Proverbs 2:1-7
My child, you must follow and treasure my teachings and my instructions. Keep in tune with wisdom and think what it means to have common sense. Beg as loud as you can for good common sense. Search for wisdom as you would search for silver or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to respect and to know the LORD God. All wisdom comes from the LORD, and so do common sense and understanding. God gives helpful advice to everyone who obeys him and protects all of those who live as they should.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, a friend of mine (who shall remain nameless) ran out of coffee filters one morning, so she tried using a paper plate as a substitute. I can only imagine the mess that ensued… and she readily admitted that this did not work. In north-central Arkansas, the aunt of little 4-year-old Caleb Linn told him to follow a dirt road alongside a wooded riverbank and catch up with cousins who had returned to camp, while she continued working to clear debris from a low-water bridge on the river. Little Caleb apparently got lost or lost his footing, and rescue workers searched for approximately four days before locating his lifeless body a half a mile down river.
I truly do not mean to judge the people in these examples. But in each case, there appears to be a clear lack of common sense. While the mess that resulted from the coffee pot fiasco was no fun to remedy, the ramifications of allowing this little child to wander down a dirt road unattended will be life-long for all who survive him.
My point for today is reinforced in this scripture passage… “Beg as loud as you can for good common sense.” We all have lapses in judgment… and I have plenty of what I call “blond moments.” As I have illustrated, some can be relatively harmless… while others change the course of our life forever. Underestimating the size of a container and pouring in too much liquid is one thing. Driving through flood waters that rush across a roadway can be something else entirely. Making a sudden turn that upends your purse or something else in the passenger seat of your car can cause a mess (think a soupy dish you are taking to a church supper or that jug of milk that overturns on the way home from the store). Reaching down to retrieve something that has spilled can cause a crash… and possible injury to you, your vehicle, and others in your path.
We’ve all seen the funny home videos of ridiculous things people have attempted… and lived to tell. But we’ve also heard news reports of people who attempted something they shouldn’t (think climbing onto a steep roof to hang Christmas lights) and suffered life-changing injuries – or even death. Pulling a harmless prank on a friend may not turn out as you hoped… and even result in some hurt feelings temporarily. Accepting a dare from your buddies to do something stupid could result in all kinds of trouble, personal injury, and damage to your reputation that follows you for decades.
The message for all of us is to seek God’s wisdom at all times… in all things. We need to beg Him every single day for good common sense. We should ask God to protect us… from the devil – and ourselves! Ask Him to speak to you when He sees you sliding off course… even in the small things. Then listen to that “still small voice” in your head that says, “Are you really sure you want to do this?” Take a moment to stop and ask God, “Is this a good idea? What are the potential pitfalls?”
I don’t believe that God causes the disasters (large and small) that result when we fail to exercise common sense. But I do think He uses them to teach us… to remind us to rely on Him more - and our own devices less. Often, we act – or react – in a split second… with little or no time to really think through what we are doing. This is where we truly need to depend on common sense - and God’s wisdom - to help us make the right choices. Today, let’s ask God to give us huge, healthy doses of His wisdom – AND common sense - and to help us respect these treasures… and to always pay close attention when He delivers them.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label choosing wisely. Show all posts
Showing posts with label choosing wisely. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for March 14, 2012
Proverbs 3:33-35
God's curse blights the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. He gives proud skeptics a cold shoulder, but if you're down on your luck, he's right there to help. Wise living gets rewarded with honor; stupid living gets the booby prize.
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 husband heard the Chairman of the NCAA interviewed, about how many college football and basketball players have aspirations to become professional athletes. Obviously many Division I athletes have hopes of “going pro.” However, to emphasize his point, the chairman stated that 50% of all of Division II football and basketball players (including those at schools like Harding, Arkansas Tech, and others where student athletes may not even be on full scholarships) hope to “go pro.” In reality, only 1% actually make it to “the big leagues.” Clearly the expectations exceed realizations!
I am not criticizing these young people for having hopes and dreams. In fact, I commend their determination. At the same time, I wonder who has convinced them they may have what it takes to become a professional athlete. How many have unrealistic opinions of themselves and their abilities… and expect to be rewarded for their talents in this manner? As Graduation Day approaches for many high school and college students, I wonder who is looking toward a future in a career that God did not sanction. Who is anticipating being a “star” athlete in college or the pro ranks… or pursuing a degree that meets his/her choices rather than God’s?
Many of us spend a lot of time creating an image of wealth, intelligence, and general “success”. We care far too much about how others see us, and far too little about how we are truly seen. How many times have you heard it said that someone appeared to be beautiful and truly amazing, until this person opened his/her mouth? How many celebrities do you know who appear to have it all… wealth, fame, good looks… a great life… but in reality their life is falling apart? I could give you a laundry list of names, but you probably have your own already.
Regardless of our age or stage in life, we all need to focus on living humbly instead of playing the game. We need to seek God’s will for our lives. If God directs us to do the things that put us in line for wealth, fame… or even a chance to play a professional sport… then He will show us how to do the work to accomplish this. He will use us in this capacity to serve Him and share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others in these arenas. If God calls us to operate in the background, He will equip us with the necessary guidance and gifts for this, as well.
God needs all kinds of people in His army… He can use celebrities and “regular Joes” alike. But God is not amused by those who try to be something or someone other than who He has called them to become. If God wants a college athlete to become a high school coach and help mold and shape the lives of countless teenagers, He will bless these efforts far more than the “riches” this athlete could ever accrue on the pro circuit. One has to recognize that the coach and the “pro” athlete are both professionals… just with a different vehicle for serving potential service. There is no shame in changing your major, your career, or even your hobby, if you feel that God is moving you in a different direction.
Who are you trying to be? What are you working toward… and does it line up with what God wants for your life? Have you truly shown up for life… the life that God has planned for you? Or are you determined to be something or someone else? Ask God to show you how to show up for the life that He has chosen. Humbly seek His will for your life… then get busy fulfilling His desires. You will be amazed at how He shows up for you as a result!
©2012 Debbie Robus
God's curse blights the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. He gives proud skeptics a cold shoulder, but if you're down on your luck, he's right there to help. Wise living gets rewarded with honor; stupid living gets the booby prize.
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 husband heard the Chairman of the NCAA interviewed, about how many college football and basketball players have aspirations to become professional athletes. Obviously many Division I athletes have hopes of “going pro.” However, to emphasize his point, the chairman stated that 50% of all of Division II football and basketball players (including those at schools like Harding, Arkansas Tech, and others where student athletes may not even be on full scholarships) hope to “go pro.” In reality, only 1% actually make it to “the big leagues.” Clearly the expectations exceed realizations!
I am not criticizing these young people for having hopes and dreams. In fact, I commend their determination. At the same time, I wonder who has convinced them they may have what it takes to become a professional athlete. How many have unrealistic opinions of themselves and their abilities… and expect to be rewarded for their talents in this manner? As Graduation Day approaches for many high school and college students, I wonder who is looking toward a future in a career that God did not sanction. Who is anticipating being a “star” athlete in college or the pro ranks… or pursuing a degree that meets his/her choices rather than God’s?
Many of us spend a lot of time creating an image of wealth, intelligence, and general “success”. We care far too much about how others see us, and far too little about how we are truly seen. How many times have you heard it said that someone appeared to be beautiful and truly amazing, until this person opened his/her mouth? How many celebrities do you know who appear to have it all… wealth, fame, good looks… a great life… but in reality their life is falling apart? I could give you a laundry list of names, but you probably have your own already.
Regardless of our age or stage in life, we all need to focus on living humbly instead of playing the game. We need to seek God’s will for our lives. If God directs us to do the things that put us in line for wealth, fame… or even a chance to play a professional sport… then He will show us how to do the work to accomplish this. He will use us in this capacity to serve Him and share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others in these arenas. If God calls us to operate in the background, He will equip us with the necessary guidance and gifts for this, as well.
God needs all kinds of people in His army… He can use celebrities and “regular Joes” alike. But God is not amused by those who try to be something or someone other than who He has called them to become. If God wants a college athlete to become a high school coach and help mold and shape the lives of countless teenagers, He will bless these efforts far more than the “riches” this athlete could ever accrue on the pro circuit. One has to recognize that the coach and the “pro” athlete are both professionals… just with a different vehicle for serving potential service. There is no shame in changing your major, your career, or even your hobby, if you feel that God is moving you in a different direction.
Who are you trying to be? What are you working toward… and does it line up with what God wants for your life? Have you truly shown up for life… the life that God has planned for you? Or are you determined to be something or someone else? Ask God to show you how to show up for the life that He has chosen. Humbly seek His will for your life… then get busy fulfilling His desires. You will be amazed at how He shows up for you as a result!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 8, 2011
John 16:29-33
"This is what I want you to do: Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!
"I've used figures of speech in telling you these things. Soon I'll drop the figures and tell you about the Father in plain language. Then you can make your requests directly to him in relation to this life I've revealed to you. I won't continue making requests of the Father on your behalf. I won't need to. Because you've gone out on a limb, committed yourselves to love and trust in me, believing I came directly from the Father, the Father loves you directly. First, I left the Father and arrived in the world; now I leave the world and travel to the Father."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you ever played that game called “Gossip?” You know the one. Someone whispers to one person, who in turn tells the next guy, and the “secret” is passed to each person until all have heard it. At the end of the line, the last person repeats what was told to him/her. Most of the time, that “secret” is vastly different from the one told by Person Number One!
Things get distorted when more than one person is involved in the telling. And each person has his/her perspective on what is said or how things happened. So it always is best to talk directly to others about matters where you have any questions. If you want to know what another person thinks or feels about a particular situation, ask him/her… not a friend or family member. If you have a problem with someone, go to that person directly and say, “Here’s what I experienced… is this how you see it?”
Most importantly, talk to God and hear what HE has to tell you. Don’t listen to others who say, “This is okay,” or “God wants you to do/believe such and such.” Study the Bible, pray and communicate with God, and LISTEN… hear what He has to say directly to YOU. Don’t play the “Gossip” game with your relationship with God. Commit yourself to loving and trusting Jesus. When He speaks to you, listen and obey what He tells you. Make sure that all of your decisions and choices line up with His word… not the second-hand messages of someone else.
We are so blessed and privileged to be able to speak directly to GOD! We never have to rely on what others tell us. We never have to try to figure out what was meant by a riddle or generalizations. We get straight talk from God, and it is up to us to hear what He has to say and act on that… and nothing else.
I pray that today you will have a serious conversation with God. Ask Him to open your heart to His messages… and to give you clear discernment when He speaks. Stop being influenced by the small talk of others – about your faith, other people, and your daily living. Take full advantage of the amazing gift that God has bestowed upon you… a direct line to Him at all times… and operate in confidence that you are doing exactly what He tells you in every circumstance.
©2011 Debbie Robus
"This is what I want you to do: Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!
"I've used figures of speech in telling you these things. Soon I'll drop the figures and tell you about the Father in plain language. Then you can make your requests directly to him in relation to this life I've revealed to you. I won't continue making requests of the Father on your behalf. I won't need to. Because you've gone out on a limb, committed yourselves to love and trust in me, believing I came directly from the Father, the Father loves you directly. First, I left the Father and arrived in the world; now I leave the world and travel to the Father."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you ever played that game called “Gossip?” You know the one. Someone whispers to one person, who in turn tells the next guy, and the “secret” is passed to each person until all have heard it. At the end of the line, the last person repeats what was told to him/her. Most of the time, that “secret” is vastly different from the one told by Person Number One!
Things get distorted when more than one person is involved in the telling. And each person has his/her perspective on what is said or how things happened. So it always is best to talk directly to others about matters where you have any questions. If you want to know what another person thinks or feels about a particular situation, ask him/her… not a friend or family member. If you have a problem with someone, go to that person directly and say, “Here’s what I experienced… is this how you see it?”
Most importantly, talk to God and hear what HE has to tell you. Don’t listen to others who say, “This is okay,” or “God wants you to do/believe such and such.” Study the Bible, pray and communicate with God, and LISTEN… hear what He has to say directly to YOU. Don’t play the “Gossip” game with your relationship with God. Commit yourself to loving and trusting Jesus. When He speaks to you, listen and obey what He tells you. Make sure that all of your decisions and choices line up with His word… not the second-hand messages of someone else.
We are so blessed and privileged to be able to speak directly to GOD! We never have to rely on what others tell us. We never have to try to figure out what was meant by a riddle or generalizations. We get straight talk from God, and it is up to us to hear what He has to say and act on that… and nothing else.
I pray that today you will have a serious conversation with God. Ask Him to open your heart to His messages… and to give you clear discernment when He speaks. Stop being influenced by the small talk of others – about your faith, other people, and your daily living. Take full advantage of the amazing gift that God has bestowed upon you… a direct line to Him at all times… and operate in confidence that you are doing exactly what He tells you in every circumstance.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 2, 2011
Proverbs 21:2-3
We may think we are doing the right thing, but the LORD always knows what is in our hearts. Doing what is right and fair pleases the LORD more than an offering.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I heard Paige, a young girl who belongs to our church, tell about a really hard decision she had to make. Last summer, she was offered the chance to go on a mission trip to Costa Rica, and she was thrilled to be invited. Paige had realized that God was calling her to serve in missions after she heard a missionary to Africa speak. So when she was offered the chance to go to Costa Rica, she knew that this was a huge opportunity. The problem was… this trip was scheduled for the same week as her cheer camp in Florida.
Paige went to her cheerleading sponsor and asked if she could possibly be excused from the camp… and she explained why. The sponsor said she was sorry, but there could be no exceptions. If she let one cheerleader miss, it wouldn’t be fair to the other team members. So Paige had to make a choice… a very hard one. She prayed hard about this, and in the end, she went to Costa Rica. She said it was one of the hardest decisions she ever made… but also one of the best. Paige discovered people in Costa Rica with real needs… and amazing hardships. She realized that her ministry in God’s name had meant something to the people she encountered – for that week, and for a long time afterward.
Sometimes doing the right thing and making the right choice is really hard. I am not sure that I could have made the choice Paige made the summer before my senior year. I’m not sure I always make the right choices even now. But I know that sometimes my heart tells me to choose one way… and God tells me to choose another. When there is something I really want to do that is different from what God wants, I usually know it.
Sometimes I want to sleep in when God wants me to get up and get going. Sometimes I want to tell someone “No” when they ask for help… when clearly God wants me to lend them a hand. Sometimes I want to spout off and say something mean or unkind to someone to make my point… and I know God wants me to bite my tongue and take the high road.
I don’t know what your heart is pulling at you to say or do that doesn’t line up with what is right in God’s eyes. But I know that He can help you to make the correct choice… and just like Paige, you will never regret it. Yes, sometimes our hard decisions seem to “cost” us something… just like Paige’s choice cost her cheer camp and more. But God will make up any “cost” you may feel you have paid in rewards and blessings. All you have to do is ask Him to help you do the right thing. This requires courage and faith in God to see you through… do you have what it takes?
©2011 Debbie Robus
We may think we are doing the right thing, but the LORD always knows what is in our hearts. Doing what is right and fair pleases the LORD more than an offering.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I heard Paige, a young girl who belongs to our church, tell about a really hard decision she had to make. Last summer, she was offered the chance to go on a mission trip to Costa Rica, and she was thrilled to be invited. Paige had realized that God was calling her to serve in missions after she heard a missionary to Africa speak. So when she was offered the chance to go to Costa Rica, she knew that this was a huge opportunity. The problem was… this trip was scheduled for the same week as her cheer camp in Florida.
Paige went to her cheerleading sponsor and asked if she could possibly be excused from the camp… and she explained why. The sponsor said she was sorry, but there could be no exceptions. If she let one cheerleader miss, it wouldn’t be fair to the other team members. So Paige had to make a choice… a very hard one. She prayed hard about this, and in the end, she went to Costa Rica. She said it was one of the hardest decisions she ever made… but also one of the best. Paige discovered people in Costa Rica with real needs… and amazing hardships. She realized that her ministry in God’s name had meant something to the people she encountered – for that week, and for a long time afterward.
Sometimes doing the right thing and making the right choice is really hard. I am not sure that I could have made the choice Paige made the summer before my senior year. I’m not sure I always make the right choices even now. But I know that sometimes my heart tells me to choose one way… and God tells me to choose another. When there is something I really want to do that is different from what God wants, I usually know it.
Sometimes I want to sleep in when God wants me to get up and get going. Sometimes I want to tell someone “No” when they ask for help… when clearly God wants me to lend them a hand. Sometimes I want to spout off and say something mean or unkind to someone to make my point… and I know God wants me to bite my tongue and take the high road.
I don’t know what your heart is pulling at you to say or do that doesn’t line up with what is right in God’s eyes. But I know that He can help you to make the correct choice… and just like Paige, you will never regret it. Yes, sometimes our hard decisions seem to “cost” us something… just like Paige’s choice cost her cheer camp and more. But God will make up any “cost” you may feel you have paid in rewards and blessings. All you have to do is ask Him to help you do the right thing. This requires courage and faith in God to see you through… do you have what it takes?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 30, 2011
Luke 23:13-25
Then Pilate called in the high priests, rulers, and the others and said, "You brought this man to me as a disturber of the peace. I examined him in front of all of you and found there was nothing to your charge. And neither did Herod, for he has sent him back here with a clean bill of health. It's clear that he's done nothing wrong, let alone anything deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go."
At that, the crowd went wild: "Kill him! Give us Barabbas!" (Barabbas had been thrown in prison for starting a riot in the city and for murder.) Pilate still wanted to let Jesus go, and so spoke out again. But they kept shouting back, "Crucify! Crucify him!"
He tried a third time. "But for what crime? I've found nothing in him deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go." But they kept at it, a shouting mob, demanding that he be crucified. And finally they shouted him down. Pilate caved in and gave them what they wanted. He released the man thrown in prison for rioting and murder, and gave them Jesus to do whatever they wanted.
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.
The other night, our cat Mabel came in the living room while we were watching TV, and she began to pace around… and even whimper. My husband asked her, “Is your food bowl empty?” I checked… there was plenty of food. We both looked at each other and laughed. We knew that she wanted a dish of milk… a treat we have only recently begun to give our cats. Normally we give them milk right before bedtime, when we feed them for the night. But it was a couple of hours earlier, and Mabel was already begging.
Finally, we caved. I poured a small saucer of milk, and she came running to the laundry room where we feed them and began to lap at the cold treat. We had given in to her demands. And while the only consequence will be that she once again thinks she can manipulate us into doing whatever she wants, in essence, we were her “Pilate.”
Quite honestly, we are all a lot like Pilate more often than we care to admit. We cave to our peers and do things we know we shouldn’t. We give in to our own frailties and desires and fall off our diet, buy that new pair of shoes or the latest electronic gadget or computer game we can’t really afford, and cheat – just this once – on a test, our taxes, or our significant other. And if you read Luke 22, you see that Jesus’ disciples were no better. Peter denied Jesus three times after His arrest – before the rooster could even signal the dawn of a new day. We are weak souls indeed!
The Good News is that we don’t have to succumb to our weaknesses. We have Inner Strength that we cannot even comprehend… in the form of the Holy Spirit. We can call on the Holy Spirit any hour of the night or day to shore up our resolve… to give us courage to stand up to the temptation of that extra cookie, a persuasive friend, or the lure of something we know we should avoid. Pilate knew that to choose Barabbas was right… but it would bring him ridicule and/or discomfort from the people, and he did not have the necessary courage and faith to do this.
When we make the more difficult choice of doing the right thing… we can depend on God to bless the outcome of our faithfulness. When your boss says, “Lie for me, or lose your job,” the temptation may be to do what it takes to stay employed. But God will help you find another – better – place to work, if you do the right thing and your boss fires you, as threatened. When a friend or loved one says, “You think you’re too good for me. I don’t want to hang around you anymore” because you won’t do something illicit or illegal, walk away, knowing God will see you through whatever the outcome. When you think you can’t possibly exercise or do some sort of workout to get in better physical shape, God can help you take the baby steps that lead to bigger steps… and give you the strength and courage to persevere.
It all starts with one thing – a simple prayer… “Lord help me.” He can… and He will! We may have been modern-day “Pilates” in the past, but we don’t have to continue with this kind of behavior. It’s time to exercise our faith muscle… to call on the Holy Spirit to guide and protect us… and to trust God to keep His promises. How deep is your faith? How strong is your resolve? Who is guarding your heart and guiding your choices these days?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Then Pilate called in the high priests, rulers, and the others and said, "You brought this man to me as a disturber of the peace. I examined him in front of all of you and found there was nothing to your charge. And neither did Herod, for he has sent him back here with a clean bill of health. It's clear that he's done nothing wrong, let alone anything deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go."
At that, the crowd went wild: "Kill him! Give us Barabbas!" (Barabbas had been thrown in prison for starting a riot in the city and for murder.) Pilate still wanted to let Jesus go, and so spoke out again. But they kept shouting back, "Crucify! Crucify him!"
He tried a third time. "But for what crime? I've found nothing in him deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go." But they kept at it, a shouting mob, demanding that he be crucified. And finally they shouted him down. Pilate caved in and gave them what they wanted. He released the man thrown in prison for rioting and murder, and gave them Jesus to do whatever they wanted.
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.
The other night, our cat Mabel came in the living room while we were watching TV, and she began to pace around… and even whimper. My husband asked her, “Is your food bowl empty?” I checked… there was plenty of food. We both looked at each other and laughed. We knew that she wanted a dish of milk… a treat we have only recently begun to give our cats. Normally we give them milk right before bedtime, when we feed them for the night. But it was a couple of hours earlier, and Mabel was already begging.
Finally, we caved. I poured a small saucer of milk, and she came running to the laundry room where we feed them and began to lap at the cold treat. We had given in to her demands. And while the only consequence will be that she once again thinks she can manipulate us into doing whatever she wants, in essence, we were her “Pilate.”
Quite honestly, we are all a lot like Pilate more often than we care to admit. We cave to our peers and do things we know we shouldn’t. We give in to our own frailties and desires and fall off our diet, buy that new pair of shoes or the latest electronic gadget or computer game we can’t really afford, and cheat – just this once – on a test, our taxes, or our significant other. And if you read Luke 22, you see that Jesus’ disciples were no better. Peter denied Jesus three times after His arrest – before the rooster could even signal the dawn of a new day. We are weak souls indeed!
The Good News is that we don’t have to succumb to our weaknesses. We have Inner Strength that we cannot even comprehend… in the form of the Holy Spirit. We can call on the Holy Spirit any hour of the night or day to shore up our resolve… to give us courage to stand up to the temptation of that extra cookie, a persuasive friend, or the lure of something we know we should avoid. Pilate knew that to choose Barabbas was right… but it would bring him ridicule and/or discomfort from the people, and he did not have the necessary courage and faith to do this.
When we make the more difficult choice of doing the right thing… we can depend on God to bless the outcome of our faithfulness. When your boss says, “Lie for me, or lose your job,” the temptation may be to do what it takes to stay employed. But God will help you find another – better – place to work, if you do the right thing and your boss fires you, as threatened. When a friend or loved one says, “You think you’re too good for me. I don’t want to hang around you anymore” because you won’t do something illicit or illegal, walk away, knowing God will see you through whatever the outcome. When you think you can’t possibly exercise or do some sort of workout to get in better physical shape, God can help you take the baby steps that lead to bigger steps… and give you the strength and courage to persevere.
It all starts with one thing – a simple prayer… “Lord help me.” He can… and He will! We may have been modern-day “Pilates” in the past, but we don’t have to continue with this kind of behavior. It’s time to exercise our faith muscle… to call on the Holy Spirit to guide and protect us… and to trust God to keep His promises. How deep is your faith? How strong is your resolve? Who is guarding your heart and guiding your choices these days?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 1, 2011
Mark 7:14-16; 20-23
Jesus called the crowd together again and said, "Pay attention and try to understand what I mean. The food that you put into your mouth doesn't make you unclean and unfit to worship God. The bad words that come out of your mouth are what make you unclean."
Then Jesus said: What comes from your heart is what makes you unclean. Out of your heart come evil thoughts, vulgar deeds, stealing, murder, unfaithfulness in marriage, greed, meanness, deceit, indecency, envy, insults, pride, and foolishness. All of these come from your heart, and they are what make you unfit to worship God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Some of you know that I have food allergies… and my primary culprit is corn. If you go to the grocery store and start reading labels, you will find that corn is in thousands of things we eat every day. It has fancy names, such as microcrystalline cellulose, propylene glycol, citric acid, and modified food starch. All of these ingredients… and dozens more… may be derived from corn.
A “natural” ingredient that is readily grown throughout the world can cause all sorts of unpleasant things to happen to people who are allergic… hives, swelling, nausea and stomach pain, headaches and stuffy head, and in some cases – death. The corn itself is not harmful to most people… but how it reacts in my body and the bodies of others with this allergy causes all sorts of potentially bad things to happen. The problem is what my body does with the corn products.
Jesus is telling us in this passage that what we say or do may seem harmless on the surface, but it’s what our heart does with this that matters. So it may seem like you are not hurting anyone else by drinking a little or popping a few pills… but when you get behind the wheel and drive – or your activities get out of hand and you start behaving irrationally or irresponsibly – there is trouble. Telling a couple of “white lies” to supposedly protect the feelings and/or reputation of someone else may not seem like a big deal. But over time, it gets easier and easier to lie and distort things… and before long, the lines between reality and your fabrications are more than a little blurry.
As I’ve mentioned before, we all “fly off the handle” once in awhile, and we may even apologize quickly and say, “I didn’t mean it!” But our words and actions, if not kept in check, can get away from us in a hurry. Soon we are known as someone who “has a short fuse” or is “radical and unreasonable”… someone others don’t want to be around for very long, and certainly not a good witness for Jesus Christ.
The point is… we have to look at the big picture. On the surface, a ritual may seem important to our faith… a behavior or comment may seem inconsequential. But when internalized in our body – when these things penetrate our heart – what we send back out into the world may not be pleasing to anyone, especially God. We need to examine every facet of our lives closely. We need to “read the labels” and make sure that we are not ingesting anything harmful. We must be certain that the things we say and do – the behaviors and choices we internalize – will enable us to model Christian behavior to others that honors God and pleases Him. The old adage… “Garbage in – garbage out”… applies totally in this situation. It’s time to kick our garbage to the curb – and leave it there. Have you taken out the trash lately?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus called the crowd together again and said, "Pay attention and try to understand what I mean. The food that you put into your mouth doesn't make you unclean and unfit to worship God. The bad words that come out of your mouth are what make you unclean."
Then Jesus said: What comes from your heart is what makes you unclean. Out of your heart come evil thoughts, vulgar deeds, stealing, murder, unfaithfulness in marriage, greed, meanness, deceit, indecency, envy, insults, pride, and foolishness. All of these come from your heart, and they are what make you unfit to worship God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Some of you know that I have food allergies… and my primary culprit is corn. If you go to the grocery store and start reading labels, you will find that corn is in thousands of things we eat every day. It has fancy names, such as microcrystalline cellulose, propylene glycol, citric acid, and modified food starch. All of these ingredients… and dozens more… may be derived from corn.
A “natural” ingredient that is readily grown throughout the world can cause all sorts of unpleasant things to happen to people who are allergic… hives, swelling, nausea and stomach pain, headaches and stuffy head, and in some cases – death. The corn itself is not harmful to most people… but how it reacts in my body and the bodies of others with this allergy causes all sorts of potentially bad things to happen. The problem is what my body does with the corn products.
Jesus is telling us in this passage that what we say or do may seem harmless on the surface, but it’s what our heart does with this that matters. So it may seem like you are not hurting anyone else by drinking a little or popping a few pills… but when you get behind the wheel and drive – or your activities get out of hand and you start behaving irrationally or irresponsibly – there is trouble. Telling a couple of “white lies” to supposedly protect the feelings and/or reputation of someone else may not seem like a big deal. But over time, it gets easier and easier to lie and distort things… and before long, the lines between reality and your fabrications are more than a little blurry.
As I’ve mentioned before, we all “fly off the handle” once in awhile, and we may even apologize quickly and say, “I didn’t mean it!” But our words and actions, if not kept in check, can get away from us in a hurry. Soon we are known as someone who “has a short fuse” or is “radical and unreasonable”… someone others don’t want to be around for very long, and certainly not a good witness for Jesus Christ.
The point is… we have to look at the big picture. On the surface, a ritual may seem important to our faith… a behavior or comment may seem inconsequential. But when internalized in our body – when these things penetrate our heart – what we send back out into the world may not be pleasing to anyone, especially God. We need to examine every facet of our lives closely. We need to “read the labels” and make sure that we are not ingesting anything harmful. We must be certain that the things we say and do – the behaviors and choices we internalize – will enable us to model Christian behavior to others that honors God and pleases Him. The old adage… “Garbage in – garbage out”… applies totally in this situation. It’s time to kick our garbage to the curb – and leave it there. Have you taken out the trash lately?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 19, 2011
Matthew 27:18-19; 24-25
Pilate knew that the leaders had brought Jesus to him because they were jealous. While Pilate was judging the case, his wife sent him a message. It said, "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man. I have had nightmares because of him."
Pilate saw that there was nothing he could do and that the people were starting to riot. So he took some water and washed his hands in front of them and said, "I won't have anything to do with killing this man. You are the ones doing it!" Everyone answered, "We and our own families will take the blame for his death!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There often comes a time when we have done all we can do in a particular situation. We see things headed toward disaster… a “train wreck” in the making… and there is no way we can stop this. It’s like telling a toddler repeatedly, “Get down, or you’re going to fall.” Much as it hurts the child… and those who are watching… sometimes the child has to fall to really learn his/her lesson.
Sometimes, as in the case of Pontius Pilate, we see a huge mistake in the making, and rather than speak up and say, “This is wrong,” we merely step aside and “wash our hands” of the situation. In Pilate’s case, things had to happen as they did for God’s plan to be accomplished. But we are often not operating within God’s plan when we do this. We just don’t want to be “the bad guy,” suffer any ridicule or fallout, or get heavily involved in what could be a complicated situation.
How do you know “when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em,” as the song says? The only sure way to know you are making the right choice is to stay in constant communication with God. Be so in tune with His word and His will that you know whether to get involved or “wash your hands” of a particular situation or person. There is a time for both… the key is confidently discerning which is which! Only God can decide… and only when you know that He is behind the choice can you be sure you’ve made the right one.
There are times to step up and speak out… and there are times to step aside and let the chips fall where they may. Will you depend on God’s wisdom in your decision? Or will you be swayed by the people, like Pilate? Life is filled with choices… Who is helping you make yours?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Pilate knew that the leaders had brought Jesus to him because they were jealous. While Pilate was judging the case, his wife sent him a message. It said, "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man. I have had nightmares because of him."
Pilate saw that there was nothing he could do and that the people were starting to riot. So he took some water and washed his hands in front of them and said, "I won't have anything to do with killing this man. You are the ones doing it!" Everyone answered, "We and our own families will take the blame for his death!"
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There often comes a time when we have done all we can do in a particular situation. We see things headed toward disaster… a “train wreck” in the making… and there is no way we can stop this. It’s like telling a toddler repeatedly, “Get down, or you’re going to fall.” Much as it hurts the child… and those who are watching… sometimes the child has to fall to really learn his/her lesson.
Sometimes, as in the case of Pontius Pilate, we see a huge mistake in the making, and rather than speak up and say, “This is wrong,” we merely step aside and “wash our hands” of the situation. In Pilate’s case, things had to happen as they did for God’s plan to be accomplished. But we are often not operating within God’s plan when we do this. We just don’t want to be “the bad guy,” suffer any ridicule or fallout, or get heavily involved in what could be a complicated situation.
How do you know “when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em,” as the song says? The only sure way to know you are making the right choice is to stay in constant communication with God. Be so in tune with His word and His will that you know whether to get involved or “wash your hands” of a particular situation or person. There is a time for both… the key is confidently discerning which is which! Only God can decide… and only when you know that He is behind the choice can you be sure you’ve made the right one.
There are times to step up and speak out… and there are times to step aside and let the chips fall where they may. Will you depend on God’s wisdom in your decision? Or will you be swayed by the people, like Pilate? Life is filled with choices… Who is helping you make yours?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 11, 2010
Proverbs 11:3
If you do the right thing, honesty will be your guide. But if you are crooked, you will be trapped by your own dishonesty.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I saw an HGTV show about a young couple who had purchased their first home, but it had some “issues.” They called in an expert, who promptly discovered that the problems were very serious. One entire wall was pulling away from the studs, the wiring was worse than sub-standard, and there was mold and leaky pipes that were causing a ceiling to cave in and risk total collapse.
The young homeowner said, “I had the house inspected before we purchased it, and the inspector said everything was okay. Maybe I should have researched inspectors a little more. Someone said this guy was a good one… but obviously, he wasn’t.” In the end, the host of the HGTV show resolved all of the construction issues… even tearing out a lot of the walls, wiring and plumbing and starting over in many instances.
I don’t know if the dishonest… and certainly disreputable… inspector was ever prosecuted for this shoddy work. But I feel certain that somewhere down the line, his dishonesty will trap him. My dad was involved in building construction, and I know that doing things right the first time might take a little longer and cost a little more… and it might even cut into the builder’s profits a bit. But taking shortcuts and operating any other way is nothing but a trap that can lead to disaster at some point.
And so it is in our daily living. Our “little white lies” may seem harmless at the time, but in the end, they pile up like the kindling to start a campfire… and when we least expect it, they ignite and blow up in our face. Choosing the wrong guide… listening to friends and acquaintances or anyone who tells us “It won’t hurt anything/anyone” or “Nobody will ever know”… sets us up for destruction.
Choose your guides wisely. Choose the ultimate Guide… and follow His advice. Do the right thing… always… according to God’s will, and your “house” will always be well constructed and in good condition.
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you do the right thing, honesty will be your guide. But if you are crooked, you will be trapped by your own dishonesty.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I saw an HGTV show about a young couple who had purchased their first home, but it had some “issues.” They called in an expert, who promptly discovered that the problems were very serious. One entire wall was pulling away from the studs, the wiring was worse than sub-standard, and there was mold and leaky pipes that were causing a ceiling to cave in and risk total collapse.
The young homeowner said, “I had the house inspected before we purchased it, and the inspector said everything was okay. Maybe I should have researched inspectors a little more. Someone said this guy was a good one… but obviously, he wasn’t.” In the end, the host of the HGTV show resolved all of the construction issues… even tearing out a lot of the walls, wiring and plumbing and starting over in many instances.
I don’t know if the dishonest… and certainly disreputable… inspector was ever prosecuted for this shoddy work. But I feel certain that somewhere down the line, his dishonesty will trap him. My dad was involved in building construction, and I know that doing things right the first time might take a little longer and cost a little more… and it might even cut into the builder’s profits a bit. But taking shortcuts and operating any other way is nothing but a trap that can lead to disaster at some point.
And so it is in our daily living. Our “little white lies” may seem harmless at the time, but in the end, they pile up like the kindling to start a campfire… and when we least expect it, they ignite and blow up in our face. Choosing the wrong guide… listening to friends and acquaintances or anyone who tells us “It won’t hurt anything/anyone” or “Nobody will ever know”… sets us up for destruction.
Choose your guides wisely. Choose the ultimate Guide… and follow His advice. Do the right thing… always… according to God’s will, and your “house” will always be well constructed and in good condition.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 9, 2010
Proverbs 12:22
The LORD hates every liar, but he is the friend of all who can be trusted.
Proverbs 19:22
What matters most is loyalty. It's better to be poor than to be a liar.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever had to make a hard decision about being truthful, you know how gut-wrenching it can be. In your heart, you may know that covering for your boss/coach/best friend/family member would make things more pleasant. But at the same time, you know that this is not what God would have you do. And believe me, God understands that you find yourself in a pickle!
I can tell you from personal experience that choosing the truth will be the best decision. I know of a teacher who was asked to lie and say that he was certified to teach a certain course so that the school would not get into trouble with the state evaluators. He was told that to be honest would mean he would be fired. Now, I seriously doubt the principal could have really accomplished this without some more lies to trump up charges on this teacher for a “just cause” dismissal. But the threat was strong enough to scare the teacher into feeling trapped. Ultimately, the teacher chose to be honest… and find a new job in a new school district. And you know what? The teacher reports that this new job is far better than the one he left!
I know other people who have been told to do something deceptive or dishonest or be kicked off a team… or lose their job. I’ve told the truth and been cut off from a circle of “friends” and activities. I refused to go along with something dishonest when I was in high school, so my classmates blackballed my sister and didn’t elect her to participate on the sophomore service team for our prom. Then they wanted me to ask her to come to prom anyway and play the piano to accompany someone who was singing. We refused. My classmates were astonished that I would not be party to this, but it was the right thing to do, and my sister appreciated that I stood up for her.
As an adult, I’ve experienced the good and bad ends of truth and lies… and you will, too. There have been times when I have told the truth and answered honestly, and it “cost” me. People lie about all sorts of things, such as finances and physical needs/ailments in order to “play the system.” But in the end, this will catch up with them. I know there are people who even lie in order to get the church to help them… and the church does this… but GOD knows the truth, and we will have to answer to Him someday for all of this.
One of the best assets you will ever have is your honesty and moral character. Do not compromise this reputation with even the smallest “white lie.” Be poor before you will be dishonest. Be cut off from “friends” before you will lie or cheat for them. Trust that God will bless your efforts and see you through the rough times… value His friendship and approval above all else, and always be His loyal servant.
©2010 Debbie Robus
The LORD hates every liar, but he is the friend of all who can be trusted.
Proverbs 19:22
What matters most is loyalty. It's better to be poor than to be a liar.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever had to make a hard decision about being truthful, you know how gut-wrenching it can be. In your heart, you may know that covering for your boss/coach/best friend/family member would make things more pleasant. But at the same time, you know that this is not what God would have you do. And believe me, God understands that you find yourself in a pickle!
I can tell you from personal experience that choosing the truth will be the best decision. I know of a teacher who was asked to lie and say that he was certified to teach a certain course so that the school would not get into trouble with the state evaluators. He was told that to be honest would mean he would be fired. Now, I seriously doubt the principal could have really accomplished this without some more lies to trump up charges on this teacher for a “just cause” dismissal. But the threat was strong enough to scare the teacher into feeling trapped. Ultimately, the teacher chose to be honest… and find a new job in a new school district. And you know what? The teacher reports that this new job is far better than the one he left!
I know other people who have been told to do something deceptive or dishonest or be kicked off a team… or lose their job. I’ve told the truth and been cut off from a circle of “friends” and activities. I refused to go along with something dishonest when I was in high school, so my classmates blackballed my sister and didn’t elect her to participate on the sophomore service team for our prom. Then they wanted me to ask her to come to prom anyway and play the piano to accompany someone who was singing. We refused. My classmates were astonished that I would not be party to this, but it was the right thing to do, and my sister appreciated that I stood up for her.
As an adult, I’ve experienced the good and bad ends of truth and lies… and you will, too. There have been times when I have told the truth and answered honestly, and it “cost” me. People lie about all sorts of things, such as finances and physical needs/ailments in order to “play the system.” But in the end, this will catch up with them. I know there are people who even lie in order to get the church to help them… and the church does this… but GOD knows the truth, and we will have to answer to Him someday for all of this.
One of the best assets you will ever have is your honesty and moral character. Do not compromise this reputation with even the smallest “white lie.” Be poor before you will be dishonest. Be cut off from “friends” before you will lie or cheat for them. Trust that God will bless your efforts and see you through the rough times… value His friendship and approval above all else, and always be His loyal servant.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 14, 2010
Psalm 119:130-133
Understanding your word brings light to the minds of ordinary people. I honestly want to know everything you teach. Think about me and be kind, just as you are to everyone who loves your name. Keep your promise and don't let me stumble or let sin control my life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
How many times have you had a “light bulb moment,” where you truly “got it”? Maybe you realized just how much sugar and fat you had in your diet and made a concerted effort to change. Or maybe you realized that the person you thought was a good friend was really someone who was dragging you down the wrong path – or just dragging you down, period!
Maybe you finally understood fully that your parents or another influential adult in your life were not the “monsters” you and your friends had made them out to be. Or maybe you finally saw that the teacher who was so hard on you was really the one who cared the most about you and your future. There are lots of “light bulb moments” in our lives, hopefully… and each one is a growth lesson.
But the most important “light bulb moment” is when we finally recognize God’s word and the impact of His will for our lives. When we ordinary people start to truly “get” God, the lights go on and things really start to happen! This is good news! I hope you are earnestly seeking this time in your life… this level of understanding and communication where God speaks to you through the everyday circumstances of life… and you clearly hear His voice!
Just as importantly, once the lights go on in your relationship with God, I pray you don’t get complacent. Never take God for granted. Never assume you have all the bases covered and start to get cocky. You’ll get into trouble for sure… Satan would love nothing more than to trip us up and catch us feeling a little smug in our faith. Stay grounded. Stay hungry and seeking God, and always keep the lines of communication wide open. I pray the “Lights are on” in your heart… and God is changing your life daily from “ordinary” to totally amazing as a result!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Understanding your word brings light to the minds of ordinary people. I honestly want to know everything you teach. Think about me and be kind, just as you are to everyone who loves your name. Keep your promise and don't let me stumble or let sin control my life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
How many times have you had a “light bulb moment,” where you truly “got it”? Maybe you realized just how much sugar and fat you had in your diet and made a concerted effort to change. Or maybe you realized that the person you thought was a good friend was really someone who was dragging you down the wrong path – or just dragging you down, period!
Maybe you finally understood fully that your parents or another influential adult in your life were not the “monsters” you and your friends had made them out to be. Or maybe you finally saw that the teacher who was so hard on you was really the one who cared the most about you and your future. There are lots of “light bulb moments” in our lives, hopefully… and each one is a growth lesson.
But the most important “light bulb moment” is when we finally recognize God’s word and the impact of His will for our lives. When we ordinary people start to truly “get” God, the lights go on and things really start to happen! This is good news! I hope you are earnestly seeking this time in your life… this level of understanding and communication where God speaks to you through the everyday circumstances of life… and you clearly hear His voice!
Just as importantly, once the lights go on in your relationship with God, I pray you don’t get complacent. Never take God for granted. Never assume you have all the bases covered and start to get cocky. You’ll get into trouble for sure… Satan would love nothing more than to trip us up and catch us feeling a little smug in our faith. Stay grounded. Stay hungry and seeking God, and always keep the lines of communication wide open. I pray the “Lights are on” in your heart… and God is changing your life daily from “ordinary” to totally amazing as a result!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 30, 2010
Proverbs 23:19
Listen to me, my children! Be wise and have enough sense to follow the right path.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently some former schoolmates of mine were having a discussion on Facebook about climbing Sugar Loaf. One of them said she had never made the climb, and she had heard it is quite dangerous. The rest of us remarked that yes, the climb could possibly be dangerous if you took the wrong path or tried to ascend to the top in the wrong divide in the rocks.
Honestly, the path is pretty clear. There is very little room for error… until you get to the rock outcropping. If you venture too far, you’ll find yourself at a crevice that is too steep and treacherous to climb… and there is a faint path that leads in this direction (probably from those who have so frequently gone too far!). We suggested to this friend that she take someone with her who is familiar with the mountain and has made the climb… a seasoned guide who can “show her the ropes.”
I know you see where I’m going with this. The path to living for Jesus is pretty clear, but there are times we need a Guide to help us with the more difficult areas or to keep us on the right course… and we have One! All we have to do is listen to God… to follow His lead and stay on the path He shows us, and we will “ascend to the top” safely and with relative ease. But so often, we are not sensible. We listen to the voice of the devil whispering in our ear that “our way is better, or more fun, faster, or easier.” And the next thing you know, we’ve made a huge mess of things.
We need to learn to listen to God. We need to pay attention to His guidance and stick to His pathway. He will NEVER steer us wrong. He will ALWAYS keep us safe. And as a bonus, the “views at the Top” are amazing! Who are you listening to these days? Do you have enough sense to follow the right path?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Listen to me, my children! Be wise and have enough sense to follow the right path.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently some former schoolmates of mine were having a discussion on Facebook about climbing Sugar Loaf. One of them said she had never made the climb, and she had heard it is quite dangerous. The rest of us remarked that yes, the climb could possibly be dangerous if you took the wrong path or tried to ascend to the top in the wrong divide in the rocks.
Honestly, the path is pretty clear. There is very little room for error… until you get to the rock outcropping. If you venture too far, you’ll find yourself at a crevice that is too steep and treacherous to climb… and there is a faint path that leads in this direction (probably from those who have so frequently gone too far!). We suggested to this friend that she take someone with her who is familiar with the mountain and has made the climb… a seasoned guide who can “show her the ropes.”
I know you see where I’m going with this. The path to living for Jesus is pretty clear, but there are times we need a Guide to help us with the more difficult areas or to keep us on the right course… and we have One! All we have to do is listen to God… to follow His lead and stay on the path He shows us, and we will “ascend to the top” safely and with relative ease. But so often, we are not sensible. We listen to the voice of the devil whispering in our ear that “our way is better, or more fun, faster, or easier.” And the next thing you know, we’ve made a huge mess of things.
We need to learn to listen to God. We need to pay attention to His guidance and stick to His pathway. He will NEVER steer us wrong. He will ALWAYS keep us safe. And as a bonus, the “views at the Top” are amazing! Who are you listening to these days? Do you have enough sense to follow the right path?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 17, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:33
Don't fool yourselves. Bad friends will destroy you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of the hardest things to do in life is to ditch a friend. Even on Facebook, where there is some semblance of anonymity, deleting a friend can be a daunting challenge. But there are times when we must recognize that people who appear to be our “friends” really are not.
Let’s face it ... Satan does a good job of making sinful activities, thoughts and behaviors fun and enjoyable. So when He introduces us to bad friends, it’s often hard to let them go. This is why people who go to prison for getting involved in drugs, gang activity, and other crimes return home and go right back to their old crew of friends. This is why spouses and children sometimes can’t leave abusive situations. During the times when there is no abuse – or there is an “apology” for the vile behavior – the abuser can be a lot of fun or really enjoyable.
A friend who enables you – or “drags you down” in some way can do a lot of damage that you don’t even recognize. That “friend” who encourages you to pig out on junk food every time you are together, even though you are struggling with your weight… or party excessively… or even to wallow in self-pity and negative thinking… is not really a good friend.
We must prayerfully ask God to show us the truth about our friends. First, we must surround ourselves with Godly friends – people who share our faith and trust in Him to guide our every step. That doesn’t mean that every friend we have must be a believer. We need to befriend unbelievers from time to time in order to disciple them and share the love of Christ with them. But our dearest friends and support group should be strong, faith-filled Christians who encourage us and build us up in our daily walk with Jesus.
We don’t have to be rocket scientists to recognize “bad friends” in our lives. But we do have to call on the power of God to strengthen us in our resolve to distance ourselves from those who can potentially destroy us. If you need a good model of the perfect friend, look no further than your Forever Friend – Jesus Christ. All others will fall short of His example, but His model will give you standards and marks to which your friends can aspire … and clear indications of who is missing them.
Spend some time with God and ask Him to show you which friends He wants you to cultivate – and which ones need to be kicked to the curb. Who you choose for friends and associates is serious business. Your health and well-being – mentally, physically, and spiritually – depend on choosing wisely.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't fool yourselves. Bad friends will destroy you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of the hardest things to do in life is to ditch a friend. Even on Facebook, where there is some semblance of anonymity, deleting a friend can be a daunting challenge. But there are times when we must recognize that people who appear to be our “friends” really are not.
Let’s face it ... Satan does a good job of making sinful activities, thoughts and behaviors fun and enjoyable. So when He introduces us to bad friends, it’s often hard to let them go. This is why people who go to prison for getting involved in drugs, gang activity, and other crimes return home and go right back to their old crew of friends. This is why spouses and children sometimes can’t leave abusive situations. During the times when there is no abuse – or there is an “apology” for the vile behavior – the abuser can be a lot of fun or really enjoyable.
A friend who enables you – or “drags you down” in some way can do a lot of damage that you don’t even recognize. That “friend” who encourages you to pig out on junk food every time you are together, even though you are struggling with your weight… or party excessively… or even to wallow in self-pity and negative thinking… is not really a good friend.
We must prayerfully ask God to show us the truth about our friends. First, we must surround ourselves with Godly friends – people who share our faith and trust in Him to guide our every step. That doesn’t mean that every friend we have must be a believer. We need to befriend unbelievers from time to time in order to disciple them and share the love of Christ with them. But our dearest friends and support group should be strong, faith-filled Christians who encourage us and build us up in our daily walk with Jesus.
We don’t have to be rocket scientists to recognize “bad friends” in our lives. But we do have to call on the power of God to strengthen us in our resolve to distance ourselves from those who can potentially destroy us. If you need a good model of the perfect friend, look no further than your Forever Friend – Jesus Christ. All others will fall short of His example, but His model will give you standards and marks to which your friends can aspire … and clear indications of who is missing them.
Spend some time with God and ask Him to show you which friends He wants you to cultivate – and which ones need to be kicked to the curb. Who you choose for friends and associates is serious business. Your health and well-being – mentally, physically, and spiritually – depend on choosing wisely.
©2010 Debbie Robus
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