Proverbs 22:6
Point your kids in the right direction— when they're old they won't be lost.
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.
Put on your “thinking cap” and recall at least one positive “life lesson” you have learned from one of your parents or grandparents. Two come to mind for me… both from my grandmothers… “Blood is thicker than water,” and “The LORD will take care of me.” I’ve heard my grandmothers say these phrases countless times, and they resonate with me. My mom used to always tell us, “Two wrongs don’t make a right.” All three of these phrases are good “life lessons” – ones that I have never forgotten!
I can also name a few negative “life lessons” that colored my thinking… though not necessarily in a negative way. I learned the hazards of cigarette smoking by watching more than one beloved adult in my family die from its effects. I learned not to judge a person by their appearance or the word of someone else by listening to elders do just that… and I learned later that the person of whom they spoke and thought poorly was really pretty nice! I discovered that not all Christians belong to the same denomination… and those who attend a church down the street are loved just as much by Jesus as those who worship in my own sanctuary!
If we think people in general are watching what we say and do… children are watching even more closely. A great case in point is my little cousin Owen and my nephew Timothy. We have observed both of them mimic our behaviors… from repeating what we say with the same tone and inflection to wearing their hats cocked at the same angle as their dad and Uncle Greg… and much more.
So what does this have to do with you? If you want to really make a difference in someone’s life – regardless of your age - spend some time with a child! If nothing else, be a good and Godly example for children who may cross your path. Watch your language, your habits, your behaviors. Think about what you say – and how you say it.
If you are given a chance to mentor a child, take it. That one morning you spend rocking babies in a church nursery… or the evening you take the neighbor kid out in the yard and throw a ball… may have lifelong ramifications. Send a greeting card to a child who is having a birthday, did well at the swim meet, or won a chess tournament at school. This child may not even know your name, but he/she might remember that someone loved and cared for them… if only for a few minutes. And it could make a huge difference.
God holds a special place in His heart for children… I’m convinced of this! And I believe any time we spend serving children pleases Him doubly. God knows that we are building future generations. We are sowing the seeds of His love in that child… we are creating the opportunity for growth in him/her… and into others exponentially. And while it may seem that our efforts were wasted or miniscule… we need to leave the depth and breadth of their effects up to God. It’s not our job to determine the outcome… just to take the first step.
So my challenge to you today is to find a child to love and nurture. You don’t have to become a foster parent… or volunteer to work in Vacation Bible School or an after-school program of some sort. You don’t have to become a Scout leader or coach Little League… although all of these are worthy projects! All you have to do is be the best role model, friend, parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin, or neighbor God has called you to be. He will use you to inspire and influence the children in your lives.
God’s efforts are never wasted… and yours on His behalf won’t be, either!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for February 25, 2011
1 Timothy 5:7-8
Tell all of this to everyone, so they will do the right thing. People who don't take care of their relatives, and especially their own families, have given up their faith. They are worse than someone who doesn't have faith in the Lord.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of a dear friend of mine named Jean. I am not sure of Jean’s age, but it’s somewhere around 95. Jean and her husband, Jim, who is 95 or better, still live in their own home. She is a former nurse… Jim a former airline pilot. Jean and Jim never had children. Nieces, nephews, other family members and friends “see after” them… as much as Jean and Jim will allow!
I admit, I do not “see after” Jean and Jim like I should. They have been my dear friends for almost 25 years, and they are members of my church. They are part of my “church family” even if they are not related by blood, and I should check in with them more often.
And that brings me to the point of today’s devotional. It’s very easy for younger people to get busy with their own lives and families… and frankly, to become self-absorbed… and to forget about – or neglect – older people who live and work alongside them. I recently spoke with the mother of one of my friends, and she said, “We don’t see children at church any more, and it breaks my heart.” The children are attending a more contemporary service that meets at a different hour, and many of the older church members attend a traditional service, so they have little opportunity to interact with younger members. Clearly, this represents a need that must be addressed… and one that may have become commonplace in many church congregations.
If you want to see the power of “youth” in action, visit a nursing home and take a baby, a puppy, or a kitten. The faces of the residents will instantly light up at the sight of “young life.” We tend to get tunnel vision quite often… to focus on people who are in our own circle – or our own age – and we toss others… especially those who are older… to the curb. If you read further in 1 Timothy 5, you will see that there are admonitions to honor Jesus by caring for our grandparents, our widows and widowers, and older adults. When we show them respect and care, we are honoring God and His love for us.
The last time I did laundry, I discovered that the underarm seam of one of my husband’s t-shirts had come undone. My husband has dozens of t-shirts, and I seriously considered tossing this one into the rag bin. But there was still a lot of good “wear” left in the shirt, and a few stitches on my sewing machine could patch the torn seam. As I looked at this shirt, I thought of how we treat others in everyday life. I considered how we sometimes toss people – especially older adults - and their needs into the “rag bin” and focus on newer, prettier, more seemingly useful folks.
We need to wake up! We need to realize that older adults are not only important, wise and worthy of our time and attention… but we are called by God to attend to them! Who do you need to contact today? Do you have a family member – or a church family member – who needs to hear from you? If you are older… have you reached out to those who are younger and let them know you are willing to be a mentor and friend… that you still want to be engaged in the activities of their lives? In God’s family, there are no age barriers… these have been imposed by humans. It’s up to us to remove them… in Jesus’ name. Where will you begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Tell all of this to everyone, so they will do the right thing. People who don't take care of their relatives, and especially their own families, have given up their faith. They are worse than someone who doesn't have faith in the Lord.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of a dear friend of mine named Jean. I am not sure of Jean’s age, but it’s somewhere around 95. Jean and her husband, Jim, who is 95 or better, still live in their own home. She is a former nurse… Jim a former airline pilot. Jean and Jim never had children. Nieces, nephews, other family members and friends “see after” them… as much as Jean and Jim will allow!
I admit, I do not “see after” Jean and Jim like I should. They have been my dear friends for almost 25 years, and they are members of my church. They are part of my “church family” even if they are not related by blood, and I should check in with them more often.
And that brings me to the point of today’s devotional. It’s very easy for younger people to get busy with their own lives and families… and frankly, to become self-absorbed… and to forget about – or neglect – older people who live and work alongside them. I recently spoke with the mother of one of my friends, and she said, “We don’t see children at church any more, and it breaks my heart.” The children are attending a more contemporary service that meets at a different hour, and many of the older church members attend a traditional service, so they have little opportunity to interact with younger members. Clearly, this represents a need that must be addressed… and one that may have become commonplace in many church congregations.
If you want to see the power of “youth” in action, visit a nursing home and take a baby, a puppy, or a kitten. The faces of the residents will instantly light up at the sight of “young life.” We tend to get tunnel vision quite often… to focus on people who are in our own circle – or our own age – and we toss others… especially those who are older… to the curb. If you read further in 1 Timothy 5, you will see that there are admonitions to honor Jesus by caring for our grandparents, our widows and widowers, and older adults. When we show them respect and care, we are honoring God and His love for us.
The last time I did laundry, I discovered that the underarm seam of one of my husband’s t-shirts had come undone. My husband has dozens of t-shirts, and I seriously considered tossing this one into the rag bin. But there was still a lot of good “wear” left in the shirt, and a few stitches on my sewing machine could patch the torn seam. As I looked at this shirt, I thought of how we treat others in everyday life. I considered how we sometimes toss people – especially older adults - and their needs into the “rag bin” and focus on newer, prettier, more seemingly useful folks.
We need to wake up! We need to realize that older adults are not only important, wise and worthy of our time and attention… but we are called by God to attend to them! Who do you need to contact today? Do you have a family member – or a church family member – who needs to hear from you? If you are older… have you reached out to those who are younger and let them know you are willing to be a mentor and friend… that you still want to be engaged in the activities of their lives? In God’s family, there are no age barriers… these have been imposed by humans. It’s up to us to remove them… in Jesus’ name. Where will you begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 6, 2010
Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few months, I’ve become more aware of the use of the word “hate.” We so casually say, “Oh, I hate such-and-such.” Or “So-and-so hates me!” And maybe we don’t literally mean “hate” – but use of this word leaves room for a lot of misinterpretation… and the Bible warns us not to operate in hate. In truth, this word shouldn’t be in our vocabulary!
Newton’s law of motion says for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. For hate, the equal/opposite reaction is love. For negativity, this reaction is positivity. It’s time for us to “spin the dial”, so to speak. It’s time for us to start operating in love and positives rather than hate and negativity. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, we need to see it half full.
We must learn to look for the good in others. We must learn to see them as children of God, not the devil’s agents. We must try to find a positive side to situations we deem hopeless or unpleasant. One exercise that has helped me lately is to view others through the eyes of a parent. Every single person we encounter was once someone’s precious baby. We all know how cute and adorable babies are… how we overlook their flaws and stand ready to gently correct them and forgive them.
If you will stop and picture the person or persons involved in a situation you are drawn to “hate” as a once innocent baby or toddler, you will be more apt to find a loving solution. How would you correct the youngster? How much would you be willing to tolerate and “love away?” What is different now? Sure, the older we get, the more responsible we must become for our actions. But the principle of finding a loving solution still applies.
In everything we do, we are called to look at others with God’s eyes… to see HIS child – the one He loves – and to find a peaceful solution to the problem. Operating in hate is a tool of the devil… not our Heavenly Father. Who are you emulating these days? Whose tools are in your arsenal?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few months, I’ve become more aware of the use of the word “hate.” We so casually say, “Oh, I hate such-and-such.” Or “So-and-so hates me!” And maybe we don’t literally mean “hate” – but use of this word leaves room for a lot of misinterpretation… and the Bible warns us not to operate in hate. In truth, this word shouldn’t be in our vocabulary!
Newton’s law of motion says for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. For hate, the equal/opposite reaction is love. For negativity, this reaction is positivity. It’s time for us to “spin the dial”, so to speak. It’s time for us to start operating in love and positives rather than hate and negativity. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, we need to see it half full.
We must learn to look for the good in others. We must learn to see them as children of God, not the devil’s agents. We must try to find a positive side to situations we deem hopeless or unpleasant. One exercise that has helped me lately is to view others through the eyes of a parent. Every single person we encounter was once someone’s precious baby. We all know how cute and adorable babies are… how we overlook their flaws and stand ready to gently correct them and forgive them.
If you will stop and picture the person or persons involved in a situation you are drawn to “hate” as a once innocent baby or toddler, you will be more apt to find a loving solution. How would you correct the youngster? How much would you be willing to tolerate and “love away?” What is different now? Sure, the older we get, the more responsible we must become for our actions. But the principle of finding a loving solution still applies.
In everything we do, we are called to look at others with God’s eyes… to see HIS child – the one He loves – and to find a peaceful solution to the problem. Operating in hate is a tool of the devil… not our Heavenly Father. Who are you emulating these days? Whose tools are in your arsenal?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 21, 2010
Psalm 71:17
You have taught me since I was a child, and I never stop telling about your marvelous deeds.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember your first “lesson” from God? I’m not talking about a Sunday School lesson or attending church when you were little. I’m talking about the first time you saw firsthand Christian behavior or witnessed an act of God. Sadly, one of my first memories associated with church was a shouting match that occurred one evening when I was about four. There was some sort of dispute between the pastor and several church members, and a man in our congregation actually tried to “shout down” the pastor as he spoke. I can still see the man who was yelling, and I can see the pastor calmly continuing to speak. This was not one of the finer moments for our church. I can’t even tell you what caused the dispute – nor the outcome - but some nearly 50 years later, I still can vividly recall that evening service.
In contrast, I recall positive influences – the fact that my parents and all of my grandparents were faithful members of their church and attended regularly. Bibles were not only visibly displayed in all our homes … they were used regularly! My paternal grandparents had really poor television reception “out in the country,” so they spent their spare time in the evenings and on weekends reading their Bibles and listening to gospel music on the radio. My great-grandfather died when I was about ten, and I remember sitting on my great-grandmother’s lap as she reassured me that “the Lord will take care of me.”
A lot of the things that God taught me as a child, I truly didn’t recognize… much less understand… until I was a lot older. But the wisdom was there… the knowledge and the groundwork were present. And I see that now in the children I encounter… my own nieces and nephews, young cousins and the children of dear friends … and even those of you I have been blessed to serve as a Sunday School teacher.
I have been told over and over, “You are planting seeds.” I know that in actuality, God is planting the seeds – I am just the “field hand.” But the result is that someday – maybe not even in my lifetime – those seeds will grow and bear fruit. The lessons God taught all of us in our childhood stay with us forever and can continue to bless us and guide us well into adulthood.
So today, think about the lessons God has taught you since childhood – the people who have surrounded you and influenced you in your faith walk. And think about the children in your circle of influence. Are you showing them examples of God’s wisdom, love, grace and mercy? Are you behaving in a way that gives little ones a good example to follow? Children are watching us … especially the older teens and young adults they so want to emulate. They are seeking role models and gauging their faith by how we exemplify ours. So how are we doing? What sort of “field hand” are you being for God these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You have taught me since I was a child, and I never stop telling about your marvelous deeds.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember your first “lesson” from God? I’m not talking about a Sunday School lesson or attending church when you were little. I’m talking about the first time you saw firsthand Christian behavior or witnessed an act of God. Sadly, one of my first memories associated with church was a shouting match that occurred one evening when I was about four. There was some sort of dispute between the pastor and several church members, and a man in our congregation actually tried to “shout down” the pastor as he spoke. I can still see the man who was yelling, and I can see the pastor calmly continuing to speak. This was not one of the finer moments for our church. I can’t even tell you what caused the dispute – nor the outcome - but some nearly 50 years later, I still can vividly recall that evening service.
In contrast, I recall positive influences – the fact that my parents and all of my grandparents were faithful members of their church and attended regularly. Bibles were not only visibly displayed in all our homes … they were used regularly! My paternal grandparents had really poor television reception “out in the country,” so they spent their spare time in the evenings and on weekends reading their Bibles and listening to gospel music on the radio. My great-grandfather died when I was about ten, and I remember sitting on my great-grandmother’s lap as she reassured me that “the Lord will take care of me.”
A lot of the things that God taught me as a child, I truly didn’t recognize… much less understand… until I was a lot older. But the wisdom was there… the knowledge and the groundwork were present. And I see that now in the children I encounter… my own nieces and nephews, young cousins and the children of dear friends … and even those of you I have been blessed to serve as a Sunday School teacher.
I have been told over and over, “You are planting seeds.” I know that in actuality, God is planting the seeds – I am just the “field hand.” But the result is that someday – maybe not even in my lifetime – those seeds will grow and bear fruit. The lessons God taught all of us in our childhood stay with us forever and can continue to bless us and guide us well into adulthood.
So today, think about the lessons God has taught you since childhood – the people who have surrounded you and influenced you in your faith walk. And think about the children in your circle of influence. Are you showing them examples of God’s wisdom, love, grace and mercy? Are you behaving in a way that gives little ones a good example to follow? Children are watching us … especially the older teens and young adults they so want to emulate. They are seeking role models and gauging their faith by how we exemplify ours. So how are we doing? What sort of “field hand” are you being for God these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 9, 2010
Jeremiah 31:13
Young women and young men, together with the elderly, will celebrate and dance, because I will comfort them and turn their sorrow into happiness.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everybody needs a little nurture and care once in a while, but two groups who are often overlooked are young people under the age of 30, and the elderly. Sometimes, we fail to realize how hard it is to be a kid, teenager, or young adult. These “youngsters” are in “the prime of their lives.” If you are in this age group, I bet at least one “adult” has told you, “You’ve got it made … things will never be easier than they are now.”
Conversely, we see elderly persons who are residing in assisted living facilities, retirement villages, and resort communities, and we think … “They are living the care-free life … enjoying their ‘Golden Years’.”
What we often don’t see are the heartaches and difficulties that young people face … from relationship issues to challenges with studies and extracurricular activities to peer pressure. We don’t pay attention to the worries and concerns of new college grads over getting a job, finding a place to live, and making a place for themselves in the world at large. We fail to see the stress and strain of newly married couples and parents who are trying to figure out their new roles and keep all the balls in the air.
As for the elderly, there are probably two major concerns: health (both physical and mental), and finances (will my pension and retirement funds cover all of my expenses?). Throw in worries and concerns about children and family, boredom, and the future … not to mention loneliness … and you have a recipe for great need.
Yes, everyone has worries, concerns and challenges that are unique to his/her particular age group. But often we go through life with blinders on and are so focused on our own lives that we fail to realize the needs of those around us, especially the young and the old … those on either end of the “employment spectrum,” so to speak.
My challenge today is for each of us to find a way to encourage and nurture at least two people – one “youngster” and one “senior.” This could be mailing a card, giving a hug, making a phone call, dropping off a hot loaf of bread or a plate of cookies, offering a ride home from school or to the grocery store, or sending an e-mail message to ask, “How ya doin’?” Ask God to direct you and show you how/where to reach out … who to place on your “radar screen.” Focus more on others than you do on yourself and see how God works to bring comfort and happiness to everyone … including you!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Young women and young men, together with the elderly, will celebrate and dance, because I will comfort them and turn their sorrow into happiness.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everybody needs a little nurture and care once in a while, but two groups who are often overlooked are young people under the age of 30, and the elderly. Sometimes, we fail to realize how hard it is to be a kid, teenager, or young adult. These “youngsters” are in “the prime of their lives.” If you are in this age group, I bet at least one “adult” has told you, “You’ve got it made … things will never be easier than they are now.”
Conversely, we see elderly persons who are residing in assisted living facilities, retirement villages, and resort communities, and we think … “They are living the care-free life … enjoying their ‘Golden Years’.”
What we often don’t see are the heartaches and difficulties that young people face … from relationship issues to challenges with studies and extracurricular activities to peer pressure. We don’t pay attention to the worries and concerns of new college grads over getting a job, finding a place to live, and making a place for themselves in the world at large. We fail to see the stress and strain of newly married couples and parents who are trying to figure out their new roles and keep all the balls in the air.
As for the elderly, there are probably two major concerns: health (both physical and mental), and finances (will my pension and retirement funds cover all of my expenses?). Throw in worries and concerns about children and family, boredom, and the future … not to mention loneliness … and you have a recipe for great need.
Yes, everyone has worries, concerns and challenges that are unique to his/her particular age group. But often we go through life with blinders on and are so focused on our own lives that we fail to realize the needs of those around us, especially the young and the old … those on either end of the “employment spectrum,” so to speak.
My challenge today is for each of us to find a way to encourage and nurture at least two people – one “youngster” and one “senior.” This could be mailing a card, giving a hug, making a phone call, dropping off a hot loaf of bread or a plate of cookies, offering a ride home from school or to the grocery store, or sending an e-mail message to ask, “How ya doin’?” Ask God to direct you and show you how/where to reach out … who to place on your “radar screen.” Focus more on others than you do on yourself and see how God works to bring comfort and happiness to everyone … including you!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 12, 2010
June 12 ~ Isaiah 43:1
Descendants of Jacob, I, the LORD, created you and formed your nation. Israel, don't be afraid. I have rescued you. I have called you by name; now you belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we first got our cats, they were just weeks old… tiny babies, really. We brought them home and looked at “the girls” and decided on names. We thought about Lucy and Ethel – and our calico even had patches of reddish fur. But in the end, she was Mabel, and the “tuxedo” cat became our Lucy. We would call them by their names, and they would totally ignore us. They did not recognize these sounds. Their names were as unfamiliar to them as were their new owners. But we kept working at it. We would stroke their fur and call their name. We would play with them, toss something to them, and call their name again.
Today, our “babies” are eleven years old. And they know their names. We call them by name, and they answer. There is no confusion. We rescued them from the pound and gave them a name, and they are precious to us. They belong to us… they captured our hearts, and we would do just about anything for them.
It’s the same way with Jesus… but times a zillion or more. He rescued us. He gave us a name… and we belong to Him. We are precious to Him… and each of us is uniquely special in His eyes. We may share the same name as dozens of other people (and if you think your name is unique, search for it on Google or Facebook!), but when Jesus thinks of your name, He thinks only of YOU! And He’s got your back – always – forever! Now how can we be afraid with a love and protection like Jesus?! He created us and formed us – He calls us by name, and we belong to Him. He died for us, so that we never have to fear Satan and his evil again. If the One who did all of this for us has rescued us, what could we possibly have to fear?
It’s time for us to hear Him call us… and to answer. It is time to trust and believe in His power. I know it’s hard… Satan will NOT give up and go away. But we have to keep working on kicking him to the curb and trusting God to handle things for us. I’m working on this in my own life…how are you doing?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Descendants of Jacob, I, the LORD, created you and formed your nation. Israel, don't be afraid. I have rescued you. I have called you by name; now you belong to me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we first got our cats, they were just weeks old… tiny babies, really. We brought them home and looked at “the girls” and decided on names. We thought about Lucy and Ethel – and our calico even had patches of reddish fur. But in the end, she was Mabel, and the “tuxedo” cat became our Lucy. We would call them by their names, and they would totally ignore us. They did not recognize these sounds. Their names were as unfamiliar to them as were their new owners. But we kept working at it. We would stroke their fur and call their name. We would play with them, toss something to them, and call their name again.
Today, our “babies” are eleven years old. And they know their names. We call them by name, and they answer. There is no confusion. We rescued them from the pound and gave them a name, and they are precious to us. They belong to us… they captured our hearts, and we would do just about anything for them.
It’s the same way with Jesus… but times a zillion or more. He rescued us. He gave us a name… and we belong to Him. We are precious to Him… and each of us is uniquely special in His eyes. We may share the same name as dozens of other people (and if you think your name is unique, search for it on Google or Facebook!), but when Jesus thinks of your name, He thinks only of YOU! And He’s got your back – always – forever! Now how can we be afraid with a love and protection like Jesus?! He created us and formed us – He calls us by name, and we belong to Him. He died for us, so that we never have to fear Satan and his evil again. If the One who did all of this for us has rescued us, what could we possibly have to fear?
It’s time for us to hear Him call us… and to answer. It is time to trust and believe in His power. I know it’s hard… Satan will NOT give up and go away. But we have to keep working on kicking him to the curb and trusting God to handle things for us. I’m working on this in my own life…how are you doing?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 9, 2010
May 9 ~ Psalm 91:14-16
The Lord says, "If you love me and truly know who I am, I will rescue you and keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you. You will live a long life and see my saving power."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When our nephew John was about four, he came to visit us for a few days. One night while bathing him, I turned on the water in the tub, and some hot water came out first, and he yelped! “I’m going to tell my momma!” he cried. I felt horrible. It was hot water… but he was not hurt – just startled, mostly. But immediately – and instinctively – he was ready to call on “the Big Guns” to get me! At four years of age, he figured his mom would make me pay for my transgression against him!
As children, we probably all called out to our mommas – a lot! I know that there are children who cannot call on their parents for help or protection. I saw several in my classroom. I know there are people in this world who feel like they have no protector… no one to stick up for them and say, “I will keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call me. I’ll answer.” But GOD is saying exactly this. No matter who else is or isn’t there – GOD is ready, willing and able to meet our needs.
I pray that you know God in this way. I pray that you feel safe and protected in His presence… and that you are just as quick to call on Him for help as our nephew John was to invoke the protection of his mother. And speaking of mothers, let’s thank God today for His divine inspiration in creating the family as He did. He didn’t have to give us mothers and fathers – He could have just spoken us into existence. But God gave us mothers to nurture us in a unique way. I pray that you have been blessed, as I have, to experience the care and nurturing of a wonderful mother, mother-in-law, grandmothers, and other Godly women who have “mothered” me along the way. To God be the glory for creating our mothers… and for His constant nurture and care for those of us who call on Him.
©2010 Debbie Robus
The Lord says, "If you love me and truly know who I am, I will rescue you and keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you. You will live a long life and see my saving power."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When our nephew John was about four, he came to visit us for a few days. One night while bathing him, I turned on the water in the tub, and some hot water came out first, and he yelped! “I’m going to tell my momma!” he cried. I felt horrible. It was hot water… but he was not hurt – just startled, mostly. But immediately – and instinctively – he was ready to call on “the Big Guns” to get me! At four years of age, he figured his mom would make me pay for my transgression against him!
As children, we probably all called out to our mommas – a lot! I know that there are children who cannot call on their parents for help or protection. I saw several in my classroom. I know there are people in this world who feel like they have no protector… no one to stick up for them and say, “I will keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call me. I’ll answer.” But GOD is saying exactly this. No matter who else is or isn’t there – GOD is ready, willing and able to meet our needs.
I pray that you know God in this way. I pray that you feel safe and protected in His presence… and that you are just as quick to call on Him for help as our nephew John was to invoke the protection of his mother. And speaking of mothers, let’s thank God today for His divine inspiration in creating the family as He did. He didn’t have to give us mothers and fathers – He could have just spoken us into existence. But God gave us mothers to nurture us in a unique way. I pray that you have been blessed, as I have, to experience the care and nurturing of a wonderful mother, mother-in-law, grandmothers, and other Godly women who have “mothered” me along the way. To God be the glory for creating our mothers… and for His constant nurture and care for those of us who call on Him.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 1, 2010
May 1 ~ Psalm 139:13-14
You are the one who put me together inside my mother's body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few weeks, we have celebrated several birthdays in our family – my mother’s, my husband’s - and soon we will celebrate the 6th birthday of our great-nephew Chase and the first birthday of our great-nephew Timothy. Birthdays are a wonderful time to stop and truly think about the honoree – and to truly celebrate their life and birth. Often we wonder aloud… “Where has the time gone? Has it really been a year already? Can Chase really be six?” And for those of us who are several decades along, we find ourselves musing that “Geez, I’m getting old,” or “I may be this age, but I feel twenty years younger – or older!”
As wonderful as birthdays can be… the concept that God planned us before we were ever conceived is even more astounding – and quite literally, marvelous! God knew every hair on our head before we were even an embryo! Let that really soak in for a minute. God knew about you before you were formed… and He planned every detail of your life… every eyelash and freckle… how tall you would grow and what color your eyes would be. He cares so much about us that He meticulously crafted every wrinkle and fold on our body, and He wove family characteristics and resemblances into us with perfection.
Pretty much every one of us has stood before the mirror on any given day and wondered, “Why do I have such and such?” We’ve griped and complained about our freckles or the way our nose curves. We’ve lamented that “I’m short and squatty like the rest of my family,” or we’ve joked that a sibling with brown hair and eyes in a family of blonds “must be adopted!” In actuality, we should be looking at our image and saying, “WOW, God! Thank you! Thank you for the subtle, intimate thread of familiarity that runs through all the members of my family. Thank you for giving me talents, skills and abilities. Thank you for my fingers and toes, arms and legs. Thank you for such amazing, incredible plans that included ME!”
We serve an awesome, amazing God… a God who cares enough to carefully plan each creature. We stand in awe of a God who formed us in His mind before our parents even met… and then literally brought His concept to life! If that doesn’t make us feel special, nothing will. If that doesn’t make us appreciate God, it’s never gonna happen. Thank God today for the birthdays and celebrations of people in your life – and for giving YOU such an incredible, unique, and blessed life. Thank Him for choosing to love each of us so abundantly – and so well – and celebrate the wonderful way you were created.
©2010 Debbie Robus
You are the one who put me together inside my mother's body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few weeks, we have celebrated several birthdays in our family – my mother’s, my husband’s - and soon we will celebrate the 6th birthday of our great-nephew Chase and the first birthday of our great-nephew Timothy. Birthdays are a wonderful time to stop and truly think about the honoree – and to truly celebrate their life and birth. Often we wonder aloud… “Where has the time gone? Has it really been a year already? Can Chase really be six?” And for those of us who are several decades along, we find ourselves musing that “Geez, I’m getting old,” or “I may be this age, but I feel twenty years younger – or older!”
As wonderful as birthdays can be… the concept that God planned us before we were ever conceived is even more astounding – and quite literally, marvelous! God knew every hair on our head before we were even an embryo! Let that really soak in for a minute. God knew about you before you were formed… and He planned every detail of your life… every eyelash and freckle… how tall you would grow and what color your eyes would be. He cares so much about us that He meticulously crafted every wrinkle and fold on our body, and He wove family characteristics and resemblances into us with perfection.
Pretty much every one of us has stood before the mirror on any given day and wondered, “Why do I have such and such?” We’ve griped and complained about our freckles or the way our nose curves. We’ve lamented that “I’m short and squatty like the rest of my family,” or we’ve joked that a sibling with brown hair and eyes in a family of blonds “must be adopted!” In actuality, we should be looking at our image and saying, “WOW, God! Thank you! Thank you for the subtle, intimate thread of familiarity that runs through all the members of my family. Thank you for giving me talents, skills and abilities. Thank you for my fingers and toes, arms and legs. Thank you for such amazing, incredible plans that included ME!”
We serve an awesome, amazing God… a God who cares enough to carefully plan each creature. We stand in awe of a God who formed us in His mind before our parents even met… and then literally brought His concept to life! If that doesn’t make us feel special, nothing will. If that doesn’t make us appreciate God, it’s never gonna happen. Thank God today for the birthdays and celebrations of people in your life – and for giving YOU such an incredible, unique, and blessed life. Thank Him for choosing to love each of us so abundantly – and so well – and celebrate the wonderful way you were created.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 18, 2010
April 18 ~ John 3:16
God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching our great-nephew, Timmy, sleep one day. He looks like such an angel… smooth soft skin, delicate mouth and long, thick eyelashes. He curls up in a tight little ball sometimes, and often he makes little humming noises… and sometimes he even laughs in his sleep. Like many of you with your own children, he is an incredible creature in my book… and I am wildly in love with him! I would walk across hot coals or throw myself in front of a moving car to save him.
Even though I love Timmy incredibly – and unconditionally – it still does not compare to God’s love for us. Why is that? Didn’t I say I would throw myself in front of a moving car for him? Yes, I said that. I would do everything humanly possible for my little guy. But that’s just it… we are human. We do not have supernatural power. We might be able to save the mortal life of someone else, but there is nothing I can do to guarantee Timmy’s eternal life. I cannot save him from sin. I cannot make any sacrifices or give him any gifts that will matter for his soul and his Spiritual well-being.
Only GOD can do this. Only GOD can love like this. Only GOD can make such a sacrifice and give such a gift. And He did just that! He loved us more than anyone else ever can! How are we honoring him? We cannot repay Him. We cannot earn this love. But we can glorify Him, praise Him, live like the children He has called us to be… and we can share His love with others. It doesn’t seem like enough, but if we do our best, He will be pleased. How well are you glorifying your Heavenly Father these days? Are you living a rich, full, glorious life, basking in the unconditional love of God Almighty? Are you showing gratitude and honor for this privilege? God would move heaven and earth for us – and He has! What have we done for Him lately?
©2010 Debbie Robus
God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching our great-nephew, Timmy, sleep one day. He looks like such an angel… smooth soft skin, delicate mouth and long, thick eyelashes. He curls up in a tight little ball sometimes, and often he makes little humming noises… and sometimes he even laughs in his sleep. Like many of you with your own children, he is an incredible creature in my book… and I am wildly in love with him! I would walk across hot coals or throw myself in front of a moving car to save him.
Even though I love Timmy incredibly – and unconditionally – it still does not compare to God’s love for us. Why is that? Didn’t I say I would throw myself in front of a moving car for him? Yes, I said that. I would do everything humanly possible for my little guy. But that’s just it… we are human. We do not have supernatural power. We might be able to save the mortal life of someone else, but there is nothing I can do to guarantee Timmy’s eternal life. I cannot save him from sin. I cannot make any sacrifices or give him any gifts that will matter for his soul and his Spiritual well-being.
Only GOD can do this. Only GOD can love like this. Only GOD can make such a sacrifice and give such a gift. And He did just that! He loved us more than anyone else ever can! How are we honoring him? We cannot repay Him. We cannot earn this love. But we can glorify Him, praise Him, live like the children He has called us to be… and we can share His love with others. It doesn’t seem like enough, but if we do our best, He will be pleased. How well are you glorifying your Heavenly Father these days? Are you living a rich, full, glorious life, basking in the unconditional love of God Almighty? Are you showing gratitude and honor for this privilege? God would move heaven and earth for us – and He has! What have we done for Him lately?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 17, 2010
February 17 ~ Matthew 19:13
Some people brought their children to Jesus, so that he could place his hands on them and pray for them. His disciples told the people to stop bothering him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anyone who knows me very well knows I love children. I am a mother to none and an “aunt” to dozens. If you don’t see the importance of loving and nurturing children, read this passage again.
Just lately, our great-nephew, Timmy, has learned to pull up on things, especially his crib rail. Each time he does this, he grins, growls and squeals – so proud of himself for this accomplishment. Frankly, I didn’t see it the same way at first… now the crib is not longer the safe haven I used when I needed to confine him. Soon enough he will learn to crawl over the rail and hit (hopefully not literally) the floor! My husband and I looked at each other recently and agreed… “Things just got a whole lot more complicated and challenging with this baby now that he is mobile!”
After watching Timmy for a while and seeing his delight, excitement and enthusiasm for learning these new things – and practicing them – I have a different attitude. He is growing and expressing his independence… and he takes great delight in each accomplishment. He has no clue that they pose more challenges for the adults who chase him – or that they involve risks and possible bumps and bruises along the way. He is absorbing each new thing like a sponge. The flip side of this is that he also absorbs our “vibes.” If you think a small child doesn’t sense your feelings, tension, frustration, and anger, you are dead wrong. And over time, these emotions can change a child’s spirit – if not squelch it completely. I have seen five-year-olds enter kindergarten with a spirit that has already been crushed by negative influences in their lives, and this is a sad, sad thing.
Spiritually, we all start out as children. We are eager, enthusiastic, and excited, and soaking up God’s word and His promises like a sponge. Sadly, it doesn’t take very long for Satan to move in and use those around us to try to squelch this. He may even be using you and me to do this to others. If we have a negative attitude… if we are less than enthusiastic about our faith or always discouraged about how God doesn’t seem to be working in our lives, Christian “children” will notice… and it will matter.
Our challenge is not to tamp down the excitement and enthusiasm of new Christians – or children. Our responsibility is to open our arms, just as Jesus did and pray for them… love, encourage and nurture them… and build them up in their new discoveries. We were all children once – physically and Spiritually. Think about how you were nurtured and who encouraged you. Thank God for loving “aunts” and “uncles” in your life and mentors who helped you to grow in your faith… and ask Him to show you how to do this for others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
Some people brought their children to Jesus, so that he could place his hands on them and pray for them. His disciples told the people to stop bothering him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anyone who knows me very well knows I love children. I am a mother to none and an “aunt” to dozens. If you don’t see the importance of loving and nurturing children, read this passage again.
Just lately, our great-nephew, Timmy, has learned to pull up on things, especially his crib rail. Each time he does this, he grins, growls and squeals – so proud of himself for this accomplishment. Frankly, I didn’t see it the same way at first… now the crib is not longer the safe haven I used when I needed to confine him. Soon enough he will learn to crawl over the rail and hit (hopefully not literally) the floor! My husband and I looked at each other recently and agreed… “Things just got a whole lot more complicated and challenging with this baby now that he is mobile!”
After watching Timmy for a while and seeing his delight, excitement and enthusiasm for learning these new things – and practicing them – I have a different attitude. He is growing and expressing his independence… and he takes great delight in each accomplishment. He has no clue that they pose more challenges for the adults who chase him – or that they involve risks and possible bumps and bruises along the way. He is absorbing each new thing like a sponge. The flip side of this is that he also absorbs our “vibes.” If you think a small child doesn’t sense your feelings, tension, frustration, and anger, you are dead wrong. And over time, these emotions can change a child’s spirit – if not squelch it completely. I have seen five-year-olds enter kindergarten with a spirit that has already been crushed by negative influences in their lives, and this is a sad, sad thing.
Spiritually, we all start out as children. We are eager, enthusiastic, and excited, and soaking up God’s word and His promises like a sponge. Sadly, it doesn’t take very long for Satan to move in and use those around us to try to squelch this. He may even be using you and me to do this to others. If we have a negative attitude… if we are less than enthusiastic about our faith or always discouraged about how God doesn’t seem to be working in our lives, Christian “children” will notice… and it will matter.
Our challenge is not to tamp down the excitement and enthusiasm of new Christians – or children. Our responsibility is to open our arms, just as Jesus did and pray for them… love, encourage and nurture them… and build them up in their new discoveries. We were all children once – physically and Spiritually. Think about how you were nurtured and who encouraged you. Thank God for loving “aunts” and “uncles” in your life and mentors who helped you to grow in your faith… and ask Him to show you how to do this for others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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