Daniel 9:9
Lord God, you are merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I
sat at the table today with our nephew, Nathan, trying to coax him to
eat. “Those are strawberries...Yum! Yum!” He would look away and hide
his face. “Mmmmmm...chocolate milk! It’s goooooooooooood!” He would
push away the sippy cup. I know Nathan is moody at times...and just shy
of his 2nd birthday, he is still figuring us out! So I pretended not
to notice him. I quietly ate my lunch...turned on a television
show...even got my laptop and started to check e-mail. Of course, I was
watching him intently...and at times I felt him watching ME! If he
noticed that I noticed him, he would
retreat...put his goldfish and strawberries back in the bowl, and hide
his face. It was a game...and I caught on pretty fast!
Over the
course of about 30 minutes, Nathan discovered that the food I had given
him was really tasty...and it all disappeared into his tummy. No matter
how many times I told him how delicious it was...it had to be HIS
idea. So I quickly decided to be gracious and merciful and ignore
him...to play HIS game and forgive his stubbornness.
This is not
just the game of a toddler. We do it all the time with God. He shows
us what to do...and what not to do...and we try to do things our way.
We essentially say, “Don’t look at me right now!” and pretend that if
God does not acknowledge what we are doing (or not doing), it doesn’t
count. Then when things fall apart, where do we run? You’ve got
it...we head straight for God - and want Him to forgive us and restore
us. And usually He does just that!
If you read the next few
verses of Daniel 9, you will see, however, that God has His limits!
While He will never turn His back on us completely, God may “hang us out
to dry” a little. There may come a day when He says, “That’s it...I’ve
been patient with you long enough. I told you “not to touch the hot
stove” and you kept inching closer and closer, so you will just have to
get burned a little to learn your lesson!” Or we ask and ask for things
that God doesn’t seem to deliver, and we wonder why He is silent...only
to realize that we have failed to do something He asked of us – or we
have disobeyed Him repeatedly in some area. God is loving,
compassionate, merciful and gracious...but He is also just and fair.
So
for today, I have allowed Nathan the leeway to eat at his pace and to
decide whether he was hungry. When he is older, I may have to INSIST
that he eat his veggies or drink his milk. But I will always love him,
just the same. And God loves us. He wants to snuggle us in His arms
like we would a 2-year-old who is learning the ropes. But He also wants
us to grow up and mature in our faith and our discipleship.
How
patient has God been with you lately? Are there areas where He has been
more than lenient? Are there other situations where you are probably
testing the limits of His mercy? Isn’t it time you grew up in your
faith and started listening to God a little more closely? Will God have
to lose His patience with you before you truly “get it”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label consequences. Show all posts
Showing posts with label consequences. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for October 6, 2013
Proverbs 14:12-13
There’s a way of life that looks harmless enough;
look again—it leads straight to hell.
Sure, those people appear to be having a good time,
but all that laughter will end in heartbreak.
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.
Someone brought my mother-in-law some wonderful chocolates from Scotland. We were visiting her one day, and she offered us each a piece, commenting on how good the candy tasted. I politely declined, since I am allergic to chocolate, and she said, “I really don’t think just a little taste would hurt you.” Greg replied…”It might only put her in the ER and not actually admit her to the hospital!” There are plenty of times when I have to make a choice with regard to foods… particularly when I am uncertain of all of the ingredients. If I have even the slightest doubt, I opt to skip it. Trust me… there have been plenty of tempting and tantalizing foods that I so wanted to try – and they looked “harmless enough”… but I knew that they at least held the potential to send me to the ER… if not to kill me!!
I know this sounds overly dramatic. While I have been whisked to the hospital or clinic a few times, I have thankfully never been at death’s door over an allergic reaction. But sadly, a lot of us tinker with “death” of sorts on a regular basis in our daily living. We do things that we know displease God. We “sew our wild oats” and figure we will “square things” with God later. As my former pastor John Miles often said, “Sin can be fun!” But the consequences of sin are anything but a laughing matter.
The next time you start to share a juicy tidbit of gossip with friends, ask yourself… “What’s the payoff?” When you are at a party and things start to take an unsavory direction, consider whether you should stick around… or whether you should have accepted the invitation in the first place. If someone asks you to cover for them, and you think this would make things easier for you in your relationship with this person… or your job… or your standing in the church/school/community… weigh the consequences. Will it really make things easier in the long run… or are you choosing a short-term solution?
Every day, we make life or death decisions. They may not be of the “Will this kill me if I eat it?” variety… but the results are essentially just as critical. Before you choose temporary fun and laughter, consider the long-term ramifications. You’ve heard the adage… “One minute on the lips… forever on the hips.” Think of it in spiritual terms… “One minute of “harmless enough” fun…forever in heartbreak and misery.” The risk is too high… the price is too costly. In the words of Joshua 24:15… “If you decide that it’s a bad thing to worship God, then choose a god you’d rather serve—and do it today. Choose one of the gods your ancestors worshiped from the country beyond The River, or one of the gods of the Amorites, on whose land you’re now living. As for me and my family, we’ll worship God.”
Will you choose momentary fun and a good time… or the blessings of God’s favor and eternal life? The ball is totally in your court!
©2013 Debbie Robus
There’s a way of life that looks harmless enough;
look again—it leads straight to hell.
Sure, those people appear to be having a good time,
but all that laughter will end in heartbreak.
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.
Someone brought my mother-in-law some wonderful chocolates from Scotland. We were visiting her one day, and she offered us each a piece, commenting on how good the candy tasted. I politely declined, since I am allergic to chocolate, and she said, “I really don’t think just a little taste would hurt you.” Greg replied…”It might only put her in the ER and not actually admit her to the hospital!” There are plenty of times when I have to make a choice with regard to foods… particularly when I am uncertain of all of the ingredients. If I have even the slightest doubt, I opt to skip it. Trust me… there have been plenty of tempting and tantalizing foods that I so wanted to try – and they looked “harmless enough”… but I knew that they at least held the potential to send me to the ER… if not to kill me!!
I know this sounds overly dramatic. While I have been whisked to the hospital or clinic a few times, I have thankfully never been at death’s door over an allergic reaction. But sadly, a lot of us tinker with “death” of sorts on a regular basis in our daily living. We do things that we know displease God. We “sew our wild oats” and figure we will “square things” with God later. As my former pastor John Miles often said, “Sin can be fun!” But the consequences of sin are anything but a laughing matter.
The next time you start to share a juicy tidbit of gossip with friends, ask yourself… “What’s the payoff?” When you are at a party and things start to take an unsavory direction, consider whether you should stick around… or whether you should have accepted the invitation in the first place. If someone asks you to cover for them, and you think this would make things easier for you in your relationship with this person… or your job… or your standing in the church/school/community… weigh the consequences. Will it really make things easier in the long run… or are you choosing a short-term solution?
Every day, we make life or death decisions. They may not be of the “Will this kill me if I eat it?” variety… but the results are essentially just as critical. Before you choose temporary fun and laughter, consider the long-term ramifications. You’ve heard the adage… “One minute on the lips… forever on the hips.” Think of it in spiritual terms… “One minute of “harmless enough” fun…forever in heartbreak and misery.” The risk is too high… the price is too costly. In the words of Joshua 24:15… “If you decide that it’s a bad thing to worship God, then choose a god you’d rather serve—and do it today. Choose one of the gods your ancestors worshiped from the country beyond The River, or one of the gods of the Amorites, on whose land you’re now living. As for me and my family, we’ll worship God.”
Will you choose momentary fun and a good time… or the blessings of God’s favor and eternal life? The ball is totally in your court!
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 26, 2013
Joshua 24:13-15
I gave you land you had not worked on, and I gave you towns you did not build—the towns where you are now living. I gave you vineyards and olive groves for food, though you did not plant them.
“So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I found a suggestion on Pinterest for rewarding children for good behavior at home. This idea involves a little printed card with blocks for numbers 1-20. We are trying this with Timothy. Each time he deserves to be recognized for what he has done, a number is punched. When all of the blocks on the card have been punched, Timothy gets to pick a “treat” from a box or basket. Everything Timothy needs for growth and survival is provided in our home… food, clothing, shelter, love and nurture, and more. We freely provide all of this for him. But let’s be honest… it’s great when he chooses to behave nicely and honor our nurture and provisions - to play carefully with his toys and put them away when he is done, to use good table manners, and to respond quickly and positively when we ask him to do something!
I tell Timothy and Zola often… “It’s your choice.” But I had to laugh as I read this passage, where it said…”if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve.” Often I say to them, “It’s your choice,” and add…”but choose now!” Even at ages four and two, children are able to make simple choices and to understand the outcomes of each option, and there is no sense in prolonging the decision!
From an early age, we learn to make choices. We learn that choices determine the outcome… and some come with consequences. The choices may seem easier when you are two and four… but essentially, they are no different. You know what it means to serve God… you’ve read the scriptures… you’ve seen true Christian discipleship in action. You know that the life of a Christian isn’t always easy… but you also know the rewards – both promised for Eternity, and those here on earth each and every day.
This passage seems a little cold and callous on the surface, but when you boil it all down, it’s really pretty basic. Pick a side. Serve God or serve whoever or whatever you like. But understand what you are in for if you choose to serve something or someone else. I’m happy to be able to say that for me and my family, it’s a no brainer! One day with God is better than a zillion without Him. I’m going to be “punching the discipleship card” and reaping God’s rewards “to infinity and beyond”! What about you? It’s your choice…what have you decided?
©2013 Debbie Robus
I gave you land you had not worked on, and I gave you towns you did not build—the towns where you are now living. I gave you vineyards and olive groves for food, though you did not plant them.
“So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I found a suggestion on Pinterest for rewarding children for good behavior at home. This idea involves a little printed card with blocks for numbers 1-20. We are trying this with Timothy. Each time he deserves to be recognized for what he has done, a number is punched. When all of the blocks on the card have been punched, Timothy gets to pick a “treat” from a box or basket. Everything Timothy needs for growth and survival is provided in our home… food, clothing, shelter, love and nurture, and more. We freely provide all of this for him. But let’s be honest… it’s great when he chooses to behave nicely and honor our nurture and provisions - to play carefully with his toys and put them away when he is done, to use good table manners, and to respond quickly and positively when we ask him to do something!
I tell Timothy and Zola often… “It’s your choice.” But I had to laugh as I read this passage, where it said…”if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve.” Often I say to them, “It’s your choice,” and add…”but choose now!” Even at ages four and two, children are able to make simple choices and to understand the outcomes of each option, and there is no sense in prolonging the decision!
From an early age, we learn to make choices. We learn that choices determine the outcome… and some come with consequences. The choices may seem easier when you are two and four… but essentially, they are no different. You know what it means to serve God… you’ve read the scriptures… you’ve seen true Christian discipleship in action. You know that the life of a Christian isn’t always easy… but you also know the rewards – both promised for Eternity, and those here on earth each and every day.
This passage seems a little cold and callous on the surface, but when you boil it all down, it’s really pretty basic. Pick a side. Serve God or serve whoever or whatever you like. But understand what you are in for if you choose to serve something or someone else. I’m happy to be able to say that for me and my family, it’s a no brainer! One day with God is better than a zillion without Him. I’m going to be “punching the discipleship card” and reaping God’s rewards “to infinity and beyond”! What about you? It’s your choice…what have you decided?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 4, 2013
Romans 2:6-7
God will reward each of us for what we have done. He will give eternal life to everyone who has patiently done what is good in the hope of receiving glory, honor, and life that lasts forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
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.
If you are like me, there are days when you wonder why you bother… with certain people, projects and situations. I am reminded of the child whose family a social worker, a pediatrician, and I tried to help when I was teaching kindergarten. The more we did, the more the father demanded we do. One day he told the social worker, “Oh… and I need a car, too.” She replied, “What color would you like?” She said later, “The demand was so preposterous that I felt it merited an equally ridiculous response.” Of course, DHS was not going to provide this family with a car – nor was anyone else! But we didn’t stop trying to help them… and we certainly did not stop loving the innocent children in this situation.
And this is the point of the Apostle Paul’s words to the Romans. God expects us to “keep on keepin’ on.” He calls us to be patient and to persevere. He doesn’t expect us to be doormats or to take any and all “dirt” that others wish to heap on us. God doesn’t want us to be mistreated any more than He approves when we mistreat others. But God does want us to keep trying… to never stop loving, serving, caring… and behaving with dignity. To do otherwise is to ignore God and thumb our nose at how He has patiently loved and nurtured each of us… and in the long run, this could have significant consequences!
I like how these verses (and Verse 5) are stated in The Message… “You’re not getting by with anything. Every refusal and avoidance of God adds fuel to the fire. The day is coming when it’s going to blaze hot and high, God’s fiery and righteous judgment. Make no mistake: In the end you get what’s coming to you—Real Life for those who work on God’s side, but to those who insist on getting their own way and take the path of least resistance, Fire!”
In the end, everyone who tried to help my little student’s family decided the only action that made sense was to buy them all bus tickets back to their home state of Pennsylvania, where hopefully family members who lived there could help them. But that doesn’t mean I quit caring about this little boy and his sister. To this day, I think of my little Chuckie often and wonder what became of him… and pray that he is safe and well. I believe this is my “part” now on behalf of this child… and that God will handle the rest.
I fully understand the temptation to quit… to give up on certain people, situations… and sometimes, even our faith in God - if things are really going badly. But this is not the hallmark of a faithful Disciple of Christ! We would not want God to give up on us… we most certainly do not want Him to become aggravated or disgusted and toss us into the Lake of Fire (and thankfully, I don’t believe He will do this to those who truly are His born-again disciples). I am so grateful for God’s patience with me… the blessings He continually pours out on me, even though on any given day I am so undeserving – and probably make Him feel like my doormat. I am determined to do better… to love and serve Him more… and to be more patient and caring toward others in His name. What about you… are you with me?
©2013 Debbie Robus
God will reward each of us for what we have done. He will give eternal life to everyone who has patiently done what is good in the hope of receiving glory, honor, and life that lasts forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
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.
If you are like me, there are days when you wonder why you bother… with certain people, projects and situations. I am reminded of the child whose family a social worker, a pediatrician, and I tried to help when I was teaching kindergarten. The more we did, the more the father demanded we do. One day he told the social worker, “Oh… and I need a car, too.” She replied, “What color would you like?” She said later, “The demand was so preposterous that I felt it merited an equally ridiculous response.” Of course, DHS was not going to provide this family with a car – nor was anyone else! But we didn’t stop trying to help them… and we certainly did not stop loving the innocent children in this situation.
And this is the point of the Apostle Paul’s words to the Romans. God expects us to “keep on keepin’ on.” He calls us to be patient and to persevere. He doesn’t expect us to be doormats or to take any and all “dirt” that others wish to heap on us. God doesn’t want us to be mistreated any more than He approves when we mistreat others. But God does want us to keep trying… to never stop loving, serving, caring… and behaving with dignity. To do otherwise is to ignore God and thumb our nose at how He has patiently loved and nurtured each of us… and in the long run, this could have significant consequences!
I like how these verses (and Verse 5) are stated in The Message… “You’re not getting by with anything. Every refusal and avoidance of God adds fuel to the fire. The day is coming when it’s going to blaze hot and high, God’s fiery and righteous judgment. Make no mistake: In the end you get what’s coming to you—Real Life for those who work on God’s side, but to those who insist on getting their own way and take the path of least resistance, Fire!”
In the end, everyone who tried to help my little student’s family decided the only action that made sense was to buy them all bus tickets back to their home state of Pennsylvania, where hopefully family members who lived there could help them. But that doesn’t mean I quit caring about this little boy and his sister. To this day, I think of my little Chuckie often and wonder what became of him… and pray that he is safe and well. I believe this is my “part” now on behalf of this child… and that God will handle the rest.
I fully understand the temptation to quit… to give up on certain people, situations… and sometimes, even our faith in God - if things are really going badly. But this is not the hallmark of a faithful Disciple of Christ! We would not want God to give up on us… we most certainly do not want Him to become aggravated or disgusted and toss us into the Lake of Fire (and thankfully, I don’t believe He will do this to those who truly are His born-again disciples). I am so grateful for God’s patience with me… the blessings He continually pours out on me, even though on any given day I am so undeserving – and probably make Him feel like my doormat. I am determined to do better… to love and serve Him more… and to be more patient and caring toward others in His name. What about you… are you with me?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 28, 2013
Numbers 14:17-18
Show us your great power, Lord. You promised that you love to show mercy and kindness. And you said that you are very patient, but that you will punish everyone guilty of doing wrong—not only them but their children and grandchildren as well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last night, a cousin posted a photo on Facebook that I had never seen of my paternal great-grandfather, my great-grandmother, and five of their nine children. The photo was probably taken in 1906. I had never seen a picture of my great-grandfather Chandler… and none of my great-grandmother at such a young age (26). I studied the photo and looked at their features… could I see any of my own in their faces? My great-grandfather’s face reminded me of my uncle (his son - my grandfather’s brother). If I looked carefully, I could see that my grandfather more closely resembled his own mother… and I probably have some of her features, as well.
I was discussing this picture with one of my cousins, and she said, “Now we know where we came from!” Indeed, we are largely a compilation of our ancestors, from physical characteristics to mannerisms… and possibly even talents and abilities. We may belong to a “musical family,” or one that has a rich history of athleticism. Our family may have a lineage of scholars who achieved great success in business and were respected in their roles as pillars of the community. At the same time, we sometimes carry genes that make us prone to such things as heart disease, obesity, diabetes… and even alcoholism. And all too sadly, some of us carry the “gene” or “family curse” for afflictions such as depression or mental illness, a variety of addictions, or even a propensity for physical abuse and more.
As I study my family’s photographs, I wonder… who do I resemble – both physically, and in other ways? What was handed down to me? It’s daunting to think that the things you and I do today could have such a powerful impact on the lives of our children, grandchildren and even our great-grandchildren and beyond. But in some ways, I believe they do.
Am I saying that God looks at us and says, “I don’t like what Tom is doing, but I’m going to wait and punish his great-grand-daughter for it!”? Not exactly. But I believe very strongly that people are watching… especially our children… and they pick up our little peculiarities and habits, even when we don’t realize this is happening. This is why someone develops a sharp tongue just like his/her father or a “worry wart” attitude like Grandmother’s. This is how families develop a mindset of bigotry and racism… how some become known collectively for such things as laziness, negativity, elitism… or even general sinfulness. And this is how we pass these things on to future generations.
Inclinations toward certain attitudes and/or vices are often instigated by the adults in our circle, and the devil takes great delight in fanning the flames to cause a firestorm. God allows us free will and the option to act and think whatever we choose. How many times have you heard someone say, “If it was good enough for Mom or Dad, it’s good enough for me!” or “I can’t help it… I’m just like my Mom/Dad/Grandma/Grandpa/Uncle Joe…” (you fill in the names)? God is patient with us and gives us the freedom to decide whether to be like Mom/Dad/Grandma/Grandpa… or to be like Him. The ultimate decision is totally ours. He allows us to choose… even when we elect poorly or follow the wrong examples. But the stakes are high… the consequences can be costly… and the devil is ready to take even the smallest spark and ignite it for his own advantage.
What if we started making a concerted effort today to live differently… to polish and perfect the good characteristics we inherited... to combine them with God’s strength and power in order to combat the not-so-good traits? What if we vowed to break the curses of past sins… and never to perpetuate them to future generations? What if you and I lived – and served – in such a manner that we didn’t have to fear God’s retribution? I don’t know about you, but if any of my “children” say, “Oh, I got that from my Aunt Debbie,” I want it to be something that pleases God rather than something of the devil!
What “curses” from your past do you struggle with even today? Are there areas in which you need to say, “LORD, I know you have patiently waited for me to surrender this to you… and today is that day!”? Wouldn’t this be a great time to wipe the slate clean… to allow God to have control over your past, present and future? What are you waiting for? Make this the day you more closely resemble Jesus Christ than anyone else. Let this be the start of a brand new chapter… and a whole other story - for you and future generations.
What will you decide? Who will you look like today?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Show us your great power, Lord. You promised that you love to show mercy and kindness. And you said that you are very patient, but that you will punish everyone guilty of doing wrong—not only them but their children and grandchildren as well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last night, a cousin posted a photo on Facebook that I had never seen of my paternal great-grandfather, my great-grandmother, and five of their nine children. The photo was probably taken in 1906. I had never seen a picture of my great-grandfather Chandler… and none of my great-grandmother at such a young age (26). I studied the photo and looked at their features… could I see any of my own in their faces? My great-grandfather’s face reminded me of my uncle (his son - my grandfather’s brother). If I looked carefully, I could see that my grandfather more closely resembled his own mother… and I probably have some of her features, as well.
I was discussing this picture with one of my cousins, and she said, “Now we know where we came from!” Indeed, we are largely a compilation of our ancestors, from physical characteristics to mannerisms… and possibly even talents and abilities. We may belong to a “musical family,” or one that has a rich history of athleticism. Our family may have a lineage of scholars who achieved great success in business and were respected in their roles as pillars of the community. At the same time, we sometimes carry genes that make us prone to such things as heart disease, obesity, diabetes… and even alcoholism. And all too sadly, some of us carry the “gene” or “family curse” for afflictions such as depression or mental illness, a variety of addictions, or even a propensity for physical abuse and more.
As I study my family’s photographs, I wonder… who do I resemble – both physically, and in other ways? What was handed down to me? It’s daunting to think that the things you and I do today could have such a powerful impact on the lives of our children, grandchildren and even our great-grandchildren and beyond. But in some ways, I believe they do.
Am I saying that God looks at us and says, “I don’t like what Tom is doing, but I’m going to wait and punish his great-grand-daughter for it!”? Not exactly. But I believe very strongly that people are watching… especially our children… and they pick up our little peculiarities and habits, even when we don’t realize this is happening. This is why someone develops a sharp tongue just like his/her father or a “worry wart” attitude like Grandmother’s. This is how families develop a mindset of bigotry and racism… how some become known collectively for such things as laziness, negativity, elitism… or even general sinfulness. And this is how we pass these things on to future generations.
Inclinations toward certain attitudes and/or vices are often instigated by the adults in our circle, and the devil takes great delight in fanning the flames to cause a firestorm. God allows us free will and the option to act and think whatever we choose. How many times have you heard someone say, “If it was good enough for Mom or Dad, it’s good enough for me!” or “I can’t help it… I’m just like my Mom/Dad/Grandma/Grandpa/Uncle Joe…” (you fill in the names)? God is patient with us and gives us the freedom to decide whether to be like Mom/Dad/Grandma/Grandpa… or to be like Him. The ultimate decision is totally ours. He allows us to choose… even when we elect poorly or follow the wrong examples. But the stakes are high… the consequences can be costly… and the devil is ready to take even the smallest spark and ignite it for his own advantage.
What if we started making a concerted effort today to live differently… to polish and perfect the good characteristics we inherited... to combine them with God’s strength and power in order to combat the not-so-good traits? What if we vowed to break the curses of past sins… and never to perpetuate them to future generations? What if you and I lived – and served – in such a manner that we didn’t have to fear God’s retribution? I don’t know about you, but if any of my “children” say, “Oh, I got that from my Aunt Debbie,” I want it to be something that pleases God rather than something of the devil!
What “curses” from your past do you struggle with even today? Are there areas in which you need to say, “LORD, I know you have patiently waited for me to surrender this to you… and today is that day!”? Wouldn’t this be a great time to wipe the slate clean… to allow God to have control over your past, present and future? What are you waiting for? Make this the day you more closely resemble Jesus Christ than anyone else. Let this be the start of a brand new chapter… and a whole other story - for you and future generations.
What will you decide? Who will you look like today?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 15, 2013
May 15 ~ Ecclesiastes 8:11
Because the sentence against evil deeds is so long in coming, people in general think they can get by with murder.
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.
When children are little, their parents tell them not to run into the street… to come back when they call to them…to answer them right away when they speak. And if they don’t, there are consequences. But generally, the parents cut the child a little slack, allowing for them to grow and learn. As children turn into teenagers and do not return phone calls or texts… do not pay attention to what is said… and do not follow certain rules, there are stiffer consequences. Still, it may seem the kids are “getting away with murder.”
When these teens leave home, become adults, and do not pay bills on time and/or answer creditor’s calls…when they do not show up for work and do a good job… when they don’t pay the rent and handle their responsibilities – or they break the law – the consequences are harsher. There comes a day when Mom and Dad can no longer make things okay in every situation… where there is no way to avoid the reality of owning up to misdeeds, irresponsibility, and the outright defiance of authority.
It’s no different for Christians. Too many of us coast along thinking we can play at our faith… that no matter what we do, God will still love us. We will still go to heaven, so it’s all good! But I’m here to tell you… God will only be patient with us so long. Just as patience runs out on the part of parents, friends and those in authority who have been disobeyed and/or disrespected… God’s patience will run out! He will become disgusted with our dishonor – and often our outright abuse of Him and His blessings. And we will not be allowed to continue in this manner forever without consequences.
Does this mean that God will directly punish us for our mistreatment of Him and others? I believe it’s more of an “allowance” by God for some of the bad things that can happen. God is plenty capable of practicing “tough love.” He doesn’t want us to lose our home, car and belongings because we don’t make our payments. He doesn’t want to see children taken from families because the parents cannot properly care for them. God does not enjoy seeing someone behave in such a way that they lose their job or their health… family relationships and friendships. But sometimes, in order to get our attention, He has to allow these things to happen! When we push His patience too far…God will step in and take action! While we may escape an outright “punishment” from God…He most surely will withhold blessings that would have otherwise been bestowed upon us. Either way, we lose.
We all have our limits. Some of us will lie down and let others treat us like a doormat for a while longer than others. But at some point, pretty much everyone says, “That’s enough!” So why are we surprised that God would do the same? It may seem like the other guy “gets away with murder,” but I assure you… a day of reckoning is coming – for him/her, and for us. If you have tried God’s patience, at the very least your life will not have been filled with the joy and blessings that God had in store for you. You will not fully realize all of the wonderful plans He had designed to shower upon your life. And what will you have to say for yourself?
Have you tried God’s patience to the limit? Isn’t it time you began to make the necessary changes… to show Him the honor and respect that He deserves? Aren’t you ready to take responsibility for your actions and realize that the only way to truly be happy – in life in general, and in your Christian faith – is to do what God has asked of you… to be mature and accountable, reliable and trustworthy?
You may feel like God is giving others more than their share of second chances. You may feel that the other guy gets all the breaks and doesn’t have to “pay” for them. But I can assure you, nobody gets away with anything. God is watching for those who live with honor, sensibility, consistency… and obedience. At some point, He will act – one way or another! Don’t live for God because you are scared not to… do it because you want to please the One who has done more for us than we could ever imagine… much less deserve! God is so patient with each of us already. Are you doing all you can to please Him and earn His patience? Isn’t today a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Because the sentence against evil deeds is so long in coming, people in general think they can get by with murder.
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.
When children are little, their parents tell them not to run into the street… to come back when they call to them…to answer them right away when they speak. And if they don’t, there are consequences. But generally, the parents cut the child a little slack, allowing for them to grow and learn. As children turn into teenagers and do not return phone calls or texts… do not pay attention to what is said… and do not follow certain rules, there are stiffer consequences. Still, it may seem the kids are “getting away with murder.”
When these teens leave home, become adults, and do not pay bills on time and/or answer creditor’s calls…when they do not show up for work and do a good job… when they don’t pay the rent and handle their responsibilities – or they break the law – the consequences are harsher. There comes a day when Mom and Dad can no longer make things okay in every situation… where there is no way to avoid the reality of owning up to misdeeds, irresponsibility, and the outright defiance of authority.
It’s no different for Christians. Too many of us coast along thinking we can play at our faith… that no matter what we do, God will still love us. We will still go to heaven, so it’s all good! But I’m here to tell you… God will only be patient with us so long. Just as patience runs out on the part of parents, friends and those in authority who have been disobeyed and/or disrespected… God’s patience will run out! He will become disgusted with our dishonor – and often our outright abuse of Him and His blessings. And we will not be allowed to continue in this manner forever without consequences.
Does this mean that God will directly punish us for our mistreatment of Him and others? I believe it’s more of an “allowance” by God for some of the bad things that can happen. God is plenty capable of practicing “tough love.” He doesn’t want us to lose our home, car and belongings because we don’t make our payments. He doesn’t want to see children taken from families because the parents cannot properly care for them. God does not enjoy seeing someone behave in such a way that they lose their job or their health… family relationships and friendships. But sometimes, in order to get our attention, He has to allow these things to happen! When we push His patience too far…God will step in and take action! While we may escape an outright “punishment” from God…He most surely will withhold blessings that would have otherwise been bestowed upon us. Either way, we lose.
We all have our limits. Some of us will lie down and let others treat us like a doormat for a while longer than others. But at some point, pretty much everyone says, “That’s enough!” So why are we surprised that God would do the same? It may seem like the other guy “gets away with murder,” but I assure you… a day of reckoning is coming – for him/her, and for us. If you have tried God’s patience, at the very least your life will not have been filled with the joy and blessings that God had in store for you. You will not fully realize all of the wonderful plans He had designed to shower upon your life. And what will you have to say for yourself?
Have you tried God’s patience to the limit? Isn’t it time you began to make the necessary changes… to show Him the honor and respect that He deserves? Aren’t you ready to take responsibility for your actions and realize that the only way to truly be happy – in life in general, and in your Christian faith – is to do what God has asked of you… to be mature and accountable, reliable and trustworthy?
You may feel like God is giving others more than their share of second chances. You may feel that the other guy gets all the breaks and doesn’t have to “pay” for them. But I can assure you, nobody gets away with anything. God is watching for those who live with honor, sensibility, consistency… and obedience. At some point, He will act – one way or another! Don’t live for God because you are scared not to… do it because you want to please the One who has done more for us than we could ever imagine… much less deserve! God is so patient with each of us already. Are you doing all you can to please Him and earn His patience? Isn’t today a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 8, 2013
Luke 17:3-4
“Be alert. If you see your friend going wrong, correct him. If he responds, forgive him. Even if it’s personal against you and repeated seven times through the day, and seven times he says, ‘I’m sorry, I won’t do it again,’ forgive him.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The other night, Timothy was sitting at the table drinking a cup of milk. He was holding his “Puff” – a loosely stuffed toy Puffalump bear that had been his mother’s when she was little. He said, “Aunt Debbie, Puff keeps hitting me in the head!” I told him to ask Puff to stop. He replied, “I did, and he keeps hitting me.” So I suggested that perhaps Puff should sit in another chair in “time out” until he could be nice. Timmy had an adorable conversation with “Puff,” lovingly chastising him and explaining why he had to go to “time out.” After a minute or so, he asked if Puff could come out again. I asked, “Is he ready to be nice?” He took Puff in his hands and asked, “Puff, did you think about what you did? Do you think you are ready to be nice?” Apparently Puff said “Yes”… but a few seconds later, he was “hitting” Timmy again and had to return to the chair!
This was a game… and a bit of role playing on Timothy’s part. He wants to please… and when he misbehaves, he is always sorry – for the moment. But at 3½, he is still sorting through how to honor his commitments. So we are quick to forgive him. But part of good “parenting” or teaching is making sure you forgive the child… but do not forget nor endorse the transgression. In other words, I can forgive Timothy’s “Puff” all day long for hitting him, but I cannot tolerate this behavior – and there will have to be consequences.
Here’s a grown-up example… in the book Adult Children of Alcoholics, author Janet Geringer Woititz, Ed.D., writes of alcoholics (and others) who ask for forgiveness…”The promises of reform, although shortlived, are believed because those who care want to believe them, and, as a result, they unknowingly become part of the disease pattern.” In other words, we want to forgive others… we are commanded to do so in scripture. But as a dear pastor friend of mine reminds me, there is a fine line between enabling and helping.
What does this mean for us as Christians? How do we know when we are truly operating in forgiveness… and when we have crossed the line into enabling? I am not sure I have an answer for you… but God does. We must stay in very close contact with God… we must study scriptures on forgiveness and fairness. We most certainly must not judge others. At the same time, we have to be very sure that the “offender” is forgiven and loved… but not supported in wrongdoing or poor judgment. In other words, as with Timothy or his toy, we may hug the child or the bear and tell them we love them – and then march them off to sit in a “time out” chair!
I have thought a lot about this as I studied these scripture passages on forgiveness. I have asked myself… “What does this scenario look like in terms of me as the offender and Jesus as the One who is being asked to forgive? What happens if He turns His back on me… and why doesn’t He do this?” I have concluded that Jesus never fails me, even when I deserve it. But sometimes He allows me to wallow in my own screw-ups for a while, so that I learn from my mistakes. And maybe that is the answer for us today. We must be careful to remain nonjudgmental… but maybe we are called to say, “You messed up, buddy… you’ll have to make restitution for this. There will have to be some fences mended – and trust will have to be regained over time. But I still love you… and I forgive you.”
You don’t necessarily have to forgive others in person. You do have to forgive them in your heart. Hear me well on this… unforgiveness will eat a hole in your soul – and it could separate you from God. I can’t say for certain that God will not forgive us when we don’t forgive others, but scripture makes it pretty clear that it’s not worth taking the chance! Ask God to give you a spirit of wisdom… and courage. When someone has behaved wrongly – whether toward you or someone else – forgive him/her in a spirit of love, grace and mercy. If you do this in person, extend forgiveness to the offender… but also offer to help him/her figure out how to move forward and rectify the situation once and for all.
One more thing… forgiveness is not about YOU… it’s totally about being obedient to God with regard to how you treat others. Do not make this about your feelings… how hurt or offended you are by this person. Jesus doesn’t do this. He doesn’t say, “After all I did for you, this is how you repay Me?” He may think it – and He would have every right to lower the boom on us – but this is where we see His amazing grace and mercy in play. So we must stay focused on helping this person who needs forgiveness to align his/her heart – and actions – with God. Remember that God knows you are hurting and offended…and He cares for you, as well. But if we are modeling Christian behavior, we will ask Him to help us put our feelings aside and focus on the needs of others.
Today is a great day to ask God to show us how to give the “Puffs” of our lives another chance at redemption without helping to push them further over the edge. Jesus is our Helper… not our enabler. Model Him to others and see just how richly God will reward you for doing so. Do this to honor Jesus and His amazing, unending capacity to offer grace, mercy, love and forgiveness to us. Forgive others over and again for His glory… and begin to heal your own heart in the process.
©2013 Debbie Robus
“Be alert. If you see your friend going wrong, correct him. If he responds, forgive him. Even if it’s personal against you and repeated seven times through the day, and seven times he says, ‘I’m sorry, I won’t do it again,’ forgive him.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The other night, Timothy was sitting at the table drinking a cup of milk. He was holding his “Puff” – a loosely stuffed toy Puffalump bear that had been his mother’s when she was little. He said, “Aunt Debbie, Puff keeps hitting me in the head!” I told him to ask Puff to stop. He replied, “I did, and he keeps hitting me.” So I suggested that perhaps Puff should sit in another chair in “time out” until he could be nice. Timmy had an adorable conversation with “Puff,” lovingly chastising him and explaining why he had to go to “time out.” After a minute or so, he asked if Puff could come out again. I asked, “Is he ready to be nice?” He took Puff in his hands and asked, “Puff, did you think about what you did? Do you think you are ready to be nice?” Apparently Puff said “Yes”… but a few seconds later, he was “hitting” Timmy again and had to return to the chair!
This was a game… and a bit of role playing on Timothy’s part. He wants to please… and when he misbehaves, he is always sorry – for the moment. But at 3½, he is still sorting through how to honor his commitments. So we are quick to forgive him. But part of good “parenting” or teaching is making sure you forgive the child… but do not forget nor endorse the transgression. In other words, I can forgive Timothy’s “Puff” all day long for hitting him, but I cannot tolerate this behavior – and there will have to be consequences.
Here’s a grown-up example… in the book Adult Children of Alcoholics, author Janet Geringer Woititz, Ed.D., writes of alcoholics (and others) who ask for forgiveness…”The promises of reform, although shortlived, are believed because those who care want to believe them, and, as a result, they unknowingly become part of the disease pattern.” In other words, we want to forgive others… we are commanded to do so in scripture. But as a dear pastor friend of mine reminds me, there is a fine line between enabling and helping.
What does this mean for us as Christians? How do we know when we are truly operating in forgiveness… and when we have crossed the line into enabling? I am not sure I have an answer for you… but God does. We must stay in very close contact with God… we must study scriptures on forgiveness and fairness. We most certainly must not judge others. At the same time, we have to be very sure that the “offender” is forgiven and loved… but not supported in wrongdoing or poor judgment. In other words, as with Timothy or his toy, we may hug the child or the bear and tell them we love them – and then march them off to sit in a “time out” chair!
I have thought a lot about this as I studied these scripture passages on forgiveness. I have asked myself… “What does this scenario look like in terms of me as the offender and Jesus as the One who is being asked to forgive? What happens if He turns His back on me… and why doesn’t He do this?” I have concluded that Jesus never fails me, even when I deserve it. But sometimes He allows me to wallow in my own screw-ups for a while, so that I learn from my mistakes. And maybe that is the answer for us today. We must be careful to remain nonjudgmental… but maybe we are called to say, “You messed up, buddy… you’ll have to make restitution for this. There will have to be some fences mended – and trust will have to be regained over time. But I still love you… and I forgive you.”
You don’t necessarily have to forgive others in person. You do have to forgive them in your heart. Hear me well on this… unforgiveness will eat a hole in your soul – and it could separate you from God. I can’t say for certain that God will not forgive us when we don’t forgive others, but scripture makes it pretty clear that it’s not worth taking the chance! Ask God to give you a spirit of wisdom… and courage. When someone has behaved wrongly – whether toward you or someone else – forgive him/her in a spirit of love, grace and mercy. If you do this in person, extend forgiveness to the offender… but also offer to help him/her figure out how to move forward and rectify the situation once and for all.
One more thing… forgiveness is not about YOU… it’s totally about being obedient to God with regard to how you treat others. Do not make this about your feelings… how hurt or offended you are by this person. Jesus doesn’t do this. He doesn’t say, “After all I did for you, this is how you repay Me?” He may think it – and He would have every right to lower the boom on us – but this is where we see His amazing grace and mercy in play. So we must stay focused on helping this person who needs forgiveness to align his/her heart – and actions – with God. Remember that God knows you are hurting and offended…and He cares for you, as well. But if we are modeling Christian behavior, we will ask Him to help us put our feelings aside and focus on the needs of others.
Today is a great day to ask God to show us how to give the “Puffs” of our lives another chance at redemption without helping to push them further over the edge. Jesus is our Helper… not our enabler. Model Him to others and see just how richly God will reward you for doing so. Do this to honor Jesus and His amazing, unending capacity to offer grace, mercy, love and forgiveness to us. Forgive others over and again for His glory… and begin to heal your own heart in the process.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 12, 2012
1 Chronicles 21:1-8
Now Satan entered the scene and seduced David into taking a census of Israel. David gave orders to Joab and the army officers under him, "Canvass all the tribes of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, and get a count of the population. I want to know the number." Joab resisted: "May God multiply his people by hundreds! Don't they all belong to my master the king? But why on earth would you do a thing like this—why risk getting Israel into trouble with God?"
But David wouldn't take no for an answer, so Joab went off and did it— canvassed the country and then came back to Jerusalem and reported the results of the census: There were 1,100,000 fighting men; of that total, Judah accounted for 470,000. Joab, disgusted by the command — it, in fact, turned his stomach! — protested by leaving Levi and Benjamin out of the census-taking. And God, offended by the whole thing, punished Israel.
Then David prayed, "I have sinned badly in what I have just done, substituting statistics for trust; forgive my sin — I've been really stupid."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
“I’ve been really stupid.” I bet every single one of us has said this at one time or another. Haven’t you gone against your better judgment at some point, then regretted it terribly? Remember, David was a KING… he was a man after God’s own heart… yet he still could be thrown off track by the devil. So why do we think we are any different?
If you read the rest of 1 Chronicles 21, you learn that God gave David three choices for punishment…three years of famine, three months of running from his enemies, or three days of an epidemic. David chose the epidemic, and seventy thousand Israelites died because of his sin.
When we listen to the devil, there are consequences. We may not be responsible for the death of 70,000 people, but our sin still upsets God. Jesus gave His very life for our sins. So every time you choose to listen to the devil, remember the blood of Jesus. Every time you start to go in the wrong direction, think of what it cost your LORD and Savior. Whenever you are tempted to judge others… to lie, cheat, steal, or do whatever Satan is taunting you to do… consider the cost, because there always is one.
Because of the blood of Jesus, God doesn’t so readily come to us with a list of consequences and make us choose, as He did with David. And aren’t we grateful for this? Isn’t Jesus’ blood more than enough? Isn’t His sacrifice on our behalf to pay a debt He didn’t owe the only motivation we should ever need to turn and run the other way when Satan approaches?
The next time you feel a tug on your heart that you know is not God… the next time you feel tempted to be really stupid… think of David and what such a decision cost him. More importantly, think of the cross and what your sins have already cost Jesus. Thank Him for this incredible, amazing, incomparable gift… and do everything you can to show your gratitude each and every day.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Now Satan entered the scene and seduced David into taking a census of Israel. David gave orders to Joab and the army officers under him, "Canvass all the tribes of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, and get a count of the population. I want to know the number." Joab resisted: "May God multiply his people by hundreds! Don't they all belong to my master the king? But why on earth would you do a thing like this—why risk getting Israel into trouble with God?"
But David wouldn't take no for an answer, so Joab went off and did it— canvassed the country and then came back to Jerusalem and reported the results of the census: There were 1,100,000 fighting men; of that total, Judah accounted for 470,000. Joab, disgusted by the command — it, in fact, turned his stomach! — protested by leaving Levi and Benjamin out of the census-taking. And God, offended by the whole thing, punished Israel.
Then David prayed, "I have sinned badly in what I have just done, substituting statistics for trust; forgive my sin — I've been really stupid."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
“I’ve been really stupid.” I bet every single one of us has said this at one time or another. Haven’t you gone against your better judgment at some point, then regretted it terribly? Remember, David was a KING… he was a man after God’s own heart… yet he still could be thrown off track by the devil. So why do we think we are any different?
If you read the rest of 1 Chronicles 21, you learn that God gave David three choices for punishment…three years of famine, three months of running from his enemies, or three days of an epidemic. David chose the epidemic, and seventy thousand Israelites died because of his sin.
When we listen to the devil, there are consequences. We may not be responsible for the death of 70,000 people, but our sin still upsets God. Jesus gave His very life for our sins. So every time you choose to listen to the devil, remember the blood of Jesus. Every time you start to go in the wrong direction, think of what it cost your LORD and Savior. Whenever you are tempted to judge others… to lie, cheat, steal, or do whatever Satan is taunting you to do… consider the cost, because there always is one.
Because of the blood of Jesus, God doesn’t so readily come to us with a list of consequences and make us choose, as He did with David. And aren’t we grateful for this? Isn’t Jesus’ blood more than enough? Isn’t His sacrifice on our behalf to pay a debt He didn’t owe the only motivation we should ever need to turn and run the other way when Satan approaches?
The next time you feel a tug on your heart that you know is not God… the next time you feel tempted to be really stupid… think of David and what such a decision cost him. More importantly, think of the cross and what your sins have already cost Jesus. Thank Him for this incredible, amazing, incomparable gift… and do everything you can to show your gratitude each and every day.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 16, 2011
Psalm 128:1-2
The LORD will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws. Your fields will produce, and you will be happy and all will go well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was discussing child discipline with a group of friends recently, and I explained that I do not believe in spanking. I tried it early in my teaching career with lousy results. Once I began using a method called “assertive discipline” and stopped spanking, I virtually quit having any discipline problems in the classroom. Assertive discipline works that well and will work in any setting – school, home, Sunday School, and more! What is the secret to its success? Respect!
Rules are clearly taught at the beginning of the school year… as are consequences for breaking them. Everything is cut and dried. You break this rule… this happens. You break another, that happens… and so on. The consequences begin with a warning and progress to a more serious level. For my kindergarten students, these ranged from “time out” to losing a recess or other privileges, to calling parents. I think maybe I called three parents over the course of several years. The children knew the “laws” we learned together, and they obeyed them. They respected my authority to decide when a rule was broken and to administer the consequence.
There is another part of this discipline plan… and it is vital to the success of the overall program - rewards. Good behavior is rewarded, and the students learn that there is merit in their efforts beyond operating in fear of consequences. The respect is mutual. The teacher is respected as the authority figure, and the students are respected and rewarded for their obedience and cooperation.
Do you see where I’m headed with this? Because of the blood of Jesus, we don’t have to operate in fear, guilt and shame. We can serve obediently because we respect God… and because He respects us and rewards our efforts. We don’t serve and obey to get something… any more than God blesses us simply for our compliance. It’s a two-way street… and that is so cool!
We know what God asks of us… we know His laws. We also know the consequences of disobeying Him. But we may not fully understand how He stands ready to bless us when we show Him respect and submission to His authority. I promise, finding out what He has in store for us is worth it… are you willing to discover this for yourself?
©2011 Debbie Robus
The LORD will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws. Your fields will produce, and you will be happy and all will go well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was discussing child discipline with a group of friends recently, and I explained that I do not believe in spanking. I tried it early in my teaching career with lousy results. Once I began using a method called “assertive discipline” and stopped spanking, I virtually quit having any discipline problems in the classroom. Assertive discipline works that well and will work in any setting – school, home, Sunday School, and more! What is the secret to its success? Respect!
Rules are clearly taught at the beginning of the school year… as are consequences for breaking them. Everything is cut and dried. You break this rule… this happens. You break another, that happens… and so on. The consequences begin with a warning and progress to a more serious level. For my kindergarten students, these ranged from “time out” to losing a recess or other privileges, to calling parents. I think maybe I called three parents over the course of several years. The children knew the “laws” we learned together, and they obeyed them. They respected my authority to decide when a rule was broken and to administer the consequence.
There is another part of this discipline plan… and it is vital to the success of the overall program - rewards. Good behavior is rewarded, and the students learn that there is merit in their efforts beyond operating in fear of consequences. The respect is mutual. The teacher is respected as the authority figure, and the students are respected and rewarded for their obedience and cooperation.
Do you see where I’m headed with this? Because of the blood of Jesus, we don’t have to operate in fear, guilt and shame. We can serve obediently because we respect God… and because He respects us and rewards our efforts. We don’t serve and obey to get something… any more than God blesses us simply for our compliance. It’s a two-way street… and that is so cool!
We know what God asks of us… we know His laws. We also know the consequences of disobeying Him. But we may not fully understand how He stands ready to bless us when we show Him respect and submission to His authority. I promise, finding out what He has in store for us is worth it… are you willing to discover this for yourself?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 16, 2011
Psalm 119:1-8
Our LORD, you bless everyone who lives right and obeys your Law. You bless all of those who follow your commands from deep in their hearts and who never do wrong or turn from you. You have ordered us always to obey your teachings; I don't ever want to stray from your laws. Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing. I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws. I will obey all of them! Don't turn your back on me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was teaching kindergarten, I had three basic rules - or “laws”:
1. Be kind to others.
2. Work and play quietly.
3. Obey promptly.
I was very clear about these rules – and the consequences of breaking them. We spent the first week of school learning the rules and reviewing them in fun ways. These rules were simple… yet comprehensive… and we all knew from the beginning where we each stood.
If you drill it down, this is how it is for Christians, too. We know the rules…
1. Accept Jesus as your LORD and Savior.
2. Love God with all your heart.
3. Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
4. Serve God by serving others and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
When you understand the rules – and the consequences of disobeying them (or simply choosing not to follow them) – you realize that life can be fairly simple and straightforward. When we surrender to God and obey His laws, He takes care of the rest.
Does this mean our life is always perfect? Does this mean we don’t have trials, tests, problems and hard times? Absolutely NOT! But it does mean that we never have anything that we cannot handle with God’s help. He never turns away from us and always stands right beside us to meet the day head-on!
My kindergarten students were not perfect… and more than a handful tested the waters to see if the consequences for breaking rules would be as promised. And we do this with God sometimes. The answer in both situations is “YES!” We know what will happen when we obey and serve – and when we don’t. So the choice seems pretty obvious, doesn’t it?!
Trust God… serve Him obediently and follow His laws. Praise Him for guiding your steps and blessing you every single day. And rest in the confidence that He will do exactly that!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Our LORD, you bless everyone who lives right and obeys your Law. You bless all of those who follow your commands from deep in their hearts and who never do wrong or turn from you. You have ordered us always to obey your teachings; I don't ever want to stray from your laws. Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing. I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws. I will obey all of them! Don't turn your back on me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was teaching kindergarten, I had three basic rules - or “laws”:
1. Be kind to others.
2. Work and play quietly.
3. Obey promptly.
I was very clear about these rules – and the consequences of breaking them. We spent the first week of school learning the rules and reviewing them in fun ways. These rules were simple… yet comprehensive… and we all knew from the beginning where we each stood.
If you drill it down, this is how it is for Christians, too. We know the rules…
1. Accept Jesus as your LORD and Savior.
2. Love God with all your heart.
3. Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
4. Serve God by serving others and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
When you understand the rules – and the consequences of disobeying them (or simply choosing not to follow them) – you realize that life can be fairly simple and straightforward. When we surrender to God and obey His laws, He takes care of the rest.
Does this mean our life is always perfect? Does this mean we don’t have trials, tests, problems and hard times? Absolutely NOT! But it does mean that we never have anything that we cannot handle with God’s help. He never turns away from us and always stands right beside us to meet the day head-on!
My kindergarten students were not perfect… and more than a handful tested the waters to see if the consequences for breaking rules would be as promised. And we do this with God sometimes. The answer in both situations is “YES!” We know what will happen when we obey and serve – and when we don’t. So the choice seems pretty obvious, doesn’t it?!
Trust God… serve Him obediently and follow His laws. Praise Him for guiding your steps and blessing you every single day. And rest in the confidence that He will do exactly that!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 1, 2011
2 Kings 17:18-20
The LORD became so furious with the people of Israel that he allowed them to be carried away as prisoners.
Only the people living in Judah were left, but they also disobeyed the LORD's commands and acted like the Israelites. So the LORD turned his back on everyone in Israel and Judah and let them be punished and defeated until no one was left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’ve been reading the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings, and over and again I’ve seen this phrase… “He disobeyed the LORD and caused the Israelites to sin.” Otherwise, these chapters have been pretty much an account of one king after another and commands of God that were ignored. There were a few who listened – sometimes only partially… but on a whole, these kings were “Burger Kings” – they had things their own way!
I asked myself… “Why is this important? If God felt it should be included in the Bible, what is He trying to show us with these accounts?” The conclusion I came to is found in today’s verses… God loves us and protects us – but He also doles out consequences and punishments when we misbehave. And we need to understand this!
When a child disobeys, they get “time out” or lose their toys for a while. When teenagers break the rules, they are grounded and may lose their car keys, cell phone, and other privileges. When adults break the law, they are arrested – and may go to jail or suffer a fine. And when we sin, sometimes God hangs His head in disappointment and walks away temporarily. Just because we are saved by the blood of Jesus doesn’t mean we get a free ticket, any more than becoming king made those rulers above the laws and directives of God Almighty!
When little children disobey and misbehave, we may place them in “time out” or send them to their room and walk away for a little bit… but we never desert them completely. And God will not totally abandon you, either. But He may very well turn away and leave you to fend for yourself at times, so that you learn to respect His desires and guidance for your life – and seek His forgiveness and restoration.
Whatever you do, remember that God loves you and will care for you… but He may also teach you a few hard lessons along the way. Work hard to stay obedient and to operate within His will. Don’t try to have things your way when you know that God desires something else. And most certainly do not cause others to sin!
Listen carefully for God’s voice. Seek Him in every area of your life… even those that seem small and not worth His time. I assure you, everything about you matters to God! Have you acted like He matters to you lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
The LORD became so furious with the people of Israel that he allowed them to be carried away as prisoners.
Only the people living in Judah were left, but they also disobeyed the LORD's commands and acted like the Israelites. So the LORD turned his back on everyone in Israel and Judah and let them be punished and defeated until no one was left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’ve been reading the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings, and over and again I’ve seen this phrase… “He disobeyed the LORD and caused the Israelites to sin.” Otherwise, these chapters have been pretty much an account of one king after another and commands of God that were ignored. There were a few who listened – sometimes only partially… but on a whole, these kings were “Burger Kings” – they had things their own way!
I asked myself… “Why is this important? If God felt it should be included in the Bible, what is He trying to show us with these accounts?” The conclusion I came to is found in today’s verses… God loves us and protects us – but He also doles out consequences and punishments when we misbehave. And we need to understand this!
When a child disobeys, they get “time out” or lose their toys for a while. When teenagers break the rules, they are grounded and may lose their car keys, cell phone, and other privileges. When adults break the law, they are arrested – and may go to jail or suffer a fine. And when we sin, sometimes God hangs His head in disappointment and walks away temporarily. Just because we are saved by the blood of Jesus doesn’t mean we get a free ticket, any more than becoming king made those rulers above the laws and directives of God Almighty!
When little children disobey and misbehave, we may place them in “time out” or send them to their room and walk away for a little bit… but we never desert them completely. And God will not totally abandon you, either. But He may very well turn away and leave you to fend for yourself at times, so that you learn to respect His desires and guidance for your life – and seek His forgiveness and restoration.
Whatever you do, remember that God loves you and will care for you… but He may also teach you a few hard lessons along the way. Work hard to stay obedient and to operate within His will. Don’t try to have things your way when you know that God desires something else. And most certainly do not cause others to sin!
Listen carefully for God’s voice. Seek Him in every area of your life… even those that seem small and not worth His time. I assure you, everything about you matters to God! Have you acted like He matters to you lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 21, 2011
1 Kings 11:9-13
The LORD God of Israel had appeared to Solomon two times and warned him not to worship foreign gods. But Solomon disobeyed and did it anyway. This made the LORD very angry, and he said to Solomon:
You did what you wanted and not what I told you to do. Now I'm going to take your kingdom from you and give it to one of your officials. But because David was your father, you will remain king as long as you live. I will wait until your son becomes king, then I will take the kingdom from him. When I do, I will still let him rule one tribe, because I have not forgotten that David was my servant and Jerusalem is my city.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A young friend of ours recently injured his ankle in a football game. The injury does not appear to be as bad as everyone thought initially, but there is still injury and stress on the ankle that has to heal. The young man is anxious to get back on the football field as conference play begins. Like many other adults, we have cautioned him to be patient and make sure he is fully healed. I have especially tried to share my own experience with a broken ankle and torn ligaments… encouraging him to do all of the recommended therapies and take the needed time to repair this damage. I’ve told him, “When you are my age, you will be glad you listened!”
In my twenties, a doctor told me, “Today’s runners are tomorrow’s arthritics!” I laughed as I looked at this overweight physician who was counseling a slender, healthy woman who ran as much as six miles a day. Now, when I walk up and down our stairs on a rainy day, my knees remind me of this doctor’s words! I am not saying that running is bad for you, but I should have paced myself more and paid attention. I have found other ways to exercise and stay in shape, but I listen to my body now and treat my joints with respect and care!
When I read this scripture passage, I was immediately struck by two things… 1) God loves us, no matter what… and He will never go back on His promises; and 2) sometimes our consequences are not immediate… but that doesn’t mean we got a free pass! God loved David passionately – and the feeling was mutual. David was not perfect, but he never loved anyone but God. David’s son, Solomon, on the other hand, was dazzled by wealth and fame… women and power… and he made them the focus of his devotion. While God did not blast Solomon with great and immediate punishment for this, He did promise to strip him of everything by taking the kingdom from Solomon’s heirs. Solomon’s legacy was everything to him… so losing it to another lineage was huge! This reminds me of the adage, “Pay now, or pay later.”
Know this… God will never turn His back on you completely, if you have confessed your sins and asked Him to save you. He will never change His mind about loving you. But He will have consequences if you disobey and turn your back on Him. You may not see it for years to come. You may play fast and loose with alcohol and drugs, overeating, gambling, flitting from one job to another and getting in and out of all kinds of relationships with seemingly minor consequences or adjustments in your daily living. You may treat others poorly and live by the philosophy, “What’s in it for me?” But some day, this will all change. God will remind you of your indiscretions and poor choices, and He will mete out His justice for your disobedience and disloyal actions.
So how do you stop this? How do you turn things around now before “the shoe falls?” Turn back to God. Stop what you are doing and humbly confess that you have not been obedient and loyal. You have worshipped other things… people, money, alcohol, drugs and more. You have allowed Satan to present you with false idols, and you have worshipped them. You think more of yourself than you should and have elevated yourself to a status that you do not deserve… one that God did not give you. Tell God you are sorry, and that you are making significant changes. Kick your false idols to the curb, and ask God to help you make a fresh start. He will gladly do this!
If I had listened to the doctor in my twenties, I might have still been able to run a few miles without pain in my thirties and forties. My knees might not be a better barometer than the local weatherman. If Solomon had just taken a step back and looked at what he was doing, he could have returned to God’s favor. Don’t be stubborn. Don’t be blinded by the glitz and lure of sins and vices. Recognize these tools of the devil… turn around and walk the other way- toward God - and enjoy His blessings and protection... now and always.
©2011 Debbie Robus
The LORD God of Israel had appeared to Solomon two times and warned him not to worship foreign gods. But Solomon disobeyed and did it anyway. This made the LORD very angry, and he said to Solomon:
You did what you wanted and not what I told you to do. Now I'm going to take your kingdom from you and give it to one of your officials. But because David was your father, you will remain king as long as you live. I will wait until your son becomes king, then I will take the kingdom from him. When I do, I will still let him rule one tribe, because I have not forgotten that David was my servant and Jerusalem is my city.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A young friend of ours recently injured his ankle in a football game. The injury does not appear to be as bad as everyone thought initially, but there is still injury and stress on the ankle that has to heal. The young man is anxious to get back on the football field as conference play begins. Like many other adults, we have cautioned him to be patient and make sure he is fully healed. I have especially tried to share my own experience with a broken ankle and torn ligaments… encouraging him to do all of the recommended therapies and take the needed time to repair this damage. I’ve told him, “When you are my age, you will be glad you listened!”
In my twenties, a doctor told me, “Today’s runners are tomorrow’s arthritics!” I laughed as I looked at this overweight physician who was counseling a slender, healthy woman who ran as much as six miles a day. Now, when I walk up and down our stairs on a rainy day, my knees remind me of this doctor’s words! I am not saying that running is bad for you, but I should have paced myself more and paid attention. I have found other ways to exercise and stay in shape, but I listen to my body now and treat my joints with respect and care!
When I read this scripture passage, I was immediately struck by two things… 1) God loves us, no matter what… and He will never go back on His promises; and 2) sometimes our consequences are not immediate… but that doesn’t mean we got a free pass! God loved David passionately – and the feeling was mutual. David was not perfect, but he never loved anyone but God. David’s son, Solomon, on the other hand, was dazzled by wealth and fame… women and power… and he made them the focus of his devotion. While God did not blast Solomon with great and immediate punishment for this, He did promise to strip him of everything by taking the kingdom from Solomon’s heirs. Solomon’s legacy was everything to him… so losing it to another lineage was huge! This reminds me of the adage, “Pay now, or pay later.”
Know this… God will never turn His back on you completely, if you have confessed your sins and asked Him to save you. He will never change His mind about loving you. But He will have consequences if you disobey and turn your back on Him. You may not see it for years to come. You may play fast and loose with alcohol and drugs, overeating, gambling, flitting from one job to another and getting in and out of all kinds of relationships with seemingly minor consequences or adjustments in your daily living. You may treat others poorly and live by the philosophy, “What’s in it for me?” But some day, this will all change. God will remind you of your indiscretions and poor choices, and He will mete out His justice for your disobedience and disloyal actions.
So how do you stop this? How do you turn things around now before “the shoe falls?” Turn back to God. Stop what you are doing and humbly confess that you have not been obedient and loyal. You have worshipped other things… people, money, alcohol, drugs and more. You have allowed Satan to present you with false idols, and you have worshipped them. You think more of yourself than you should and have elevated yourself to a status that you do not deserve… one that God did not give you. Tell God you are sorry, and that you are making significant changes. Kick your false idols to the curb, and ask God to help you make a fresh start. He will gladly do this!
If I had listened to the doctor in my twenties, I might have still been able to run a few miles without pain in my thirties and forties. My knees might not be a better barometer than the local weatherman. If Solomon had just taken a step back and looked at what he was doing, he could have returned to God’s favor. Don’t be stubborn. Don’t be blinded by the glitz and lure of sins and vices. Recognize these tools of the devil… turn around and walk the other way- toward God - and enjoy His blessings and protection... now and always.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 18, 2010
2 Peter 1:10
My friends, you must do all you can to show that God has really chosen and selected you. If you keep on doing this, you won't stumble and fall.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all seen and heard a lot in the news lately about Lindsay Lohan. I don’t want to pick on this celebrity, because I truly to not know her heart. But from all appearances, she was given some chances to change – to clean up her act, stop partying, and overcome her addictions to alcohol and drugs. But she continued to “stumble and fall.”
So when she was sitting in a courtroom hearing the judge sentence her to sixty days in jail followed by probationary time, she acted as if she was completely baffled at the sentence. I heard her comment, “I’m 23… if I want to party at night with friends, I should be able to do this.” While she may be of legal age to have a drink in public, no one is legally allowed to drive while drinking…which is one of the things with which Lohan is charged.
My point is that we can’t say we are changed and continue to act the same. We can’t acknowledge that we are chosen by God and continue to live as we please, sin when it’s comfortable and fun, and serve our Heavenly Father only when it is convenient. It’s pretty much an all or nothing deal. But when we act like a chosen child of God… when we acknowledge Him and trust Him to guide our steps, we don’t have to worry about consequences for poor actions and choices. I’m not saying we never sin… because we all do… but when we focus on being who God called us to be, there are fewer chances for Satan to trip us up… and when we do fall short, we readily recognize our errors and quickly make an effort to correct them.
Being a Christian is not a free ride. Acknowledging that God has chosen us comes with responsibility to behave accordingly. We must be ready to serve, honor, and obey God. We must set high standards for ourselves in all areas of life. And in return we will be blessed. We can’t be like the Lindsay Lohans of the world… assuming that we can get by on our status and public popularity. Think of the old adage… “If you do the crime, you gotta do the time.” When it comes to God, there is a way to avoid the “crime” and the “time.” How well are you representing your status in Him these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
My friends, you must do all you can to show that God has really chosen and selected you. If you keep on doing this, you won't stumble and fall.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all seen and heard a lot in the news lately about Lindsay Lohan. I don’t want to pick on this celebrity, because I truly to not know her heart. But from all appearances, she was given some chances to change – to clean up her act, stop partying, and overcome her addictions to alcohol and drugs. But she continued to “stumble and fall.”
So when she was sitting in a courtroom hearing the judge sentence her to sixty days in jail followed by probationary time, she acted as if she was completely baffled at the sentence. I heard her comment, “I’m 23… if I want to party at night with friends, I should be able to do this.” While she may be of legal age to have a drink in public, no one is legally allowed to drive while drinking…which is one of the things with which Lohan is charged.
My point is that we can’t say we are changed and continue to act the same. We can’t acknowledge that we are chosen by God and continue to live as we please, sin when it’s comfortable and fun, and serve our Heavenly Father only when it is convenient. It’s pretty much an all or nothing deal. But when we act like a chosen child of God… when we acknowledge Him and trust Him to guide our steps, we don’t have to worry about consequences for poor actions and choices. I’m not saying we never sin… because we all do… but when we focus on being who God called us to be, there are fewer chances for Satan to trip us up… and when we do fall short, we readily recognize our errors and quickly make an effort to correct them.
Being a Christian is not a free ride. Acknowledging that God has chosen us comes with responsibility to behave accordingly. We must be ready to serve, honor, and obey God. We must set high standards for ourselves in all areas of life. And in return we will be blessed. We can’t be like the Lindsay Lohans of the world… assuming that we can get by on our status and public popularity. Think of the old adage… “If you do the crime, you gotta do the time.” When it comes to God, there is a way to avoid the “crime” and the “time.” How well are you representing your status in Him these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)