Luke 23:43
And Jesus replied, “Today you will be with me in Paradise. This is a solemn promise.”
The
Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by
permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois
60188. All rights reserved.
I am not going to lie…this
is a tough stretch of days. Facebook is filled with photos of mothers.
Everyone is talking about Mother’s Day…and some have sweetly posted
comments on my wall to let them know that they are thinking of my sister
and me on our first Mother’s Day without our own mother’s earthly
presence. I celebrate ALL mothers…on this earth and in heaven –
especially Greg’s mother, who is so very dear to me. I treasure memories
of my own mother - and my grandmothers and great-grandmother. And I
don’t know what I would do these days without my “other mothers,” who
nurture me…advise me and love me unconditionally.
But at the end
of the day, what will get me through this “rough patch” is what gets me
through a lot of things…the “solemn promise” that Paradise is real. I
am comforted, encouraged and sustained by the confidence that Jesus is
waiting for me there, along with my loved ones who have gone before me.
Because I have surrendered my sins – and my heart – to Him, He has
assured me that my soul will live forever in His presence. There will
be no more tears, no more struggles…no more worries about everything
from world peace to whether or not I should eat that last cookie! It
truly will be “all good.”
So I am going to focus on the mothers
in my midst…with a respectful nod to those who have passed. I am going
to thank Jesus for my own salvation - and His promise that I will be
reunited with my parents and so many loved ones someday. I take great
comfort in the confidence that we will sit at His feet and bask in His
glory forever and ever. Meanwhile, I am going to honor this promise to
the best of my ability by serving Him wholeheartedly and obediently. I
will trust His amazing promise in exchange for my simple (yet powerful)
act of surrender…and live with hope for the future. What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label celebrating God's love and care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label celebrating God's love and care. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for May 9, 2015
Ephesians 2:8-9
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Tomorrow is Mother’s Day, and all across America, mothers will receive gifts and cards…special treats…breakfasts in bed…lunches and dinners that someone else prepared…and all sorts of accolades. I can tell you that we would be hard pressed to find many mothers who didn’t earn every single bit of this! I seriously doubt many mothers are already bragging about how they are due all of the wonderful things their children have done for them. And few will say, “You’re treating me better than I deserve!”
On the other hand, I would say that most of our mothers have given us much better than we deserve. On Pulptastic.com*, I found a list titled “10 Things Your Mom Never Told You”. Visit the site to read the entire list, but they include…1) You made her cry a lot (in both good and bad ways); 2) She wanted that last piece of pie; 8) It broke her heart every time you cried; and 9) She put you first. By and large, our mothers have rescued us from more troubles than we could ever count… and as item #10 on this list states, “She would do it all again.”
As much as our mothers love us, God loves us even more. He doesn’t love us only when we exhibit “good behavior” that is worthy of some sort of recognition, prize or treat. While God does reward our obedience and service with blessings and other “perks”, He is more than generous with plenty that we in no way earned or deserved…particularly our salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ.
There are times when we have a right to brag…and times when most mothers deserve to pat themselves on the back and say, “I did pretty well!” This weekend – and tomorrow in particular – will be one of those times. But for the most part, we must all turn our eyes toward the heavens and recognize WHO truly gives us the very best blessings and care every single day…the One who created mothers – and fathers – and each of us.
We can “brag” and celebrate our wonderful mothers – and our incomparable Heavenly Father…we can revel in all that we have been given by them – and remind ourselves of all that we owe them! But we must humbly recognize that WE had nothing to do with these blessings of our own accord…and we must learn to say a humble, and truly heartfelt, “Thank YOU!”
Tomorrow as we celebrate Mom, let’s turn to God and thank HIM for this incredible gift – and ALL that He gives us. We don’t deserve this love and care…but He gives it anyway…and for this we owe Him our utmost gratitude and praise.
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://pulptastic.com/10-things-mom-never-told/
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Tomorrow is Mother’s Day, and all across America, mothers will receive gifts and cards…special treats…breakfasts in bed…lunches and dinners that someone else prepared…and all sorts of accolades. I can tell you that we would be hard pressed to find many mothers who didn’t earn every single bit of this! I seriously doubt many mothers are already bragging about how they are due all of the wonderful things their children have done for them. And few will say, “You’re treating me better than I deserve!”
On the other hand, I would say that most of our mothers have given us much better than we deserve. On Pulptastic.com*, I found a list titled “10 Things Your Mom Never Told You”. Visit the site to read the entire list, but they include…1) You made her cry a lot (in both good and bad ways); 2) She wanted that last piece of pie; 8) It broke her heart every time you cried; and 9) She put you first. By and large, our mothers have rescued us from more troubles than we could ever count… and as item #10 on this list states, “She would do it all again.”
As much as our mothers love us, God loves us even more. He doesn’t love us only when we exhibit “good behavior” that is worthy of some sort of recognition, prize or treat. While God does reward our obedience and service with blessings and other “perks”, He is more than generous with plenty that we in no way earned or deserved…particularly our salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ.
There are times when we have a right to brag…and times when most mothers deserve to pat themselves on the back and say, “I did pretty well!” This weekend – and tomorrow in particular – will be one of those times. But for the most part, we must all turn our eyes toward the heavens and recognize WHO truly gives us the very best blessings and care every single day…the One who created mothers – and fathers – and each of us.
We can “brag” and celebrate our wonderful mothers – and our incomparable Heavenly Father…we can revel in all that we have been given by them – and remind ourselves of all that we owe them! But we must humbly recognize that WE had nothing to do with these blessings of our own accord…and we must learn to say a humble, and truly heartfelt, “Thank YOU!”
Tomorrow as we celebrate Mom, let’s turn to God and thank HIM for this incredible gift – and ALL that He gives us. We don’t deserve this love and care…but He gives it anyway…and for this we owe Him our utmost gratitude and praise.
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://pulptastic.com/10-things-mom-never-told/
Daily Devotional for December 24, 2014
1 Corinthians 1:3-9
May all the gifts and benefits that come from God our Father, and the Master, Jesus Christ, be yours.
Every time I think of you—and I think of you often!—I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you—it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives.
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.
A few years ago, I made a “pact” with a few family members that we adults would NOT exchange Christmas gifts. Christmas gifts would only be given to the children. This year, my cousin’s wife broke, “the rule.” I was all prepared to put up a fuss, until I saw her gather the gift bag from under her Christmas tree. “Yours was the first gift I bought,” she said. “You are SO easy to shop for!” I don’t think anyone has EVER told me that before!
My cousin was practically giddy as I pulled the tissue from the sack and retrieved a gift that was so thoughtful…so practical…so ME! And in that moment, I realized how much thought she had given to this present…how she had really considered ME and what I would enjoy…and then she had purchased something that no one else in a million years would think to give me…beautiful new dish towels and a wonderful baking pan.
Here’s the thing…God has given each of us the Ultimate Gift…Jesus Christ. Jesus is that one-in-a-million Gift. God thoughtfully considered each of us…He designed Jesus perfectly to live among us - to teach us and to die for our sins. He gets totally giddy every time one of us accepts His gift and invites Jesus to be the LORD of our life. And He delights over and again in watching us live for Him, serve Him, and share the Good News of Jesus with others.
I told my cousin that I just might bake her something delicious in the new pan someday. But even if I don’t, she will take joy and delight in knowing that I am using her gift to prepare food for Greg and others. And she knows how much I love her. It’s the same with God. He doesn’t expect us to give Him anything in return except our love and devotion - and our very best Christian discipleship.
As you open packages in the next few days, consider the Ultimate Gift you have received from God. Jesus isn’t wrapped in a box or tucked into a gift bag under your Christmas tree…but He is the best gift you will ever receive. I thank God for His perfect present to me…and to you. I pray you have “opened” your heart to His love…and that He will be at the center of your celebration this Christmas season…and always.
©2014 Debbie Robus
May all the gifts and benefits that come from God our Father, and the Master, Jesus Christ, be yours.
Every time I think of you—and I think of you often!—I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you—it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives.
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.
A few years ago, I made a “pact” with a few family members that we adults would NOT exchange Christmas gifts. Christmas gifts would only be given to the children. This year, my cousin’s wife broke, “the rule.” I was all prepared to put up a fuss, until I saw her gather the gift bag from under her Christmas tree. “Yours was the first gift I bought,” she said. “You are SO easy to shop for!” I don’t think anyone has EVER told me that before!
My cousin was practically giddy as I pulled the tissue from the sack and retrieved a gift that was so thoughtful…so practical…so ME! And in that moment, I realized how much thought she had given to this present…how she had really considered ME and what I would enjoy…and then she had purchased something that no one else in a million years would think to give me…beautiful new dish towels and a wonderful baking pan.
Here’s the thing…God has given each of us the Ultimate Gift…Jesus Christ. Jesus is that one-in-a-million Gift. God thoughtfully considered each of us…He designed Jesus perfectly to live among us - to teach us and to die for our sins. He gets totally giddy every time one of us accepts His gift and invites Jesus to be the LORD of our life. And He delights over and again in watching us live for Him, serve Him, and share the Good News of Jesus with others.
I told my cousin that I just might bake her something delicious in the new pan someday. But even if I don’t, she will take joy and delight in knowing that I am using her gift to prepare food for Greg and others. And she knows how much I love her. It’s the same with God. He doesn’t expect us to give Him anything in return except our love and devotion - and our very best Christian discipleship.
As you open packages in the next few days, consider the Ultimate Gift you have received from God. Jesus isn’t wrapped in a box or tucked into a gift bag under your Christmas tree…but He is the best gift you will ever receive. I thank God for His perfect present to me…and to you. I pray you have “opened” your heart to His love…and that He will be at the center of your celebration this Christmas season…and always.
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 22, 2014
Zephaniah 3:16-17
Jerusalem, the time is coming,
when it will be said to you:
“Don’t be discouraged
or grow weak from fear!
The Lord your God
wins victory after victory
and is always with you.
He celebrates and sings
because of you,
and he will refresh your life
with his love.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’re in the “home stretch”! Timothy held up three fingers today (meaning three more “sleeps”) and said, “Thursday is Christmas…and we come to YOUR house!” All over the world, thousands of people have a lot left to do in those “three sleeps”. My cousin has a 7-foot trampoline on his carport that has to be assembled. People were scrambling up and down the aisles at Wal-Mart today to purchase food for holiday meals. Others have presents to wrap, turkeys and hams to cook…and no doubt, more than a few parents have toys with hundreds of parts to assemble before Christmas morning.
As you “race toward the Finish Line” of this Christmas week, stop to take a few minutes and reflect on what is really important. Take time to put some coins in the red kettle as you exit the store. Spend a few minutes in conversation with someone you meet in the parking lot…or a shut-in who could really use a visit in the next few days. Do something wonderful for someone – not because it is Christmas, but “just because”. Call someone you have not talked to in a while…if only to say, “Merry Christmas!”
Don’t get bogged down in the “busyness” of this week. Stop and celebrate the victories that Jesus wins for you. Revel in the confidence that He is always with you – that He truly does celebrate and sing - because of YOU. Feel His refreshment, His love, and His presence. Be filled with joy that Jesus loves you…now and forever!
Make a concerted effort to celebrate Jesus these next few days. He truly IS the reason for the season!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Jerusalem, the time is coming,
when it will be said to you:
“Don’t be discouraged
or grow weak from fear!
The Lord your God
wins victory after victory
and is always with you.
He celebrates and sings
because of you,
and he will refresh your life
with his love.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’re in the “home stretch”! Timothy held up three fingers today (meaning three more “sleeps”) and said, “Thursday is Christmas…and we come to YOUR house!” All over the world, thousands of people have a lot left to do in those “three sleeps”. My cousin has a 7-foot trampoline on his carport that has to be assembled. People were scrambling up and down the aisles at Wal-Mart today to purchase food for holiday meals. Others have presents to wrap, turkeys and hams to cook…and no doubt, more than a few parents have toys with hundreds of parts to assemble before Christmas morning.
As you “race toward the Finish Line” of this Christmas week, stop to take a few minutes and reflect on what is really important. Take time to put some coins in the red kettle as you exit the store. Spend a few minutes in conversation with someone you meet in the parking lot…or a shut-in who could really use a visit in the next few days. Do something wonderful for someone – not because it is Christmas, but “just because”. Call someone you have not talked to in a while…if only to say, “Merry Christmas!”
Don’t get bogged down in the “busyness” of this week. Stop and celebrate the victories that Jesus wins for you. Revel in the confidence that He is always with you – that He truly does celebrate and sing - because of YOU. Feel His refreshment, His love, and His presence. Be filled with joy that Jesus loves you…now and forever!
Make a concerted effort to celebrate Jesus these next few days. He truly IS the reason for the season!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 27, 2014
November 27 ~ Psalm 118:28-29
Blessed are you who enter in God’s name—
from God’s house we bless you!
God is God,
he has bathed us in light.
Festoon the shrine with garlands,
hang colored banners above the altar!
You’re my God, and I thank you.
O my God, I lift high your praise.
Thank God—he’s so good.
His love never quits!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Yesterday, we visited Greg’s brother and sister-in-law in another city. Their son and his family came from Tennessee for Thanksgiving, so we got to play with our great-nieces, Kelsey Lynn and Ellie Grace. Our sister-in-law had filled the house from top to bottom with Thanksgiving décor. Today, we will have lunch at my mother’s house, and I am sure there will be a few pumpkins and turkeys sitting around – and maybe a cornucopia or two!
I also got the “holiday decorating gene”, and I have sprinkled quite a bit of fall décor throughout our home. In a few days, our house will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland (or as my other sister-in-law put it last year, it will look “like someone threw up Christmas” around here!). There will be “garlands and banners” of sorts…mini Christmas lights, a tree – or three!...snowmen and Santas…and dozens of nativity scenes on display throughout our house.
Not everyone decorates for the holidays - certainly not to the extent that I do! And I have a feeling that my efforts pale in comparison to those of many! The reasons for over-the-top decorating and festivities are varied. Some may understandably ask, “Why do people make themselves crazy at Thanksgiving and Christmas with cooking, decorating, shopping and ‘getting out the good stuff’ to set a holiday table?” Why do people fly halfway across the country …endure crowded lines, packed-like-sardines aircraft, buses and highways…and put up with lost luggage, delayed or cancelled flights, and unbelievable traffic jams – just to get to Grandma’s house?
At the core of it all, I believe the answer is…love. Our homes are “festooned” in holiday finery to say, “Welcome! Love abounds amidst this cozy chaos!” I would HOPE that these decorations and festivities celebrate the love of God for His people…and that this is the focus rather than commercialism. If this is not the case, it should be. We should decorate and celebrate our gratitude for God’s amazing, incredible, perfect gift of Jesus. And while every day should be Thanksgiving Day…on this particular one, we should pause somewhere between the turkey and the pumpkin pie to count our blessings…and to thank God for every one of them!
Whether you hang a banner or garland - or not…remember to celebrate God’s blessings in your life. Thank Him for giving us Jesus…and for covering us in His unfailing love and care each and every day. From my house to yours…may God bless you this Thanksgiving Day - and in each day of the coming year! May you be bathed in His light and love today – and always. Happy Thanksgiving!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Blessed are you who enter in God’s name—
from God’s house we bless you!
God is God,
he has bathed us in light.
Festoon the shrine with garlands,
hang colored banners above the altar!
You’re my God, and I thank you.
O my God, I lift high your praise.
Thank God—he’s so good.
His love never quits!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Yesterday, we visited Greg’s brother and sister-in-law in another city. Their son and his family came from Tennessee for Thanksgiving, so we got to play with our great-nieces, Kelsey Lynn and Ellie Grace. Our sister-in-law had filled the house from top to bottom with Thanksgiving décor. Today, we will have lunch at my mother’s house, and I am sure there will be a few pumpkins and turkeys sitting around – and maybe a cornucopia or two!
I also got the “holiday decorating gene”, and I have sprinkled quite a bit of fall décor throughout our home. In a few days, our house will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland (or as my other sister-in-law put it last year, it will look “like someone threw up Christmas” around here!). There will be “garlands and banners” of sorts…mini Christmas lights, a tree – or three!...snowmen and Santas…and dozens of nativity scenes on display throughout our house.
Not everyone decorates for the holidays - certainly not to the extent that I do! And I have a feeling that my efforts pale in comparison to those of many! The reasons for over-the-top decorating and festivities are varied. Some may understandably ask, “Why do people make themselves crazy at Thanksgiving and Christmas with cooking, decorating, shopping and ‘getting out the good stuff’ to set a holiday table?” Why do people fly halfway across the country …endure crowded lines, packed-like-sardines aircraft, buses and highways…and put up with lost luggage, delayed or cancelled flights, and unbelievable traffic jams – just to get to Grandma’s house?
At the core of it all, I believe the answer is…love. Our homes are “festooned” in holiday finery to say, “Welcome! Love abounds amidst this cozy chaos!” I would HOPE that these decorations and festivities celebrate the love of God for His people…and that this is the focus rather than commercialism. If this is not the case, it should be. We should decorate and celebrate our gratitude for God’s amazing, incredible, perfect gift of Jesus. And while every day should be Thanksgiving Day…on this particular one, we should pause somewhere between the turkey and the pumpkin pie to count our blessings…and to thank God for every one of them!
Whether you hang a banner or garland - or not…remember to celebrate God’s blessings in your life. Thank Him for giving us Jesus…and for covering us in His unfailing love and care each and every day. From my house to yours…may God bless you this Thanksgiving Day - and in each day of the coming year! May you be bathed in His light and love today – and always. Happy Thanksgiving!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 26, 2014
Psalm 118:24
This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Twenty-four hours. We all get the same amount of time in each and every day. Yet how we choose to live in those 24 hours differs greatly. Some of us will live with joy and purpose…some of us will gripe and grumble our way through the day. Others will sleep away a big chunk of it…after all, the “Thanksgiving Holiday break” has already begun for many!
Almost 30 years ago, I had major surgery a few days before Thanksgiving. I remember getting a phone call from my parents on Thanksgiving Day, as family members gathered at their house some 90 miles away for feasting and fun. I have to admit that I felt a little sorry for myself and Greg as I heard the laughs and chatter of family members arriving for that special get-together. But our precious neighbors brought huge plates of food to us from their family feast…and they returned with MORE full plates that evening from another family dinner! Our hearts – and our bellies – were FULL! We found a way to “rejoice and be glad” for God’s love and care on that day.
About a decade later, my mother ate her Thanksgiving Dinner in a hospital cafeteria in another city, as she sat with my dad, who was too sick from renal failure to even smell food. At their insistence, we carried on with the traditional “family dinner” at our house…and we made the best of things, given the circumstances. We found a way to “rejoice and be glad” for God’s love and care on that day.
This year, our “Thanksgiving Holiday break” will include visits with family and friends…including the squeals and giggles of several little children, which always add to the fun. We will have our traditional favorite foods…and honor those who have gone before us - and the role they played in holiday gatherings of the past. And in all of it, we will recognize that the LORD made this day – and every day – and we will “rejoice and be glad in it”.
I don’t know what your next 24 hours will be like…or how you will celebrate Thanksgiving Day – or IF you will even celebrate. But when you know and love Jesus, every day is part of a “Thanksgiving Holiday break”…or at least, it should be. Whatever your circumstances…wherever “life” takes you today and in the days ahead…will you recognize that this is the day that the Lord has made? Will you thank Him for His love and care for every single minute of it? Will you find a way to “rejoice and be glad”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Twenty-four hours. We all get the same amount of time in each and every day. Yet how we choose to live in those 24 hours differs greatly. Some of us will live with joy and purpose…some of us will gripe and grumble our way through the day. Others will sleep away a big chunk of it…after all, the “Thanksgiving Holiday break” has already begun for many!
Almost 30 years ago, I had major surgery a few days before Thanksgiving. I remember getting a phone call from my parents on Thanksgiving Day, as family members gathered at their house some 90 miles away for feasting and fun. I have to admit that I felt a little sorry for myself and Greg as I heard the laughs and chatter of family members arriving for that special get-together. But our precious neighbors brought huge plates of food to us from their family feast…and they returned with MORE full plates that evening from another family dinner! Our hearts – and our bellies – were FULL! We found a way to “rejoice and be glad” for God’s love and care on that day.
About a decade later, my mother ate her Thanksgiving Dinner in a hospital cafeteria in another city, as she sat with my dad, who was too sick from renal failure to even smell food. At their insistence, we carried on with the traditional “family dinner” at our house…and we made the best of things, given the circumstances. We found a way to “rejoice and be glad” for God’s love and care on that day.
This year, our “Thanksgiving Holiday break” will include visits with family and friends…including the squeals and giggles of several little children, which always add to the fun. We will have our traditional favorite foods…and honor those who have gone before us - and the role they played in holiday gatherings of the past. And in all of it, we will recognize that the LORD made this day – and every day – and we will “rejoice and be glad in it”.
I don’t know what your next 24 hours will be like…or how you will celebrate Thanksgiving Day – or IF you will even celebrate. But when you know and love Jesus, every day is part of a “Thanksgiving Holiday break”…or at least, it should be. Whatever your circumstances…wherever “life” takes you today and in the days ahead…will you recognize that this is the day that the Lord has made? Will you thank Him for His love and care for every single minute of it? Will you find a way to “rejoice and be glad”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 21, 2014
Psalm 35:9
I will celebrate and be joyful
because you, Lord,
have saved me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
No doubt you have watched at least one football game where a player broke free from the blocks and tackles of defenders and sprinted down the field for a touchdown…perhaps with an opponent or two hot on his heels - yet unable to catch him. When the ball carrier realizes that he is going to make it safely into the end zone, you can almost read the sense of “wild abandon” in his body language. It is as if he sees an imaginary “savior” waiting for him…arms outstretched…saying, “Come to Poppa!” The runner scores…the crowd goes wild with celebration and exuberance…and the opponents lick their wounds and regroup for another play!
Maybe it’s because we’re in the throes of football season, but this was the image I got as I read this verse from Psalm 35. I pictured myself running toward God… arms outstretched to receive me…the worries and pressures of the world nipping at my heels from behind – yet unable to take me to the ground. I know that the “enemy” is continually regrouping…plotting and planning his next move. But I also know that God is always several steps ahead of the opponent!
So I celebrate my rescue and redemption by the blood of Jesus Christ. I thank God for His wisdom, protection, grace, mercy, love and care…for planning for my future and always keeping me safe from the schemes and snares of the devil and his cohorts. For me, every day represents “touchdowns” and “extra points”…a veritable “party in the end zone” with God Almighty!
Recently, the Arkansas Razorbacks celebrated a victory over the LSU Tigers…breaking a 17-game losing streak in conference play. When the game ended, Razorback fans stormed the field, reveling in the joy, relief and release of this monumental win. If only we could celebrate God’s victories in our lives half as much!
It says something about us as Christians that we can’t seem to muster even a portion of this excitement over something so precious and vital in our lives. We will talk about a big sports play for days/weeks/months. We will replay it on “highlight reels” for years to come. Yet we can hardly mention God’s name and acknowledge His importance in our lives…much less give Him even a portion of the praise and recognition that He so richly deserves.
There is nothing wrong with enjoying a good football game…or with celebrating a great play. These happy moments are blessings from God just as much as any other. But we need to take inventory of our priorities and make sure that God is at the forefront…that in our jubilation over things of this world, we don’t neglect our gratitude for Him.
Sometimes only the length of an outstretched arm separates us from a tackle by the devil…and the grip of God’s grace. Won’t you thank God today for giving you that last burst of energy to sprint toward the “end zone” and the safety of His love and care? Isn’t it time to celebrate our victory in Jesus Christ? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
I will celebrate and be joyful
because you, Lord,
have saved me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
No doubt you have watched at least one football game where a player broke free from the blocks and tackles of defenders and sprinted down the field for a touchdown…perhaps with an opponent or two hot on his heels - yet unable to catch him. When the ball carrier realizes that he is going to make it safely into the end zone, you can almost read the sense of “wild abandon” in his body language. It is as if he sees an imaginary “savior” waiting for him…arms outstretched…saying, “Come to Poppa!” The runner scores…the crowd goes wild with celebration and exuberance…and the opponents lick their wounds and regroup for another play!
Maybe it’s because we’re in the throes of football season, but this was the image I got as I read this verse from Psalm 35. I pictured myself running toward God… arms outstretched to receive me…the worries and pressures of the world nipping at my heels from behind – yet unable to take me to the ground. I know that the “enemy” is continually regrouping…plotting and planning his next move. But I also know that God is always several steps ahead of the opponent!
So I celebrate my rescue and redemption by the blood of Jesus Christ. I thank God for His wisdom, protection, grace, mercy, love and care…for planning for my future and always keeping me safe from the schemes and snares of the devil and his cohorts. For me, every day represents “touchdowns” and “extra points”…a veritable “party in the end zone” with God Almighty!
Recently, the Arkansas Razorbacks celebrated a victory over the LSU Tigers…breaking a 17-game losing streak in conference play. When the game ended, Razorback fans stormed the field, reveling in the joy, relief and release of this monumental win. If only we could celebrate God’s victories in our lives half as much!
It says something about us as Christians that we can’t seem to muster even a portion of this excitement over something so precious and vital in our lives. We will talk about a big sports play for days/weeks/months. We will replay it on “highlight reels” for years to come. Yet we can hardly mention God’s name and acknowledge His importance in our lives…much less give Him even a portion of the praise and recognition that He so richly deserves.
There is nothing wrong with enjoying a good football game…or with celebrating a great play. These happy moments are blessings from God just as much as any other. But we need to take inventory of our priorities and make sure that God is at the forefront…that in our jubilation over things of this world, we don’t neglect our gratitude for Him.
Sometimes only the length of an outstretched arm separates us from a tackle by the devil…and the grip of God’s grace. Won’t you thank God today for giving you that last burst of energy to sprint toward the “end zone” and the safety of His love and care? Isn’t it time to celebrate our victory in Jesus Christ? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 22, 2014
Daniel 9:9
Lord God, you are merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I sat at the table today with our nephew, Nathan, trying to coax him to eat. “Those are strawberries...Yum! Yum!” He would look away and hide his face. “Mmmmmm...chocolate milk! It’s goooooooooooood!” He would push away the sippy cup. I know Nathan is moody at times...and just shy of his 2nd birthday, he is still figuring us out! So I pretended not to notice him. I quietly ate my lunch...turned on a television show...even got my laptop and started to check e-mail. Of course, I was watching him intently...and at times I felt him watching ME! If he noticed that I noticed him, he would retreat...put his goldfish and strawberries back in the bowl, and hide his face. It was a game...and I caught on pretty fast!
Over the course of about 30 minutes, Nathan discovered that the food I had given him was really tasty...and it all disappeared into his tummy. No matter how many times I told him how delicious it was...it had to be HIS idea. So I quickly decided to be gracious and merciful and ignore him...to play HIS game and forgive his stubbornness.
This is not just the game of a toddler. We do it all the time with God. He shows us what to do...and what not to do...and we try to do things our way. We essentially say, “Don’t look at me right now!” and pretend that if God does not acknowledge what we are doing (or not doing), it doesn’t count. Then when things fall apart, where do we run? You’ve got it...we head straight for God - and want Him to forgive us and restore us. And usually He does just that!
If you read the next few verses of Daniel 9, you will see, however, that God has His limits! While He will never turn His back on us completely, God may “hang us out to dry” a little. There may come a day when He says, “That’s it...I’ve been patient with you long enough. I told you “not to touch the hot stove” and you kept inching closer and closer, so you will just have to get burned a little to learn your lesson!” Or we ask and ask for things that God doesn’t seem to deliver, and we wonder why He is silent...only to realize that we have failed to do something He asked of us – or we have disobeyed Him repeatedly in some area. God is loving, compassionate, merciful and gracious...but He is also just and fair.
So for today, I have allowed Nathan the leeway to eat at his pace and to decide whether he was hungry. When he is older, I may have to INSIST that he eat his veggies or drink his milk. But I will always love him, just the same. And God loves us. He wants to snuggle us in His arms like we would a 2-year-old who is learning the ropes. But He also wants us to grow up and mature in our faith and our discipleship.
How patient has God been with you lately? Are there areas where He has been more than lenient? Are there other situations where you are probably testing the limits of His mercy? Isn’t it time you grew up in your faith and started listening to God a little more closely? Will God have to lose His patience with you before you truly “get it”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Lord God, you are merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I sat at the table today with our nephew, Nathan, trying to coax him to eat. “Those are strawberries...Yum! Yum!” He would look away and hide his face. “Mmmmmm...chocolate milk! It’s goooooooooooood!” He would push away the sippy cup. I know Nathan is moody at times...and just shy of his 2nd birthday, he is still figuring us out! So I pretended not to notice him. I quietly ate my lunch...turned on a television show...even got my laptop and started to check e-mail. Of course, I was watching him intently...and at times I felt him watching ME! If he noticed that I noticed him, he would retreat...put his goldfish and strawberries back in the bowl, and hide his face. It was a game...and I caught on pretty fast!
Over the course of about 30 minutes, Nathan discovered that the food I had given him was really tasty...and it all disappeared into his tummy. No matter how many times I told him how delicious it was...it had to be HIS idea. So I quickly decided to be gracious and merciful and ignore him...to play HIS game and forgive his stubbornness.
This is not just the game of a toddler. We do it all the time with God. He shows us what to do...and what not to do...and we try to do things our way. We essentially say, “Don’t look at me right now!” and pretend that if God does not acknowledge what we are doing (or not doing), it doesn’t count. Then when things fall apart, where do we run? You’ve got it...we head straight for God - and want Him to forgive us and restore us. And usually He does just that!
If you read the next few verses of Daniel 9, you will see, however, that God has His limits! While He will never turn His back on us completely, God may “hang us out to dry” a little. There may come a day when He says, “That’s it...I’ve been patient with you long enough. I told you “not to touch the hot stove” and you kept inching closer and closer, so you will just have to get burned a little to learn your lesson!” Or we ask and ask for things that God doesn’t seem to deliver, and we wonder why He is silent...only to realize that we have failed to do something He asked of us – or we have disobeyed Him repeatedly in some area. God is loving, compassionate, merciful and gracious...but He is also just and fair.
So for today, I have allowed Nathan the leeway to eat at his pace and to decide whether he was hungry. When he is older, I may have to INSIST that he eat his veggies or drink his milk. But I will always love him, just the same. And God loves us. He wants to snuggle us in His arms like we would a 2-year-old who is learning the ropes. But He also wants us to grow up and mature in our faith and our discipleship.
How patient has God been with you lately? Are there areas where He has been more than lenient? Are there other situations where you are probably testing the limits of His mercy? Isn’t it time you grew up in your faith and started listening to God a little more closely? Will God have to lose His patience with you before you truly “get it”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 3, 2014
Psalm 91:1
We live within the shadow of the Almighty, sheltered by the God who is above all gods.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Many areas of Arkansas have experienced the wettest June on record. Even on days when the sun popped out through the clouds, it seems like at some point in the day, it rained. So it came as no surprise when we exited the church doors Sunday and discovered that rain was once again falling. Greg used our big floral umbrella to safely shuttle us (in groups of 2) into Pizza Hut for lunch.
A few years ago, our friend Olive died, and her daughter, Julie, put Olive’s house on the market and held an estate sale to clear out all of the belongings and “stuff” that Olive had collected over her 97 years of life. Hanging on one of the door knobs were two very large umbrellas, and I eagerly purchased both of them. These days, the trend in umbrellas seems to be toward small, compact gizmos that fold up and fit into your purse or a small bag. The trouble with these is that they don’t provide much coverage from the rain – or sun.
“Sun?” you may ask. Yes, SUN. When I was little, people carried umbrellas as “parasols” to protect themselves from the heat and harmful rays of the sun. In recent years, I’ve used one of Olive’s umbrellas as a “parasol”…especially at summer auctions. I know some people think I’m crazy…but hey, that was a given! These apparatuses really do work as “instant shade”!
But Sunday, our umbrella provided a little protection from the rain. Since there was wind, too, there was not a 100% shield from nature’s elements…but it was better than making a dash for it uncovered. Since Greg is six feet tall, he towered over us and carried the umbrella so that it encompassed Grandma E and Timothy…and then Zola and me.
Think of God’s love and care as a giant umbrella. He can shelter us from the rain and storms of life…and shield us from the sun and heat of things like insults and offenses, peer pressure, worries and concerns, indecisiveness, illness and injury, and so much more. Yes, there will be occasional “winds” that dampen us. There will be times when we feel like God’s “umbrella” blew inside out, as some models are wont to do in strong gusts. But for the most part, we are sheltered, shaded and protected perfectly.
We keep “Olive’s umbrellas” in our car. We have smaller umbrellas for individual use or times when we think we can manage with just a hint of protection…much like we tend to try to handle “life” on our own from time to time. But when we know we need “full coverage”, we bring out the “big guns”! And that is how it should be in our faith walk. We should always have God with us…His “big umbrella” should always be over us to shield us from life’s storms - both great and small. We should “rest well” in His care, knowing that God is always with us – ready to handle whatever comes our way.
Every time I use “Olive’s umbrella”, I think of her…and I am thankful for what she meant to me as a friend and role model. But I am even more grateful for the sheltering care of God and His “umbrella”. Are you resting in the shadow of God’s “umbrella protection” and care? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
We live within the shadow of the Almighty, sheltered by the God who is above all gods.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Many areas of Arkansas have experienced the wettest June on record. Even on days when the sun popped out through the clouds, it seems like at some point in the day, it rained. So it came as no surprise when we exited the church doors Sunday and discovered that rain was once again falling. Greg used our big floral umbrella to safely shuttle us (in groups of 2) into Pizza Hut for lunch.
A few years ago, our friend Olive died, and her daughter, Julie, put Olive’s house on the market and held an estate sale to clear out all of the belongings and “stuff” that Olive had collected over her 97 years of life. Hanging on one of the door knobs were two very large umbrellas, and I eagerly purchased both of them. These days, the trend in umbrellas seems to be toward small, compact gizmos that fold up and fit into your purse or a small bag. The trouble with these is that they don’t provide much coverage from the rain – or sun.
“Sun?” you may ask. Yes, SUN. When I was little, people carried umbrellas as “parasols” to protect themselves from the heat and harmful rays of the sun. In recent years, I’ve used one of Olive’s umbrellas as a “parasol”…especially at summer auctions. I know some people think I’m crazy…but hey, that was a given! These apparatuses really do work as “instant shade”!
But Sunday, our umbrella provided a little protection from the rain. Since there was wind, too, there was not a 100% shield from nature’s elements…but it was better than making a dash for it uncovered. Since Greg is six feet tall, he towered over us and carried the umbrella so that it encompassed Grandma E and Timothy…and then Zola and me.
Think of God’s love and care as a giant umbrella. He can shelter us from the rain and storms of life…and shield us from the sun and heat of things like insults and offenses, peer pressure, worries and concerns, indecisiveness, illness and injury, and so much more. Yes, there will be occasional “winds” that dampen us. There will be times when we feel like God’s “umbrella” blew inside out, as some models are wont to do in strong gusts. But for the most part, we are sheltered, shaded and protected perfectly.
We keep “Olive’s umbrellas” in our car. We have smaller umbrellas for individual use or times when we think we can manage with just a hint of protection…much like we tend to try to handle “life” on our own from time to time. But when we know we need “full coverage”, we bring out the “big guns”! And that is how it should be in our faith walk. We should always have God with us…His “big umbrella” should always be over us to shield us from life’s storms - both great and small. We should “rest well” in His care, knowing that God is always with us – ready to handle whatever comes our way.
Every time I use “Olive’s umbrella”, I think of her…and I am thankful for what she meant to me as a friend and role model. But I am even more grateful for the sheltering care of God and His “umbrella”. Are you resting in the shadow of God’s “umbrella protection” and care? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 27, 2014
Psalm 23
You, Lord, are my shepherd.
I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields
of green grass.
You lead me to streams
of peaceful water,
and you refresh my life.
You are true to your name,
and you lead me
along the right paths.
I may walk through valleys
as dark as death,
but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me,
and your shepherd’s rod
makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast,
while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest,
and you fill my cup
until it overflows.
Your kindness and love
will always be with me
each day of my life,
and I will live forever
in your house, Lord.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Medal of Honor recipient, Marine Lance Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter was interviewed on “Late Show with David Letterman” recently. Carpenter becomes the 8th living recipient of the nation’s highest military award. William Kyle Carpenter was injured in Afghanistan in 2010, when he threw himself on an incoming grenade to protect a fellow marine, Lance Cpl. Nicholas Eufrazio, who was also injured. Carpenter suffered multiple injuries, including a shattered jaw and arm, loss of his right eye, shrapnel to the brain and legs, and a severed carotid artery. He said that when he arrived at the first military hospital, he was tagged PEA…”Patient Expired on Arrival”. This now-24-year-old soldier was resuscitated at least twice and spent more than 2 years in hospitals undergoing treatments, surgeries and therapies.
As I sat and listened to this young man recant his experience and conduct himself with seemingly such peace and confidence, I couldn’t help but think about what he must have endured. David Letterman asked Carpenter what he remembered. Carpenter said that the first time he awoke was five weeks later, when he saw his mother. She had hung Christmas stockings for every member of the family on the wall in his hospital room. I couldn’t help but think about my own little nieces, nephews and friends…I tried to imagine what such an experience would be like for one of them, were they in his position – or for anyone. Carpenter said he knew the grenade was coming. He knew they were under attack. Imagine the fear…the anxiety and confusion of such a moment…the overwhelming sense of incredulity as you know bad things are happening – but you can’t stop them!
I thought of Carpenter’s mother – and other family members. Imagine being told that your child or loved one had suffered such devastating injuries…that someone was so filled with hate that they would want to inflict this kind of atrocities on another human being…and there was nothing you can do except stand by, watch, and beg God for mercy and healing. Surely there were days when everyone involved must have felt that death would actually be easier to bear than the suffering that this young man bore.
After all of this, young Marine Lance Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter says “I wouldn’t change a thing.” He now studies psychology at the University of South Carolina. His appears to be wise beyond his years…and filled with incredible peace.
All around the world, people endure incredible challenges and sufferings each and every day. Hopefully, you and I will never experience anything akin to such atrocities or heartaches…but our “burdens” are often troublesome, all the same. The message of the 23rd Psalm is for us just as much as for Lance Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter - or anyone else. If you are like many, you have this Psalm memorized in one form or another. But I encourage you to read today’s presentation of it again. I particularly like how “valleys as dark as death” are described.
I also like the first few verses. They speak volumes to us as Christians. These words offer a glimpse of the hope and peace we find in God…the incredible rest we enjoy in Jesus Christ.
I pray that you never have to experience something as devastating as what happened to William Kyle Carpenter. I hope you never have to watch a child or loved one suffer…that your life is filled with a series of happy events and positive happenings. But I also pray that you know that…no matter what comes your way…the LORD is your Shepherd, and you will never be in need.
Are you dwelling in the house of the LORD and resting in God’s fields of green grass? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
You, Lord, are my shepherd.
I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields
of green grass.
You lead me to streams
of peaceful water,
and you refresh my life.
You are true to your name,
and you lead me
along the right paths.
I may walk through valleys
as dark as death,
but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me,
and your shepherd’s rod
makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast,
while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest,
and you fill my cup
until it overflows.
Your kindness and love
will always be with me
each day of my life,
and I will live forever
in your house, Lord.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Medal of Honor recipient, Marine Lance Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter was interviewed on “Late Show with David Letterman” recently. Carpenter becomes the 8th living recipient of the nation’s highest military award. William Kyle Carpenter was injured in Afghanistan in 2010, when he threw himself on an incoming grenade to protect a fellow marine, Lance Cpl. Nicholas Eufrazio, who was also injured. Carpenter suffered multiple injuries, including a shattered jaw and arm, loss of his right eye, shrapnel to the brain and legs, and a severed carotid artery. He said that when he arrived at the first military hospital, he was tagged PEA…”Patient Expired on Arrival”. This now-24-year-old soldier was resuscitated at least twice and spent more than 2 years in hospitals undergoing treatments, surgeries and therapies.
I may walk through valleys as dark as death,
but I won’t be afraid.
but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest,
and you fill my cup until it overflows.
You honor me as your guest,
and you fill my cup until it overflows.
Your kindness and love will always be with me
each day of my life…
each day of my life…
I also like the first few verses. They speak volumes to us as Christians. These words offer a glimpse of the hope and peace we find in God…the incredible rest we enjoy in Jesus Christ.
You, Lord, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields of green grass.
You lead me to streams of peaceful water,
and you refresh my life.
You let me rest in fields of green grass.
You lead me to streams of peaceful water,
and you refresh my life.
Are you dwelling in the house of the LORD and resting in God’s fields of green grass? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 29, 2014
Hebrews 10:24-25
In response to all he has done for us, let us outdo each other in being helpful and kind to each other and in doing good.
Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In the wake of the devastating tornado that ravaged several communities in Central Arkansas on Sunday, we are hearing countless news reports of “Good Samaritans” who have rushed to the aid of those in need…from law enforcement officers and rescue workers to medical personnel to church groups who are organizing shelters, meals and supplies…to area businesses that are feeding and supporting victims and workers alike. It’s a beautiful thing, and God’s handiwork is evident even in the midst of the horrific destruction and piles of rubble that are all that is left of neighborhoods, schools, church buildings and businesses.
I cannot count the reports I have heard in the last 24 hours in which victims claim that “the grace of God saved us.” Does this mean that those who were killed and injured were not covered by this same grace? Will people in these decimated communities turn their backs on God and blame Him for the destruction? I don’t think so. As one woman explained today…”God has a plan.” If ever many of us had a reason to walk away from God, this might be it. And let’s be honest…when troubles and tragedy befall us, we often ask God, “Why?” We wonder “Why me? Why my family? Why this? What have I done to make God so angry?” The people of Vilonia, Arkansas, are asking, “Why two times in three years?” as they crawl out of the rubble of homes that they rebuilt after the 2011 tornado…only to lose them again on Sunday.
I don’t have good answers for why these things have happened. I don’t know why God allowed some to be injured or wiped out…or killed – and others were allowed to live. I do know it was not to punish them. And I do agree with the survivor who said that “God has a plan.” He will not waste these events. God will continually work in and through these days/weeks/years to bring about amazing results that further His Kingdom.
Come Sunday, I suspect that any church building in the area surrounding the communities affected by these tornadoes will be filled to brimming with worshippers. Those who lost their church facilities in the storm will find a place and a time to stop the cleanup efforts and come together to praise God for His love and care…and to seek His guidance as they move forward, rebuild and recover. And if people in this situation can gather to encourage each other and glorify God…surely those of us who are safe, warm, dry, fed, clothed, housed and comfortable can take a few hours out of our week to pray, sing, study, fellowship and feed on the word of God.
Here is yet another example of how God is working through a tragedy to demonstrate His love and care. He is using these tornado victims to encourage and uplift even those of us who are observing from afar. God is inspiring people across the nation to roll up their sleeves, open their wallets, and come together in His name and for His glory…to show the world at large that nothing can separate us from His love – that we will serve Him with whatever we have and however we can.
A tornado may take our home, our business…even our loved ones. But God is still with us. And in the days ahead, we will gather to help those in need…and to worship Him. Will you be among them? Don’t you think you should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
In response to all he has done for us, let us outdo each other in being helpful and kind to each other and in doing good.
Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In the wake of the devastating tornado that ravaged several communities in Central Arkansas on Sunday, we are hearing countless news reports of “Good Samaritans” who have rushed to the aid of those in need…from law enforcement officers and rescue workers to medical personnel to church groups who are organizing shelters, meals and supplies…to area businesses that are feeding and supporting victims and workers alike. It’s a beautiful thing, and God’s handiwork is evident even in the midst of the horrific destruction and piles of rubble that are all that is left of neighborhoods, schools, church buildings and businesses.
I cannot count the reports I have heard in the last 24 hours in which victims claim that “the grace of God saved us.” Does this mean that those who were killed and injured were not covered by this same grace? Will people in these decimated communities turn their backs on God and blame Him for the destruction? I don’t think so. As one woman explained today…”God has a plan.” If ever many of us had a reason to walk away from God, this might be it. And let’s be honest…when troubles and tragedy befall us, we often ask God, “Why?” We wonder “Why me? Why my family? Why this? What have I done to make God so angry?” The people of Vilonia, Arkansas, are asking, “Why two times in three years?” as they crawl out of the rubble of homes that they rebuilt after the 2011 tornado…only to lose them again on Sunday.
I don’t have good answers for why these things have happened. I don’t know why God allowed some to be injured or wiped out…or killed – and others were allowed to live. I do know it was not to punish them. And I do agree with the survivor who said that “God has a plan.” He will not waste these events. God will continually work in and through these days/weeks/years to bring about amazing results that further His Kingdom.
Come Sunday, I suspect that any church building in the area surrounding the communities affected by these tornadoes will be filled to brimming with worshippers. Those who lost their church facilities in the storm will find a place and a time to stop the cleanup efforts and come together to praise God for His love and care…and to seek His guidance as they move forward, rebuild and recover. And if people in this situation can gather to encourage each other and glorify God…surely those of us who are safe, warm, dry, fed, clothed, housed and comfortable can take a few hours out of our week to pray, sing, study, fellowship and feed on the word of God.
Here is yet another example of how God is working through a tragedy to demonstrate His love and care. He is using these tornado victims to encourage and uplift even those of us who are observing from afar. God is inspiring people across the nation to roll up their sleeves, open their wallets, and come together in His name and for His glory…to show the world at large that nothing can separate us from His love – that we will serve Him with whatever we have and however we can.
A tornado may take our home, our business…even our loved ones. But God is still with us. And in the days ahead, we will gather to help those in need…and to worship Him. Will you be among them? Don’t you think you should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 23, 2014
Philippians 4:1
Dear friends, I love you and long to see you. Please keep on being faithful to the Lord. You are my pride and joy.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Sunday mornings are special for me, because we generally pick up Timothy and Zola and take them to church with us…and then out for a bite of lunch – usually at Burger King®. The children burst through the door and run toward us…eager to get in the car and get going. The chatter flows as they tell us about their week and speak with anticipation about the plans for our day. Sometimes on pretty days, we go play in the park after lunch. Occasionally, one of the children will have spent the night with us, and we are collecting the other sibling on our way to church. And almost always, they are just as eager to stop and pick up “Grandma E” (Greg’s mother), who usually goes with us.
Regardless of the day or the hour, I always love to see these children and their brother, Nathan. When more than a few days have passed between our visits, I long to see them. They truly are my pride and joy in many ways…and I take great delight in spending time with each of them. And perhaps you have someone who makes you feel this way…a friend, family member, significant other…or even a small child.
Can I tell you something? This is how God feels about us! He longs to spend time with us…to hear how our day/week has gone…to “catch up” and make plans…to share worship, a meal, or an adventure. God even longs for our company when we engage in play. Everything about us delights Him…in spite of our sinful nature and our penchant for misbehaving!
Just as importantly, God wants us to develop relationships with others…connections that bring us pride and joy. He wants us to let others know how important they are to us…just as Paul expressed to the Philippians in this letter. God wants us to truly desire relationships with others…and to know how to show it! He wants us to get along…to share each other’s joys and sorrows…and to truly make others feel valued, precious, and appreciated.
How well do you accomplish this? Are you fully engaged when you talk to others? Do you make time in your day to visit with people…to minister to them…to celebrate their joys and triumphs…and to console them in their sorrows and sadness? Do others truly know that you care? Do they feel loved…important…as if you are proud and happy to know them and be a part of their lives?
Just how good are you at relationships? Have you paid attention to the example of Jesus and implemented this in your discipleship? People don’t care what you know until they know that you care. What do others know about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Dear friends, I love you and long to see you. Please keep on being faithful to the Lord. You are my pride and joy.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Sunday mornings are special for me, because we generally pick up Timothy and Zola and take them to church with us…and then out for a bite of lunch – usually at Burger King®. The children burst through the door and run toward us…eager to get in the car and get going. The chatter flows as they tell us about their week and speak with anticipation about the plans for our day. Sometimes on pretty days, we go play in the park after lunch. Occasionally, one of the children will have spent the night with us, and we are collecting the other sibling on our way to church. And almost always, they are just as eager to stop and pick up “Grandma E” (Greg’s mother), who usually goes with us.
Regardless of the day or the hour, I always love to see these children and their brother, Nathan. When more than a few days have passed between our visits, I long to see them. They truly are my pride and joy in many ways…and I take great delight in spending time with each of them. And perhaps you have someone who makes you feel this way…a friend, family member, significant other…or even a small child.
Can I tell you something? This is how God feels about us! He longs to spend time with us…to hear how our day/week has gone…to “catch up” and make plans…to share worship, a meal, or an adventure. God even longs for our company when we engage in play. Everything about us delights Him…in spite of our sinful nature and our penchant for misbehaving!
Just as importantly, God wants us to develop relationships with others…connections that bring us pride and joy. He wants us to let others know how important they are to us…just as Paul expressed to the Philippians in this letter. God wants us to truly desire relationships with others…and to know how to show it! He wants us to get along…to share each other’s joys and sorrows…and to truly make others feel valued, precious, and appreciated.
How well do you accomplish this? Are you fully engaged when you talk to others? Do you make time in your day to visit with people…to minister to them…to celebrate their joys and triumphs…and to console them in their sorrows and sadness? Do others truly know that you care? Do they feel loved…important…as if you are proud and happy to know them and be a part of their lives?
Just how good are you at relationships? Have you paid attention to the example of Jesus and implemented this in your discipleship? People don’t care what you know until they know that you care. What do others know about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 6, 2011
Psalm 117
Praise GOD, everybody! Applaud GOD, all people!
His love has taken over our lives; GOD's faithful ways are eternal.
Hallelujah!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One day recently, I picked up my great-nephew Timothy at daycare and told him, “We’re going to see your cousins, Owen and Olivia!” He was thrilled and began to tell me how he was going to give “big hugs” and kisses when he saw them. Then as we drove along, he said, “DebDeb, I so happy! Are Oooo happy?” I assured him that when he is happy… yes, I am very happy! This little 2-year-old caught me off guard with his “applause.” Quite often, without any prompting, he will say “Thank you” for everything from handing him a toy to a cup of milk or juice to “letting” him brush his teeth. At such a young age, Timothy already knows how to lavish love on us… how to praise us and make us feel like we are on top of the world.
As I thought about our traveling conversation, I wondered… “How often do I lavish love on God? When was the last time I told Him how happy I am that His love has taken over my life… that His faithful ways are eternal, and I praise Him for this? How long has it been since I applauded God for His presence in my life and His mighty works in general?” I have to admit, I find plenty of time to tell God what I need… but far less to tell Him how glad I am that He shows up every minute of the day for me.
When was the last time you praised God for His presence in your life… or anything else, for that matter? Have you, in essence, said, “Father, I’m so happy… are You happy with me?” Isn’t today a good day to take a page from a toddler? Isn’t it time we fully acknowledged and glorified the One who makes everything possible in our lives?
Today is a great day to give God a big round of applause. The collective roar of our praise should be deafening to His ears! Let’s all stand and clap together now… shall we?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Praise GOD, everybody! Applaud GOD, all people!
His love has taken over our lives; GOD's faithful ways are eternal.
Hallelujah!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One day recently, I picked up my great-nephew Timothy at daycare and told him, “We’re going to see your cousins, Owen and Olivia!” He was thrilled and began to tell me how he was going to give “big hugs” and kisses when he saw them. Then as we drove along, he said, “DebDeb, I so happy! Are Oooo happy?” I assured him that when he is happy… yes, I am very happy! This little 2-year-old caught me off guard with his “applause.” Quite often, without any prompting, he will say “Thank you” for everything from handing him a toy to a cup of milk or juice to “letting” him brush his teeth. At such a young age, Timothy already knows how to lavish love on us… how to praise us and make us feel like we are on top of the world.
As I thought about our traveling conversation, I wondered… “How often do I lavish love on God? When was the last time I told Him how happy I am that His love has taken over my life… that His faithful ways are eternal, and I praise Him for this? How long has it been since I applauded God for His presence in my life and His mighty works in general?” I have to admit, I find plenty of time to tell God what I need… but far less to tell Him how glad I am that He shows up every minute of the day for me.
When was the last time you praised God for His presence in your life… or anything else, for that matter? Have you, in essence, said, “Father, I’m so happy… are You happy with me?” Isn’t today a good day to take a page from a toddler? Isn’t it time we fully acknowledged and glorified the One who makes everything possible in our lives?
Today is a great day to give God a big round of applause. The collective roar of our praise should be deafening to His ears! Let’s all stand and clap together now… shall we?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 17, 2011
Psalm 107:1-3
Shout praises to the LORD! He is good to us, and his love never fails. Everyone the LORD has rescued from trouble should praise him, everyone he has brought from the east and the west, the north and the south.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My great-aunt Altha used to say, “Don’t borrow trouble.” And I will have to say, she practiced this motto fairly well. She chose not to dwell on unpleasant thoughts… and at least appeared to put them out of her mind. But for many of us, troubles are like an old security blanket that we wrestle and wallow and continually hold tightly to our chests. We know that God is faithful to answer our prayers. We know that He has rescued us from past troubles. But instead of praising Him and resting in the comfort of knowing that He will do this again, we worry and wallow!
I will admit that I have my moments. I want to pick up burdens and troubles and carry them around like an old, familiar blanket. But I’m learning more and more every day about trusting God and praising Him… especially in times of trouble. God has rescued me so many times. All I have to do is reflect a moment on how much He has loved me and cared for me in the past to realize that He is still in the business of being good to His children!
So stop and take a deep breath. Whatever you are going through today… and I mean whatever is troubling you… remind yourself that God is in control, and He is in the business of rescuing His children from trouble. Ask Him to take care of your burdens for you… your challenges, ailments, sorrows and grief - and your worries of all sorts. Thank Him in advance for handling these things for you. Then step out in confidence that all will be well.
This is not pie-in-the-sky dreams… this is the truth! It may seem like your world is crashing down around you… you may feel the walls caving in… but God is there to hold everything together and rescue you. All you have to do is let Him… believe in His power… and thank Him for His love.
Don’t borrow trouble… let God have it all. Give Him praise for His unfailing, amazing love and care… and thank Him for being so good to us.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Shout praises to the LORD! He is good to us, and his love never fails. Everyone the LORD has rescued from trouble should praise him, everyone he has brought from the east and the west, the north and the south.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My great-aunt Altha used to say, “Don’t borrow trouble.” And I will have to say, she practiced this motto fairly well. She chose not to dwell on unpleasant thoughts… and at least appeared to put them out of her mind. But for many of us, troubles are like an old security blanket that we wrestle and wallow and continually hold tightly to our chests. We know that God is faithful to answer our prayers. We know that He has rescued us from past troubles. But instead of praising Him and resting in the comfort of knowing that He will do this again, we worry and wallow!
I will admit that I have my moments. I want to pick up burdens and troubles and carry them around like an old, familiar blanket. But I’m learning more and more every day about trusting God and praising Him… especially in times of trouble. God has rescued me so many times. All I have to do is reflect a moment on how much He has loved me and cared for me in the past to realize that He is still in the business of being good to His children!
So stop and take a deep breath. Whatever you are going through today… and I mean whatever is troubling you… remind yourself that God is in control, and He is in the business of rescuing His children from trouble. Ask Him to take care of your burdens for you… your challenges, ailments, sorrows and grief - and your worries of all sorts. Thank Him in advance for handling these things for you. Then step out in confidence that all will be well.
This is not pie-in-the-sky dreams… this is the truth! It may seem like your world is crashing down around you… you may feel the walls caving in… but God is there to hold everything together and rescue you. All you have to do is let Him… believe in His power… and thank Him for His love.
Don’t borrow trouble… let God have it all. Give Him praise for His unfailing, amazing love and care… and thank Him for being so good to us.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 15, 2011
Psalm 106:1-5
We will celebrate and praise you, LORD! You are good to us, and your love never fails. No one can praise you enough for all of the mighty things you have done. You bless those people who are honest and fair in everything they do.
Remember me, LORD, when you show kindness by saving your people. Let me prosper with the rest of your chosen ones, as they celebrate with pride because they belong to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Unless you have been under a rock for the last few weeks, you know that we are in full “back-to-school” mode. Everywhere you turn, there are new beginnings… first days at kindergarten, middle school, junior high, high school – and college. Some are starting new teaching careers… some are spending their first “first day” of school in decades as a newly retired teacher. There is a lot to celebrate… a whole lot of history in the making… and many things for which to thank God.
At the same time, school is not anywhere near the radar of some who are facing their own “firsts”. Some are starting their life without a loved one who has begun a “new life” in Heaven. A friend of mine just kissed her mom “Goodbye” for the last time, while another is lovingly waiting with her dad as he enters his last days on this earth. A former member of our community died in a motorcycle accident… and other friends and relatives lie in hospital beds across the country, struggling to get well again and experience a “first day” of good health.
Yet in all of these things, we give thanks and celebrate. We celebrate because those who are beginning new school years have so much ahead of them. Those who are dying or have just passed into Glory belong to God and have received the ultimate blessing… a place in His physical presence. Those who are sick are under God’s care… covered by the prayers of countless faithful believers who have a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father and believe He will do mighty things.
What I want you to take away from this scripture today is this… even in our darkest hours, we can celebrate God. He is with us for our greatest joys and our deepest sorrows. We can choose to walk with Him… or we can choose to go through life alone. I guarantee you, the “highs” won’t be as high, and the “lows” will be almost unbearable unless you make a place for God in your life.
I don’t know what you are experiencing today – where you are on the spectrum of “highs” and “lows” – but I do know that God is ready and able to do mighty things… to bless you in ways you cannot even begin to imagine! And that is worth celebrating. Have you asked God to walk with you today – and always? Have you given Him praise for His never-ending care? How will you celebrate God today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
We will celebrate and praise you, LORD! You are good to us, and your love never fails. No one can praise you enough for all of the mighty things you have done. You bless those people who are honest and fair in everything they do.
Remember me, LORD, when you show kindness by saving your people. Let me prosper with the rest of your chosen ones, as they celebrate with pride because they belong to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Unless you have been under a rock for the last few weeks, you know that we are in full “back-to-school” mode. Everywhere you turn, there are new beginnings… first days at kindergarten, middle school, junior high, high school – and college. Some are starting new teaching careers… some are spending their first “first day” of school in decades as a newly retired teacher. There is a lot to celebrate… a whole lot of history in the making… and many things for which to thank God.
At the same time, school is not anywhere near the radar of some who are facing their own “firsts”. Some are starting their life without a loved one who has begun a “new life” in Heaven. A friend of mine just kissed her mom “Goodbye” for the last time, while another is lovingly waiting with her dad as he enters his last days on this earth. A former member of our community died in a motorcycle accident… and other friends and relatives lie in hospital beds across the country, struggling to get well again and experience a “first day” of good health.
Yet in all of these things, we give thanks and celebrate. We celebrate because those who are beginning new school years have so much ahead of them. Those who are dying or have just passed into Glory belong to God and have received the ultimate blessing… a place in His physical presence. Those who are sick are under God’s care… covered by the prayers of countless faithful believers who have a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father and believe He will do mighty things.
What I want you to take away from this scripture today is this… even in our darkest hours, we can celebrate God. He is with us for our greatest joys and our deepest sorrows. We can choose to walk with Him… or we can choose to go through life alone. I guarantee you, the “highs” won’t be as high, and the “lows” will be almost unbearable unless you make a place for God in your life.
I don’t know what you are experiencing today – where you are on the spectrum of “highs” and “lows” – but I do know that God is ready and able to do mighty things… to bless you in ways you cannot even begin to imagine! And that is worth celebrating. Have you asked God to walk with you today – and always? Have you given Him praise for His never-ending care? How will you celebrate God today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 12, 2011
Psalm 105:1-5
Praise the LORD and pray in his name! Tell everyone what he has done. Sing praises to the LORD! Tell about his miracles. Celebrate and worship his holy name with all your heart. Trust the LORD and his mighty power. Remember his miracles and all his wonders and his fair decisions.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Let’s be honest… we’ve all been griping and complaining about the heat – and with good reason! This has been a miserable summer, with some of the highest heat indexes ever recorded. We have prayed for rain… over and again. We’ve told God what He already knows… “It’s hot and dry!” Hopefully we have also thanked Him for the rains that have come in recent days – and for cooler air that is forecasted for the week ahead.
During a couple of the recent thundershowers that came through our area, beautiful rainbows appeared in the sky… brilliantly bright and long-lasting! I took these as gentle reminders that “I am still in control. I know what you need… and when you need it!” Now, I realize that you may feel God needs a little nudge when your grass has burned up or your yard has become so dry that giant cracks begin to appear in it! But I assure you, God already knows! He decides when to send the rain, and His decisions are always fair and perfect.
I don’t know why God allows natural disasters… deadly tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, sinkholes, windstorms, droughts, heat waves, and more. I don’t know why He decides to cure one person of a disease… or save them from disaster… and allows others to perish or suffer. But I believe with all my heart that God’s ways are perfect and fair… and far beyond what I can begin to comprehend. And that’s why He is GOD!
I have experienced enough of God’s miracles to know that He deserves our praise… and our devotion. I have read enough scripture to know that all of the hardships and sufferings we endure in this lifetime may seem incomprehensible… unbearable… but in context of God’s grand scheme, we can endure them. God has not forgotten us… He is not being mean. He cares for us more deeply than we can begin to imagine. And someday, we will fully understand how He has orchestrated everything for the most perfect outcome.
The rainbows of recent days have reminded me of God’s love and care for us… and His tremendous, miraculous power and perfection. He is truly worthy of our praise… have you given Him some today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Praise the LORD and pray in his name! Tell everyone what he has done. Sing praises to the LORD! Tell about his miracles. Celebrate and worship his holy name with all your heart. Trust the LORD and his mighty power. Remember his miracles and all his wonders and his fair decisions.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Let’s be honest… we’ve all been griping and complaining about the heat – and with good reason! This has been a miserable summer, with some of the highest heat indexes ever recorded. We have prayed for rain… over and again. We’ve told God what He already knows… “It’s hot and dry!” Hopefully we have also thanked Him for the rains that have come in recent days – and for cooler air that is forecasted for the week ahead.
During a couple of the recent thundershowers that came through our area, beautiful rainbows appeared in the sky… brilliantly bright and long-lasting! I took these as gentle reminders that “I am still in control. I know what you need… and when you need it!” Now, I realize that you may feel God needs a little nudge when your grass has burned up or your yard has become so dry that giant cracks begin to appear in it! But I assure you, God already knows! He decides when to send the rain, and His decisions are always fair and perfect.
I don’t know why God allows natural disasters… deadly tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, sinkholes, windstorms, droughts, heat waves, and more. I don’t know why He decides to cure one person of a disease… or save them from disaster… and allows others to perish or suffer. But I believe with all my heart that God’s ways are perfect and fair… and far beyond what I can begin to comprehend. And that’s why He is GOD!
I have experienced enough of God’s miracles to know that He deserves our praise… and our devotion. I have read enough scripture to know that all of the hardships and sufferings we endure in this lifetime may seem incomprehensible… unbearable… but in context of God’s grand scheme, we can endure them. God has not forgotten us… He is not being mean. He cares for us more deeply than we can begin to imagine. And someday, we will fully understand how He has orchestrated everything for the most perfect outcome.
The rainbows of recent days have reminded me of God’s love and care for us… and His tremendous, miraculous power and perfection. He is truly worthy of our praise… have you given Him some today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 14, 2011
John 3:16-18
"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I was watching a movie recently about a family of con artists. One day there was a knock at the door, and one of the children saw a policemen standing there. She froze… scared to open the door. The father opened the door and had a pleasant, innocent conversation with the policeman who was merely making a courtesy call. Afterward, the father told his family, “People in this neighborhood don’t fear the police… the police are their friends!” He added that most people in that neighborhood had no reason to expect something bad when the policeman knocked on their door… they had not done anything wrong, so they knew that nothing was going to happen.
If you don’t get anything else today from this writing, get this… God didn’t send Jesus to condemn us… to wag his finger and tell us how perfectly awful we are. We have every reason to be like those who feared the policeman. We’ve done wrong, and we know it… yet that is not why Jesus knocks on the door of our hearts. That is not why He gave His very life on the cross for us. If you don’t understand anything else today, try as hard as you can to see how much Jesus loves you! He wants you to be with Him – now and forever. He doesn’t want to see you condemned – to hell… or to an existence akin to hell on earth. He wants to capture your heart and fill you with hope and peace and joy.
The thing of it is… we will never be forced to choose Jesus. It’s all up to us. God sent Him to earth to save us… but only if we wish to be rescued. Choosing Jesus changes everything. Choosing Jesus says, “I love you for loving me.”
There are a zillion other reasons to choose Jesus… but what could be better than pure love - His… and ours in return? Have you chosen Jesus?
©2011 Debbie Robus
"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I was watching a movie recently about a family of con artists. One day there was a knock at the door, and one of the children saw a policemen standing there. She froze… scared to open the door. The father opened the door and had a pleasant, innocent conversation with the policeman who was merely making a courtesy call. Afterward, the father told his family, “People in this neighborhood don’t fear the police… the police are their friends!” He added that most people in that neighborhood had no reason to expect something bad when the policeman knocked on their door… they had not done anything wrong, so they knew that nothing was going to happen.
If you don’t get anything else today from this writing, get this… God didn’t send Jesus to condemn us… to wag his finger and tell us how perfectly awful we are. We have every reason to be like those who feared the policeman. We’ve done wrong, and we know it… yet that is not why Jesus knocks on the door of our hearts. That is not why He gave His very life on the cross for us. If you don’t understand anything else today, try as hard as you can to see how much Jesus loves you! He wants you to be with Him – now and forever. He doesn’t want to see you condemned – to hell… or to an existence akin to hell on earth. He wants to capture your heart and fill you with hope and peace and joy.
The thing of it is… we will never be forced to choose Jesus. It’s all up to us. God sent Him to earth to save us… but only if we wish to be rescued. Choosing Jesus changes everything. Choosing Jesus says, “I love you for loving me.”
There are a zillion other reasons to choose Jesus… but what could be better than pure love - His… and ours in return? Have you chosen Jesus?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 4, 2011
Proverbs 22:3
Respect and serve the LORD! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The days around July 4th are a time of great reflection for many Americans. We stop… if only momentarily… and think about the tremendous freedoms we enjoy in this country. We recognize the monumental sacrifices of so many fellow countrymen and women, so that we can enjoy these freedoms and privileges. We salute them with parades and fireworks displays… and the wearing of red, white and blue. We give them respect by hanging flags and singing patriotic songs in their honor.
We are able to muster up quite the celebration for the United States of America and its people, yet we don’t seem to be able to do the same for our LORD and Savior! Oh, sure, we have Christmas and Easter… and Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny! And yes, there are other activities and festivities on July 4th that take some of our focus – picnics, water activities, car races, baseball games and more. But it seems that for many of us, we are more fervent and enthusiastic about recognizing and celebrating our patriotism than we are our faith!
We need to stop and realize that the only reason we have the freedoms we do in this country is because of the grace of God. The ultimate gift of freedom came on the cross, when Jesus Christ died for our sins. If ever we are going to wave a flag and light a firecracker, it ought to be for HIM! And honestly, in the context of our faith walk, every single day should be the Fourth of July!
So today, as you celebrate, light a firework for Jesus. As it soars toward the heavens, pause and say, “Thank you, LORD!” Have your picnics, eat your ice cream and watermelon, and wave flags… and thank God for His gift of the great freedom we enjoy in America every single day. Give God the glory, honor and respect He deserves as you commemorate this holiday… and make every day your Independence Day in Christ!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Respect and serve the LORD! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The days around July 4th are a time of great reflection for many Americans. We stop… if only momentarily… and think about the tremendous freedoms we enjoy in this country. We recognize the monumental sacrifices of so many fellow countrymen and women, so that we can enjoy these freedoms and privileges. We salute them with parades and fireworks displays… and the wearing of red, white and blue. We give them respect by hanging flags and singing patriotic songs in their honor.
We are able to muster up quite the celebration for the United States of America and its people, yet we don’t seem to be able to do the same for our LORD and Savior! Oh, sure, we have Christmas and Easter… and Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny! And yes, there are other activities and festivities on July 4th that take some of our focus – picnics, water activities, car races, baseball games and more. But it seems that for many of us, we are more fervent and enthusiastic about recognizing and celebrating our patriotism than we are our faith!
We need to stop and realize that the only reason we have the freedoms we do in this country is because of the grace of God. The ultimate gift of freedom came on the cross, when Jesus Christ died for our sins. If ever we are going to wave a flag and light a firecracker, it ought to be for HIM! And honestly, in the context of our faith walk, every single day should be the Fourth of July!
So today, as you celebrate, light a firework for Jesus. As it soars toward the heavens, pause and say, “Thank you, LORD!” Have your picnics, eat your ice cream and watermelon, and wave flags… and thank God for His gift of the great freedom we enjoy in America every single day. Give God the glory, honor and respect He deserves as you commemorate this holiday… and make every day your Independence Day in Christ!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 2, 2011
Psalm 97:1-6
The LORD is King! Tell the earth to celebrate and all islands to shout. Dark clouds surround him, and his throne is supported by justice and fairness. Fire leaps from his throne, destroying his enemies, and his lightning is so bright that the earth sees it and trembles. Mountains melt away like wax in the presence of the LORD of all the earth. The heavens announce, "The LORD brings justice!" Everyone sees God's glory.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In a couple of days, we will celebrate Independence Day, but for many, the party has already started! We’ll hear the fireworks boom and pop… we will see the flash, and some will explode so brightly overhead that we may even tremble momentarily. But it will all be in good fun – we will have nothing to fear. This is a happy time for many as we celebrate our freedom and the privilege of living in America.
In the scheme of things, every day with God should be like the Fourth of July. We should be so exuberant and joyful that if we don’t literally shoot off fireworks to celebrate, we do so in our hearts! Most of all, we should live in such a way that God is glorified… and others see the difference He makes in our life each and every day.
Do others see the power of God in your life? Do you feel it for yourself? Do you celebrate all He has done – and is doing – for you? Isn’t this a great time to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
The LORD is King! Tell the earth to celebrate and all islands to shout. Dark clouds surround him, and his throne is supported by justice and fairness. Fire leaps from his throne, destroying his enemies, and his lightning is so bright that the earth sees it and trembles. Mountains melt away like wax in the presence of the LORD of all the earth. The heavens announce, "The LORD brings justice!" Everyone sees God's glory.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In a couple of days, we will celebrate Independence Day, but for many, the party has already started! We’ll hear the fireworks boom and pop… we will see the flash, and some will explode so brightly overhead that we may even tremble momentarily. But it will all be in good fun – we will have nothing to fear. This is a happy time for many as we celebrate our freedom and the privilege of living in America.
In the scheme of things, every day with God should be like the Fourth of July. We should be so exuberant and joyful that if we don’t literally shoot off fireworks to celebrate, we do so in our hearts! Most of all, we should live in such a way that God is glorified… and others see the difference He makes in our life each and every day.
Do others see the power of God in your life? Do you feel it for yourself? Do you celebrate all He has done – and is doing – for you? Isn’t this a great time to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 11, 2011
Psalm 91:1-4
You who sit down in the High God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow, say this: "GOD, you're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!"
That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you—under them you're perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My mother recently wrote a blog post about her memories of tornadoes in Arkansas. Much of my early childhood was spent in a storm cellar. This was in the days before “Five-live Dopplar,” satellite imagery, and more. Our “menfolk” would stand on the porch and “watch the clouds”… and as Mother pointed out, more than once they literally dove into the cellar for cover as a storm approached.
However, most nights we children would sit in the cellar with all of the women from the neighborhood and listen as they talked about the day’s events. When one of us needed a bathroom break, a man would be summoned from the porch. We were wrapped in a quilt and carried into the house, then returned to the cellar. I can still remember the snug safety of that quilt “cocoon” – wrapped tightly and held in the arms of my dad, my then-high-school-aged cousin Jim, or someone else I trusted to protect me.
As an adult, when I read this passage, I am reminded of the snug safety of those summer-time quilts and the arms of a loved one wrapped around me. I am reminded of how safe I felt in the shadow of pine trees that lined a creek bed across the road from my paternal grandparents’ farmhouse… how I took refuge there often on the soft mossy bank and listened to the soothing “whisper” of the wind in the pines. And I am comforted to think that God’s protection of me is much the same… loving, strong – yet as gentle and soothing as the whisper of that wind – safe and protective. He truly does fend off all harm.
What about you? Are you trusting God today? I will admit that sometimes fear and insecurity sneak in, and I am momentarily caught off-guard. The devil loves to try to steal my peace and try to fill me with lies and worries. But I’m not having it… and neither should you. We “dwell in the shelter of the Most High” and “rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
Let that soak in… truly think about how powerful this is! God is our refuge and fortress… we trust Him (or we should!)… and in His arms – no matter what comes our way - we are perfectly safe. Do you feel His presence and comfort? Are you snug and comfortable in the “quilt” of His love and protection? Won’t you allow Him to handle your cares and worries… and rest in His peace?
©2011 Debbie Robus
You who sit down in the High God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow, say this: "GOD, you're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!"
That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you—under them you're perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My mother recently wrote a blog post about her memories of tornadoes in Arkansas. Much of my early childhood was spent in a storm cellar. This was in the days before “Five-live Dopplar,” satellite imagery, and more. Our “menfolk” would stand on the porch and “watch the clouds”… and as Mother pointed out, more than once they literally dove into the cellar for cover as a storm approached.
However, most nights we children would sit in the cellar with all of the women from the neighborhood and listen as they talked about the day’s events. When one of us needed a bathroom break, a man would be summoned from the porch. We were wrapped in a quilt and carried into the house, then returned to the cellar. I can still remember the snug safety of that quilt “cocoon” – wrapped tightly and held in the arms of my dad, my then-high-school-aged cousin Jim, or someone else I trusted to protect me.
As an adult, when I read this passage, I am reminded of the snug safety of those summer-time quilts and the arms of a loved one wrapped around me. I am reminded of how safe I felt in the shadow of pine trees that lined a creek bed across the road from my paternal grandparents’ farmhouse… how I took refuge there often on the soft mossy bank and listened to the soothing “whisper” of the wind in the pines. And I am comforted to think that God’s protection of me is much the same… loving, strong – yet as gentle and soothing as the whisper of that wind – safe and protective. He truly does fend off all harm.
What about you? Are you trusting God today? I will admit that sometimes fear and insecurity sneak in, and I am momentarily caught off-guard. The devil loves to try to steal my peace and try to fill me with lies and worries. But I’m not having it… and neither should you. We “dwell in the shelter of the Most High” and “rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
Let that soak in… truly think about how powerful this is! God is our refuge and fortress… we trust Him (or we should!)… and in His arms – no matter what comes our way - we are perfectly safe. Do you feel His presence and comfort? Are you snug and comfortable in the “quilt” of His love and protection? Won’t you allow Him to handle your cares and worries… and rest in His peace?
©2011 Debbie Robus
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