John 5:41-44
I'm not interested in crowd approval. And do you know why? Because I know you and your crowds. I know that love, especially God's love, is not on your working agenda. I came with the authority of my Father, and you either dismiss me or avoid me. If another came, acting self-important, you would welcome him with open arms. How do you expect to get anywhere with God when you spend all your time jockeying for position with each other, ranking your rivals and ignoring God?
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Turn on the television, and you will find countless programs where people are clamoring to “be Somebody!” From the winner of Survivor to The Biggest Loser to the writer of the next Platinum Hit or HGTV’s Design Star and more… people want to be on top. Turn on a sports channel, and you will find athletes hoping to be a first-round draft pick or the winner of this award or that… or a whole team wanting to come out on top in the championship. Clearly, we are wired for crowd approval.
The sad thing is that we are so hungry for human approval… yet the approval that matters gets kicked to the curb. And I believe this is why so many human beings are discontent at best… and downright miserable in many cases. A few years ago, I wrote a song that I titled “I Am a Child of God.” In one of the verses, I said, “I used to care what others thought of me… it mattered that they liked me and approved. I wanted the assurance that in me, they could see something that was acceptable… something that was good.” Later, a verse says, “I tried to do the things that I thought would please others. But in the end, no one was pleased, and everything went wrong.” Do you relate to these phrases?
When I learned to focus on pleasing only God, everything else started to fall into place. When I realized that the most important Being in the room was my Heavenly Father, and He was the only One who truly mattered…a huge weight was lifted. As long as we recognize – and welcome – God into our day, He will take care of the rest. If you have focused on giving God top priority… First Place… you can rest assured that He will meet your every need.
Doors will open… “championships” (of God’s choosing) will come. You will find a “position” in life – the one God chooses for you… and it will be exactly right. Will you win a sweepstakes or be elected to high office? Will people be rushing to your side and vying for your friendship and affection? Only if this is what fits into God’s grand plan. Will it matter if it doesn’t happen? Not one bit! What will matter is what God thinks… and He thinks you are the most important thing ever! What God brings to you is what counts… not the approval and accolades of the world.
So what will you do with the rest of your life? Will you spend it wandering aimlessly, so to speak… seeking the recognition and approval of mere mortals… the fleeting rewards and temporary thrills of feeling important to other human beings who are seeking the same sort of recognition and acceptance? Or will you focus on pleasing God… welcome Him with open arms and place your fate and your future in His hands? Will you bask in the glory of being His precious child? Will you make God most important in your life and focus on His love? He can make you a true champion… God can give you what you’ve been looking for all along. Are you ready to turn around and greet Him?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label belonging to Christ. Show all posts
Showing posts with label belonging to Christ. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for April 3, 2011
Psalm 68:19-20
We praise you, Lord God! You treat us with kindness day after day, and you rescue us. You always protect us and save us from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, friends of ours purchased a house we were selling. Aside from needing more space, the couple told us that their present home was located on a busy city street, and their young 2½-year-old-son – then just a little older than our Timothy is now – was apt to dash out into the street to chase a ball or toy… or simply running with abandon. In order to keep their children safe… to protect them and save them from death… this couple made the necessary efforts to take measures to ensure their safety. The health, safety and well-being of their children was (and is) their chief concern day after day.
This is what good parents do. They put the needs of their children first… and they love them unconditionally with kindness… and protection. And as our Heavenly Father, this is what God does for each of us. He treats us with more kindness than we could ever deserve… and He protects us and keeps us safe from death. I’m not talking about physical death… although there are certainly instances where God rescues us from that, as well. But God puts obstacles… people, wisdom, discernment… angels… in our path to protect us from Spiritual death. For all of the sins we commit… for every mess we get ourselves into… God steers us away from the chance for dozens more out of His kindness and protection.
So if God is our protector, why do bad things happen? We’ve been over this! Tests and challenges lead to growth and deeper faith. They build the relationship as we learn to rely more on God’s strength and power and less upon our own. But God NEVER stops loving us… and He never stops looking out for our best interests. And for this He deserves our utmost praise.
Have you thanked God lately for all He does in your life?
©2011 Debbie Robus
We praise you, Lord God! You treat us with kindness day after day, and you rescue us. You always protect us and save us from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, friends of ours purchased a house we were selling. Aside from needing more space, the couple told us that their present home was located on a busy city street, and their young 2½-year-old-son – then just a little older than our Timothy is now – was apt to dash out into the street to chase a ball or toy… or simply running with abandon. In order to keep their children safe… to protect them and save them from death… this couple made the necessary efforts to take measures to ensure their safety. The health, safety and well-being of their children was (and is) their chief concern day after day.
This is what good parents do. They put the needs of their children first… and they love them unconditionally with kindness… and protection. And as our Heavenly Father, this is what God does for each of us. He treats us with more kindness than we could ever deserve… and He protects us and keeps us safe from death. I’m not talking about physical death… although there are certainly instances where God rescues us from that, as well. But God puts obstacles… people, wisdom, discernment… angels… in our path to protect us from Spiritual death. For all of the sins we commit… for every mess we get ourselves into… God steers us away from the chance for dozens more out of His kindness and protection.
So if God is our protector, why do bad things happen? We’ve been over this! Tests and challenges lead to growth and deeper faith. They build the relationship as we learn to rely more on God’s strength and power and less upon our own. But God NEVER stops loving us… and He never stops looking out for our best interests. And for this He deserves our utmost praise.
Have you thanked God lately for all He does in your life?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 22, 2010
Colossians 2:20
[ Christ Brings New Life ] You died with Christ. Now the forces of the universe don't have any power over you. Why do you live as if you had to obey such rules…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been around someone who was looking for their eye glasses or sunglasses… and all the while they were atop their head? Or maybe you have gotten out of your car and thought, “I locked my keys inside,” then looked down and discovered your keys were in your hand! Okay, so maybe that’s just me… but the point is, sometimes we are not aware of what is right in front of us, and we continue to act just like we did beforehand.
Many people who have lost a lot of weight say that they continue to think of themselves as heavy long after they are thin. Their subconscious mind tells them, “You can’t wear that,” or “You can’t fit into that seat,” when truthfully, now they can. Or maybe you just got your learner’s permit, and from time to time (okay, maybe not often!) you may forget that you can now legally drive with a licensed adult. You may even get in the passenger side of the car before you remember that… hey… you can drive!
Old habits die hard… and sinful habits sometimes die the slowest! But we must be careful to remember that, as new creatures in Christ, we don’t follow the rules of society any more. We are part of a Higher Order. “Everyone else is doing it”… but we’re no longer “everyone else!” We’re part of the Kingdom of Heaven, and we take our orders from Jesus Christ. “That doesn’t sound very pleasant,” you may be thinking.
“If everyone else is doing things and we won’t, we’re going to be singled out, criticized, and more…” Maybe… and maybe not. Maybe you will start a new “trend” by bucking the old one. Because I assure you, if you listen to God instead of the world, you will be far happier, more contented, and peaceful… and God will protect you. Others will see this, and they just may want what you have! Being a Christian isn’t always easy, but in the long run, it represents freedom like you can’t begin to imagine!
It’s time to realize who we are… that we have been changed by the blood of Jesus, and we don’t follow the world’s rules any longer. We are new creatures in Jesus Christ. Have your transformation been completed? Whose rules are you following?
©2010 Debbie Robus
[ Christ Brings New Life ] You died with Christ. Now the forces of the universe don't have any power over you. Why do you live as if you had to obey such rules…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been around someone who was looking for their eye glasses or sunglasses… and all the while they were atop their head? Or maybe you have gotten out of your car and thought, “I locked my keys inside,” then looked down and discovered your keys were in your hand! Okay, so maybe that’s just me… but the point is, sometimes we are not aware of what is right in front of us, and we continue to act just like we did beforehand.
Many people who have lost a lot of weight say that they continue to think of themselves as heavy long after they are thin. Their subconscious mind tells them, “You can’t wear that,” or “You can’t fit into that seat,” when truthfully, now they can. Or maybe you just got your learner’s permit, and from time to time (okay, maybe not often!) you may forget that you can now legally drive with a licensed adult. You may even get in the passenger side of the car before you remember that… hey… you can drive!
Old habits die hard… and sinful habits sometimes die the slowest! But we must be careful to remember that, as new creatures in Christ, we don’t follow the rules of society any more. We are part of a Higher Order. “Everyone else is doing it”… but we’re no longer “everyone else!” We’re part of the Kingdom of Heaven, and we take our orders from Jesus Christ. “That doesn’t sound very pleasant,” you may be thinking.
“If everyone else is doing things and we won’t, we’re going to be singled out, criticized, and more…” Maybe… and maybe not. Maybe you will start a new “trend” by bucking the old one. Because I assure you, if you listen to God instead of the world, you will be far happier, more contented, and peaceful… and God will protect you. Others will see this, and they just may want what you have! Being a Christian isn’t always easy, but in the long run, it represents freedom like you can’t begin to imagine!
It’s time to realize who we are… that we have been changed by the blood of Jesus, and we don’t follow the world’s rules any longer. We are new creatures in Jesus Christ. Have your transformation been completed? Whose rules are you following?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 21, 2010
Galatians 3:27
And when you were baptized, it was as though you had put on Christ in the same way you put on new clothes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My 97-year-old grandmother has really pretty clothes hanging in her closet. I’ve seen them, and I know my mom and my cousins helped her shop for them. But she seems to wear the same old garb much of the time – pants with paint stains, well-worn blouses and some pants she bought at a yard sale that are too short. She’s saving her “good clothes” for special occasions.
When I picked her up recently for a birthday celebration for her friend – who is 101 – she was wearing a beautiful outfit… white pants, a new purple knit shirt with a purple/blue flowered crinkle-fabric blouse as a jacket, and her purple/blue rhinestone earrings! She had on lipstick and makeup and looked like a million bucks! And everything about her was different. I had not seen her look or act this well in months! Today, she is probably wearing her old clothes again… the “good clothes” tucked away for a special occasion.
Are we like this with our Christianity? Do we put on Christ when it seems important or necessary… and then hang Him back in the closet and return to our old ways? My grandmother needs to get busy wearing her “good clothes.” And so should we. None of us knows how many hours/days/weeks/months/years we have. Saving our best for a rainy day or special occasion is ridiculous. And only “wearing” our new life in Christ when we feel like it or want to “dress up” is just as silly.
Put on your new “armor of the Lord”… wear your very best “Christ outfit” each and every day. Let everyone see the best you possible… the person Christ has called you to become… and shine in His glory for all to see. The “rainy day” is NOW…the time to change and be a new creature has come. What will you wear today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
And when you were baptized, it was as though you had put on Christ in the same way you put on new clothes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My 97-year-old grandmother has really pretty clothes hanging in her closet. I’ve seen them, and I know my mom and my cousins helped her shop for them. But she seems to wear the same old garb much of the time – pants with paint stains, well-worn blouses and some pants she bought at a yard sale that are too short. She’s saving her “good clothes” for special occasions.
When I picked her up recently for a birthday celebration for her friend – who is 101 – she was wearing a beautiful outfit… white pants, a new purple knit shirt with a purple/blue flowered crinkle-fabric blouse as a jacket, and her purple/blue rhinestone earrings! She had on lipstick and makeup and looked like a million bucks! And everything about her was different. I had not seen her look or act this well in months! Today, she is probably wearing her old clothes again… the “good clothes” tucked away for a special occasion.
Are we like this with our Christianity? Do we put on Christ when it seems important or necessary… and then hang Him back in the closet and return to our old ways? My grandmother needs to get busy wearing her “good clothes.” And so should we. None of us knows how many hours/days/weeks/months/years we have. Saving our best for a rainy day or special occasion is ridiculous. And only “wearing” our new life in Christ when we feel like it or want to “dress up” is just as silly.
Put on your new “armor of the Lord”… wear your very best “Christ outfit” each and every day. Let everyone see the best you possible… the person Christ has called you to become… and shine in His glory for all to see. The “rainy day” is NOW…the time to change and be a new creature has come. What will you wear today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 15, 2010
John 15:19
If you belonged to the world, its people would love you. But you don't belong to the world. I have chosen you to leave the world behind, and that is why its people hate you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all want to belong. We all want to fit in with our friends and family… and the world at large. This is why many of us go to great lengths to be current with our fashion, hair, makeup… even the décor of our home, the car we drive, where we shop, what music we listen to, which team we root for… and more.
We also want to belong and be included socially. So often, we compromise our faith to do this. We become worldly – participating in off-color or derogatory conversations on everything from politics to race and sexual orientation. We snicker with our friends at someone who is “different” from us or seems a little “off.” We brag about parties and drinking and fighting and more… and others love us! We brush off and ignore the bothersome things we see and hear, because calling attention to them could get us kicked out of the group!
The problem is that we are willing to risk our relationship with God and His pleasure in order to be comfortable. “Taking the high road” and refusing to participate in things we know are displeasing to God takes courage and faith. Walking away from unpleasant or unkind conversations – or challenging those who are speaking rudely or inappropriately – will probably get you ugly looks at best… and maybe cost you a relationship with those who are speaking.
Nobody ever said being a Christian was easy. But the long-term rewards far outweigh any short-term discomfort. The Apostle Paul and others were thrown in prison for standing their ground. It’s highly unlikely we will be subjected to that harsh a consequence… although it may feel like you have been ostracized and “sentenced” to a prison of sorts at times.
Stay focused. Remember WHOSE you are… keep your “eye on the Prize” – the blessings and approval of our Most High God. He chose us… we belong to Him… and nothing is more important than serving Him well. Belong to the One who matters…no matter what you feel it costs in this life. You will be blessed beyond measure… and loved for all eternity.
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you belonged to the world, its people would love you. But you don't belong to the world. I have chosen you to leave the world behind, and that is why its people hate you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all want to belong. We all want to fit in with our friends and family… and the world at large. This is why many of us go to great lengths to be current with our fashion, hair, makeup… even the décor of our home, the car we drive, where we shop, what music we listen to, which team we root for… and more.
We also want to belong and be included socially. So often, we compromise our faith to do this. We become worldly – participating in off-color or derogatory conversations on everything from politics to race and sexual orientation. We snicker with our friends at someone who is “different” from us or seems a little “off.” We brag about parties and drinking and fighting and more… and others love us! We brush off and ignore the bothersome things we see and hear, because calling attention to them could get us kicked out of the group!
The problem is that we are willing to risk our relationship with God and His pleasure in order to be comfortable. “Taking the high road” and refusing to participate in things we know are displeasing to God takes courage and faith. Walking away from unpleasant or unkind conversations – or challenging those who are speaking rudely or inappropriately – will probably get you ugly looks at best… and maybe cost you a relationship with those who are speaking.
Nobody ever said being a Christian was easy. But the long-term rewards far outweigh any short-term discomfort. The Apostle Paul and others were thrown in prison for standing their ground. It’s highly unlikely we will be subjected to that harsh a consequence… although it may feel like you have been ostracized and “sentenced” to a prison of sorts at times.
Stay focused. Remember WHOSE you are… keep your “eye on the Prize” – the blessings and approval of our Most High God. He chose us… we belong to Him… and nothing is more important than serving Him well. Belong to the One who matters…no matter what you feel it costs in this life. You will be blessed beyond measure… and loved for all eternity.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 11, 2010
Leviticus 20:26
I am the LORD, the holy God. You have been chosen to be my people, and so you must be holy too.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“You have been selected…” Have you ever received mail that contained this phrase? Have you ever been chosen for inclusion in something like Beta Club, the National Honor Society, Rotary Club, or even cheer squad or a sports team at school? At the very least, you’ve probably participated in a neighborhood game of kickball or baseball – or even Red Rover – where teams were chosen. So you know how it feels to be selected… and what it feels like when you are left behind.
We have been chosen by God. It doesn’t get better than this! No other selection committee in the universe can hold a candle to our Heavenly Father. He chose us… He selected each of us specifically. The honor of this selection is HUGE, and it should not be lost on us. When you are chosen for something you perceive to be prestigious, your demeanor changes, doesn’t it? Don’t you feel a little more special? Don’t you desire to give your very best in all areas to show your respect and gratitude? Shouldn’t this apply to our Christian living, as well?
We were chosen by God. He is holy, so we must be, also. Check your behavior and see how you are doing. There is room for improvement in all of us. Ask God to show you how to become more holy and pleasing to Him, then get busy implementing the changes. You’ve been chosen by Almighty God… now act like it!
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am the LORD, the holy God. You have been chosen to be my people, and so you must be holy too.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“You have been selected…” Have you ever received mail that contained this phrase? Have you ever been chosen for inclusion in something like Beta Club, the National Honor Society, Rotary Club, or even cheer squad or a sports team at school? At the very least, you’ve probably participated in a neighborhood game of kickball or baseball – or even Red Rover – where teams were chosen. So you know how it feels to be selected… and what it feels like when you are left behind.
We have been chosen by God. It doesn’t get better than this! No other selection committee in the universe can hold a candle to our Heavenly Father. He chose us… He selected each of us specifically. The honor of this selection is HUGE, and it should not be lost on us. When you are chosen for something you perceive to be prestigious, your demeanor changes, doesn’t it? Don’t you feel a little more special? Don’t you desire to give your very best in all areas to show your respect and gratitude? Shouldn’t this apply to our Christian living, as well?
We were chosen by God. He is holy, so we must be, also. Check your behavior and see how you are doing. There is room for improvement in all of us. Ask God to show you how to become more holy and pleasing to Him, then get busy implementing the changes. You’ve been chosen by Almighty God… now act like it!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 10, 2010
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my own people will humbly pray and turn back to me and stop sinning, then I will answer them from heaven. I will forgive them and make their land fertile once again.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, God has been dealing with me about what it truly means to be a Christian. Giving our heart to Jesus and becoming a new creature in Him is not the end… it is the beginning! But sometimes we get bogged down in one thing or another and forget the bigger picture. We fail to recognize what it means to truly be a Christian… Christ’s disciple. I assure you, this is no small thing… and the responsibility that comes with it is enormous! But God equips us with all we need – and more – and we have nothing to fear.
So I have created an outline, based on the word CHRISTIAN. For the next two months or more, we will look at scriptures that outline the new life we have in Christ. With prayerful consideration and study, I have come up with the following outline:
Truly, there is no way we can begin to experience anything remotely close to the suffering of Christ. Yet there will be times when sacrifice, weariness, persecution from others, and more will be extremely uncomfortable and give us room to question our faith. As we study and grow, we will learn to handle these feelings and work through them… to the glory of Christ.
We will never be perfect Christians… but we can be better! I pray you will stick with me for this study and see where God takes us. Any time God is showing us new things, it’s gonna be great!
©2010 Debbie Robus
If my own people will humbly pray and turn back to me and stop sinning, then I will answer them from heaven. I will forgive them and make their land fertile once again.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, God has been dealing with me about what it truly means to be a Christian. Giving our heart to Jesus and becoming a new creature in Him is not the end… it is the beginning! But sometimes we get bogged down in one thing or another and forget the bigger picture. We fail to recognize what it means to truly be a Christian… Christ’s disciple. I assure you, this is no small thing… and the responsibility that comes with it is enormous! But God equips us with all we need – and more – and we have nothing to fear.
So I have created an outline, based on the word CHRISTIAN. For the next two months or more, we will look at scriptures that outline the new life we have in Christ. With prayerful consideration and study, I have come up with the following outline:
- C - Christ chose us… and died for our sins.
- H - Healing begins… and we become new creatures.
- R - We are restored to right living – rescued and redeemed.
- I - We have been instilled with the Holy Spirit and Christ’s power to reach others.
- S - We are called to share the Good News of Christ… and God’s love.
- T - We are called to teach by example… to emulate Christ to others.
- I - We are called to imitate Jesus… and be His hands and feet to others.
- A - We are called to address the needs of others in Christ’s name.
- N - We are called to nurture one another.
Truly, there is no way we can begin to experience anything remotely close to the suffering of Christ. Yet there will be times when sacrifice, weariness, persecution from others, and more will be extremely uncomfortable and give us room to question our faith. As we study and grow, we will learn to handle these feelings and work through them… to the glory of Christ.
We will never be perfect Christians… but we can be better! I pray you will stick with me for this study and see where God takes us. Any time God is showing us new things, it’s gonna be great!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 7, 2010
Isaiah 43:1
Descendants of Jacob, I, the LORD, created you and formed your nation. Israel, don't be afraid. I have rescued you. I have called you by name; now you belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I was watching episodes of TLC’s Cake Boss. A man from Italy came into the shop and asked Buddy, the “Cake Boss,” to make an authentic Italian tiramisu cake for his parents, who were coming from Italy for a visit. Buddy made the cake, following a family recipe his own father had used, and he created a beautiful tiramisu for this man. He also made an extra cake in a small container. When the man and his wife came to collect their cake, Buddy passed out spoons and invited them to taste the smaller tiramisu. Buddy took the first bite and proudly showed off his skills as a baker.
Why is this important… and why did the baker take the first bite? It goes back to an old adage among good cooks… “Never serve your guests something you would not eat yourself.” And in some instances, kings and rulers even had tasters who “tested” food for them to make sure it was safe for them to eat!
You may be wondering what on earth this has to do with Isaiah 43:1. My point is that God has created us… He’s done all the prep work AND the sampling, and we are His pride and joy – His beautiful creation. We belong to Him, and He has put His “stamp” on each of us. So we truly have nothing to fear. This is the ultimate endorsement. Whatever we face, God is there with us… guarding His prized possessions and clearing the way for us.
The question for us becomes… “Are we living up to this honor?” None of us deserve it, but we can do all in our power to show our honor and respect to God for this gift by operating in confidence and courage. Are you courageous today? No matter what you are facing, have you put your trust in your Creator to guide your steps? Thank God for choosing you, and honor Him in the way you live each day. Do all you can to be a person of courage and faith… and believe in God to do the rest.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Descendants of Jacob, I, the LORD, created you and formed your nation. Israel, don't be afraid. I have rescued you. I have called you by name; now you belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I was watching episodes of TLC’s Cake Boss. A man from Italy came into the shop and asked Buddy, the “Cake Boss,” to make an authentic Italian tiramisu cake for his parents, who were coming from Italy for a visit. Buddy made the cake, following a family recipe his own father had used, and he created a beautiful tiramisu for this man. He also made an extra cake in a small container. When the man and his wife came to collect their cake, Buddy passed out spoons and invited them to taste the smaller tiramisu. Buddy took the first bite and proudly showed off his skills as a baker.
Why is this important… and why did the baker take the first bite? It goes back to an old adage among good cooks… “Never serve your guests something you would not eat yourself.” And in some instances, kings and rulers even had tasters who “tested” food for them to make sure it was safe for them to eat!
You may be wondering what on earth this has to do with Isaiah 43:1. My point is that God has created us… He’s done all the prep work AND the sampling, and we are His pride and joy – His beautiful creation. We belong to Him, and He has put His “stamp” on each of us. So we truly have nothing to fear. This is the ultimate endorsement. Whatever we face, God is there with us… guarding His prized possessions and clearing the way for us.
The question for us becomes… “Are we living up to this honor?” None of us deserve it, but we can do all in our power to show our honor and respect to God for this gift by operating in confidence and courage. Are you courageous today? No matter what you are facing, have you put your trust in your Creator to guide your steps? Thank God for choosing you, and honor Him in the way you live each day. Do all you can to be a person of courage and faith… and believe in God to do the rest.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 4, 2010
Psalm 37:3
Trust the LORD and live right! The land will be yours, and you will be safe.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I wonder if our forefathers read this passage when they were signing the Declaration of Independence! Before you start pointing fingers and saying, “But we’re not always safe, and this land is not always ours,” let’s take a closer look at this Psalm. If we go back to Verse 1, it says “Don’t be annoyed by anyone who does wrong, and don’t envy them.” When you put this together with Verse 3 and “trust the LORD and live right,” we get a bigger picture. Rather than get bogged down in our aggravation, we must strive to make changes, and we must begin by “taking the high road.”
Have you ever been in a situation where you were felt you were unwelcome – and perhaps intimidated to the point where you were maybe even a little afraid? Perhaps you were in a crowd or in an unfamiliar area of a large city, and you felt like you stuck out like a sore thumb to the “natives.” It’s not a pleasant feeling, is it?! At that moment, we have to dig deep and trust God to keep us safe and tamp down our unsettled feelings.
I was shopping in Wal-Mart on Friday, and the place was a madhouse. Every check-out line was long and crowded… except for one self-check aisle. The register wasn’t closed or malfunctioning… but there were two somewhat scruffy looking men checking out there… and behind them were two tall, very dark black teenage boys. The boys were standing so far back in line that I honestly could not tell if they were in line behind the “scruffy” men or not. I assumed they were being polite and not crowding the man who was checking his groceries. But I did observe more than a couple of people cutting these boys a wide berth. They were looking at them as if to ask, “What are YOU doing here?” The boys were dressed nicely in almost head-to-toe Nike apparel. They were buying a swimsuit and some flip flops, and I saw people who appeared to be tourists in other lines glaring at them, in what I interpreted as, “Surely you are not going to swim in the lake we drove here to enjoy, are you?!” It was disgusting.
I touched the arm of one of the young men and asked, “Are you in line to check out?” He said he was, and I quickly moved in line behind him. The other boy needed help getting his debit card to work properly, and I offered some suggestions, since I was familiar with this register and know it is cantankerous on a good day. The young man was very grateful and thanked me profusely for helping him.
Over lunch, I told my husband about this, and I said, “Those boys could not have helped but feel the glares of others. They must think this is the most hateful place.” He replied something to the effect of… “Yes, but one nice lady helped them.” That took me aback… because I had not considered my actions anything but the right thing to do. Since when did this become just “our” land? Are we so unloving and sinful that we would make anyone feel unwelcome – much less frightened – in our community… particularly a young person? I was reminded all too poignantly that many in our own country still do not feel safe, or welcome. I pray that their faith is strong, and that they truly do trust in God to help them “take the high road” and live right, believing that God will do the rest.
Meanwhile, we must pray that, on this day of all days, people throughout our nation humble themselves before God and ask forgiveness for times when they have not recognized the equality of their fellow countrymen and women. We must ask God to help us all to be more embracing and less judgmental… and to celebrate the victory of our Declaration of Independence and the subsequent tenets of freedom on which this country was founded. In our Pledge of Allegiance, we vow to strive for “liberty and justice for all,” and that begins with something as seemingly insignificant as dropping the attitudes towards others in our local Wal-Mart.
I certainly don’t envy those who gave the ugly stares, and I’m working on overcoming my annoyance with them. But at the same time, I am praying that God works in their hearts to bring about change… and that He strengthens those who are mistreated, if only with unkind stares. We are so blessed… not only to live in America… but to be called God’s children. It’s time we honored Him and our country by behaving better. I can’t think of a more perfect day to start than this one. Happy Birthday, America… may God bless and strengthen you and your people… and may He always keep us safe.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Trust the LORD and live right! The land will be yours, and you will be safe.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I wonder if our forefathers read this passage when they were signing the Declaration of Independence! Before you start pointing fingers and saying, “But we’re not always safe, and this land is not always ours,” let’s take a closer look at this Psalm. If we go back to Verse 1, it says “Don’t be annoyed by anyone who does wrong, and don’t envy them.” When you put this together with Verse 3 and “trust the LORD and live right,” we get a bigger picture. Rather than get bogged down in our aggravation, we must strive to make changes, and we must begin by “taking the high road.”
Have you ever been in a situation where you were felt you were unwelcome – and perhaps intimidated to the point where you were maybe even a little afraid? Perhaps you were in a crowd or in an unfamiliar area of a large city, and you felt like you stuck out like a sore thumb to the “natives.” It’s not a pleasant feeling, is it?! At that moment, we have to dig deep and trust God to keep us safe and tamp down our unsettled feelings.
I was shopping in Wal-Mart on Friday, and the place was a madhouse. Every check-out line was long and crowded… except for one self-check aisle. The register wasn’t closed or malfunctioning… but there were two somewhat scruffy looking men checking out there… and behind them were two tall, very dark black teenage boys. The boys were standing so far back in line that I honestly could not tell if they were in line behind the “scruffy” men or not. I assumed they were being polite and not crowding the man who was checking his groceries. But I did observe more than a couple of people cutting these boys a wide berth. They were looking at them as if to ask, “What are YOU doing here?” The boys were dressed nicely in almost head-to-toe Nike apparel. They were buying a swimsuit and some flip flops, and I saw people who appeared to be tourists in other lines glaring at them, in what I interpreted as, “Surely you are not going to swim in the lake we drove here to enjoy, are you?!” It was disgusting.
I touched the arm of one of the young men and asked, “Are you in line to check out?” He said he was, and I quickly moved in line behind him. The other boy needed help getting his debit card to work properly, and I offered some suggestions, since I was familiar with this register and know it is cantankerous on a good day. The young man was very grateful and thanked me profusely for helping him.
Over lunch, I told my husband about this, and I said, “Those boys could not have helped but feel the glares of others. They must think this is the most hateful place.” He replied something to the effect of… “Yes, but one nice lady helped them.” That took me aback… because I had not considered my actions anything but the right thing to do. Since when did this become just “our” land? Are we so unloving and sinful that we would make anyone feel unwelcome – much less frightened – in our community… particularly a young person? I was reminded all too poignantly that many in our own country still do not feel safe, or welcome. I pray that their faith is strong, and that they truly do trust in God to help them “take the high road” and live right, believing that God will do the rest.
Meanwhile, we must pray that, on this day of all days, people throughout our nation humble themselves before God and ask forgiveness for times when they have not recognized the equality of their fellow countrymen and women. We must ask God to help us all to be more embracing and less judgmental… and to celebrate the victory of our Declaration of Independence and the subsequent tenets of freedom on which this country was founded. In our Pledge of Allegiance, we vow to strive for “liberty and justice for all,” and that begins with something as seemingly insignificant as dropping the attitudes towards others in our local Wal-Mart.
I certainly don’t envy those who gave the ugly stares, and I’m working on overcoming my annoyance with them. But at the same time, I am praying that God works in their hearts to bring about change… and that He strengthens those who are mistreated, if only with unkind stares. We are so blessed… not only to live in America… but to be called God’s children. It’s time we honored Him and our country by behaving better. I can’t think of a more perfect day to start than this one. Happy Birthday, America… may God bless and strengthen you and your people… and may He always keep us safe.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 22, 2010
June 22 ~ Matthew 10:31
Even the hairs on your head are counted. So don't be afraid! You are worth much more than many sparrows.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Lately, the talk of our neighborhood has been wild “critters” that are tearing up our yards and eating our flowers. We’ve got deer, rabbits, raccoons, foxes, opossums, armadillos, squirrels, chipmunks, and more! At a recent neighborhood luncheon, methods of protecting vegetation and dealing with “pests” were discussed. And while I am not happy about animals tearing up the expensive new sod we just laid this summer, I thought about these animals and how much I enjoy watching them play and run through our yard.
One morning last week, I looked up and three small birds – maybe wrens or sparrows? – were buzzing around the hanging flower baskets and perched on our back porch ceiling fan. My first thought was… they are looking for a nesting spot! So I went out and clapped my hands and sent them packing! Later, I thought about how important all of these backyard “critters” are to God. He knows every single one of them by name! We don’t know their names, but God does. He numbers the hairs on their body… the feathers on a sparrow’s wing… the flutters of a hummingbird’s wings as it gathers nectar from my petunias.
Stop and think about this… the same God who sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross also knows how many feathers are on a sparrow – and how many hairs are on your head. The same God who moves mountains and created oceans and the universe knows each of us not only by name – He also knows every miniscule thought we ever have! He has the power to change oceans to dry deserts – and to handle our silliest of problems. And He is willing to do whatever we need in order to keep us safe and in line with His will.
So why is it we find trusting Him to be so hard? Why are we so fearful, knowing Who has our back? Why do we value ourselves in God’s eyes as less than even a sparrow? Isn’t it time we changed our attitude and realized our true value? Isn’t it time to let go – and let God have control? Is today the day we start living in, through, and for Him? Shouldn’t it be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Even the hairs on your head are counted. So don't be afraid! You are worth much more than many sparrows.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Lately, the talk of our neighborhood has been wild “critters” that are tearing up our yards and eating our flowers. We’ve got deer, rabbits, raccoons, foxes, opossums, armadillos, squirrels, chipmunks, and more! At a recent neighborhood luncheon, methods of protecting vegetation and dealing with “pests” were discussed. And while I am not happy about animals tearing up the expensive new sod we just laid this summer, I thought about these animals and how much I enjoy watching them play and run through our yard.
One morning last week, I looked up and three small birds – maybe wrens or sparrows? – were buzzing around the hanging flower baskets and perched on our back porch ceiling fan. My first thought was… they are looking for a nesting spot! So I went out and clapped my hands and sent them packing! Later, I thought about how important all of these backyard “critters” are to God. He knows every single one of them by name! We don’t know their names, but God does. He numbers the hairs on their body… the feathers on a sparrow’s wing… the flutters of a hummingbird’s wings as it gathers nectar from my petunias.
Stop and think about this… the same God who sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross also knows how many feathers are on a sparrow – and how many hairs are on your head. The same God who moves mountains and created oceans and the universe knows each of us not only by name – He also knows every miniscule thought we ever have! He has the power to change oceans to dry deserts – and to handle our silliest of problems. And He is willing to do whatever we need in order to keep us safe and in line with His will.
So why is it we find trusting Him to be so hard? Why are we so fearful, knowing Who has our back? Why do we value ourselves in God’s eyes as less than even a sparrow? Isn’t it time we changed our attitude and realized our true value? Isn’t it time to let go – and let God have control? Is today the day we start living in, through, and for Him? Shouldn’t it be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 3, 2010
June 3 ~ 2 Kings 6:16
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Nobody likes to feel outnumbered. The good news is, in our Christian life, it may seem that way, but in truth, we have more “troops” on our side than we even realize! Truly, no weapon formed against us will prosper, if we are living within God’s will.
I will be honest… I didn’t really understand this when I was a teenager and young adult. And I now see just how generous God’s grace was over me during those years. I still remember being laughed at because I didn’t smoke cigarettes and wouldn’t try marijuana or other drugs. I still recall the sting of not being included in trips to the lake or other outings because I wasn’t allowed to wear a bikini bathing suit or the crop tops and low-rise jeans my girlfriends were wearing. I’ve heard the names… “prude,” “goody two-shoes,” and more. And I admit…at the time, these things really hurt. They made me feel like I was an outsider… like I was outnumbered, and everyone else was having more fun and laughing at me. And honestly, Satan delighted in this… and he could have so easily won me over, had God’s grace not covered me.
See, I didn’t realize it then, but for every temptation Satan hurled at me, God stood back, arms folded, watching His angels surround me and give me the resolve and courage I needed to muddle through each situation. It wasn’t easy, and I don’t have a spotless record! But now I see so clearly that I was I just didn’t realize Who had my back… I was never outnumbered! And neither are you!
God has a army of angels surrounding each of us, ready to fight off Satan’s attackers. We can call on them any hour of the night or day. All we have to do is say, “Lord, I need you. I’m upset, and I’m about to say something that I know I will regret later.” Or, “Lord, everyone else is doing this… I really, really want to fit in… can you help me?” Or, “Father, I don’t think I can fight this disease and the ailments of aging any more. Can you please give me strength and peace?”
When I sleepily rock our nephew Timothy in the middle of the night, and he will not settle down, I have prayed for God to give him rest and relaxation. I’ve envisioned him surrounded by angels who lovingly soothe him and calm him as he returns to sleep in his crib. I have felt the presence of angels in a hospital room as my dad lay dying, and I have acknowledged that they were far more powerful than the demons of his illness and suffering. I have been tempted to lash out in anger and frustration at someone when I felt they were mistreating me, and I’ve asked God to surround me with legions of angels to protect me – and my intended target. And always… ALWAYS… God answers when I call on Him. AND… He will do the very same thing for you. Nothing is too big or too small for God… and we do not have to operate one second more in fear.
Are you calling on God and His army of angels to calm your fears and give you courage – and encouragement? Do you recognize the enemy and confront him headlong by calling on The Great Commander? Isn’t it time we stopped giving in, compromising and declaring defeat unnecessarily? We need recognize that we are never outnumbered as Christians. Help is only a prayer away. I wish I had used them more often when I was younger, but I am making up for lost time now! God is truly my ultimate “lifeline” – is He yours?
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Nobody likes to feel outnumbered. The good news is, in our Christian life, it may seem that way, but in truth, we have more “troops” on our side than we even realize! Truly, no weapon formed against us will prosper, if we are living within God’s will.
I will be honest… I didn’t really understand this when I was a teenager and young adult. And I now see just how generous God’s grace was over me during those years. I still remember being laughed at because I didn’t smoke cigarettes and wouldn’t try marijuana or other drugs. I still recall the sting of not being included in trips to the lake or other outings because I wasn’t allowed to wear a bikini bathing suit or the crop tops and low-rise jeans my girlfriends were wearing. I’ve heard the names… “prude,” “goody two-shoes,” and more. And I admit…at the time, these things really hurt. They made me feel like I was an outsider… like I was outnumbered, and everyone else was having more fun and laughing at me. And honestly, Satan delighted in this… and he could have so easily won me over, had God’s grace not covered me.
See, I didn’t realize it then, but for every temptation Satan hurled at me, God stood back, arms folded, watching His angels surround me and give me the resolve and courage I needed to muddle through each situation. It wasn’t easy, and I don’t have a spotless record! But now I see so clearly that I was I just didn’t realize Who had my back… I was never outnumbered! And neither are you!
God has a army of angels surrounding each of us, ready to fight off Satan’s attackers. We can call on them any hour of the night or day. All we have to do is say, “Lord, I need you. I’m upset, and I’m about to say something that I know I will regret later.” Or, “Lord, everyone else is doing this… I really, really want to fit in… can you help me?” Or, “Father, I don’t think I can fight this disease and the ailments of aging any more. Can you please give me strength and peace?”
When I sleepily rock our nephew Timothy in the middle of the night, and he will not settle down, I have prayed for God to give him rest and relaxation. I’ve envisioned him surrounded by angels who lovingly soothe him and calm him as he returns to sleep in his crib. I have felt the presence of angels in a hospital room as my dad lay dying, and I have acknowledged that they were far more powerful than the demons of his illness and suffering. I have been tempted to lash out in anger and frustration at someone when I felt they were mistreating me, and I’ve asked God to surround me with legions of angels to protect me – and my intended target. And always… ALWAYS… God answers when I call on Him. AND… He will do the very same thing for you. Nothing is too big or too small for God… and we do not have to operate one second more in fear.
Are you calling on God and His army of angels to calm your fears and give you courage – and encouragement? Do you recognize the enemy and confront him headlong by calling on The Great Commander? Isn’t it time we stopped giving in, compromising and declaring defeat unnecessarily? We need recognize that we are never outnumbered as Christians. Help is only a prayer away. I wish I had used them more often when I was younger, but I am making up for lost time now! God is truly my ultimate “lifeline” – is He yours?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 13, 2010
May 13 ~ Psalm 27:14
Trust the LORD! Be brave and strong and trust the LORD.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
At the completion of a Walk to Emmaus event, the participants are told, “You have changed… the world to which you return has not.” I can tell you from my own experience at a Walk to Emmaus, this was a daunting thought. While the Walk to Emmaus is a life-changing experience for most everyone who attends, many who never go on a Walk experience similar challenges. When you truly surrender your heart and soul to Jesus, you change… but the world does not. And it is daunting. No one wants to be thrust into a situation where others will potentially see them as “different.” No one wants to risk ridicule, or being ostracized from their group of friends and acquaintances. Nobody wants to hear someone say to them sarcastically, “You’ve changed!” Everyone wants to fit in – to be loved and accepted.
What we have to realize is that following the ways of the world doesn’t keep us “in the loop.” Caving in and falling into old patterns and bad habits doesn’t make us fit in better with our friends – and it really doesn’t satisfy for very long. I know what you are thinking… “I want to be brave and strong and trust the LORD, but it’s not that easy.” And you are exactly right – it’s not easy, which is why it involves trust! You have to trust God to do what He says He will do. You have to trust God to protect you and elevate you above any potential ridicule or rejection. You have to trust God to build you up and take you to new levels of joy and confidence, through His grace, mercy, love, and power! And He will do just this! The world may not have changed, but if you trust in the Lord to guide your steps each day, you will be changed – and that’s a great thing!
Who are you trusting? Do you have the courage and strength to take a leap of faith and believe that God can change you for the better and surround you with His love and protection? You’ll never know until you try… who are you trusting?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Trust the LORD! Be brave and strong and trust the LORD.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
At the completion of a Walk to Emmaus event, the participants are told, “You have changed… the world to which you return has not.” I can tell you from my own experience at a Walk to Emmaus, this was a daunting thought. While the Walk to Emmaus is a life-changing experience for most everyone who attends, many who never go on a Walk experience similar challenges. When you truly surrender your heart and soul to Jesus, you change… but the world does not. And it is daunting. No one wants to be thrust into a situation where others will potentially see them as “different.” No one wants to risk ridicule, or being ostracized from their group of friends and acquaintances. Nobody wants to hear someone say to them sarcastically, “You’ve changed!” Everyone wants to fit in – to be loved and accepted.
What we have to realize is that following the ways of the world doesn’t keep us “in the loop.” Caving in and falling into old patterns and bad habits doesn’t make us fit in better with our friends – and it really doesn’t satisfy for very long. I know what you are thinking… “I want to be brave and strong and trust the LORD, but it’s not that easy.” And you are exactly right – it’s not easy, which is why it involves trust! You have to trust God to do what He says He will do. You have to trust God to protect you and elevate you above any potential ridicule or rejection. You have to trust God to build you up and take you to new levels of joy and confidence, through His grace, mercy, love, and power! And He will do just this! The world may not have changed, but if you trust in the Lord to guide your steps each day, you will be changed – and that’s a great thing!
Who are you trusting? Do you have the courage and strength to take a leap of faith and believe that God can change you for the better and surround you with His love and protection? You’ll never know until you try… who are you trusting?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 24, 2010
April 24 ~ Proverbs 14:14
You harvest what you plant, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us understand the concept that:
• If you overeat – you will probably gain weight.
• If you smoke cigarettes – you are a candidate for lung cancer.
• If you expose your skin to the sun or a tanning bed – you will age your skin and possibly get skin cancer.
• If you have unprotected sex – you could make a baby or get an STD.
• If you don’t go to class – you probably won’t pass.
• If you break the law – you may go to jail.
I could go on, but you get the picture. When things are “black and white,” we have no trouble grasping them. Where we sometimes fail to understand this is in the “grey areas” of life.
• If you cheat – on your taxes, on a significant other, at school, at work, by speeding or drinking and driving… or even in a sport… you might seem to “get by” with it. But somewhere down the road, this type of behavior will catch up with you. You may never get caught actually cheating at something, but your behavior may lead to other dishonesty that is discovered or an activity that harms your relationships with others. And over time, cheating and dishonesty eat away at your character.
• If you are kind and generous with what you have, even if it seems like very little – time, talents, and money – you will benefit in ways you can’t even imagine. You may never be “rich” in money or material things, but you will be wealthy beyond measure in other ways. Blessings will come your way when you least expect them – and from sources you would never have expected.
• If you are faithful and trusting of God – and trustworthy – He will answer your prayers, solve your problems, heal you of diseases, protect you, promote you, and bless you incredibly. And you will operate in confidence that Someone else is helping you handle every situation.
• If you are a “hit-and-miss” Christian who worships, prays and studies when it is convenient – or when there is a crisis – expect “hit-and-miss” results and blessings. It’s not that God is ignoring you – or even punishing you – but God does pour out His abundance on those who are most faithful, and we need to understand and appreciate how this exchange with Him works.
This is the familiar “you reap what you sow” passage. It may be hard for you to see how what you are doing today is going to affect you down the road. But it will. Make sure that everything you do this day lines up with the will and the word of God. Make sure that every choice you make, every word from your mouth, every gesture, facial expression and step you take is approved by God. If you do this, you will sow blessings so abundant you can’t even count them. Don’t worry about what happens if you make poor choices – don’t even go there! Don’t risk missing a single one of the blessings God has in store for you. Sow good things, positive words, faithful service and continual trust. Sow LOVE and the light of Christ… and be amazed by what you reap!
©2010 Debbie Robus
You harvest what you plant, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us understand the concept that:
• If you overeat – you will probably gain weight.
• If you smoke cigarettes – you are a candidate for lung cancer.
• If you expose your skin to the sun or a tanning bed – you will age your skin and possibly get skin cancer.
• If you have unprotected sex – you could make a baby or get an STD.
• If you don’t go to class – you probably won’t pass.
• If you break the law – you may go to jail.
I could go on, but you get the picture. When things are “black and white,” we have no trouble grasping them. Where we sometimes fail to understand this is in the “grey areas” of life.
• If you cheat – on your taxes, on a significant other, at school, at work, by speeding or drinking and driving… or even in a sport… you might seem to “get by” with it. But somewhere down the road, this type of behavior will catch up with you. You may never get caught actually cheating at something, but your behavior may lead to other dishonesty that is discovered or an activity that harms your relationships with others. And over time, cheating and dishonesty eat away at your character.
• If you are kind and generous with what you have, even if it seems like very little – time, talents, and money – you will benefit in ways you can’t even imagine. You may never be “rich” in money or material things, but you will be wealthy beyond measure in other ways. Blessings will come your way when you least expect them – and from sources you would never have expected.
• If you are faithful and trusting of God – and trustworthy – He will answer your prayers, solve your problems, heal you of diseases, protect you, promote you, and bless you incredibly. And you will operate in confidence that Someone else is helping you handle every situation.
• If you are a “hit-and-miss” Christian who worships, prays and studies when it is convenient – or when there is a crisis – expect “hit-and-miss” results and blessings. It’s not that God is ignoring you – or even punishing you – but God does pour out His abundance on those who are most faithful, and we need to understand and appreciate how this exchange with Him works.
This is the familiar “you reap what you sow” passage. It may be hard for you to see how what you are doing today is going to affect you down the road. But it will. Make sure that everything you do this day lines up with the will and the word of God. Make sure that every choice you make, every word from your mouth, every gesture, facial expression and step you take is approved by God. If you do this, you will sow blessings so abundant you can’t even count them. Don’t worry about what happens if you make poor choices – don’t even go there! Don’t risk missing a single one of the blessings God has in store for you. Sow good things, positive words, faithful service and continual trust. Sow LOVE and the light of Christ… and be amazed by what you reap!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 20, 2010
April 20 ~ Luke 14:8-11
When you are invited to a wedding feast, don't sit in the best place. Someone more important may have been invited. Then the one who invited you will come and say, "Give your place to this other guest!" You will be embarrassed and will have to sit in the worst place.
When you are invited to be a guest, go and sit in the worst place. Then the one who invited you may come and say, "My friend, take a better seat!" You will then be honored in front of all the other guests. If you put yourself above others, you will be put down. But if you humble yourself, you will be honored.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For three years in the late 80’s/early 90’s, I handled publicity for a locally-based company that sold its products internationally. My job was to get the products mentioned in magazines, newspapers, and other media. I also wrote press releases and traveled with company executives and employees to promote their products at markets, parties, and special events. I jetted around the country, dined in fancy restaurants and stayed in posh hotels. In my job, I often functioned in a world completely the opposite of my quiet home life with my husband and two cats on a little farm outside of Heber Springs.
This was before the Internet really came into everyday use, so I spent countless hours on the phone with magazine editors, designers, and other PR people. I became well acquainted with magazine editors from VOGUE, HOME, GOOD HOUSEKEEPING, and dozens more. I met many famous people and even dined with a few.
Are you impressed? Don’t be! These were all ordinary people who happened to be in extraordinary positions. One of the best lessons I learned from this three-year experience was not to be affected by celebrity. It’s not that I became numb to the fame and fortune. I simply realized that when you strip away the fancy clothes, the jets, the money, the cameras and media recognition, each is an ordinary person who probably grew up very much like you and I did. They may still have “regular” home towns and families… and probably plenty of “regular” problems and challenges. We want to define them by their surroundings and “things,” but we are mistaken to do so.
I came to appreciate some of these people as genuine folks who happened to have interesting jobs or lifestyles. Some of them recognized me as a person and not just the means to a good story or photo for their magazine spread. Some I realized were really lonely human beings hiding behind a façade of fame and fortune. Still others were caught up in the hoopla and wanted others to think they were really “special!” Looking back, I see all of these people I met very differently. I wonder, “How did they see me? Did I reflect Jesus to them? Did they think I saw them as real people, or just a means to a mention for my company’s products?”
I pray that we would all take a good hard look at ourselves and see what sort of image we are projecting. Are we the “real deal” – a true, humble servant of Christ who reflects His love and light to others? Or are we hangers-on… wannabes… blinded by the lure of recognition and celebrity? Do we teeter on the brink of embarrassment, should others find out who we really are? Or have we stripped away any layers of phoniness, blind ambition, greed, and self-service, and let Jesus use us for His purposes? The question of the day is, “Where does God see you sitting… and how did you get there?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
When you are invited to a wedding feast, don't sit in the best place. Someone more important may have been invited. Then the one who invited you will come and say, "Give your place to this other guest!" You will be embarrassed and will have to sit in the worst place.
When you are invited to be a guest, go and sit in the worst place. Then the one who invited you may come and say, "My friend, take a better seat!" You will then be honored in front of all the other guests. If you put yourself above others, you will be put down. But if you humble yourself, you will be honored.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For three years in the late 80’s/early 90’s, I handled publicity for a locally-based company that sold its products internationally. My job was to get the products mentioned in magazines, newspapers, and other media. I also wrote press releases and traveled with company executives and employees to promote their products at markets, parties, and special events. I jetted around the country, dined in fancy restaurants and stayed in posh hotels. In my job, I often functioned in a world completely the opposite of my quiet home life with my husband and two cats on a little farm outside of Heber Springs.
This was before the Internet really came into everyday use, so I spent countless hours on the phone with magazine editors, designers, and other PR people. I became well acquainted with magazine editors from VOGUE, HOME, GOOD HOUSEKEEPING, and dozens more. I met many famous people and even dined with a few.
Are you impressed? Don’t be! These were all ordinary people who happened to be in extraordinary positions. One of the best lessons I learned from this three-year experience was not to be affected by celebrity. It’s not that I became numb to the fame and fortune. I simply realized that when you strip away the fancy clothes, the jets, the money, the cameras and media recognition, each is an ordinary person who probably grew up very much like you and I did. They may still have “regular” home towns and families… and probably plenty of “regular” problems and challenges. We want to define them by their surroundings and “things,” but we are mistaken to do so.
I came to appreciate some of these people as genuine folks who happened to have interesting jobs or lifestyles. Some of them recognized me as a person and not just the means to a good story or photo for their magazine spread. Some I realized were really lonely human beings hiding behind a façade of fame and fortune. Still others were caught up in the hoopla and wanted others to think they were really “special!” Looking back, I see all of these people I met very differently. I wonder, “How did they see me? Did I reflect Jesus to them? Did they think I saw them as real people, or just a means to a mention for my company’s products?”
I pray that we would all take a good hard look at ourselves and see what sort of image we are projecting. Are we the “real deal” – a true, humble servant of Christ who reflects His love and light to others? Or are we hangers-on… wannabes… blinded by the lure of recognition and celebrity? Do we teeter on the brink of embarrassment, should others find out who we really are? Or have we stripped away any layers of phoniness, blind ambition, greed, and self-service, and let Jesus use us for His purposes? The question of the day is, “Where does God see you sitting… and how did you get there?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 6, 2010
April 6 ~ 1 Corinthians 7:21-24
Are you a slave? Don't let that bother you. But if you can win your freedom, you should. When the Lord chooses slaves, they become his free people. And when he chooses free people, they become slaves of Christ. God paid a great price for you. So don't become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My friend Becky dropped out of college to marry and begin a family. She and her husband reared two wonderful boys who both graduated from college and are doing well. Becky was a wonderful, loving mother. More importantly, she was an amazingly faith-filled Christian. And when she was stricken with breast cancer that eventually took her life, she led by example. Many people testified at her funeral to her positive outlook… and every time we talked during her illness, she would say, “I’m going to be okay.”
See, Becky didn’t become a slave to cancer. She belonged to Jesus, and because of that, she despised pity and sadness and the emotions that often consume those who are terminally ill. They betrayed her faith and trust, and she would have none of it! Her own pastor said that when he would try to have a serious conversation with her about how she was really doing, she would touch his arm and say, “I’m doing just fine.” She let the light of Christ shine through her… she was a slave of Christ.
Often we become a slave of something other than Jesus. Some Christians even become “slaves” to the church, thinking that this pleases God. If you are more concerned with what you are doing for the church than how you are serving God, you have become a slave. When you get caught up in trappings such as dressing a certain way or making a big deal about how often you attend church services and activities, Bible studies and more and lose focus on Christ… when you are more interested in hanging crosses from your rear view mirror and sporting bumper stickers that espouse your favorite scripture than ministering to others… when you are more concerned about protesting certain practices in the name of Jesus than sharing the love of Jesus and letting His light shine through each day… you are a slave.
What enslaves you? Have you gotten bogged down and trapped by worry, fear, financial stress, poor health, relationship struggles, loneliness, insecurities, self-pity, “trappings of the church,” and more? Don’t you want to become a “slave of Christ,” and in doing so, gain your freedom? Look at the last verses of this passage again… “God paid a great price for you. So don’t become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.” Be a slave of Christ. Live for Him… and be faithfully – and joyfully free.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Are you a slave? Don't let that bother you. But if you can win your freedom, you should. When the Lord chooses slaves, they become his free people. And when he chooses free people, they become slaves of Christ. God paid a great price for you. So don't become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My friend Becky dropped out of college to marry and begin a family. She and her husband reared two wonderful boys who both graduated from college and are doing well. Becky was a wonderful, loving mother. More importantly, she was an amazingly faith-filled Christian. And when she was stricken with breast cancer that eventually took her life, she led by example. Many people testified at her funeral to her positive outlook… and every time we talked during her illness, she would say, “I’m going to be okay.”
See, Becky didn’t become a slave to cancer. She belonged to Jesus, and because of that, she despised pity and sadness and the emotions that often consume those who are terminally ill. They betrayed her faith and trust, and she would have none of it! Her own pastor said that when he would try to have a serious conversation with her about how she was really doing, she would touch his arm and say, “I’m doing just fine.” She let the light of Christ shine through her… she was a slave of Christ.
Often we become a slave of something other than Jesus. Some Christians even become “slaves” to the church, thinking that this pleases God. If you are more concerned with what you are doing for the church than how you are serving God, you have become a slave. When you get caught up in trappings such as dressing a certain way or making a big deal about how often you attend church services and activities, Bible studies and more and lose focus on Christ… when you are more interested in hanging crosses from your rear view mirror and sporting bumper stickers that espouse your favorite scripture than ministering to others… when you are more concerned about protesting certain practices in the name of Jesus than sharing the love of Jesus and letting His light shine through each day… you are a slave.
What enslaves you? Have you gotten bogged down and trapped by worry, fear, financial stress, poor health, relationship struggles, loneliness, insecurities, self-pity, “trappings of the church,” and more? Don’t you want to become a “slave of Christ,” and in doing so, gain your freedom? Look at the last verses of this passage again… “God paid a great price for you. So don’t become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.” Be a slave of Christ. Live for Him… and be faithfully – and joyfully free.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 2, 2010
April 2 ~ Matthew 28:2-7
Suddenly a strong earthquake struck, and the Lord's angel came down from heaven. He rolled away the stone and sat on it. The angel looked as bright as lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards shook from fear and fell down, as though they were dead.
The angel said to the women, "Don't be afraid! I know you are looking for Jesus, who was nailed to a cross. He isn't here! God has raised him to life, just as Jesus said he would. Come, see the place where his body was lying. Now hurry! Tell his disciples that he has been raised to life and is on his way to Galilee. Go there, and you will see him. That is what I came to tell you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Blackberry, iPhone, Kindle, iPad and more… it seems like the way we get information changes daily. Someone reporting on the new iPad said, “This is how we will read newspapers and magazines in the future.” While God can use any of these devices to speak to us or work in our lives, He frequently uses another resource… angels. And in the days following Jesus’ crucifixion, God used an angel to roll away the stone and deliver the news to Mary and the other women that Jesus was not there.
Think about it… God used an angel to tell Zechariah that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son. He sent an angel in a dream to tell Joseph to go ahead with his marriage to Mary, who was already pregnant. An angel told the shepherds in the field that a Savior had been born in Bethlehem. Another angel spoke to Joseph in a dream and told him to flee to Egypt to protect Jesus from being killed by King Herod. Throughout the Bible, God used angels to deliver news. And even today, God uses angels to speak to us. They may not look as bright as lightning or wear clothes as white as snow, but if we are paying attention, angels are with us. When you are in a situation where you are afraid or lonely, angels are with you. Angels sing and celebrate good news and events with you. Angels are present when a new life begins… and angels usher you into God’s presence in heaven when you die.
Angels are real… and significant. Why else would God have used an angel to deliver such important news? An angel first reported that Jesus was raised to life. Why is this important for us today? I believe we often fail to recognize God’s presence – how He attends to us in many forms… even sending angels to surround us and see after our every need. This is just one more of the countless ways God cares for us… an extension of His loving act of sending us Jesus.
So as you go about your day, know that God is with you. Feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in your heart… and feel the blessings of angels that surround you on God’s behalf. Listen for any word they may have for you from our Heavenly Father. That “little voice” in your head may actually be the whisper of an angel! Thank God for loving us so much that He not only lifted Jesus from the tomb, but He sent an angel to share this Great News! Don’t be afraid… Jesus is ALIVE… and God’s angels are always with you! And the best part is that you don’t need an iPhone, Blackberry, or other electronic device to hear from either of them!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Suddenly a strong earthquake struck, and the Lord's angel came down from heaven. He rolled away the stone and sat on it. The angel looked as bright as lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards shook from fear and fell down, as though they were dead.
The angel said to the women, "Don't be afraid! I know you are looking for Jesus, who was nailed to a cross. He isn't here! God has raised him to life, just as Jesus said he would. Come, see the place where his body was lying. Now hurry! Tell his disciples that he has been raised to life and is on his way to Galilee. Go there, and you will see him. That is what I came to tell you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Blackberry, iPhone, Kindle, iPad and more… it seems like the way we get information changes daily. Someone reporting on the new iPad said, “This is how we will read newspapers and magazines in the future.” While God can use any of these devices to speak to us or work in our lives, He frequently uses another resource… angels. And in the days following Jesus’ crucifixion, God used an angel to roll away the stone and deliver the news to Mary and the other women that Jesus was not there.
Think about it… God used an angel to tell Zechariah that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son. He sent an angel in a dream to tell Joseph to go ahead with his marriage to Mary, who was already pregnant. An angel told the shepherds in the field that a Savior had been born in Bethlehem. Another angel spoke to Joseph in a dream and told him to flee to Egypt to protect Jesus from being killed by King Herod. Throughout the Bible, God used angels to deliver news. And even today, God uses angels to speak to us. They may not look as bright as lightning or wear clothes as white as snow, but if we are paying attention, angels are with us. When you are in a situation where you are afraid or lonely, angels are with you. Angels sing and celebrate good news and events with you. Angels are present when a new life begins… and angels usher you into God’s presence in heaven when you die.
Angels are real… and significant. Why else would God have used an angel to deliver such important news? An angel first reported that Jesus was raised to life. Why is this important for us today? I believe we often fail to recognize God’s presence – how He attends to us in many forms… even sending angels to surround us and see after our every need. This is just one more of the countless ways God cares for us… an extension of His loving act of sending us Jesus.
So as you go about your day, know that God is with you. Feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in your heart… and feel the blessings of angels that surround you on God’s behalf. Listen for any word they may have for you from our Heavenly Father. That “little voice” in your head may actually be the whisper of an angel! Thank God for loving us so much that He not only lifted Jesus from the tomb, but He sent an angel to share this Great News! Don’t be afraid… Jesus is ALIVE… and God’s angels are always with you! And the best part is that you don’t need an iPhone, Blackberry, or other electronic device to hear from either of them!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 1, 2010
April 1 ~ John 20:24-29
Although Thomas the Twin was one of the twelve disciples, he wasn't with the others when Jesus appeared to them. So they told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But Thomas said, "First, I must see the nail scars in his hands and touch them with my finger. I must put my hand where the spear went into his side. I won't believe unless I do this!"
A week later the disciples were together again. This time, Thomas was with them. Jesus came in while the doors were still locked and stood in the middle of the group. He greeted his disciples and said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and look at my hands! Put your hand into my side. Stop doubting and have faith!"
Thomas replied, "You are my Lord and my God!" Jesus said, "Thomas, do you have faith because you have seen me? The people who have faith in me without seeing me are the ones who are really blessed!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was growing up, I heard the story of “Doubting Thomas” over and over. He was the disciple who didn’t believe that Jesus was real until he put his hand into Jesus’ side, pierced by the Roman soldier’s spear. Thomas had to see the nail scars on Jesus’ hands. He needed physical proof that Jesus was alive and real.
Several years ago, I heard a sermon in which this scripture passage was used, but the emphasis was not on Thomas and his skepticism. The pastor emphasized the second half of the passage, where Jesus says, “Stop doubting and have faith.” More importantly, He says (and I’m paraphrasing now), “Those who really have faith in me are the ones who have never seen me, but they believe I exist anyway.” Jesus is talking about you and me! We’ve “felt” Jesus’ presence, maybe… but we have never looked Him in the eye or touched His nail-scarred hands. We’ve never seen His pierced side, much less touched it! But Jesus Himself says that WE are the ones who are really blessed because we believe in Him anyway.
The New King James Version says that Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” The Living Bible quotes Jesus as saying, “Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.” Jesus is telling Thomas that he believes because he can see Jesus… but others believe purely out of faith and a desire to know Him. This pleases Jesus… and He blesses us for our faith. This really hit home with me. Jesus loves my faith – and my faithfulness! It pleases Him! After all He has done for me, that seems like such a small thing in return… but to Him it is HUGE!
Where are you in this equation? Are you like Thomas… waiting for physical proof? Do you need a “sign” before you will really believe? Or are you willing to step out in faith and trust Jesus? The choice is yours… no one will force you to decide either way. But I can tell you that choosing to believe in Jesus can change your life… in a very good way! This is one time where we don’t need physical proof… we just need a leap of faith. Are you ready to jump?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Although Thomas the Twin was one of the twelve disciples, he wasn't with the others when Jesus appeared to them. So they told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But Thomas said, "First, I must see the nail scars in his hands and touch them with my finger. I must put my hand where the spear went into his side. I won't believe unless I do this!"
A week later the disciples were together again. This time, Thomas was with them. Jesus came in while the doors were still locked and stood in the middle of the group. He greeted his disciples and said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and look at my hands! Put your hand into my side. Stop doubting and have faith!"
Thomas replied, "You are my Lord and my God!" Jesus said, "Thomas, do you have faith because you have seen me? The people who have faith in me without seeing me are the ones who are really blessed!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was growing up, I heard the story of “Doubting Thomas” over and over. He was the disciple who didn’t believe that Jesus was real until he put his hand into Jesus’ side, pierced by the Roman soldier’s spear. Thomas had to see the nail scars on Jesus’ hands. He needed physical proof that Jesus was alive and real.
Several years ago, I heard a sermon in which this scripture passage was used, but the emphasis was not on Thomas and his skepticism. The pastor emphasized the second half of the passage, where Jesus says, “Stop doubting and have faith.” More importantly, He says (and I’m paraphrasing now), “Those who really have faith in me are the ones who have never seen me, but they believe I exist anyway.” Jesus is talking about you and me! We’ve “felt” Jesus’ presence, maybe… but we have never looked Him in the eye or touched His nail-scarred hands. We’ve never seen His pierced side, much less touched it! But Jesus Himself says that WE are the ones who are really blessed because we believe in Him anyway.
The New King James Version says that Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” The Living Bible quotes Jesus as saying, “Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.” Jesus is telling Thomas that he believes because he can see Jesus… but others believe purely out of faith and a desire to know Him. This pleases Jesus… and He blesses us for our faith. This really hit home with me. Jesus loves my faith – and my faithfulness! It pleases Him! After all He has done for me, that seems like such a small thing in return… but to Him it is HUGE!
Where are you in this equation? Are you like Thomas… waiting for physical proof? Do you need a “sign” before you will really believe? Or are you willing to step out in faith and trust Jesus? The choice is yours… no one will force you to decide either way. But I can tell you that choosing to believe in Jesus can change your life… in a very good way! This is one time where we don’t need physical proof… we just need a leap of faith. Are you ready to jump?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 27, 2010
March 27 ~ Romans 8:33-34
If God says his chosen ones are acceptable to him, can anyone bring charges against them? Or can anyone condemn them? No indeed! Christ died and was raised to life, and now he is at God's right side, speaking to him for us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend of mine wrote on Facebook that he would like to go back and revisit all of the books and movies that meant so much more to his parents than they did to him when he first read them – like Seabiscuit. He explained, “In any work wherein loss or illness of a child is crucial to character development, I'm sure I would connect more with that person and his or her motivations. Even "The Incredibles" got to me because by then I had a child. You understand better the meaning of the phrase "do anything it takes."
In Romans 8, we hear the Apostle Paul explaining that if God is for us, who is really against us? Paul continues that if God was willing to give up His only Son for us, won’t He give us EVERYTHING else? If God chose us, can anyone else truly reject us? I will tell you, I cannot imagine giving up a child. I’ve thought a lot about this, and I fully understand how parents save a child at the risk of their own life. Think rescuing a child who is drowning, or holding a baby out the window of a burning building for someone else to save. I get that… I would do that in a heartbeat. But to allow my child to be nailed to be tortured and nailed to a cross… even to save millions of other “children”… well, I don’t know that kind of love in human form. I would do anything it takes to save a child, but I am fairly certain I could not sacrifice them – no matter what the cause.
So given this consideration, when God says He sent Jesus to die for me, I have to believe Him. When God says that I am precious in His sight, I have to repeat those words when I feel condemned or criticized by others. When God says that what He does for me, He does for many, I have to look at each person I encounter as a His child, fully deserving of all He gives…just like I am. I have to remember that Jesus died for me, you, and everyone else who will believe in Him… and now He goes to bat for ALL of us each and every day. I am grateful that God loves enough to sacrifice HIS Son for all of us… I am grateful for His power and grace and mercy. Where I am weak, He is strong… and I praise Him for this.
Romans 8 concludes with verses that tell us nothing can separate us from God’s love. God… the ultimate Parent… loves us more than we can imagine… enough to sacrifice Jesus on the cross for our sins. How can we not serve One who loves us incredibly? If God is on our side, who can be against us?
©2010 Debbie Robus
If God says his chosen ones are acceptable to him, can anyone bring charges against them? Or can anyone condemn them? No indeed! Christ died and was raised to life, and now he is at God's right side, speaking to him for us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend of mine wrote on Facebook that he would like to go back and revisit all of the books and movies that meant so much more to his parents than they did to him when he first read them – like Seabiscuit. He explained, “In any work wherein loss or illness of a child is crucial to character development, I'm sure I would connect more with that person and his or her motivations. Even "The Incredibles" got to me because by then I had a child. You understand better the meaning of the phrase "do anything it takes."
In Romans 8, we hear the Apostle Paul explaining that if God is for us, who is really against us? Paul continues that if God was willing to give up His only Son for us, won’t He give us EVERYTHING else? If God chose us, can anyone else truly reject us? I will tell you, I cannot imagine giving up a child. I’ve thought a lot about this, and I fully understand how parents save a child at the risk of their own life. Think rescuing a child who is drowning, or holding a baby out the window of a burning building for someone else to save. I get that… I would do that in a heartbeat. But to allow my child to be nailed to be tortured and nailed to a cross… even to save millions of other “children”… well, I don’t know that kind of love in human form. I would do anything it takes to save a child, but I am fairly certain I could not sacrifice them – no matter what the cause.
So given this consideration, when God says He sent Jesus to die for me, I have to believe Him. When God says that I am precious in His sight, I have to repeat those words when I feel condemned or criticized by others. When God says that what He does for me, He does for many, I have to look at each person I encounter as a His child, fully deserving of all He gives…just like I am. I have to remember that Jesus died for me, you, and everyone else who will believe in Him… and now He goes to bat for ALL of us each and every day. I am grateful that God loves enough to sacrifice HIS Son for all of us… I am grateful for His power and grace and mercy. Where I am weak, He is strong… and I praise Him for this.
Romans 8 concludes with verses that tell us nothing can separate us from God’s love. God… the ultimate Parent… loves us more than we can imagine… enough to sacrifice Jesus on the cross for our sins. How can we not serve One who loves us incredibly? If God is on our side, who can be against us?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 25, 2010
March 25 ~ Luke 24:46-48
He told them: "The Scriptures say that the Messiah must suffer, then three days later he will rise from death. They also say that all people of every nation must be told in my name to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. So beginning in Jerusalem, you must tell everything that has happened."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose someone knew some really great news that would help you tremendously. Let’s say, for instance, that you were sick, and someone knew exactly how to make you feel better – or even cure you – but he/she kept the information from you. Let’s say you desperately needed a job, and family members and friends knew of several companies that were hiring, but they never bothered to let you know… and you did not have access to this information any other way. Or, let’s say that someone let you walk around all day with a hole in your pants or your skirt tucked into your underwear… and nobody told you about this and saved you from further embarrassment. Thankfully, most of these scenarios are unlikely today, especially given the lightning speed with which “news” travels over phone lines and Internet social networks.
Now consider if the disciples had not shared the knowledge of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection with others. Suppose that there was limited firsthand information about the crucifixion from those who observed it. Maybe the word traveled as far as nearby villages as people ventured away and spread the news. But suppose that nobody ever told about the empty grave… the rolled away stone… the resurrection of Jesus on the third day. What would have happened? Wouldn’t this negate the entire sacrifice and effort of Jesus on our behalf? If we didn’t know about Jesus… and about His sacrifices and the fact that He rose on the third day and is ALIVE… how would we ever come to know Him and believe in Him? How would we ever learn of His promises – and our promise of a home with Him for eternity?
The simple fact is that someone had to tell. Jesus commanded His disciples to tell everything that had happened… but only after He empowered them with His Holy Spirit? Why was this important? Because, as humans, we tend to color things a bit… make them fuzzy around the edges… sugarcoat the rough stuff or operate in fear instead of love. Jesus wanted to make sure that His Holy Spirit led us as we shared His story and message. But He definitely wants it to be shared! And honestly, if we can tell half the world on Facebook that someone just saw Miley Cyrus shopping in a department store, can’t we tell others about Jesus Christ and how He bought and paid for our sins on the cross and now LIVES with our Heavenly Father? Can’t we share the message of how Jesus has changed our life and will do the same for others? Can’t we ask the Holy Spirit to lead us in sharing the Good News with every nation?
God has given us everything we need to accomplish this – Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, technology and communication tools galore. Now all we have to do is get up and get going. We have people to tell… Good News to share! We must tell everything that has happened and encourage everyone to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. Who have you told this news today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
He told them: "The Scriptures say that the Messiah must suffer, then three days later he will rise from death. They also say that all people of every nation must be told in my name to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. So beginning in Jerusalem, you must tell everything that has happened."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose someone knew some really great news that would help you tremendously. Let’s say, for instance, that you were sick, and someone knew exactly how to make you feel better – or even cure you – but he/she kept the information from you. Let’s say you desperately needed a job, and family members and friends knew of several companies that were hiring, but they never bothered to let you know… and you did not have access to this information any other way. Or, let’s say that someone let you walk around all day with a hole in your pants or your skirt tucked into your underwear… and nobody told you about this and saved you from further embarrassment. Thankfully, most of these scenarios are unlikely today, especially given the lightning speed with which “news” travels over phone lines and Internet social networks.
Now consider if the disciples had not shared the knowledge of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection with others. Suppose that there was limited firsthand information about the crucifixion from those who observed it. Maybe the word traveled as far as nearby villages as people ventured away and spread the news. But suppose that nobody ever told about the empty grave… the rolled away stone… the resurrection of Jesus on the third day. What would have happened? Wouldn’t this negate the entire sacrifice and effort of Jesus on our behalf? If we didn’t know about Jesus… and about His sacrifices and the fact that He rose on the third day and is ALIVE… how would we ever come to know Him and believe in Him? How would we ever learn of His promises – and our promise of a home with Him for eternity?
The simple fact is that someone had to tell. Jesus commanded His disciples to tell everything that had happened… but only after He empowered them with His Holy Spirit? Why was this important? Because, as humans, we tend to color things a bit… make them fuzzy around the edges… sugarcoat the rough stuff or operate in fear instead of love. Jesus wanted to make sure that His Holy Spirit led us as we shared His story and message. But He definitely wants it to be shared! And honestly, if we can tell half the world on Facebook that someone just saw Miley Cyrus shopping in a department store, can’t we tell others about Jesus Christ and how He bought and paid for our sins on the cross and now LIVES with our Heavenly Father? Can’t we share the message of how Jesus has changed our life and will do the same for others? Can’t we ask the Holy Spirit to lead us in sharing the Good News with every nation?
God has given us everything we need to accomplish this – Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, technology and communication tools galore. Now all we have to do is get up and get going. We have people to tell… Good News to share! We must tell everything that has happened and encourage everyone to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. Who have you told this news today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 2, 2010
March 2 ~ John 14:1
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“Prove it!” How many times have you heard this or said it yourself? We all want proof, don’t we?! If we can just see things for ourselves, we’ll believe them. If someone can just show us how everything is going to come together and work out well, we’ll go along with the plans. It’s sort of like those people who read the last page of the book first – we want to know how things end!
So often, we Christians are amazingly skeptical. We’re as bad as Thomas and the other disciples. We want nothing short of pyrotechnics, flashing lights and bright billboards on every corner to assure us that Jesus IS who He says He is and will do what He promised. We say we believe in Him. We say we trust Him. But then we act in the completely opposite manner. We need proof! We need to KNOW beyond a shadow of a doubt – and with physical evidence, please – that God is real and will handle our problems and deliver us from the devil and his agents. For many of us, the miracles all around us are not enough… we need more!
If you read on in John 14, you will see that Jesus tells the disciples, in essence, to relax. He tells them that they have been together a long time – long enough for the disciples to know that Jesus is a man of His word. So when He says that He is taking care of everything and preparing a place for them and will return, that should be enough to satisfy them. When He tells them that He is one with the Father, and therefore, we have a one-on-one, intimate relationship with God, we should believe Him. And then, as if He knows this won’t be sufficient, He calls on the Holy Spirit to come and be our constant companion.
I don’t know about you, but it seems rather tiresome to me to be continually wondering if God is who He says He is and will do what He promised. I’m ready to relax. I’m ready to let go and trust Him completely – to believe in Him and rely on the Holy Spirit each day to be my constant companion and guide. I’m ready rest in the Lord and let Him handle my days, nights, weekends… the whole shebang! Are you ready? What’s keeping you from trusting Him for yourself?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“Prove it!” How many times have you heard this or said it yourself? We all want proof, don’t we?! If we can just see things for ourselves, we’ll believe them. If someone can just show us how everything is going to come together and work out well, we’ll go along with the plans. It’s sort of like those people who read the last page of the book first – we want to know how things end!
So often, we Christians are amazingly skeptical. We’re as bad as Thomas and the other disciples. We want nothing short of pyrotechnics, flashing lights and bright billboards on every corner to assure us that Jesus IS who He says He is and will do what He promised. We say we believe in Him. We say we trust Him. But then we act in the completely opposite manner. We need proof! We need to KNOW beyond a shadow of a doubt – and with physical evidence, please – that God is real and will handle our problems and deliver us from the devil and his agents. For many of us, the miracles all around us are not enough… we need more!
If you read on in John 14, you will see that Jesus tells the disciples, in essence, to relax. He tells them that they have been together a long time – long enough for the disciples to know that Jesus is a man of His word. So when He says that He is taking care of everything and preparing a place for them and will return, that should be enough to satisfy them. When He tells them that He is one with the Father, and therefore, we have a one-on-one, intimate relationship with God, we should believe Him. And then, as if He knows this won’t be sufficient, He calls on the Holy Spirit to come and be our constant companion.
I don’t know about you, but it seems rather tiresome to me to be continually wondering if God is who He says He is and will do what He promised. I’m ready to relax. I’m ready to let go and trust Him completely – to believe in Him and rely on the Holy Spirit each day to be my constant companion and guide. I’m ready rest in the Lord and let Him handle my days, nights, weekends… the whole shebang! Are you ready? What’s keeping you from trusting Him for yourself?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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