John 12:24-25
“Listen carefully: Unless a grain of
wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more
than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces
itself many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life
just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your
love, you’ll have it forever, real and eternal."
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.
It’s summer time, which means
“swim lessons” for Timothy and Zola! I was talking to Timothy about
the lessons and how he will learn so much this summer (his second summer
for lessons). I said, “Soon, I hope you won’t even need your life
jacket any longer.” He immediately wailed, “Nooooo! I’ll DROWN!” I
assured him that this would not happen…that he would know how to swim,
and we adults would ensure his safety. He was not having any of it!
I
reminded Timothy that by the end of last summer, he was jumping into the
pool and “swimming” without his life jacket…that in order to “dive” to
the bottom and gather his toys, he would need to swim without it. He
continued to protest, and we changed the subject. I see countless
children at the local aquatic center who desperately want to jump into
the pool, but they are afraid to do so. The end result is that they
cling to the sides – or the ladders. Or, like my niece Zola, they cling
to the neck of an adult – like her Aunt Debbie’s!
This is very
much how we are as Christians…and even more so as unbelievers who are
apprehensive to surrender completely to Jesus. We see what lies before
us…forgiveness of sins…a “new life in Christ”…blessings, guidance and
wisdom from God…the promise of Eternal Life in Heaven...and much more.
And we want all of these things! But we are afraid to “take off our
life jackets,” let go of the rails or a grown-up’s neck, and jump into
the water!
In order to truly “live” as Christians, we have to
“die” to ourselves. And this is definitely a hard thing for most of
us. But it’s the only way. You cannot have both, no matter how hard
some try. True Christian living is an “either/or” situation. Either
you are “all in” with Him, or you’re like the seed that lies atop the
ground and goes nowhere…the happy child who is swimming and “diving” for
water toys…or the little kid who never even gets wet.
Before the
school year ended, the children had a “water day” at school, and Greg
and I visited Timothy’s class as they happily played on inflatable water
slides and other toys. One little boy stood in line behind Timothy,
and as children came off the slide, he moved aside and gave them his
place in the line. I said to this child, “Don’t you want to take your
turn?” He shook his head and said, “Water’s really not my ‘thing’.” I
don’t think he ever even got wet.
Let me ask you…is Jesus your
“thing?” Are you all in with Him…or standing on the sidelines? Isn’t
it time you “took the plunge” and got wet? Aren’t you ready to really
live in Jesus? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label commitment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label commitment. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for June 5, 2012
Deuteronomy 4:29-31
But even there, if you seek God, your God, you'll be able to find him if you're serious, looking for him with your whole heart and soul. When troubles come and all these awful things happen to you, in future days you will come back to God, your God, and listen obediently to what he says. God, your God, is above all a compassionate God. In the end he will not abandon you, he won't bring you to ruin, he won't forget the covenant with your ancestors which he swore to them.
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.
In the movie Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close, the lead character, Oskar (played by Thomas Horn) searches for the lock that matches a mysterious key he finds after his father (played by Tom Hanks) perishes in the Twin Towers on 9-11. One of the clues Oskar has is a newspaper clipping from his dad that contains the words “never stop looking” circled in red… or so it appears.
I won’t give away the story line, in case you haven’t seen the movie. But suffice it to say that Oskar looks with his whole heart and soul for the lock to this key. In the terrible, awful tragedy of losing his dad in such a horrific manner, Oskar draws strength from the lessons his father taught him… how to examine and investigate mysteries… how to “read” the clues and follow the signs to find what he is seeking… and how his dad is always with him every step of the way – even if he can’t physically see or touch him.
There are a lot of parallels in this movie to our life in Christ. We are often the scared, frail, flawed little boy who seeks answers to life’s questions and mysteries. We are mired in grief and confusion, heartaches and disappointments… and the uncertainty of what lies ahead. And God is with us every step of the way. He is protecting us and leading us in the right direction. He is giving us all kinds of nurture that we cannot even imagine… much less see.
We often have a little pity party and feel downright sorry for ourselves. We imagine that we are all alone in this big wide world, and that God has abandoned us. Nothing could be further from the truth. If we knew all of the things that God protects us from each and every day, we would be astounded. We tend to deal only in what we can tangibly see, hear, and touch. Yet God is always with us… often working in the background… but working all the same on our behalf.
Our job is to seek God - not just in the logical places… but also in the intangible. We must open our eyes and ears to His clues and guidance… and never stop looking for Him. We must trust – and expect – Him to always be with us… and to honor His commitment to protect us with grace, mercy, and abiding love. God has given us the “key” to unlock all that He has in store for us. Our job is to never stop looking. Are you searching for Him with your whole heart? How serious are you about finding Him?
©2012 Debbie Robus
But even there, if you seek God, your God, you'll be able to find him if you're serious, looking for him with your whole heart and soul. When troubles come and all these awful things happen to you, in future days you will come back to God, your God, and listen obediently to what he says. God, your God, is above all a compassionate God. In the end he will not abandon you, he won't bring you to ruin, he won't forget the covenant with your ancestors which he swore to them.
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.
In the movie Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close, the lead character, Oskar (played by Thomas Horn) searches for the lock that matches a mysterious key he finds after his father (played by Tom Hanks) perishes in the Twin Towers on 9-11. One of the clues Oskar has is a newspaper clipping from his dad that contains the words “never stop looking” circled in red… or so it appears.
I won’t give away the story line, in case you haven’t seen the movie. But suffice it to say that Oskar looks with his whole heart and soul for the lock to this key. In the terrible, awful tragedy of losing his dad in such a horrific manner, Oskar draws strength from the lessons his father taught him… how to examine and investigate mysteries… how to “read” the clues and follow the signs to find what he is seeking… and how his dad is always with him every step of the way – even if he can’t physically see or touch him.
There are a lot of parallels in this movie to our life in Christ. We are often the scared, frail, flawed little boy who seeks answers to life’s questions and mysteries. We are mired in grief and confusion, heartaches and disappointments… and the uncertainty of what lies ahead. And God is with us every step of the way. He is protecting us and leading us in the right direction. He is giving us all kinds of nurture that we cannot even imagine… much less see.
We often have a little pity party and feel downright sorry for ourselves. We imagine that we are all alone in this big wide world, and that God has abandoned us. Nothing could be further from the truth. If we knew all of the things that God protects us from each and every day, we would be astounded. We tend to deal only in what we can tangibly see, hear, and touch. Yet God is always with us… often working in the background… but working all the same on our behalf.
Our job is to seek God - not just in the logical places… but also in the intangible. We must open our eyes and ears to His clues and guidance… and never stop looking for Him. We must trust – and expect – Him to always be with us… and to honor His commitment to protect us with grace, mercy, and abiding love. God has given us the “key” to unlock all that He has in store for us. Our job is to never stop looking. Are you searching for Him with your whole heart? How serious are you about finding Him?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 28, 2012
Ephesians 2:1-6
It wasn't so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn't know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
There is a long-standing joke in my family about how my grandmother never hesitates to tell us when she feels we are “getting too fat”… while she is simultaneously shoving sugar cookies, peanut brittle, candy of some sort, pie, or a hot homemade roll in our direction. We all know we could shed a few pounds, but the treats look so delicious! We fool ourselves into believing that “It’s Christmas – we’re supposed to indulge” or “One little bite/cookie/slice of pie won’t hurt” or “We’ll hurt Mam-ma’s feelings if we don’t eat this!” And we let “the world” tell us how to live and lull us into a false confidence that we are healthy and fit. Some of us have gotten to a point where we feel things are so far gone and hopeless that we no longer care… we just consume everything in sight (and I am not just talking food here!).
We are bombarded with commercials for all sorts of tantalizing fast food… burgers, steaks, ice cream treats, gourmet coffee concoctions, and more. We go to the doctor, and he/she tells us that our cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure are through the roof… then we stop on the way home and pick up a burger, fries and shake. We see ads at every turn for this gadget or that item that we simply have to have to be happy. We are told that we have to look like this celebrity or perform like that entertainer or athlete or operate in business like such-and-such executive in order to truly enjoy success and happiness. And yes, it’s a wonder God doesn’t just call us home and end the madness!
While good health is important- and we need to start exercising and eating a healthy diet from childhood – our “Spiritual health” is far more critical. We need to learn to say a polite “No” to a steady diet of fast food, sweet treats, inactivity and lethargy… and an even more emphatic “No!” to the lies and sins of this world. The problem many of us have with all of this is a level of commitment.
When we asked Jesus to forgive our sins and become LORD of our life, we entered into a “blood covenant” partnership with Him. We made a commitment and agreement to carry out His assignment… to love Him with all of our heart, mind, body and soul… to love others as we love ourselves… and to share His Good News throughout the world. This is not the same as a contract with Weight Watchers® or NutriSystem® to follow their plan. We are not signing up for a few weeks of fitness training at the local gym. We’re not promising to make payments on a house… car… boat or student loan. We have committed to a lifetime of service and obedience to God… with the promise of Eternal Life and the earthly presence of His Holy Spirit in the meantime.
My prayer for all of us today is that we would start to take commitments of all kinds more seriously… especially our commitment to Jesus Christ. God has so freely and extravagantly gifted us with His love, grace, mercy, and a new life in Jesus Christ. When we insult Him with our insolent, sinful lifestyles, we “violate the contract.” And often, we “shoot ourselves in the foot” and block the blessings He wants to give us, because of our own selfish actions.
If we will truly commit to God, He will show up in our lives in ways we never even expected. If we will honor our partnership by pledging love, loyalty, service and the abandonment of our sinful behaviors, God will bless us in areas we haven’t even considered… maybe even shedding a few pounds and becoming more fit! Just like the commitment to diet and exercise, a covenant with God will require hard work, time and energy. But the end results will be more than worth the effort. Are you ready to truly enter into a partnership with God and enjoy all that He has in store for you? How committed are you to God today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
It wasn't so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn't know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
There is a long-standing joke in my family about how my grandmother never hesitates to tell us when she feels we are “getting too fat”… while she is simultaneously shoving sugar cookies, peanut brittle, candy of some sort, pie, or a hot homemade roll in our direction. We all know we could shed a few pounds, but the treats look so delicious! We fool ourselves into believing that “It’s Christmas – we’re supposed to indulge” or “One little bite/cookie/slice of pie won’t hurt” or “We’ll hurt Mam-ma’s feelings if we don’t eat this!” And we let “the world” tell us how to live and lull us into a false confidence that we are healthy and fit. Some of us have gotten to a point where we feel things are so far gone and hopeless that we no longer care… we just consume everything in sight (and I am not just talking food here!).
We are bombarded with commercials for all sorts of tantalizing fast food… burgers, steaks, ice cream treats, gourmet coffee concoctions, and more. We go to the doctor, and he/she tells us that our cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure are through the roof… then we stop on the way home and pick up a burger, fries and shake. We see ads at every turn for this gadget or that item that we simply have to have to be happy. We are told that we have to look like this celebrity or perform like that entertainer or athlete or operate in business like such-and-such executive in order to truly enjoy success and happiness. And yes, it’s a wonder God doesn’t just call us home and end the madness!
While good health is important- and we need to start exercising and eating a healthy diet from childhood – our “Spiritual health” is far more critical. We need to learn to say a polite “No” to a steady diet of fast food, sweet treats, inactivity and lethargy… and an even more emphatic “No!” to the lies and sins of this world. The problem many of us have with all of this is a level of commitment.
When we asked Jesus to forgive our sins and become LORD of our life, we entered into a “blood covenant” partnership with Him. We made a commitment and agreement to carry out His assignment… to love Him with all of our heart, mind, body and soul… to love others as we love ourselves… and to share His Good News throughout the world. This is not the same as a contract with Weight Watchers® or NutriSystem® to follow their plan. We are not signing up for a few weeks of fitness training at the local gym. We’re not promising to make payments on a house… car… boat or student loan. We have committed to a lifetime of service and obedience to God… with the promise of Eternal Life and the earthly presence of His Holy Spirit in the meantime.
My prayer for all of us today is that we would start to take commitments of all kinds more seriously… especially our commitment to Jesus Christ. God has so freely and extravagantly gifted us with His love, grace, mercy, and a new life in Jesus Christ. When we insult Him with our insolent, sinful lifestyles, we “violate the contract.” And often, we “shoot ourselves in the foot” and block the blessings He wants to give us, because of our own selfish actions.
If we will truly commit to God, He will show up in our lives in ways we never even expected. If we will honor our partnership by pledging love, loyalty, service and the abandonment of our sinful behaviors, God will bless us in areas we haven’t even considered… maybe even shedding a few pounds and becoming more fit! Just like the commitment to diet and exercise, a covenant with God will require hard work, time and energy. But the end results will be more than worth the effort. Are you ready to truly enter into a partnership with God and enjoy all that He has in store for you? How committed are you to God today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 1, 2011
Genesis 17:4
I promise that you will be the father of many nations. That's why I now change your name from Abram to Abraham.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When couples marry, the bride often changes her surname to that of the groom to signify her commitment and the beginning of a new life. While we don’t go to the extreme of changing our name on January 1st, many of us will vow to make significant changes in our lives… weight loss, kicking habits, getting a degree, starting an exercise program… maybe even starting a new career or moving to a new location! Change is inevitable… and often, change is good!
Making changes of a Spiritual nature are often just what The Doctor ordered. This is a great time to take stock of our Christian life and see where we need to make a few changes. Maybe we need to reinforce our prayer life. Maybe we need to confess a few sins and start living more like a disciple of Christ and less like the devil’s agent. Maybe we need to commit to serving God more and ourself a little less. Or maybe there are some who still need to make major changes – give their heart to Jesus and invite the Holy Spirit to dwell within their heart.
Whatever Spiritual changes you make, today is the perfect time to begin. The other changes you want to incorporate may be important – and positive – but nothing will trump your efforts to become more in tune with God’s will for your life. Spend some time today talking to Him about how and where to start… and Happy New Year! May the coming year be the best, most blessed year you’ve experienced yet!
©2010 Debbie Robus
I promise that you will be the father of many nations. That's why I now change your name from Abram to Abraham.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When couples marry, the bride often changes her surname to that of the groom to signify her commitment and the beginning of a new life. While we don’t go to the extreme of changing our name on January 1st, many of us will vow to make significant changes in our lives… weight loss, kicking habits, getting a degree, starting an exercise program… maybe even starting a new career or moving to a new location! Change is inevitable… and often, change is good!
Making changes of a Spiritual nature are often just what The Doctor ordered. This is a great time to take stock of our Christian life and see where we need to make a few changes. Maybe we need to reinforce our prayer life. Maybe we need to confess a few sins and start living more like a disciple of Christ and less like the devil’s agent. Maybe we need to commit to serving God more and ourself a little less. Or maybe there are some who still need to make major changes – give their heart to Jesus and invite the Holy Spirit to dwell within their heart.
Whatever Spiritual changes you make, today is the perfect time to begin. The other changes you want to incorporate may be important – and positive – but nothing will trump your efforts to become more in tune with God’s will for your life. Spend some time today talking to Him about how and where to start… and Happy New Year! May the coming year be the best, most blessed year you’ve experienced yet!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 27, 2010
Matthew 28:19-20
Go to the people of all nations and make them my disciples. Baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teach them to do everything I have told you. I will be with you always, even until the end of the world.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Sometimes I think it would be so incredible to visit the Holy Lands. And if you know me very well, you know how much I dislike travel, so for me to say this is HUGE! But it has occurred to me that to walk where Jesus walked… to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane… to visit the places He visited and sense His presence there… would be an amazing, life-changing event.
Then I take a walk on the access road above the hiking trail near our house, and I look at the dozens, if not hundreds, of perfect leaf specimens that are pressed against the asphalt by a recent rain. And I realize that my notion that I would feel closer to Jesus in the Holy Lands is totally blown to bits.
We don’t have to go anywhere to experience Jesus… He is with us already, right where we are. He’s in every leaf, every stick, every rock… and the very air we breathe. If we are in tune with Him and listening for His voice, we can almost feel His pulse alongside ours. We can certainly experience the power of His presence as we boldly proclaim His Good News to others.
Being a disciple of Christ is heavy duty stuff! The commission given us by Jesus to make disciples, baptize in His name, and teach others what He has taught us is no small task… and certainly should not be taken lightly. But we have everything we need to accomplish this… right here, right now.
We don’t have to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands or anywhere else. Jesus lives in and through us… and He isn’t going anywhere! The question is… are we recognizing His presence? Are we acknowledging His power and tapping into His strength to accomplish incredible things? Isn’t it time we began?
What’s holding you back today? Ask God to empower you… to awaken you to His presence in your heart… and to give you the strength and courage to serve as His disciple. And take a look around and see where you can recognize His presence in even the “leaves and sticks” on your trail.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Go to the people of all nations and make them my disciples. Baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teach them to do everything I have told you. I will be with you always, even until the end of the world.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Sometimes I think it would be so incredible to visit the Holy Lands. And if you know me very well, you know how much I dislike travel, so for me to say this is HUGE! But it has occurred to me that to walk where Jesus walked… to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane… to visit the places He visited and sense His presence there… would be an amazing, life-changing event.
Then I take a walk on the access road above the hiking trail near our house, and I look at the dozens, if not hundreds, of perfect leaf specimens that are pressed against the asphalt by a recent rain. And I realize that my notion that I would feel closer to Jesus in the Holy Lands is totally blown to bits.
We don’t have to go anywhere to experience Jesus… He is with us already, right where we are. He’s in every leaf, every stick, every rock… and the very air we breathe. If we are in tune with Him and listening for His voice, we can almost feel His pulse alongside ours. We can certainly experience the power of His presence as we boldly proclaim His Good News to others.
Being a disciple of Christ is heavy duty stuff! The commission given us by Jesus to make disciples, baptize in His name, and teach others what He has taught us is no small task… and certainly should not be taken lightly. But we have everything we need to accomplish this… right here, right now.
We don’t have to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands or anywhere else. Jesus lives in and through us… and He isn’t going anywhere! The question is… are we recognizing His presence? Are we acknowledging His power and tapping into His strength to accomplish incredible things? Isn’t it time we began?
What’s holding you back today? Ask God to empower you… to awaken you to His presence in your heart… and to give you the strength and courage to serve as His disciple. And take a look around and see where you can recognize His presence in even the “leaves and sticks” on your trail.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 9, 2010
Mark 4:13-20
Jesus told them: If you don't understand this story, you won't understand any others. What the farmer is spreading is really the message about the kingdom. The seeds that fell along the road are the people who hear the message. But Satan soon comes and snatches it away from them. The seeds that fell on rocky ground are the people who gladly hear the message and accept it right away. But they don't have any roots, and they don't last very long. As soon as life gets hard or the message gets them in trouble, they give up.
The seeds that fell among the thornbushes are also people who hear the message. But they start worrying about the needs of this life. They are fooled by the desire to get rich and to have all kinds of other things. So the message gets choked out, and they never produce anything. The seeds that fell on good ground are the people who hear and welcome the message. They produce thirty or sixty or even a hundred times as much as was planted.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This passage is the last part of a parable Jesus told in which he talks about a farmer and what happened to seeds he scattered in various places – some eaten by birds, some falling on rocky ground, some that dried up from the scorching sun, some that fell into thorny bushes… and some that found fertile ground. Of course, Jesus wasn’t talking about a farmer and seeds at all. He was talking about us! GOD is the “farmer” – we are the “seeds!”
There is an old saying, “Bloom where you are planted.” But if you plant yourself in bad soil, among “thorns,” on rocky ground or out in the hot scorching sun, you don’t have much of a chance – if any – to “bloom!”
This means we must think about who we choose to be associated with – in all walks of life. We must choose our friends carefully – and our more significant relationship partners even more so. We must think about where we go, and what we say and do. It all counts! We must ask ourselves constantly if our choices are God’s choices … or Satan’s … and we need to pay attention to what we discover.
We need to wake up each morning and ask God to guide our thoughts, our choices, and our steps. And each night we need to thank Him for His guidance. We need to be sure that we are always firmly rooted in “good ground” – God’s ground. Don’t get caught off guard or in poor soil. Don’t wind up among the thorns or exposed to the elements. Stick with God, listen to His instruction, and ask Him to continually plant you where you can truly bloom for His glory!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Jesus told them: If you don't understand this story, you won't understand any others. What the farmer is spreading is really the message about the kingdom. The seeds that fell along the road are the people who hear the message. But Satan soon comes and snatches it away from them. The seeds that fell on rocky ground are the people who gladly hear the message and accept it right away. But they don't have any roots, and they don't last very long. As soon as life gets hard or the message gets them in trouble, they give up.
The seeds that fell among the thornbushes are also people who hear the message. But they start worrying about the needs of this life. They are fooled by the desire to get rich and to have all kinds of other things. So the message gets choked out, and they never produce anything. The seeds that fell on good ground are the people who hear and welcome the message. They produce thirty or sixty or even a hundred times as much as was planted.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This passage is the last part of a parable Jesus told in which he talks about a farmer and what happened to seeds he scattered in various places – some eaten by birds, some falling on rocky ground, some that dried up from the scorching sun, some that fell into thorny bushes… and some that found fertile ground. Of course, Jesus wasn’t talking about a farmer and seeds at all. He was talking about us! GOD is the “farmer” – we are the “seeds!”
There is an old saying, “Bloom where you are planted.” But if you plant yourself in bad soil, among “thorns,” on rocky ground or out in the hot scorching sun, you don’t have much of a chance – if any – to “bloom!”
This means we must think about who we choose to be associated with – in all walks of life. We must choose our friends carefully – and our more significant relationship partners even more so. We must think about where we go, and what we say and do. It all counts! We must ask ourselves constantly if our choices are God’s choices … or Satan’s … and we need to pay attention to what we discover.
We need to wake up each morning and ask God to guide our thoughts, our choices, and our steps. And each night we need to thank Him for His guidance. We need to be sure that we are always firmly rooted in “good ground” – God’s ground. Don’t get caught off guard or in poor soil. Don’t wind up among the thorns or exposed to the elements. Stick with God, listen to His instruction, and ask Him to continually plant you where you can truly bloom for His glory!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 9, 2010
Proverbs 17:17
A friend is always a friend, and relatives are born to share our troubles.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This devo begins a group that relate to “Sharing the Good News – and God’s Love,” and it’s probably where you may think I’ve gone to meddling! But I am convinced that many of us have fallen short in this area. I have to believe that when I hear of children who have not spoken to their parents in months, or even years. I know we have grown insensitive and self-absorbed when I hear in the news of someone who died alone in their home from heat exhaustion and malnutrition, because not even their next-door neighbors bothered to check on them. I am convinced of this when I hear in the news of a child who committed suicide because he/she was bullied relentlessly and nobody did anything to stop it.
You can call it what you want … busyness, your own set of troubles, “work got in the way,” or just plain not wanting to get involved. The fact is, we are called as Christians to love one another … and that means we’re going to have to become involved at some point. If you are to love your neighbor as you love yourself, you will have to check on him/her. If you are going to honor your father and mother, you will have to call and visit them once in a while. We’re going to have to look up from our own lives and see those around us – and get busy meeting the needs of others.
Imagine if Jesus had said, “I’m too busy,” or “It’s not my problem… I need to stay out of this.” What if Jesus had held a grudge against His Father and refused to communicate! I know … pretty preposterous, isn’t it?! But that’s what many of us do. We claim to have dozens of “close friends,” but we couldn’t tell you much about the thoughts, dreams, desires and needs of a single one of them. We’re so busy collecting acquaintances, possessions and whatever satisfies our every whim that we often fail to stop and ask, “Lord, who do I need to call today?” or “Father, do I need to reach out to a friend or family member?”
My prayer today is that we would become more genuinely concerned about the welfare of our family and friends. I pray that we would ask God to open our hearts, eyes and ears … that we would see the needs of others – and meet them! If you need help getting started, pick up the church bulletin and read the prayer concerns. I bet there is someone on there you could call, visit, or mail a card of encouragement. Or … read through the birthday list and send someone good wishes to brighten their day. Or here’s a good one … I have a card on my desk that says, “Have you prayed for your pastor today?” Well, have you?
Being a Christian is more than accepting Jesus – or even receiving the Holy Spirit. If you keep everything to yourself, you really have not fulfilled Jesus’ gift. Think of it like a credit card that doesn’t work until you call the headquarters and activate it. It’s time we activated our “Christian card” and got busy using it. Where will you “spend” some of God’s love today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
A friend is always a friend, and relatives are born to share our troubles.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This devo begins a group that relate to “Sharing the Good News – and God’s Love,” and it’s probably where you may think I’ve gone to meddling! But I am convinced that many of us have fallen short in this area. I have to believe that when I hear of children who have not spoken to their parents in months, or even years. I know we have grown insensitive and self-absorbed when I hear in the news of someone who died alone in their home from heat exhaustion and malnutrition, because not even their next-door neighbors bothered to check on them. I am convinced of this when I hear in the news of a child who committed suicide because he/she was bullied relentlessly and nobody did anything to stop it.
You can call it what you want … busyness, your own set of troubles, “work got in the way,” or just plain not wanting to get involved. The fact is, we are called as Christians to love one another … and that means we’re going to have to become involved at some point. If you are to love your neighbor as you love yourself, you will have to check on him/her. If you are going to honor your father and mother, you will have to call and visit them once in a while. We’re going to have to look up from our own lives and see those around us – and get busy meeting the needs of others.
Imagine if Jesus had said, “I’m too busy,” or “It’s not my problem… I need to stay out of this.” What if Jesus had held a grudge against His Father and refused to communicate! I know … pretty preposterous, isn’t it?! But that’s what many of us do. We claim to have dozens of “close friends,” but we couldn’t tell you much about the thoughts, dreams, desires and needs of a single one of them. We’re so busy collecting acquaintances, possessions and whatever satisfies our every whim that we often fail to stop and ask, “Lord, who do I need to call today?” or “Father, do I need to reach out to a friend or family member?”
My prayer today is that we would become more genuinely concerned about the welfare of our family and friends. I pray that we would ask God to open our hearts, eyes and ears … that we would see the needs of others – and meet them! If you need help getting started, pick up the church bulletin and read the prayer concerns. I bet there is someone on there you could call, visit, or mail a card of encouragement. Or … read through the birthday list and send someone good wishes to brighten their day. Or here’s a good one … I have a card on my desk that says, “Have you prayed for your pastor today?” Well, have you?
Being a Christian is more than accepting Jesus – or even receiving the Holy Spirit. If you keep everything to yourself, you really have not fulfilled Jesus’ gift. Think of it like a credit card that doesn’t work until you call the headquarters and activate it. It’s time we activated our “Christian card” and got busy using it. Where will you “spend” some of God’s love today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 21, 2010
Galatians 3:27
And when you were baptized, it was as though you had put on Christ in the same way you put on new clothes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My 97-year-old grandmother has really pretty clothes hanging in her closet. I’ve seen them, and I know my mom and my cousins helped her shop for them. But she seems to wear the same old garb much of the time – pants with paint stains, well-worn blouses and some pants she bought at a yard sale that are too short. She’s saving her “good clothes” for special occasions.
When I picked her up recently for a birthday celebration for her friend – who is 101 – she was wearing a beautiful outfit… white pants, a new purple knit shirt with a purple/blue flowered crinkle-fabric blouse as a jacket, and her purple/blue rhinestone earrings! She had on lipstick and makeup and looked like a million bucks! And everything about her was different. I had not seen her look or act this well in months! Today, she is probably wearing her old clothes again… the “good clothes” tucked away for a special occasion.
Are we like this with our Christianity? Do we put on Christ when it seems important or necessary… and then hang Him back in the closet and return to our old ways? My grandmother needs to get busy wearing her “good clothes.” And so should we. None of us knows how many hours/days/weeks/months/years we have. Saving our best for a rainy day or special occasion is ridiculous. And only “wearing” our new life in Christ when we feel like it or want to “dress up” is just as silly.
Put on your new “armor of the Lord”… wear your very best “Christ outfit” each and every day. Let everyone see the best you possible… the person Christ has called you to become… and shine in His glory for all to see. The “rainy day” is NOW…the time to change and be a new creature has come. What will you wear today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
And when you were baptized, it was as though you had put on Christ in the same way you put on new clothes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My 97-year-old grandmother has really pretty clothes hanging in her closet. I’ve seen them, and I know my mom and my cousins helped her shop for them. But she seems to wear the same old garb much of the time – pants with paint stains, well-worn blouses and some pants she bought at a yard sale that are too short. She’s saving her “good clothes” for special occasions.
When I picked her up recently for a birthday celebration for her friend – who is 101 – she was wearing a beautiful outfit… white pants, a new purple knit shirt with a purple/blue flowered crinkle-fabric blouse as a jacket, and her purple/blue rhinestone earrings! She had on lipstick and makeup and looked like a million bucks! And everything about her was different. I had not seen her look or act this well in months! Today, she is probably wearing her old clothes again… the “good clothes” tucked away for a special occasion.
Are we like this with our Christianity? Do we put on Christ when it seems important or necessary… and then hang Him back in the closet and return to our old ways? My grandmother needs to get busy wearing her “good clothes.” And so should we. None of us knows how many hours/days/weeks/months/years we have. Saving our best for a rainy day or special occasion is ridiculous. And only “wearing” our new life in Christ when we feel like it or want to “dress up” is just as silly.
Put on your new “armor of the Lord”… wear your very best “Christ outfit” each and every day. Let everyone see the best you possible… the person Christ has called you to become… and shine in His glory for all to see. The “rainy day” is NOW…the time to change and be a new creature has come. What will you wear today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 16, 2010
Hebrews 3:1
My friends, God has chosen you to be his holy people. So think about Jesus, the one we call our apostle and high priest!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
WWJD – What Would Jesus Do – this phrase has circulated for years. We see it on key chains, wrist bands, t-shirts, and more… and with good reason! What would Jesus do in many of the circumstances we encounter? How would He react?
God chose us to be His holy people. He gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, as a model for holy behavior. So the question… “What would Jesus do?”… is always appropriate. Any time you wonder – even slightly – about a choice, what you are speaking, doing, sharing, participating in, or even thinking… think of Jesus. Ask yourself what He would do in the situation… and adjust your own thoughts/actions/words accordingly.
Jesus is our apostle and high priest… our ultimate role model… think about Him and see how well you are following His lead.
©2010 Debbie Robus
My friends, God has chosen you to be his holy people. So think about Jesus, the one we call our apostle and high priest!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
WWJD – What Would Jesus Do – this phrase has circulated for years. We see it on key chains, wrist bands, t-shirts, and more… and with good reason! What would Jesus do in many of the circumstances we encounter? How would He react?
God chose us to be His holy people. He gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, as a model for holy behavior. So the question… “What would Jesus do?”… is always appropriate. Any time you wonder – even slightly – about a choice, what you are speaking, doing, sharing, participating in, or even thinking… think of Jesus. Ask yourself what He would do in the situation… and adjust your own thoughts/actions/words accordingly.
Jesus is our apostle and high priest… our ultimate role model… think about Him and see how well you are following His lead.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 14, 2010
Acts 26:16
“Now stand up. I have appeared to you, because I have chosen you to be my servant. You are to tell others what you have learned about me and what I will show you later."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you saw my house, you might not believe this, but I’m something of a stickler for neatness and cleanliness. And when it comes to Timothy, some would probably say I’m obsessive. If I know he is coming to visit, I vacuum the floors, disinfect his toys, change the linens in his crib, and make sure everything is in order. I consider it a great honor that my niece trusts us to care for her child, and I want to be sure I do everything necessary to ensure he is safe, loved, and nurtured when he is with us.
We all give attention to what is important to us. For some, it may be a prized vehicle. Maybe you wash your car several times a week and make sure it stays in tip-top running condition. Others may have a special collection… a sport they devote time and attention to… or even a gadget, such as an iPhone, laptop, or home theater. Whatever we value, we give care and attention.
Do we give this much care and attention to our relationship with God? Shouldn’t we? If God loves us so much that He chose us to be His servants, doesn’t this indicate how important we are to Him? Doesn’t this merit the care, attention, and nurturing of our relationship with Him? While you may feel you take pretty good care of your relationship with God, I assure you, none of us does enough. Ask Him to show you where you could step it up a level… then get busy doing so. We’ve been chosen to be Christ’s servants… it’s time to stand up and act like it!
©2010 Debbie Robus
“Now stand up. I have appeared to you, because I have chosen you to be my servant. You are to tell others what you have learned about me and what I will show you later."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you saw my house, you might not believe this, but I’m something of a stickler for neatness and cleanliness. And when it comes to Timothy, some would probably say I’m obsessive. If I know he is coming to visit, I vacuum the floors, disinfect his toys, change the linens in his crib, and make sure everything is in order. I consider it a great honor that my niece trusts us to care for her child, and I want to be sure I do everything necessary to ensure he is safe, loved, and nurtured when he is with us.
We all give attention to what is important to us. For some, it may be a prized vehicle. Maybe you wash your car several times a week and make sure it stays in tip-top running condition. Others may have a special collection… a sport they devote time and attention to… or even a gadget, such as an iPhone, laptop, or home theater. Whatever we value, we give care and attention.
Do we give this much care and attention to our relationship with God? Shouldn’t we? If God loves us so much that He chose us to be His servants, doesn’t this indicate how important we are to Him? Doesn’t this merit the care, attention, and nurturing of our relationship with Him? While you may feel you take pretty good care of your relationship with God, I assure you, none of us does enough. Ask Him to show you where you could step it up a level… then get busy doing so. We’ve been chosen to be Christ’s servants… it’s time to stand up and act like it!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 12, 2010
Psalm 4:3
The LORD has chosen everyone who is faithful to be his very own, and he answers my prayers.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Often we are selected for certain committees, posts, organizations, and more... and given promises of great rewards. But there are catches. In order to receive these “rewards,” we must act a certain way or deliver a certain level of effort and energy. With God, there are no “catches” … there is nothing we can do to earn His love and the right to ask Him for anything in prayer. He does ask us to be faithful to Him… and in return, He answers our prayers, according to His will. But working extra hard or trying to be an “Uber Christian” doesn’t elevate our status in His eyes.
Bottom line: Being a child of God is the ultimate honor and privilege. We can take anything to God in prayer, and He will hear us. He deserves our faithfulness.
This is really a no-brainer! Are you giving Him your best these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
The LORD has chosen everyone who is faithful to be his very own, and he answers my prayers.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
- “Congratulations! You have been chosen to serve on the outreach team at your church! This team is responsible for delivering support and nurture to all church members, as well as prospective members. Only those who have exhibited unwavering faith in God and a ‘glowing aura’ of the Holy Spirit were selected for this honor. In exchange for your service, God will give you special favor. You can ask Him anything, and He will push your requests to the top of the list.”
Often we are selected for certain committees, posts, organizations, and more... and given promises of great rewards. But there are catches. In order to receive these “rewards,” we must act a certain way or deliver a certain level of effort and energy. With God, there are no “catches” … there is nothing we can do to earn His love and the right to ask Him for anything in prayer. He does ask us to be faithful to Him… and in return, He answers our prayers, according to His will. But working extra hard or trying to be an “Uber Christian” doesn’t elevate our status in His eyes.
Bottom line: Being a child of God is the ultimate honor and privilege. We can take anything to God in prayer, and He will hear us. He deserves our faithfulness.
This is really a no-brainer! Are you giving Him your best these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 24, 2010
June 24 ~ Luke 12:32
My little group of disciples, don't be afraid! Your Father wants to give you the kingdom.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a friend of ours ran for public office. My husband and I stood on street corners and waved at passersby, holding signs that encouraged them to vote for our friend. We were not afraid… we did not hide behind the signs. We boldly showed the world that we supported this man – and we encouraged others to join us. Let’s say someone offered you a huge sum of money just to spend one hour trying to convince a group of people to support something. For instance, let’s say you were offered a half a million dollars to get people to test drive a beautiful sports car… one you wouldn’t mind owning yourself. You’d do it, wouldn’t you?
Isn’t it interesting that we have so little trouble putting our name, face, and energy behind so many people and things, but when it comes to claiming – and sharing the love of Jesus, we can’t – or won’t – do this. Even though we know that to share Jesus with others is part and parcel of our promise of spending eternity in heaven with Him, we often consider the “cost” too high. People won’t like us… we’ll be mocked or ostracized or criticized. We’ll lose business, or we won’t get the date with the person we like, or our family will disown us. The excuses are a dime a dozen.
The bottom line is, we are operating out of fear, and we are allowing Satan to control us… because HE is the agent of fear, not God. We are so afraid of what others might think or say about us that we become paralyzed in our faith. We are afraid to visit a friend or loved one in jail or prison… we’re afraid to walk away from a party where improper behaviors are occurring… we’re scared to death to tell someone we are praying for them and believing for a good outcome in their situation. We have been offered, literally, the keys to God’s kingdom, and we turn our backs and cower in the corner and say, “But I’m afraid.”
It’s high time we get up and get going! It’s time to step up to the plate, claim our place as heirs to the throne of the Most High God, and expect Him to guide us as we share His Good News with others. If we can stand on a street corner and campaign for a friend – or in some cases, someone we barely know - surely we can “campaign” for Jesus for a little corner of heaven. Where do you stand today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
My little group of disciples, don't be afraid! Your Father wants to give you the kingdom.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a friend of ours ran for public office. My husband and I stood on street corners and waved at passersby, holding signs that encouraged them to vote for our friend. We were not afraid… we did not hide behind the signs. We boldly showed the world that we supported this man – and we encouraged others to join us. Let’s say someone offered you a huge sum of money just to spend one hour trying to convince a group of people to support something. For instance, let’s say you were offered a half a million dollars to get people to test drive a beautiful sports car… one you wouldn’t mind owning yourself. You’d do it, wouldn’t you?
Isn’t it interesting that we have so little trouble putting our name, face, and energy behind so many people and things, but when it comes to claiming – and sharing the love of Jesus, we can’t – or won’t – do this. Even though we know that to share Jesus with others is part and parcel of our promise of spending eternity in heaven with Him, we often consider the “cost” too high. People won’t like us… we’ll be mocked or ostracized or criticized. We’ll lose business, or we won’t get the date with the person we like, or our family will disown us. The excuses are a dime a dozen.
The bottom line is, we are operating out of fear, and we are allowing Satan to control us… because HE is the agent of fear, not God. We are so afraid of what others might think or say about us that we become paralyzed in our faith. We are afraid to visit a friend or loved one in jail or prison… we’re afraid to walk away from a party where improper behaviors are occurring… we’re scared to death to tell someone we are praying for them and believing for a good outcome in their situation. We have been offered, literally, the keys to God’s kingdom, and we turn our backs and cower in the corner and say, “But I’m afraid.”
It’s high time we get up and get going! It’s time to step up to the plate, claim our place as heirs to the throne of the Most High God, and expect Him to guide us as we share His Good News with others. If we can stand on a street corner and campaign for a friend – or in some cases, someone we barely know - surely we can “campaign” for Jesus for a little corner of heaven. Where do you stand today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 21, 2010
June 21 ~ Zechariah 8:13
People of Judah and Israel, you have been a curse to the nations, but I will save you and make you a blessing to them. So don't be afraid or lose courage.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For several years, a friend of mine tried to talk me into attending a Walk to Emmaus. I kept putting it off. See, I thought I needed to “fix” a few things before I went on such a “Spiritual” retreat. What I learned is that God was not expecting me to fix anything – He just expected me to come to Him and let Him do the rest! My Walk to Emmaus was an incredible, amazing, life-changing event. But God did not “fix” everything for me there. You see, I believe that God leaves a few things undone, so that we will still need Him and stay humble.
At the same time, I also believe that God is not sitting back waiting for us to fix ourselves – He’s waiting on us to come to Him for the fixing! And, I don’t believe there is anything we have ever done or said or thought that is so horrible that God will not love us or help us. He’s said as much in this scripture. He has said that even people who “have been a curse to the nations” can become a blessing to them. That’s you and me, too! Woo-hoo! This is great news!
Don’t be afraid or lose courage. Don’t stay away from God because you feel you aren’t good enough – or you aren’t ready. Run as fast as you can to Him! Let God do the “fixing” and change your curses into blessings. He can – He will… are you willing to let Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
People of Judah and Israel, you have been a curse to the nations, but I will save you and make you a blessing to them. So don't be afraid or lose courage.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For several years, a friend of mine tried to talk me into attending a Walk to Emmaus. I kept putting it off. See, I thought I needed to “fix” a few things before I went on such a “Spiritual” retreat. What I learned is that God was not expecting me to fix anything – He just expected me to come to Him and let Him do the rest! My Walk to Emmaus was an incredible, amazing, life-changing event. But God did not “fix” everything for me there. You see, I believe that God leaves a few things undone, so that we will still need Him and stay humble.
At the same time, I also believe that God is not sitting back waiting for us to fix ourselves – He’s waiting on us to come to Him for the fixing! And, I don’t believe there is anything we have ever done or said or thought that is so horrible that God will not love us or help us. He’s said as much in this scripture. He has said that even people who “have been a curse to the nations” can become a blessing to them. That’s you and me, too! Woo-hoo! This is great news!
Don’t be afraid or lose courage. Don’t stay away from God because you feel you aren’t good enough – or you aren’t ready. Run as fast as you can to Him! Let God do the “fixing” and change your curses into blessings. He can – He will… are you willing to let Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 16, 2010
June 16 ~ Isaiah 54:4
Don't be afraid or ashamed and don't be discouraged. You won't be disappointed. Forget how sinful you were when you were young; stop feeling ashamed for being left a widow.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Evangelist Joyce Meyer tells about an unhappy childhood, followed by a miserable first marriage. She was abused, mistreated, and left feeling totally useless. She had a temper and a generally bad attitude, and she was abrasive and not much fun to be around. She says she was simply not a very nice person. Then she became a Christian, and God introduced her to Dave Meyer, a man who had been praying for God to give him someone with problems. Man, did God ever deliver!
Joyce Meyer felt worthless. She did not see a way out of her situation, and she certainly never imagined God could bless her – much less use her in ministry. And I’ve gathered from reading several of her books and listening to her speak that at one time, she was pretty well consumed by fears of all kinds. I’m sure she was ashamed, discouraged, and disappointed. I’ve heard her say that when God first started nudging her toward beginning a ministry, she thought she must be hearing things! And early on, she led Bible studies in her home, wearing short shorts and smoking cigarettes. She still did not see herself as someone God would want leading a ministry… her transformation did not happen overnight!
We underestimate God. We fail to recognize that He has the power to make “beauty from ashes.” We do not need to be fearful, discouraged, ashamed, or disappointed… we just need to hold on and have faith. We need to pay attention, seek God’s will, and then trust Him to lead us through the “ruins” and “rubble” we may have to wade through to get to the good stuff! In other words, troubles will come… challenges will stand in our way at times… and we may feel like we are never going to get ahead or feel God’s protection – much less His blessings and favor. It’s sort of the “When is it my turn?” syndrome. If you read all of Psalm 54, verse 8 quotes God as saying, “… I will have mercy and love you forever! I, your protector and Lord, make this promise.”
What God did for Joyce Meyer, He will do for each of us. Oh… He may not call us to develop world-wide ministries… but He has a plan for us… and it’s a good one! Hang on – hang in there – don’t be afraid or ashamed, and don’t be discouraged. You won’t be disappointed. Verse 5 says, “The Lord All-Powerful, the Holy God of Israel, rules all the earth. He is your Creator… and he will rescue you.” This is great news! We serve an awesome God…keep trusting Him and believing His promises!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't be afraid or ashamed and don't be discouraged. You won't be disappointed. Forget how sinful you were when you were young; stop feeling ashamed for being left a widow.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Evangelist Joyce Meyer tells about an unhappy childhood, followed by a miserable first marriage. She was abused, mistreated, and left feeling totally useless. She had a temper and a generally bad attitude, and she was abrasive and not much fun to be around. She says she was simply not a very nice person. Then she became a Christian, and God introduced her to Dave Meyer, a man who had been praying for God to give him someone with problems. Man, did God ever deliver!
Joyce Meyer felt worthless. She did not see a way out of her situation, and she certainly never imagined God could bless her – much less use her in ministry. And I’ve gathered from reading several of her books and listening to her speak that at one time, she was pretty well consumed by fears of all kinds. I’m sure she was ashamed, discouraged, and disappointed. I’ve heard her say that when God first started nudging her toward beginning a ministry, she thought she must be hearing things! And early on, she led Bible studies in her home, wearing short shorts and smoking cigarettes. She still did not see herself as someone God would want leading a ministry… her transformation did not happen overnight!
We underestimate God. We fail to recognize that He has the power to make “beauty from ashes.” We do not need to be fearful, discouraged, ashamed, or disappointed… we just need to hold on and have faith. We need to pay attention, seek God’s will, and then trust Him to lead us through the “ruins” and “rubble” we may have to wade through to get to the good stuff! In other words, troubles will come… challenges will stand in our way at times… and we may feel like we are never going to get ahead or feel God’s protection – much less His blessings and favor. It’s sort of the “When is it my turn?” syndrome. If you read all of Psalm 54, verse 8 quotes God as saying, “… I will have mercy and love you forever! I, your protector and Lord, make this promise.”
What God did for Joyce Meyer, He will do for each of us. Oh… He may not call us to develop world-wide ministries… but He has a plan for us… and it’s a good one! Hang on – hang in there – don’t be afraid or ashamed, and don’t be discouraged. You won’t be disappointed. Verse 5 says, “The Lord All-Powerful, the Holy God of Israel, rules all the earth. He is your Creator… and he will rescue you.” This is great news! We serve an awesome God…keep trusting Him and believing His promises!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 13, 2010
June 13 ~ Isaiah 43:5
Don't be afraid! I am with you. From both east and west I will bring you together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In case you have been under a rock for the last few days, this has not been the happiest week for Arkansans at large. A massive flash flood swept away campers in southwest Arkansas, killing dozens and leaving others injured and incredibly frightened. Many lost not only family members and friends, but also pets, belongings, and more. Some literally lost the clothing off their backs from the force of the water. The devastation and destruction is truly incredible.
In northeastern Arkansas, Lillian Wilson, an 80-year-old woman known locally as “Miss Lill,” was beaten to death in the sanctuary of her church with a 2-foot brass cross from the Holy Communion table. She had returned on Sunday afternoon to leave a bucket to finish out a “disaster kit” filled with cleaning supplies that, ironically, would aid in the cleanup of places just like the Albert Pike Campground area in southwestern Arkansas.
As we watched these stories unfold in the media, we couldn’t help but ask, “Why, God? Why did a two-year-old toddler have to die before her mother’s eyes? Why was a faithful Christian servant murdered in her church sanctuary… and by the very symbol of Your protection?” As I read over this scripture passage, God very clearly reminded me that He was with the people at Albert Pike Campground… and He was with Miss Lill. God is always with us, even in the most horrific circumstances. I know… you are thinking this doesn’t make sense… why doesn’t He rescue us? I believe He does… just not in the ways we envision.
I believe that there is so much about God we cannot ever understand… His power and how He really operates. If we did, we wouldn’t need Him. I believe that even in the most terrifying situations, such as being swept away by flood waters or being beaten with a brass cross, God is there, saying, “Hold My hand… I’m right here with you. You’ll see… I will make this okay.” And just as God orchestrates everything perfectly, we will see His power at work in these two tragedies. He will use the lady who made disaster relief buckets and the people who needed them to change lives. Satan may have meant these two events for evil… his plan was surely to cause us to say, “What kind of God would allow this?” But God is saying… “Don’t turn away from me in fear… turn TO me and realize that I was there all along… and I am still with you.”
This is a hard lesson. We humans want someone to blame… and more often than not we blame God instead of the real culprit – Satan. We see the negative more than the positive, and we lose our way – and our faith. Let’s renew our faith and trust in God. Let’s recognize today that He is still in control… and He is still right beside us. Let’s acknowledge that God can take the most horrific events and bring blessings out of them… and let’s take comfort in realizing how powerful He is. This is an amazing thing… we serve an awesome God. Don’t be afraid. God is bringing east, west, north and south together… and He is always… ALWAYS with us.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't be afraid! I am with you. From both east and west I will bring you together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In case you have been under a rock for the last few days, this has not been the happiest week for Arkansans at large. A massive flash flood swept away campers in southwest Arkansas, killing dozens and leaving others injured and incredibly frightened. Many lost not only family members and friends, but also pets, belongings, and more. Some literally lost the clothing off their backs from the force of the water. The devastation and destruction is truly incredible.
In northeastern Arkansas, Lillian Wilson, an 80-year-old woman known locally as “Miss Lill,” was beaten to death in the sanctuary of her church with a 2-foot brass cross from the Holy Communion table. She had returned on Sunday afternoon to leave a bucket to finish out a “disaster kit” filled with cleaning supplies that, ironically, would aid in the cleanup of places just like the Albert Pike Campground area in southwestern Arkansas.
As we watched these stories unfold in the media, we couldn’t help but ask, “Why, God? Why did a two-year-old toddler have to die before her mother’s eyes? Why was a faithful Christian servant murdered in her church sanctuary… and by the very symbol of Your protection?” As I read over this scripture passage, God very clearly reminded me that He was with the people at Albert Pike Campground… and He was with Miss Lill. God is always with us, even in the most horrific circumstances. I know… you are thinking this doesn’t make sense… why doesn’t He rescue us? I believe He does… just not in the ways we envision.
I believe that there is so much about God we cannot ever understand… His power and how He really operates. If we did, we wouldn’t need Him. I believe that even in the most terrifying situations, such as being swept away by flood waters or being beaten with a brass cross, God is there, saying, “Hold My hand… I’m right here with you. You’ll see… I will make this okay.” And just as God orchestrates everything perfectly, we will see His power at work in these two tragedies. He will use the lady who made disaster relief buckets and the people who needed them to change lives. Satan may have meant these two events for evil… his plan was surely to cause us to say, “What kind of God would allow this?” But God is saying… “Don’t turn away from me in fear… turn TO me and realize that I was there all along… and I am still with you.”
This is a hard lesson. We humans want someone to blame… and more often than not we blame God instead of the real culprit – Satan. We see the negative more than the positive, and we lose our way – and our faith. Let’s renew our faith and trust in God. Let’s recognize today that He is still in control… and He is still right beside us. Let’s acknowledge that God can take the most horrific events and bring blessings out of them… and let’s take comfort in realizing how powerful He is. This is an amazing thing… we serve an awesome God. Don’t be afraid. God is bringing east, west, north and south together… and He is always… ALWAYS with us.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 8, 2010
June 8 ~ Psalm 37:4
Do what the LORD wants, and he will give you your heart's desire.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt you were supposed to do something, but you really didn’t want to do it? Maybe school seemed too hard or your job was unfulfilling, and you were tempted to quit - but you knew that this was where God wanted you to be for the moment. Or maybe you had your entire weekend mapped out – fun on the lake, meals with friends, and more… but your youth group or Sunday School class was having a prayer vigil at the church. And as much as you didn’t want to go, you knew you should. Or maybe you had some extra change in your pocket and a big, cold drink from Sonic sounded good - but as you left Wal-Mart, the Salvation Army guy was ringing his bell and asking for donations. In each case, if you gave up your desires to do what you felt GOD wanted you to do, how did you feel? Didn’t you feel better afterward?
More than this, have you ever chosen what you felt GOD wanted over what you wanted, then experienced amazing blessings later that seemed inexplicable? I can tell you that this has happened to me. More than once, I have dragged myself to something I didn’t want to attend, and I ended up being incredibly blessed. There have been times I really wanted to do something for myself – or to give up on a project when I became discouraged - but I felt God saying, “Do this anyway,” and the outcome was amazing. Somehow, when we do what God wants, He gives us time to do what we want, too. Maybe it’s not the same day… but eventually we get that day on the lake with friends or family. Eventually we get the big drink at Sonic and the time for ourselves - and blessings we didn’t even anticipate or expect.
When we keep GOD at the forefront and do what He wants first, wonderful things happen. He really does give us our heart’s desire – according to His will. This means that just because you want a silver BMW, dont expect God to give you one because you do what He wants. You may never be a millionaire or live a fancy lifestyle. But whatever God chooses to give you – however He elects to bless – will be perfect for you. Try it for yourself. Do what God wants, out of a spirit of love, obedience and gratitude… and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Do what the LORD wants, and he will give you your heart's desire.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt you were supposed to do something, but you really didn’t want to do it? Maybe school seemed too hard or your job was unfulfilling, and you were tempted to quit - but you knew that this was where God wanted you to be for the moment. Or maybe you had your entire weekend mapped out – fun on the lake, meals with friends, and more… but your youth group or Sunday School class was having a prayer vigil at the church. And as much as you didn’t want to go, you knew you should. Or maybe you had some extra change in your pocket and a big, cold drink from Sonic sounded good - but as you left Wal-Mart, the Salvation Army guy was ringing his bell and asking for donations. In each case, if you gave up your desires to do what you felt GOD wanted you to do, how did you feel? Didn’t you feel better afterward?
More than this, have you ever chosen what you felt GOD wanted over what you wanted, then experienced amazing blessings later that seemed inexplicable? I can tell you that this has happened to me. More than once, I have dragged myself to something I didn’t want to attend, and I ended up being incredibly blessed. There have been times I really wanted to do something for myself – or to give up on a project when I became discouraged - but I felt God saying, “Do this anyway,” and the outcome was amazing. Somehow, when we do what God wants, He gives us time to do what we want, too. Maybe it’s not the same day… but eventually we get that day on the lake with friends or family. Eventually we get the big drink at Sonic and the time for ourselves - and blessings we didn’t even anticipate or expect.
When we keep GOD at the forefront and do what He wants first, wonderful things happen. He really does give us our heart’s desire – according to His will. This means that just because you want a silver BMW, dont expect God to give you one because you do what He wants. You may never be a millionaire or live a fancy lifestyle. But whatever God chooses to give you – however He elects to bless – will be perfect for you. Try it for yourself. Do what God wants, out of a spirit of love, obedience and gratitude… and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 2, 2010
June 2 ~ Judges 6:10
I am your God, and I told you not to worship Amorite gods, even though you are living in the land of the Amorites. But you refused to listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all heard the phrase… “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” And sadly, we do just that much of the time. We are pretty weak creatures, it seems, and when the going gets tough, quite often we just fold up and quit. It’s easier to give in and have a drink and appear to go with the flow at a party than to leave or tell your underage friends that drinking is not cool. When someone posts something offensive on Facebook, it’s easier to ignore it than to send them a private message saying you don’t approve – much less post an actual comment to that effect for everyone to see. Do you realize that by ignoring the offensive comments of your Facebook “friends,” you are in essence condoning them?
This passage is for adults, too. Many of us have found it easier to turn and look the other way in the workplace than to confront things that are happening that shouldn’t be. We’ve perfected the art of the “white lie” to friends, co-workers and spouses about everything from who we are talking with on the telephone to what we purchased at the store to what was said about them behind their back at the last supper club. And gossip has become an art form for many. See, we all have our “Amorite gods” at times!
Just because you’ve always done something – or done things a certain way – doesn’t mean you have to continue. This can be the day when we decide that we are going to live for God, even though we reside “in the land of the Amorites.” We cannot always change our environment – where we live, the people with whom we work, and even our friends and acquaintances – but we can change ourselves… our attitudes, our behaviors, and our reactions. We can live for God wherever we are planted. Who is your God today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am your God, and I told you not to worship Amorite gods, even though you are living in the land of the Amorites. But you refused to listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all heard the phrase… “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” And sadly, we do just that much of the time. We are pretty weak creatures, it seems, and when the going gets tough, quite often we just fold up and quit. It’s easier to give in and have a drink and appear to go with the flow at a party than to leave or tell your underage friends that drinking is not cool. When someone posts something offensive on Facebook, it’s easier to ignore it than to send them a private message saying you don’t approve – much less post an actual comment to that effect for everyone to see. Do you realize that by ignoring the offensive comments of your Facebook “friends,” you are in essence condoning them?
This passage is for adults, too. Many of us have found it easier to turn and look the other way in the workplace than to confront things that are happening that shouldn’t be. We’ve perfected the art of the “white lie” to friends, co-workers and spouses about everything from who we are talking with on the telephone to what we purchased at the store to what was said about them behind their back at the last supper club. And gossip has become an art form for many. See, we all have our “Amorite gods” at times!
Just because you’ve always done something – or done things a certain way – doesn’t mean you have to continue. This can be the day when we decide that we are going to live for God, even though we reside “in the land of the Amorites.” We cannot always change our environment – where we live, the people with whom we work, and even our friends and acquaintances – but we can change ourselves… our attitudes, our behaviors, and our reactions. We can live for God wherever we are planted. Who is your God today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 31, 2010
May 31 ~ Deuteronomy 1:20-21
…and I told you, " We have reached the hill country. It belongs to the Amorites now, but the LORD our God is giving it to us. He is the same God our ancestors worshiped, and he has told us to go in and take this land, so don't hesitate and be afraid."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you know someone who seems like a hopeless case? No matter how hard you pray for them… no matter how hard you try to help them… nothing seems to work. Their situation never seems to change, much less actually improve. You feel frustrated… maybe even angry or disappointed… and sometimes, you want to give up and walk away. But something (or is it Someone?) won’t let you. Somehow you feel this nagging sense that you need to keep plugging away. You need to keep being a friend and loving this person and doing what you feel GOD is telling you to do… and you trust that HE will handle the outcome.
This is what I got from today’s passage. Sometimes it looks like we are fighting a losing battle – that we have reached “the hill country, and it belongs to someone else.” It appears that things are settled in one direction… yet God says, “Keep going… we can do this together, and I’ll make the difference!”
I urge you today to be bold in your faith. If you are struggling with something or someone over a particular situation, and you simply don’t seem to see any progress, yet you have this pervading sense to continue to witness and be of help, listen to your heart! Be attuned to God’s guidance and instruction, and when HE says move, then you move… but not a minute sooner. If God tells you He is giving you victory, don’t hesitate and be afraid… move forward… keep on “keepin’ on!”… and believe Him for His promises.
©2010 Debbie Robus
…and I told you, " We have reached the hill country. It belongs to the Amorites now, but the LORD our God is giving it to us. He is the same God our ancestors worshiped, and he has told us to go in and take this land, so don't hesitate and be afraid."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you know someone who seems like a hopeless case? No matter how hard you pray for them… no matter how hard you try to help them… nothing seems to work. Their situation never seems to change, much less actually improve. You feel frustrated… maybe even angry or disappointed… and sometimes, you want to give up and walk away. But something (or is it Someone?) won’t let you. Somehow you feel this nagging sense that you need to keep plugging away. You need to keep being a friend and loving this person and doing what you feel GOD is telling you to do… and you trust that HE will handle the outcome.
This is what I got from today’s passage. Sometimes it looks like we are fighting a losing battle – that we have reached “the hill country, and it belongs to someone else.” It appears that things are settled in one direction… yet God says, “Keep going… we can do this together, and I’ll make the difference!”
I urge you today to be bold in your faith. If you are struggling with something or someone over a particular situation, and you simply don’t seem to see any progress, yet you have this pervading sense to continue to witness and be of help, listen to your heart! Be attuned to God’s guidance and instruction, and when HE says move, then you move… but not a minute sooner. If God tells you He is giving you victory, don’t hesitate and be afraid… move forward… keep on “keepin’ on!”… and believe Him for His promises.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 30, 2010
May 30 ~ Genesis 26:23-24
Isaac went on to Beersheba, where the LORD appeared to him that night and told him, "Don't be afraid! I am the God who was worshiped by your father Abraham, my servant. I will be with you and bless you, and because of Abraham I will give you many descendants."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Has it ever occurred to you how much other people influence your life? Especially when we are young, we tend to hold many of the same values and opinions as our parents and grandparents. For instance, I know that my apprehension about thunderstorms and tornadoes is a direct result of the countless days and nights I was whisked to the storm cellar with great fanfare and drama. I know that some of the people with whom I grew up have a strong, but misguided, fear of people of other races, because their parents and/or grandparents have told them over and over how inferior these people are. I know many young children who have no real basis for any political leaning and are years away from being able to cast a vote, yet they are squarely in the camp of one candidate or political party.
What does this have to do with Abraham and Isaac? I’ll tell you! Abraham was God’s faithful servant. Even when God told him to take Isaac to the altar and offer him as a living sacrifice, Abraham obeyed. Now, we all know that God did not allow this to happen, but He did bless Abraham’s faithfulness. And all through his life, Isaac witnessed how his father served God. So it’s a pretty fair bet that Isaac was equally faithful, due to his father’s example and influence. And God told Isaac that he would bless him and multiply his family because of Abraham.
So the point is…God will bless you for your faithfulness and your servitude. But more than that… He stands ready to bless those over whom you have influence. The more you trust God and serve Him, the more those who look up to you and follow you will do the same – and enjoy the same blessings. Make sense? I know… the magnitude of the responsibility to live for God is HUGE! But think how worthwhile it is. I know I am blessed because of the Godly influences in my life – even if they did contribute to my fear of storms! And with God’s help, we can overcome negative influences (and I have come a long way in the storm department!) I bet many of you were blessed to have faith-filled servant relatives who influenced you, too. Our job is to “pay it forward”… to live a courageous, fearless life in Christ and pave the way for future generations. It’s a big order… but I know you are up to it! Trust God to show you how to serve Him, and to be with you every step of the way.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Isaac went on to Beersheba, where the LORD appeared to him that night and told him, "Don't be afraid! I am the God who was worshiped by your father Abraham, my servant. I will be with you and bless you, and because of Abraham I will give you many descendants."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Has it ever occurred to you how much other people influence your life? Especially when we are young, we tend to hold many of the same values and opinions as our parents and grandparents. For instance, I know that my apprehension about thunderstorms and tornadoes is a direct result of the countless days and nights I was whisked to the storm cellar with great fanfare and drama. I know that some of the people with whom I grew up have a strong, but misguided, fear of people of other races, because their parents and/or grandparents have told them over and over how inferior these people are. I know many young children who have no real basis for any political leaning and are years away from being able to cast a vote, yet they are squarely in the camp of one candidate or political party.
What does this have to do with Abraham and Isaac? I’ll tell you! Abraham was God’s faithful servant. Even when God told him to take Isaac to the altar and offer him as a living sacrifice, Abraham obeyed. Now, we all know that God did not allow this to happen, but He did bless Abraham’s faithfulness. And all through his life, Isaac witnessed how his father served God. So it’s a pretty fair bet that Isaac was equally faithful, due to his father’s example and influence. And God told Isaac that he would bless him and multiply his family because of Abraham.
So the point is…God will bless you for your faithfulness and your servitude. But more than that… He stands ready to bless those over whom you have influence. The more you trust God and serve Him, the more those who look up to you and follow you will do the same – and enjoy the same blessings. Make sense? I know… the magnitude of the responsibility to live for God is HUGE! But think how worthwhile it is. I know I am blessed because of the Godly influences in my life – even if they did contribute to my fear of storms! And with God’s help, we can overcome negative influences (and I have come a long way in the storm department!) I bet many of you were blessed to have faith-filled servant relatives who influenced you, too. Our job is to “pay it forward”… to live a courageous, fearless life in Christ and pave the way for future generations. It’s a big order… but I know you are up to it! Trust God to show you how to serve Him, and to be with you every step of the way.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 20, 2010
May 20 ~ Genesis 50:19
But Joseph told them, "Don't be afraid! I have no right to change what God has decided.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the spring of 2006, two students at Taylor University, an evangelical college in Indiana, traveled with fellow students and staff members to the school’s Ft. Wayne campus to set up a banquet. That night around 8:00, the group headed back to the main campus on I-69. A truck driver lost control of his semi and crashed into the van, killing five of the nine people instantly. Susie Van Ryn was telephoned in Michigan and told that her daughter, Laura, was badly injured and had been taken to a hospital in Ft. Wayne. Colleen Cerak and her family were notified that their daughter, Whitney, was dead. In weeks to come, the amazing, and bittersweet discovery would be made that, in fact, Whitney was alive and had been mistaken for Laura. Now a once-grieving family was filled with joy, while another was left to mourn the loss of their daughter.
In an interview with Matt Lauer of NBC’s Today show, posted at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23849928/page/11/, Lauer asked Susie Van Ryn about the experience and the tragic loss of her daughter.
Matt Lauer: Do you ever question, Susie, how God could have let this happen?
Susie Van Ryn: Sure. You want to say that. And yet I don't have to look very far to see that it happens all the time. It happens everywhere to anyone. And why should I be any different?
Whitney Cerak, the girl who was mistakenly thought to be dead had this to say…
Whitney Cerak: Well, I would just, like, cry out to God a lot. And just be, like, "Why? Why me?" Because everyone else in the accident -- they were just amazing people. And so I never really understood why I was, in a way, left behind. And I was just talking to my dad about it one day and I was, like, "Dad, I don't get this. Why me?" And he's, like, "Whitney, why not you?"
This is a drastic and dramatic example of a circumstance where it would seem that anyone in this position would question God. WHY would something like this happen? And yet, God brought so many good things out of this set of circumstances. Countless people have been touched by the story of the Van Ryns and the Ceraks. In a recent follow-up interview, Matt Lauer learned that God has used these families in mighty ways since this life-changing event in 2006. And he was visibly moved by their faith and courage. Susie Van Ryn commented that she, too, could ask “Why me?” - but she could also ask, “Why not me?”
There may be circumstances in your life that are causing you to ask, “Why are you allowing this, God?” There may be situations that cause you to ask, “Wasn’t there a better way?” And asking this is not wrong. In the Garden of Gethsemane, even Jesus asked God, “Is there another way to do this?” Asking is one thing… and becoming bitter or failing to accept God’s answer is another. In the end, God does have a perfect plan. So often we can’t see it, but that doesn’t mean it’s not there. We cannot operate in fear of what God will choose for us. We must boldly, faithfully trust that whatever He takes us to… He will take us through… because this is the truth. Communicate with God… question His choices, if you must… but don’t try to change them on your own. If you will trust God to see you through every trial and scary situation, He will do just that – and so much more.
We don’t get to choose so much of what happens to us in life… but when we stop and look at WHO is in charge of the choices, we really wouldn’t want to, anyway. Whatever you fear… whatever challenges you this day… trust GOD to handle this circumstance for you. It’s time we started believing that our Heavenly Father truly does know best – and acting like it!
©2010 Debbie Robus
But Joseph told them, "Don't be afraid! I have no right to change what God has decided.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the spring of 2006, two students at Taylor University, an evangelical college in Indiana, traveled with fellow students and staff members to the school’s Ft. Wayne campus to set up a banquet. That night around 8:00, the group headed back to the main campus on I-69. A truck driver lost control of his semi and crashed into the van, killing five of the nine people instantly. Susie Van Ryn was telephoned in Michigan and told that her daughter, Laura, was badly injured and had been taken to a hospital in Ft. Wayne. Colleen Cerak and her family were notified that their daughter, Whitney, was dead. In weeks to come, the amazing, and bittersweet discovery would be made that, in fact, Whitney was alive and had been mistaken for Laura. Now a once-grieving family was filled with joy, while another was left to mourn the loss of their daughter.
In an interview with Matt Lauer of NBC’s Today show, posted at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23849928/page/11/, Lauer asked Susie Van Ryn about the experience and the tragic loss of her daughter.
Matt Lauer: Do you ever question, Susie, how God could have let this happen?
Susie Van Ryn: Sure. You want to say that. And yet I don't have to look very far to see that it happens all the time. It happens everywhere to anyone. And why should I be any different?
Whitney Cerak, the girl who was mistakenly thought to be dead had this to say…
Whitney Cerak: Well, I would just, like, cry out to God a lot. And just be, like, "Why? Why me?" Because everyone else in the accident -- they were just amazing people. And so I never really understood why I was, in a way, left behind. And I was just talking to my dad about it one day and I was, like, "Dad, I don't get this. Why me?" And he's, like, "Whitney, why not you?"
This is a drastic and dramatic example of a circumstance where it would seem that anyone in this position would question God. WHY would something like this happen? And yet, God brought so many good things out of this set of circumstances. Countless people have been touched by the story of the Van Ryns and the Ceraks. In a recent follow-up interview, Matt Lauer learned that God has used these families in mighty ways since this life-changing event in 2006. And he was visibly moved by their faith and courage. Susie Van Ryn commented that she, too, could ask “Why me?” - but she could also ask, “Why not me?”
There may be circumstances in your life that are causing you to ask, “Why are you allowing this, God?” There may be situations that cause you to ask, “Wasn’t there a better way?” And asking this is not wrong. In the Garden of Gethsemane, even Jesus asked God, “Is there another way to do this?” Asking is one thing… and becoming bitter or failing to accept God’s answer is another. In the end, God does have a perfect plan. So often we can’t see it, but that doesn’t mean it’s not there. We cannot operate in fear of what God will choose for us. We must boldly, faithfully trust that whatever He takes us to… He will take us through… because this is the truth. Communicate with God… question His choices, if you must… but don’t try to change them on your own. If you will trust God to see you through every trial and scary situation, He will do just that – and so much more.
We don’t get to choose so much of what happens to us in life… but when we stop and look at WHO is in charge of the choices, we really wouldn’t want to, anyway. Whatever you fear… whatever challenges you this day… trust GOD to handle this circumstance for you. It’s time we started believing that our Heavenly Father truly does know best – and acting like it!
©2010 Debbie Robus
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