  I would not have had it any other way.

Mam-ma tried to send me home a couple of times…but we both knew she needed me.  The tables had turned, and I was now the “parent”…and she was the “child.”  More to the point, she was God’s child, and I was in many ways His hand for her.  Earlier in the same month, my grandmother had spent about a week in the hospital for congestive heart failure.  While sitting with her, I wrote Christmas cards, greeted visitors, and attended to her needs in between doctor and nurse visits.

It would have been so easy to say, “I have things to do…a house to decorate, gifts to purchase and wrap, cookies to bake…” and much more.  But my grandmother needed help…and God sent me.

I wish I could say that I have always been as attentive to God’s nudge…that I have never said, “Not this time,” or “Maybe later.”  But I have promised visits to people and never gotten there…I’ve said “If I can help you, please let me know” and hoped the whole time that no one would call me. I’ve gritted my teeth and helped someone while wishing the whole time that God had sent someone else.

Don’t misunderstand me…there are times when we genuinely are not available…when we are too busy, not up to the task – or we sense that God is not telling us to get involved in something or offer to help with a particular task.  We must be careful not to step into someone else’s mission or ministry, and we must pay very close attention to where and how God is calling us to serve.  But when we know that God is putting us in a position to be His hand to someone else, we MUST comply – and serve gladly.

There were several times in the years that I cared for my grandmother that I grew weary and frustrated…but I did my best to listen to God’s voice and help her whenever and however I could.  I’m sure there were times I missed the mark completely…and there were plenty of times that SHE felt I fell short!  But I have no regrets…and lots of blessings and happy memories.  And I want that to be the case in every instance where my hand is God’s hand to another.  What about you?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for December 17, 2016

Matthew 25:31-46
When the Son of Man comes in his glory with all of his angels, he will sit on his royal throne. The people of all nations will be brought before him, and he will separate them, as shepherds separate their sheep from their goats.

He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, “My father has blessed you! Come and receive the kingdom that was prepared for you before the world was created. When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, and when I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me, and when I was naked, you gave me clothes to wear. When I was sick, you took care of me, and when I was in jail, you visited me.”

Then the ones who pleased the Lord will ask, “When did we give you something to eat or drink? When did we welcome you as a stranger or give you clothes to wear or visit you while you were sick or in jail?”

The king will answer, “Whenever you did it for any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did it for me.”

Then the king will say to those on his left, “Get away from me! You are under God’s curse. Go into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels! I was hungry, but you did not give me anything to eat, and I was thirsty, but you did not give me anything to drink. I was a stranger, but you did not welcome me, and I was naked, but you did not give me any clothes to wear. I was sick and in jail, but you did not take care of me.”

Then the people will ask, “Lord, when did we fail to help you when you were hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in jail?”

The king will say to them, “Whenever you failed to help any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you failed to do it for me.”

Then Jesus said, “Those people will be punished forever. But the ones who pleased God will have eternal life.”

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

I almost didn’t go to school to help in the kids’ classrooms yesterday.  I’ve been a little under the weather lately, and I almost “called in sick.”  But I woke early and felt pretty decent, so I dressed and headed for the school. Within 5 minutes of my arrival, I knew why I was there. A young mother approached me and began to thank me for the sympathy card and message I sent when her dad passed away recently.  She said my words were just what she needed to hear, and she had hoped to see me to thank me in person.

About 30 minutes later, I visited with a teacher whose mother was buried earlier in the week. I hugged her as she cried and asked, “Will it ever get better?”  I assured her that it would – in time…that it has been eleven months since my mother died, and I sometimes feel that I am still numb.  I also told her that God is shielding her now from more pain and sadness than she could otherwise bear, and He will continue to do this.  She squeezed me tightly and said, “You really do know how this feels.”

I don’t share these experiences for any other reason than to show you that “hunger” comes in many forms.  These two women needed a word of encouragement from someone who has “been there, done that”…and God apparently chose me.  I told one of them that when my own dad and brother died in a span of 13 months, I was struck by how many dear friends and loved ones said and did absolutely NOTHING to comfort us…and I vowed to never be that person for someone else.  God made a believer out of me in a profound way…and I am so glad He did!

I don’t know what God is calling you to do to minister to the hungry, thirsty, naked, sick or jailed.  I don’t know what strangers He will insert into your path to be shown His grace, mercy, forgiveness, kindness, hope and promise.  But I know that God WILL do this. We had best all be watching and listening for any and all opportunities to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus to everyone we encounter…whether they are a stranger or someone we know and love dearly.  And we need to begin today.  Are you paying attention?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for July 8, 2016

Philippians 4:8
And now, brothers, as I close this letter, let me say this one more thing: Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about.

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

Like many of us, I had trouble sleeping last night as the horror unfolded in Dallas, Texas.  I was already upset from watching the news reports of the senseless shootings in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and St. Paul, Minnesota. And now, people were apparently choosing to somehow seek revenge by committing more senseless killing. As if this weren’t enough, all of these events came on the heels of a shooting in my little community of 7000+ people one week ago today…another “revenge killing” that left a friend of ours dead, his wife wounded, and his family traumatized – especially his three grandchildren who witnessed the heinous act.  I have heard many say in recent days…”It seems as if the world has gone mad.”

Indeed, this is a sad time…a season of frustration, heartache – and yes, anger.  But before I even turned on news events this morning – or looked at my phone – I thought of Jesus.  I took a few minutes to thank Him for all fine, good things.  I thanked Him for the children who are spending time with us today and giving us a happy diversion.  I thanked Him for our health, our freedom…and our relative safety (though last week’s events proved that no place is 100% safe when someone goes on a shooting rampage).

Because Zola and Nathan are with us today, I have not spent time watching television news or paying attention to social media.  And it has felt good watch children’s television...to sit outside and watch the children ride their bike and blow bubbles in the air…to look at these little ones and our precious cousins who dropped by to visit and believe that there still is good in the world.  I know that God does not intend for these innocent youngsters to grow up with a spirit of fear and judgment.  It is not His desire that they discriminate against others and disparage them…or be on the receiving end of such treatment.

I know I cannot bury my head in the sand and pretend these horrific events have not occurred…much as I wish I could.  But I don’t think there is anything wrong with taking a breather from all of the dissension and opinion on all sides…especially to recognize that Jesus is the same today as He was yesterday.  He is heartbroken over all that has happened…but it doesn’t change who He is or what He wants for us.

I believe more than ever, we are called to look for the good…to see that out of the unbelievable shooting deaths in Baton Rouge and St. Paul, people of all colors and socio-economic status – civilians and police officers alike – stood arm-in-arm to say that ALL LIVES MATTER. We must note how people throughout the world are coming together to stand in solidarity and support for police officers as we mourn those who were so brutally murdered in Dallas.  We cannot separate these events and pit one group against the other.  Each was equally horrific and senseless.  But we look for – and readily acknowledge – the ways that Jesus is mending the broken-hearted and orchestrating an outpouring of love and humankindness in the midst of even these tragedies.

The world has not gone mad…but several have at least momentarily lost their way.  Jesus is calling on you and me to stand up for His goodness…to be His hands and feet in these situations and demonstrate grace, mercy, kindness, forgiveness, compassion, and love for others – ALL of them.  This is our “call to arms,” so to speak…to unite as the “army” of believers and shine His light in the darkness.  Are you ready and willing to do your part?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 19, 2016

John 20:1
Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone was rolled aside from the entrance.

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

Yesterday, a woman from my church who operates a local “clothes closet” came and picked up all of my mother’s clothing.  This wonderful servant will sort everything and offer the clothing items to people who have real needs – those who lost everything in a fire, single mothers, women who have lost their jobs or have a great need of some sort.  The woman said that approximately 70 people visit the “clothes closet” every Monday.  For a town with a population of almost 7200, this is a surprising number to me!

My mother had a lot of really nice clothes…some still had tags on them.  Even though the closets and dresser drawers are now empty…the items that filled them will live on and clothe countless women.  These items represent more than just shirts, pants, skirts, pajamas and more…they signify hope and purpose.  Because of a nice outfit, a woman will feel better about herself.  Thanks to a warm coat, someone will not be cold these next few weeks of winter/early spring.  Stylish clothing may be just what some woman needs to present a good image for a job interview…and it will give her something decent to wear when she lands the position!

My mother is gone, but in many ways, she lives on…in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other family members…in her writing…in her students…through the influence she had on so many…and yes, even because of her clothing.  She is still “feeding the sheep” even now. 

As I read today’s scripture passage, I thought about how the tomb could not contain Jesus.  Death could not stop Him!  He is ALIVE!  He rose from the tomb, spent 40 days teaching His disciples and preparing them for the ministry ahead…and then He ascended into Heaven to sit beside God the Father.  But because of the “seeds” Jesus planted while He was with us, His “sheep” are being fed…and we are His “agents” and disciples – or we should be!

We won’t rise from the dead as Jesus did.  But we can leave a legacy for Him.  Through our efforts to serve as Christian disciples, the teachings and influence of Jesus can continue.  We can leave gifts of all kinds – both physical and intangible – that will affect the lives of countless people for generations to come.  Just like Jesus, we can make a point…or we can make a difference.  Which one will you choose?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 15, 2016

John 13:12-17
Then he said, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Master,’ and rightly so. That is what I am. So if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must now wash each other’s feet. I’ve laid down a pattern for you. What I’ve done, you do. I’m only pointing out the obvious. A servant is not ranked above his master; an employee doesn’t give orders to the employer. If you understand what I’m telling you, act like it—and live a blessed life.

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.

Yesterday after church, Timothy had on a paper bracelet with something written on it.  I asked him about the bracelet during lunch, and he said, “We were supposed to write down the names of someone to pray for…and I chose Granny and Bruce, because they already died and went to heaven.”  I looked at the bracelet, and he had written “Granny” and “Brose” in his neatest printing.  Greg, Grandma E and I were all touched by his sweet gesture.  Timothy was talking to God about his Granny (my mother)…and Mr. Bruce (Greg’s brother).  And he had learned to do this from listening to – and observing – other adults…at home and in Sunday school.

Every Sunday after church, I thank God for what our children learned that day. I thank Him for the Godly, loving teachers who instruct them and demonstrate what it means to “feed my sheep” and share the love and teachings of Jesus with others.  And I am reminded that these children are watching everything we say and do…and so are “children” of all ages.

What are you demonstrating?  Have you learned from the Master… and are you following His pattern?  If you go back and read John 13 in its entirety, you will see that Jesus washed the feet of His disciples in a gesture of inclusiveness.  To wash the filthy, dusty feet of someone in Jesus’ day was a demonstration of complete humility, service - and great care.  Jesus was telling the disciples – and us – that we are all a part of what He is doing on this earth…that He is not too good to wash our feet – and we are not better than anyone else.  We must be ready, willing and able to do whatever is necessary to show others how much we love them in Jesus’ name…how much HE loves them.

Whether it is washing feet, praying for someone, sharing in the joys or sorrows of others, or teaching children to further God’s kingdom through their words and actions…we all have a part to play.  As Jesus pointed out…we must be willing to feed His sheep if we want to be part of His Kingdom.  And if we understand this…we must act like it.  How are you doing?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 5, 2015

Romans 6:6
Your old evil desires were nailed to the cross with him; that part of you that loves to sin was crushed and fatally wounded, so that your sin-loving body is no longer under sin’s control, no longer needs to be a slave to sin;

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

My name is Debbie, and I am a shoe-a-holic!  I have loved pretty shoes all of my life…dating back to the twice-a-year sale my mother would take my sister and me to at Kempner’s Shoe Store in Little Rock, back in the 1960s.  Because it was a half price sale – and my Aunt Altha noted that she and I had a big foot that was “the same size as half the world” – the selection in my size was often a little “interesting.”  This would explain why I once had a pair of orange leather penny loafers!  Since my mother and grandmother made most of our clothes, my outfits were created in colors that coordinated with said shoes!

As I got older, the heels on my shoes got higher, and I began to acquire a few pair that were beautiful to look at – and made my legs look fantastic – but literally were a PAIN to wear.  They didn’t feel so bad at first – and honestly, I felt so great in them that I tried to ignore any discomfort.  But over time, these “high heels” started to really irritate me.  Ours was a love-hate relationship.  I began to realize that this kind of shoe was truly uncomfortable and not right for me.  But I had purchased them…spent money on them…and they were fun (momentarily)…so I felt obligated to wear them, at least once in a while!

I’ve gotten rid of most of these pain-inflicting “stilettos”…and I have to tell you, it was cathartic to let them go.  I’ve traded them for “heel shoes” (as Timothy calls them) with a shorter, more sensible - yet still-attractive - heel height. These days, I am more concerned about comfort and the freedom to concentrate on what really matters than on whether my legs look lean and shapely – and my feet are killing me!  I look at the two or three pair of HIGH heels I still possess and remind myself that they represent someone I once was…a person who wasn’t necessarily that bad - but one who was not totally comfortable in her own skin, either.

I hope you see where I am headed.  Maybe, like me…it took you a while to realize that there were elements of your life that were not fitting well…that you were not comfortable in your present situation…and that the culprit was the “ill-fitting-shoes” of sin. Maybe your life seemed fun…and maybe some situations were areas that you adapted to, like the “orange-loafers” of your life, and ran with it – even when these things didn’t seem to be quite right. 

Hear the GOOD NEWS!  Today is the day to “clean your shoe closet”…to get rid of anything that pinches, doesn’t go with any of your clothing, or simply feels wrong.  This is the day to nail your sins to the cross with Jesus and rid yourself of them forever.  Even if you have been a Christian for a long time, you may still have a few areas where you struggle…a few “pair of shoes” from the past in your closet that remind you of where you once were.  Give those areas to Jesus today.  Let Him help handle them for you and free you of their burden.

I’ll be honest…I have ONE THING in my wardrobe today that is a light shade of orange. I loved those shoes when I was in 7th or 8th grade, but orange is really not my color. It’s time for us to recognize that we have been limping along in our spiritual lives and “making do” with our sins long enough.  Make today the day that you nail them to the cross, once and for all, and walk/run in the freedom and comfort of a life in Christ Jesus.  The hands and feet of Jesus work best when they aren’t hurting.  How are your “feet” feeling today? 

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for March 17, 2015

Matthew 25:33-40
He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, “My father has blessed you! Come and receive the kingdom that was prepared for you before the world was created. When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, and when I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me, and when I was naked, you gave me clothes to wear. When I was sick, you took care of me, and when I was in jail, you visited me.”

Then the ones who pleased the Lord will ask, “When did we give you something to eat or drink? When did we welcome you as a stranger or give you clothes to wear or visit you while you were sick or in jail?”

The king will answer, “Whenever you did it for any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did it for me.”

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

Yesterday, a card arrived in the mail from my friend Connie.  On the front was a cute little fuzzy kitten, and inside, Connie had written a note expressing how sad she was for us when she read my post on Facebook about the death last week of our cat, Lucy…and how she was praying for our peace and comfort.  DOZENS of others commented to my post to express their sympathies…and we were greatly comforted by each and every word. In each one of these gestures, I felt the love of Jesus. I felt His hand on my shoulder…His arms wrapped tightly around me…His peace and comfort flooding my heart. 

Sunday morning, the children settled on a rug at church for their Sunday school opening.  I was kneeling on the floor nearby.  Suddenly, Zola stood up and ran to me, threw her arms around my neck, and planted a big kiss on my cheek…then she ran back to her spot on the rug. That little almost-4-year-old girl will never know the impact of her gesture…but for me, it was like a kiss from Jesus!

We underestimate the power of little things…a smile…a gentle touch…a hug…a simple comment on Facebook or a wave across the aisle or parking lot at Wal-Mart.  As much as true Christian discipleship is about getting into God’s word and spending time in prayer and fellowship – with Him and others – it’s also about being the hands and feet of Jesus in ways great and small. 

Sometimes we get so busy trying to APPEAR “Christian” through things like attending worship services, meetings and Bible studies...writing out big checks to the church...and making sure that everything “looks pretty”…and we forget to “be a sheep who feeds the sheep” in Jesus’ name.  When we do this, we are instantly thrust into the “goat” pen.  I don’t know about you, but that’s not where I want to be!

Look around today.  Who needs to be “fed, clothed, healed, comforted or visited” by you in Jesus’ name?  Who is ministering to YOU in this manner?  Do you recognize the power and presence of God in these gestures?  Do you understand that THIS is our true role as Christian disciples…letting the love of Christ flow through us to others in this manner…sharing Him with each other through acts of love, respect and service?  Are you acting like a “sheep”…or have you somewhat become a “goat”?  This is the perfect day to “change pens”!  Are you ready to make a move?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 19, 2014

Acts 5:15-16
Sick people were brought out into the streets on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow would fall across some of them as he went by! And crowds came in from the Jerusalem suburbs, bringing their sick folk and those possessed by demons; and every one of them was healed.

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

This morning on ABC’s The View, I watched Whoopi Goldberg and Billy Crystal present a tribute to their dear friend, Robin Williams, who left this earth two months ago.  Essentially, both comics described a person who “lit up a room” when he entered.  Just the mention of the name - “Robin Williams” – evokes memories of hilarious routines, a favorite movie or television episode, “Nanu! Nanu!”, and more.  I am sure you have your favorites...but it’s safe to assume that when you hear Robin Williams’ name, you can’t help but smile.  His effect on people was like that of a healing balm.

Greg and I learned yesterday that a childhood friend of ours succumbed to cancer. Sherman was something of our own personal “Robin Williams”.  He entered the doorway telling a hilarious story, and he left everyone smiling – and sometimes shaking their heads in the context of “what just happened?!”  We can’t help but smile when we hear Sherman’s name.  Just the thought of our sweet friend makes us happy - even in his passing.

Here’s how this passage about healing relates to the recollections of these two men...we can easily understand how the thought of a brilliant, witty comedian or friend is enough to make us smile.  But we cannot comprehend how the “passing shadow” of one of Christ’s disciples could heal the sick and possessed.  We cannot fathom being so filled with Jesus that His healing power flows through us to the point that even our walking past someone who is sick or in need could result in their healing.  Furthermore, we can’t imagine a faith so strong that we would believe that falling underneath the shadow of such an anointed person could result in making us well.

But this is exactly what happened.

What does this all mean for us?  Are we to begin seeking anointed healers – or those who claim to be – and believing in their healing powers as agents of Jesus?  Are we to seek this power in our own lives?  I don’t believe that we will physically become able to heal the sick in Jesus’ name – although some would claim otherwise.  For me, this passage says two things:  1) do not underestimate Jesus’ ability and desire to use you as His disciple – in whatever way He sees fit; and 2) grow your faith in Christ’s “healing power” over your own life.  In other words, be ready and willing to reach out to others in Jesus’ name - wherever and whenever He sends you.  Trust in a God who is so powerful that His healing power can flow through the shadow of a mere mortal and restore another – if He so desires. 

Live in such a way that the mention of your name causes others to conjure a mental image of Jesus Christ and His love and care.  We can’t BE Jesus...but we can be more like Him!  And we can be servants that honor and glorify His name in all that we do.  Recognize the power of even a smile delivered to a stranger by someone whose heart is filled with Jesus. 

I thank God for the joy that was Robin Williams and our friend Sherman...for the happiness and brightness they brought to the lives of so many.  You can cast a “shadow” of the love of Christ over others...you really can - if you are closely attuned to His word and will for your life.  You can be the “healing balm” that brightens another person’s day and “soothes their soul” – if not their body. Time’s a wastin’!  None of us is promised tomorrow, so we need to get started!  Learn to recognize Jesus’ power and presence in your own life...discover how – and where – He wants you to represent His love and care...and go “light up a room” in His name!

©2014 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for March 31, 2014

Psalm 86:11-17
Teach me to follow you,
and I will obey your truth.
    Always keep me faithful.
With all my heart I thank you.
    I praise you, Lord God.
Your love for me is so great
    that you protected me
    from death and the grave.
Proud and violent enemies,
    who don’t care about you,
    have ganged up to attack
    and kill me.
But you, the Lord God,
    are kind and merciful.
You don’t easily get angry,
    and your love
    can always be trusted.
I serve you, Lord,
    and I am the child
    of one of your servants.
Look on me with kindness.
    Make me strong and save me.
Show that you approve of me!
Then my hateful enemies
    will feel like fools,
    because you have helped
    and comforted me.
 
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
 
All around us, people are hurting.  Even faith-filled Christians who trust God completely have a bad day now and again.  A dear friend of mine who has suffered great losses in the last year – including the deaths of her husband, her brother, and her beloved cat – lost her little dog over the weekend. The father of my cousin’s wife died suddenly a few weeks ago.  A few days after his burial, she had to undergo major surgery.  She has experienced other “stressors” in recent weeks…and yesterday, she was overwhelmed with emotion and could not stop crying.  Now she has a migraine.  Both of these women are incredibly strong in their Christian faith…but “life” and the devil’s “violent enemies” have ganged up on them.
 
I’ve said it before, but Satan often goes after those who are securely in God’s camp even more stringently than those who are filled with sin.  It’s like he figures that he has the latter group already…but he can’t stand to think he is losing a single soul to God’s Kingdom.  So he hits Christians pretty hard sometimes.  And that is when they need our prayers, our encouragement, and our strength to fight back and keep him on the run.
 
As Christians who believe what David says in this Psalm, we know that God can always be trusted…that He is kind, merciful, and working non-stop to strengthen and protect us.  Still, there are days when we are discouraged…frustrated...when we have a weak moment and fall to our knees in despair.  And that is when other believers must step in…with love, mercy, grace, compassion, prayers and encouragement. We must be on the lookout for those among us who are in great need of our support – whether they appear to be faith-filled believers or the worst sinner we can imagine!  We must reach out to them in the name of Jesus, remembering how He became accessible to the least of those among us – and offered hope, a better way…and a new life in Him.
 
Look around.  Who needs you today?  Where is Satan’s gang of enemies bearing down on someone?  How can you help?  Can you offer a prayer…a helping hand…a shoulder to cry on…or a rally cry of “Beat it, Devil!”?  Can you share with someone how God has helped you through a similar situation…how He met your needs even when you felt like everything was hopeless?  Because if we are honest…we’ve all “been there, done that”!
 
So what are you waiting for?  Who’s waiting on you to be the hands and feet of Jesus in their life today?  Isn’t it time you got to work?

©2014 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 11, 2013

Exodus 22:22-24
Aaron said, “Master, don’t be angry. You know this people and how set on evil they are. They said to me, ‘Make us gods who will lead us. This Moses, the man who brought us out of Egypt, we don’t know what’s happened to him.’

“So I said, ‘Who has gold?’ And they took off their jewelry and gave it to me. I threw it in the fire and out came this calf.”
 
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 day when I was visiting my niece and her children, Timothy said, “Mommy told me… ‘GO TO YOUR ROOM!’” (he said it in a very stern, loud voice).  His mother said, “Tell Aunt Debbie the rest of the story!”  “Well…” Timothy began… and with his mother’s help, he explained how he had gotten up early and helped himself to the cupcakes sitting atop the kitchen counter.  I guess you could say this was his “golden calf” moment.  In his mind, he was innocent… totally justified. His mother was the “bad guy” just as the Israelites were Aaron’s downfall.  It certainly was not his fault at all!  After all… she brought the cupcakes into the house to tempt him!
 
For many of us – in many circumstances - “the devil made us do it.”  We have all sorts of excuses for the things we say and do… but none of them involve taking personal responsibility for them.  We are persuaded by friends, co-workers, relatives, leaders, and even the media to believe one way or another… and to act accordingly.  We blame anyone and everyone.  It’s not our fault… it never is! And if another person is not directly responsible, we blame the environment, the weather, or even the economy!  And we don’t have the luxury of claiming three-year-old innocence/ignorance!  We know better… we just choose to do as we please and hope that we aren’t caught!
 
And if all of this is not enough, we have a whole other set of excuses to offer God about our life as a disciple of Christ.  We blame our sins and lack of faithfulness on everything from the outside influences of others to a sense of inadequacy as a Christian to… yes… the devil!  We are so busy charging ahead and living as we please that we don’t wait on the LORD for guidance and answers.  We don’t give God a chance to fulfill His promises… we don’t allow Him room to work.  We want a cupcake, so to speak… and we want it now!  And when things go badly, we are always like Aaron or the errant child… we haven’t a clue how it happened.  All we did was toss some “gold” into the fire, and out popped a “calf idol”!   (You can substitute your own “gold” and “idols”… because I’m pretty sure we have all had them at one time or another!)
 
So where does this leave us?  Hopefully, you can see that making excuses to God is ridiculous… and a waste of breath.  He knows better – even if we don’t!  It’s time for us to “come clean”… to own up to our mistakes and missteps… and to fervently and sincerely make every effort to do better.  We need to spend some serious time in prayer and communication with God… to reaffirm our commitment to live for Him and to fulfill His purposes for our lives.  And we need to ask for patience!  In other words… it’s time for us to grow up!
 
We are called to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus on this earth… to share His Good News with others… and we can’t do this if we are constantly going off on tangents and doing as we please – or listening to the persuasions of others and addressing their agendas!  Who are you serving these days?  Are you waiting on a word from God before you act?  Are you listening to the wrong people and then blaming someone else for your mistakes?  Isn’t it time to pull the plug on all of that and start living the life to which God has called you?  What do you say… aren’t you tired of making excuses?
 
©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 17, 2013

Philippians 3:15-16
So let’s keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you’ll see it yet! Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it.

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 about a diet and exercise regimen is sticking to it for the long haul. In the early stages, as you begin to drop pounds and inches – and feel better – you probably find it easy to stay focused. For one thing, the results are clearly visible. You see the number change on the scales. You notice that your clothes are now fitting loosely. You may even discover muscle tone and definition when you look at your body in the mirror.

But then the plateaus come… the weight becomes harder to lose, and your visible results seem stymied. You are still making progress, but it is as if your vision has become blurred – you just can’t see as much of an effect. This is when a lot of us “fall off the wagon” and return to our old habits. But actually, this is when the real work begins. If you thought your workouts were hard at the onset… get ready for even bigger challenges now. The exercises may seem a little easier… but the determination and perseverance may become even more of test.

Our spiritual life is much the same. When we first commit to Jesus - or even to a Bible study or a renewed pledge to be a better Disciple - we are all in, “gung-ho,” filled with determination, excitement and satisfaction at how God’s Holy Spirit is sustaining our longings and building us up with wisdom, courage and hope. But over time, our initial energy may wane. We may settle into a routine and grow weary of the day-to-day “spiritual exercise” regimen.

Maintaining the initial level of spiritual fire requires hard work… and a lot of us lack the discipline, commitment and determination for it on our own. This is not because God didn’t equip us for the journey… but rather, because we are human – and Satan is standing in the shadows waiting for an opportunity to weaken our resolve. He is perfectly content to keep us hovering on his side of the line between an all-out commitment to attaining everything that God wants to give us – and “playing Christian” when it suits our needs and whims.

When I think about all that God has in store for me, I cannot even comprehend it. I feel so blessed already. But like that last five pounds or few inches that seem so hard to lose, I know that the harder I work and the more diligent I remain, the more I will “gain.” When it comes to God’s blessings and plans for me, I’m incredibly greedy… I want it all!

On one of my workout DVDs, trainer Jillian Michaels points to one of her athletes and says, “Look at those abs! They don’t come without hard work. And I would do just about anything to have abs like that…wouldn’t you? You have to work for this!” We need to approach our life in Christ the same way! We need to be willing to do just about anything God requires of us in order to receive all He has in store for us. This includes not only spending time in His presence, studying His word and listening for His voice… but also offering others grace, mercy, love, compassion, and forgiveness in His name.

The trainers in the gyms and on our workout videos don’t rest on their laurels… and neither can we! In order to achieve maximum results, we are going to have to remain vigorous in our efforts to exercise and eat right… and to “work out” with God on a daily basis. How committed are you? Have you fully identified your goals… and are you focused on achieving them? Today is a great day to renew your dedication to become all that you can be… mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Focus on getting all that God has in store for you… and make every effort to do whatever it takes to get there. Let others see in you a person who has clear vision, the Holy Spirit in his/her heart, and a deep desire to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus in every way. Let’s get on the right track… and stay there! Are you with me?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 16, 2013

Romans 12:16
Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody.

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.

Timothy and I were at the park, and a group of children had shown up to play. Timothy was in heaven to have “friends” to run and climb with – a partner on the see-saw – and someone else to enjoy the swings with him. But when the children all suddenly turned and headed for the merry-go-round, Timothy yelled, “Hey! Wait for me.” Then under his breath, he said something about “idiots.” I stopped him and explained that this was not nice… that we could not call people an ugly name like that. I made sure he understood that this was not acceptable. A few days later, we were watching the Dr. Seuss movie “Horton Hears a Who” on video, and one of the characters stormed into an “office” and said to his “secretary”… “I’m not an idiot! Do I look like an idiot?” In that moment, I knew where my little nephew had learned about “idiots”… and I knew that a lifelong battle with parroting what he sees and hears had begun.

My point is that it’s easy to get caught up in this. We hear people say all sorts of things on television, in the movies, and in our daily living… and unkind things creep into our vocabulary. Innocent children who gleefully play together on a playground with no socio-economic boundaries will soon enough learn that this child’s parents can afford more than that one’s… and that some children wear nicer clothes than others and get to do things that are out of reach for others. Just this week, my cousin texted me a picture of her child’s Valentine’s Day box… a darling hand-made creation. I wondered, “How many children in this little girl’s class will not have a beautiful box for their Valentines? Will they feel like the “great nobody” because of this? It starts early!

So what can we do? Certainly we cannot make fancy Valentine’s boxes for every elementary school child. We can’t take every kid to Disneyworld or make sure that everyone has designer clothing, fancy cars and lives in a big, expensive house. But we can treat others fairly and equally. We can check our language… and even our thoughts… and make sure that we make a concerted effort to get along with everybody. We can teach our children that nobody is better than another person… we can model humility, acceptance of others, and genuine friendship. We can refrain from criticizing or belittling others… even in the privacy of our own homes. We can ask God to help us love others as Jesus loves us… and to accept each of His children as precious in His sight.

We can live in a way that demonstrates our gratitude that Jesus died for Nobodies like each of us… and turned us into Somebodies. We can recognize that not only are we heirs to His throne… but so are all who have given their hearts to Him… and all who will accept Him. My cousin recently lost his 42-year-old wife, Angie, to breast cancer. I can’t tell you how many people commented that Angie loved everybody… and she truly did. Angie didn’t see race, creed or color. She did not care if you were dressed in diamonds and furs… or covered from head to toe in tattoos and piercings. It didn’t matter to her if you smelled like a million bucks… or like you hadn’t showered in days. She really didn’t notice whether you were drop-dead gorgeous – or missing most of your teeth. Angie only cared that you knew Jesus… and everyone who met her knew this. We need more “Angies” in the world. We need to be so busy letting others know how much Jesus loves them – and how much we love them in His name – that nothing else matters.

None of us have the excuse of being three years old any longer. We will continue to watch Dr. Seuss movies at my house… but I will make sure that the children understand that what we see in movies is not always acceptable or proper in our relationships with others. It’s time to take responsibility for our actions… and for our role as Disciples of Christ. We need to be truthful, kind, patient, loving, genuine, and humble. We need to treat others fairly… and to shower them with the same love and acceptance that Jesus offers to us. This won’t be easy for some of us. We’ve been operating according to the world’s standards for a long time now. But we really don’t have a choice. This is what God has called us to do… and truly, nothing else matters. I know that I have work to do in this area… but I’m ready and willing to do whatever it takes. Are you?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 14, 2013

Romans 12:9-10
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Unless you’ve been in a coma, you know that today is Valentine’s Day… a day when we are supposed to shower others with love in the form of cards than range from “mushy and gooey” to downright silly, flowers, balloons, candy – especially chocolate – and other gifts. More than $4 billion will be spent on jewelry alone, according to an article at www.forbes.com. Overall, this will be an $18.6 billion dollar event! People will propose marriage – and others will actually tie the knot.

Tomorrow, baskets and bins in retail outlets throughout the world will be filled with discounted leftovers. The price of fresh roses and other flowers will go down - and let’s be honest…people will not be as tender and loving toward one another. It’s as if this one day of the year wields some sort of magical power over most of us. If someone purchases one of these items today to share with a loved one, is the love any less genuine? Can your February 14th gestures of love convey how you feel about others for the rest of the year?

I do not mean to belittle Valentine’s Day. I love sending Valentines to my little nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. I enjoy making heart-shaped treats for them and imagining their little faces when they get a surprise in the mail or on their doorstep. Although we long ago agreed to stop exchanging gifts and cards, it gives me great joy to leave love notes for my husband, or to make him a special holiday breakfast… or to share a celebratory lunch or dinner. But sending gifts and cards is relatively easy. In The Purpose Driven Life, Pastor Rick Warren reminds us that …”If you only serve when it’s convenient, you’re not a real servant.” It would follow that if you only love on Valentine’s Day, you very well may be only pretending to love others.

The challenge for all of us is to look around and figure out who – and how – we can love 365 days a year. Where can we show others the love of Jesus with genuine words and acts of affection and honor? How can we step out of our comfort zone in order to be obedient disciples of Christ? Is the love of Jesus Christ (and grace, mercy and forgiveness that His love encompasses) so profound in our own lives that we are ready and willing to drop everything to share it with someone else? What is so important in our own lives that we don’t have time to love another in the name of Jesus… and why do we think this requires gifts, cards, candy, or jewelry?

Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to think about love. This is a great time to examine our hearts and find any corners where our expressions of love might be less than authentic. Ask God to show you where you love others conveniently or give lip service instead of genuine care and concern. Let Him show you how to love others every day of the year… to extend to them the grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion that Jesus showers us with continually. Be a real servant and a true disciple. Make every day Valentine’s Day in Jesus’ name. Allow Jesus to use you for His glory… and get ready to be loved like mad in the bargain!

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 13, 2013

2 Timothy 2:22-26
Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God’s servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil’s trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands.

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.

There are a lot of parallels in working with children and old people. One of these involves trying to reason with either age group. You can sometimes tell a child a dozen times that… “this square puzzle piece does not fit in that round hole”… but the child has to figure this out on his/her own to fully learn the lesson. You may gently suggest to an elderly loved one that “perhaps it’s time to consider downsizing or moving to a retirement village or assisted living facility.” But if the senior still has his/her mental faculties, you cannot make this decision yourself. At both ends of this generational spectrum, the temptation is often there to yell and scream – if only inside your own head! Why can’t these people see what you see? Why do they have to insist on their own way?

Stop and read these last two sentences again… and think about Jesus. Why can’t we see what He sees? Why do we insist on having things our own way instead of listening to Him? What if Jesus yelled and screamed at us when we disobeyed or chose the wrong path? Do you see that sometimes the best tactic is to keep cool, stay patient, and gently listen and lead? Do you operate with a gracious, merciful and forgiving heart toward others… as Jesus does toward each of us?

In my own experience, I’ll admit that I’ve tried yelling and screaming. I’ve been impatient and argumentative. And I know for a fact that this method pretty much never works! I’ve sat back and watched little children figure things out on their own… and seen the joy and confidence spread over their faces as they “got it.” I’ve watched my own grandmother come to the conclusion that she needed to move to an assisted living facility. I’ve seen the peace and satisfaction that she and my great-aunt both experienced when they set aside their car keys and decided they were no longer able to drive… versus the angst my grandfather endured when this decision was imposed upon him.

I have also seen the “kicking and screaming” – both literal and figurative – that have resulted when often-well-meaning Christians tried to force their beliefs and practices on others. And I have seen the beauty of the moment that someone genuinely, humbly surrendered to Jesus and truly felt the warmth and glory of His touch. I am firmly convinced that we would see more of the latter if we could learn to curb our urge to operate in the former!

There is a lot of “meat” in this scripture passage for all of us. Don’t miss it! Study the words of the Apostle Paul to young Timothy and apply them to your own life. Find a balance between patience and treating others firmly… between being a good listener while gently teaching and leading…between keeping your cool and making your point. Always think of Jesus. Remind yourself of His gentle rhythms…how He continually operated in love and forgiveness, grace and mercy – while demonstrating obedience to God and respect for His laws. See firsthand how effective your witness can be when you apply these approaches to your own interactions with others.

Let others see Jesus in your words and actions… and prepare to see Jesus at work in ways you never dreamed were possible. It’s time we moved over and let Jesus have control. Are you willing to step aside and let Him?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 10, 2013

Luke 22:34
But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.”

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

If we are to be totally honest, there are probably at least one or two people who could deny knowing us, and we really wouldn’t care! But for the most part, when someone treats us poorly… fails to acknowledge us… or even betrays us by skipping out when the chips are down… we are insulted, disappointed, and sometimes deeply hurt. And I am sure that Jesus felt the same way when Peter told more than one person that he had no relationship with Him… that he didn’t know Him… that he had not been in His company.

Jesus had every right to throw up His hands and say to Peter, “That’s it! I’m done with you.” But we know better, don’t we?! Thankfully, Jesus doesn’t operate this way… and neither should we. Now understand me… I am not saying that people have license to walk all over us… mistreat us… come and go in our lives according to their whims or how we react toward them, and suffer no consequences. Everyone deserves respect and fair treatment. But there will come a time in each person’s life when someone mistreats him/her… and your first reaction may be to say, “That’s it! I’m done!”

Think about that significant other you thought was so wonderful when you first met… and now you can’t believe you ever gave him/her the time of day. Consider the person who pretended to be your friend, then took advantage of your time, talents, knowledge, or possessions... and ran for the hills. What about the person who embarrassed you or tried to make you look ridiculous to others? You probably are pretty angry and disgusted with him/her…right? And you may have good reason to be!

Nobody should be another person’s doormat. But at the same time, we must be ready and willing to offer forgiveness, grace, and mercy to those who “deny” us in some way. We have all treated Jesus terribly… and He still finds a way to forgive us. We have all denied Him in one way or another… yet He loves us. We may not have actually uttered the words, “I don’t know Him,” but we have done this in ways great and small… from failing to love others in His name to ignoring the gentle whisper of His Holy Spirit to acting like fools on more than one occasion.

We lie, cheat, steal, gossip…take advantage of others’ generosity…treat people poorly…walk, talk and dress like someone who has no pride or respect…mistreat our bodies with food, drugs and alcohol…and fail to share the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ with those we encounter. In short, we do not live as disciples of Christ… we are not acting in a manner that would make us suitable representatives of the hands and feet of Jesus… and our actions essentially are a denial of our Jesus Christ, who gave His very life on the cross for ours. And still He forgives us.

Just like with Peter, Jesus knows what we will do before we do it. He allows us the rope for either a rescue - or a hanging… and the choice is ours. Jesus stands ready to offer us grace, mercy and forgiveness – if only we will ask Him. Can you say that you do the same for others? We all “deny” Jesus… and others will “deny” us. What will you do when this happens? Just how committed to are you to Christ? Isn’t it time you decided?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 27, 2013

1 Peter 4:7-11
Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!

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.

Yesterday, when I visited my niece and her family, I noticed a box of homemade cookies sitting on their kitchen table. My niece said her husband brought them home from a handyman job he had done for a lady who belongs to my church. It was such a simple act…baking a box of cookies for a young couple and their three small children. But I can tell you for certain… that box was filled with a whole lot more than cookies! This woman is a generous, loving person who sees the big picture. She knows the impact of a single act of love and kindness. It wasn’t about the cookies at all… it was about saying, “I love you and care about you… you matter… remember this with every bite!” Even at 3½, Timothy was talking about Mrs. Pierce, the nice lady who had made cookies for them – and they had CHOCOLATE kisses! He felt her love… and he won’t forget it!

Think about the possibilities if each and every believer loved others as if their very lives depended on it… giving meals to the hungry and beds to the homeless – not because there was a church program in place to do this, but because a need existed and a believer met it. And let’s not be as literal as a meal or a bed. What if you see a young mother struggling in line at the store to fish out another dollar for the cashier while two little kids tug on her and whimper… and you are standing there with an extra dollar in your open wallet? Have you considered the impact you might make if you handed the cashier YOUR dollar?

Suppose you notice a friend wearing the same clothing virtually every single day, and you have more clothes in your closet than you can possibly wear. Imagine what might happen if you handed him a t-shirt or an extra pair of sneakers and said, “I almost never wear these, and I thought you might be able to put them to good use.” Do you have half a dozen jackets and coats that you rarely put on? Could you share one with someone who has nothing? When was the last time you spoke to your neighbor? Have you ever called an elderly friend or relative, just to ask how they are getting along and see if there is anything they need? How often do you offer others a spontaneous hug when you greet them?

I don’t know what opportunities you will have to serve. I have no clue whether your schedule will permit you to get involved in organized ministries at your church… or if you are tapped out already and in need of a little ministry for yourself! But I do know that we all miss out on opportunities each and every day to offer love to others. I’m not talking about huge, grand gestures… but small, seemingly insignificant ones. They don’t necessarily take a lot of time or energy, but their impact packs a wallop! In essence, we need to be sure we are plugged in to God and His incredible capacity to forgive us…His astounding desire to shower us with love.

When you lay your head on the pillow tonight, ask yourself how you showed love to someone else today. Did you grab opportunities to be generous with the gifts God gave you… to make His presence known to another by your gesture of love, grace, mercy, forgiveness – or a combination of all of these? Did you love as if your life depended on it… and did Jesus get the credit? Are you attuned to God’s voice? Do you hear Him leading you to opportunities to love others on His behalf? Just how connected are you with God? Isn’t it time you plugged in again?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 11, 2013

Matthew 17:20
“Because you’re not yet taking God seriously,” said Jesus. “The simple truth is that if you had a mere kernel of faith, a poppy seed, say, you would tell this mountain, ‘Move!’ and it would move. There is nothing you wouldn’t be able to tackle.”

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.

Have you ever eaten something with little seeds – poppy seed muffins, blackberries, blueberries or strawberries, etc. – and gotten one stuck in your teeth? It felt like the thing is the size of a marble… right? Yet when the tiny offender was removed, you might have been amazed at how insignificant in size it truly was. Still, it wielded great power – or discomfort – over your life.

Last week, a friend of mine lost her 51-year-old sister to cancer. As I exchanged messages with her, I shared with her how I try to do things for others – to show them kindness, empathy and encouragement – in honor of my brother, Tim, who left us over 14 years ago. I challenged her to honor HER sister in this way… to carry Cindy's amazing legacy for being the hands and feet of Jesus forward to those she encounters.

This week, my cousin’s 42-year-old wife died suddenly from breast cancer. We never even knew she was ill. She masked her rapid decline and talked only of Jesus and how He was allowing her to share in the ministry she and my cousin had founded - and to win countless souls for the Kingdom of Heaven. So in consoling my cousin, I have encouraged him to keep putting one foot in front of the other… to continue the work – and in so doing, to honor Angie as He honors his faith in God.

Neither one of these ladies were community leaders or well-known figures. But mention either name, and you should hear the chatter! You should see Facebook light up with comments about each one and how she blessed others – and how both of these women were on fire for Jesus. They may have been “tiny poppy seeds” on this earth… but their impact was tremendous. God’s power and strength coursing through them could not be contained… it radiated outwardly to everyone they encountered.

What about you? What are you doing with your faith and God’s blessings? Even if you only have “poppy seed faith” – or “mustard seed faith” as many translations of this scripture call it – this is enough to accomplish tremendous things in the name of Jesus. You have Supernatural power and energy running through your veins! How are you using it?

Do you put one foot in front of the other – even when what little faith you may have is tested – and see where God can take you? Isn’t it time you opened your heart to the possibilities He offers? What are you waiting for? There is NOTHING you cannot tackle with God… NOTHING! Are you ready to take Him seriously?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for December 25, 2012

Revelation 21:6-7
Everything is finished! I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will freely give water from the life-giving fountain to everyone who is thirsty. All who win the victory will be given these blessings. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

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

My husband went out to check on a few folks this morning, and he stopped by my niece’s house to leave some things they had forgotten last night at our house. The children were dancing around amidst all of their Christmas gifts and the surprises Santa Claus left for them. Timothy stopped suddenly, commanded everyone’s attention and said, “I need to tell everybody… Grandma and Grandpa are bringing more presents!” My sister says that when they arrived and “more presents” were opened, Timothy was like virtually every other kid in the world on Christmas morning… he announced, “We need more presents!”

In many ways, a lot of us could say that everything is finished this Christmas. But in the most important way of all, this truly is the beginning rather than the end. We do need more - of Jesus - and we can have more of Him each and every day. Jesus truly is the Alpha and the Omega… for each believer, everything begins and ends with Him. But we’re by no means done! For us, every day is Christmas – or should be… a new beginning… another chance to share the Good News of Christ with others and to serve as His hands and feet on this earth.

So celebrate Christmas today. Open gifts, have an extra cookie or piece of pie, enjoy family and friends - and maybe watch a ballgame or two on TV or a holiday movie. But remember that we are not finished! Jesus will return someday. In the meantime, we have work to do. We must keep Him in our hearts every single day and share His message with others. We may not say “Merry Christmas” again for another eleven months or so… but we must share the Christmas spirit all year long.

Jesus is bringing more presents… freedom, victory and blessings for each of us…are you ready to receive them? Is your “Christmas” finished… or has it just begun?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for December 13, 2012

Psalm 37:4
Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

As Christmas approaches, millions of children are trying their hardest to be nice so that Santa will bring them every present their heart desires. Yesterday, I listened to a grandmother go through the litany of toys that her grandchild had requested… and most of them are going to be under the tree on Christmas Day! I have to tell you, I am so glad that Timothy is still discovering Santa Claus. He understands that he and Zola must be good and get along so Santa will visit them. But at least for this year, these children have no clue that they can ask for things and expect them! They will be thrilled with whatever surprises are waiting under the tree… and we have all chosen things we feel they need and will enjoy.

Let’s be clear… God is not Santa Claus – or vice versa. I do not mean to make light of our relationship with our Heavenly Father by this analogy. And our relationship with God is not based on whether we are “naughty or nice.” But at the same time, we ask God for all sorts of things every day… and many of us assume that we are “good enough,” He will give them to us. That’s one reason I love this particular translation of Psalm 37:4. It doesn’t say, “Be a good boy or girl, and God will give you everything you want.” It says, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” There is a huge difference.

To take delight in the LORD means to find joy and purpose in serving Him… to seek HIS will for your life and to be about the business of pleasing Him. In return, God will supply all of your needs. The “heart’s desires” of a Christian should be to operate in love, peace and happiness while sharing Christ’s love and GOOD NEWS with others. It’s not about wealth and fame… or even “success”… and it’s surely not about material possessions. God knows what we need and how to supply our heart’s desires. If we seek to delight in Him, He will gladly do this for us.

So by all means, be nice this Christmas season. Believe in Santa Claus and enjoy whatever he leaves under your tree. But stay close to God… especially in the coming days. Ask Him to relieve your stresses and frustrations, and to supply your heart’s desires as you seek to be His servant on this earth. Focus more on sharing God’s love and care with others than on asking Him for personal gifts. Then be amazed to see how He blesses you out of His deep and abiding love for you…His faithful servant. “Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” Will you recognize – and appreciate - them?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for December 12, 2012

Luke 9:23
Then Jesus said to all the people: If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross each day and follow me.

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

Whew! Was I ever “brought up short” about this today! I was helping my grandmother with her lunch at the assisted living facility when an aide came to sit at the table and help feed another resident. I would guess she was in her late 30s or early 40s. She asked if I was ready for Christmas, and we began to visit. She told me about her four-year-old grand-daughter who is coming… and what she had asked for (and this woman had purchased) as gifts. As she rose to help another resident, she said, “Since I lost my husband, Christmas just isn’t the same.” I asked how long he had been gone, and she said, “a few years… he suffered a heart attack while we were en route to the hospital to see about a family member, and he died in my arms.” I swallowed hard to fight back tears. I told her how sorry I was, and she smiled and wished me a good day as she left.

The aide who came to replace her at the table sat down, and I said, “She just told me about her husband.” This woman looked like maybe she was in her 50s, and she said, “Yes, we commiserate a lot, because I lost my husband, too.” This woman went on to tell me that her husband died a year ago of cancer. She was equally friendly and positive as she talked about her grandchildren and caring for others. Both women were incredibly sweet and attentive to my grandmother and to her table-mate.

When I looked at my scripture outline for these devos and read the verse for today, I knew why God placed me at the facility during lunch. Even in the midst of my frenzy to get things done for Christmas… my worries and concerns about my grandmother, who appears to be in her last weeks, if not days… the general busyness of our day and all of the myriad of other “stressors” we each encounter… nothing is about ME… or YOU! It’s about serving Jesus… being His hands and feet for others… and sharing His Good News at every turn.

The question today is… “How are you doing?” Are you joyful and patient, positive and helpful? Or are you a miserable example of what it means to be a Disciple of Christ? Do you go around with the weight of the world on your shoulders… are you a drag to be around – or a delight? Is everything about you and your troubles… or are you genuinely interested in the well-being of others? Do you bother to find out about their day or what is going on in their life? Or are you too busy letting others know – either by body language, your comments, or both - just how bad you’ve got it?

Jesus is calling us to take up His cross and follow Him… to lay aside the worries of our day and let Him handle them… to focus on loving others and showing care and concern for what is challenging or frustrating them – and to share their joys and triumphs. Again I ask… “How are you doing?” It would seem that most of us have plenty of room for improvement in this area. Are you ready to follow Jesus completely? Are YOU ready to really focus on serving Him in everything? Who needs to know this day that you truly care? Isn’t it time you showed them?

©2012 Debbie Robus