John 3:16
God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think of at least one person you love and believe you couldn’t live without. Now… imagine if the only way to save millions of people was to sacrifice the life of that person. Would you do it? COULD you?
This is exactly what God did for us. He looked at each one of us… sinful and imperfect… and said, “It would be worth it.” He was willing to allow His one and only Son to suffer and die in order to potentially save the rest of us. Even crazier is the fact that this was not guaranteed. God still allows us free will, which means that some will actually choose NOT to claim Jesus Christ as the LORD of their lives. Some will declare that God does not exist, while others will turn their backs on Him at some point. Some will mock Him and worship other gods instead. Still… God looked at all of these possible outcomes and said, “It’s worth the sacrifice… and the risk."
I don’t know if you have ever watched someone you love suffer in pain or sickness. Maybe you have stood by a friend or family member who was going through an emotional trauma and offered them your support and encouragement. If so, you have some idea of how hard it is to observe your loved one in discomfort – if not downright agony. Now imagine how hard it must have been for God to watch His Son be ridiculed, beaten, spit upon, tortured, mocked, bloodied… and crucified. Still, He said, “It’s all worth it.”
Do you get that He was thinking of YOU? YOU were worth all of this. YOU were so loved that God was willing to trade the life of Jesus for yours. YOU have so much value to God that He does not wish for any harm to come to a single hair on your head…so He numbers them. YOU are so important to God that He cares about every aspect of what is happening in your life… every single day. And He was willing to allow His only Son to die the most horrific death imaginable in order to pay the price for YOUR life.
Who could love you more than this? Who could handle the worries of your day better? Who should have your unending faith, trust and loyalty? Who do you worship… and Who is the LORD of YOUR life?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label crucifixion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label crucifixion. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for April 23, 2011
Luke 11:9
So I tell you to ask and you will receive, search and you will find, knock and the door will be opened for you. Everyone who asks will receive, everyone who searches will find, and the door will be opened for everyone who knocks. Which one of you fathers would give your hungry child a snake if the child asked for a fish? Which one of you would give your child a scorpion if the child asked for an egg? As bad as you are, you still know how to give good gifts to your children. But your heavenly Father is even more ready to give the Holy Spirit to anyone who asks.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy was staying with us recently, and my mother came over to visit. She brought a blue plastic Easter basket, filled with:
• blue Easter grass
• two different packages/flavors of “Peeps”
• a chocolate bunny
• a Curious George DVD
• a bottle of all-in-one shampoo
• a bunny car filled with Easter candy
• a wand of bubbles, and
• a baby doll that laughs when you squeeze it.
I groaned when I saw all the sticky candy, and she laughed and said, “It’s okay… I’m the great-grandmother!” This is one great-grandmother who knows how to give “good gifts!” And of course, three Peeps later, Timmy was a happy, sticky mess out on our driveway blowing bubbles! He’s not old enough to actually ask for gifts yet, but when he is, I’m sure we will gladly - and readily – oblige… and our door is always open to any and all of our nieces and nephews and young friends.
Truly the basket of goodies was filled with things that, while not necessarily healthy for Timothy, were just what a kid needs on Easter week. Many needs this kid didn’t even know he had were met… and then some!
The GOOD NEWS for each of us this Easter weekend – and always – is that God’s door is always open. He may not give us Peeps and chocolate bunnies, but whatever we ask Him will be given to us, according to His will – and with our best interest at the forefront. So if you ask God for a new Mustang, and you really need transportation to get back and forth to school or work, He may give you a used Ford Focus! If you ask God to help you put food on the table, He may see that you have just enough to eat each day rather than showering you with a pantry filled with groceries. But the point is, God will answer… He will meet your needs. His door is always open!
Because of the blood of Jesus… because of the incredible sacrifice of a totally innocent man Who was willing to take our sins and die for them, we can freely ask for anything. Because this man was Jesus Christ in human form, who could not be contained in an earthly grave, the door to our Father’s house is always open. Because of the incredible love of our LORD and Savior, the Holy Spirit is available to each of us…ready to fill our hearts and be our constant companion!
This is the “Good Gift” of Easter. This is the Good Gift we can enjoy all year long… every year… again and again! Ask God for anything, and trust Him to know just how to answer… and to give you “good and perfect gifts” upon request.
©2011 Debbie Robus
So I tell you to ask and you will receive, search and you will find, knock and the door will be opened for you. Everyone who asks will receive, everyone who searches will find, and the door will be opened for everyone who knocks. Which one of you fathers would give your hungry child a snake if the child asked for a fish? Which one of you would give your child a scorpion if the child asked for an egg? As bad as you are, you still know how to give good gifts to your children. But your heavenly Father is even more ready to give the Holy Spirit to anyone who asks.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy was staying with us recently, and my mother came over to visit. She brought a blue plastic Easter basket, filled with:
• blue Easter grass
• two different packages/flavors of “Peeps”
• a chocolate bunny
• a Curious George DVD
• a bottle of all-in-one shampoo
• a bunny car filled with Easter candy
• a wand of bubbles, and
• a baby doll that laughs when you squeeze it.
I groaned when I saw all the sticky candy, and she laughed and said, “It’s okay… I’m the great-grandmother!” This is one great-grandmother who knows how to give “good gifts!” And of course, three Peeps later, Timmy was a happy, sticky mess out on our driveway blowing bubbles! He’s not old enough to actually ask for gifts yet, but when he is, I’m sure we will gladly - and readily – oblige… and our door is always open to any and all of our nieces and nephews and young friends.
Truly the basket of goodies was filled with things that, while not necessarily healthy for Timothy, were just what a kid needs on Easter week. Many needs this kid didn’t even know he had were met… and then some!
The GOOD NEWS for each of us this Easter weekend – and always – is that God’s door is always open. He may not give us Peeps and chocolate bunnies, but whatever we ask Him will be given to us, according to His will – and with our best interest at the forefront. So if you ask God for a new Mustang, and you really need transportation to get back and forth to school or work, He may give you a used Ford Focus! If you ask God to help you put food on the table, He may see that you have just enough to eat each day rather than showering you with a pantry filled with groceries. But the point is, God will answer… He will meet your needs. His door is always open!
Because of the blood of Jesus… because of the incredible sacrifice of a totally innocent man Who was willing to take our sins and die for them, we can freely ask for anything. Because this man was Jesus Christ in human form, who could not be contained in an earthly grave, the door to our Father’s house is always open. Because of the incredible love of our LORD and Savior, the Holy Spirit is available to each of us…ready to fill our hearts and be our constant companion!
This is the “Good Gift” of Easter. This is the Good Gift we can enjoy all year long… every year… again and again! Ask God for anything, and trust Him to know just how to answer… and to give you “good and perfect gifts” upon request.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 16, 2010
May 16 ~ Isaiah 41:13
I am the LORD your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My sister and I are only eleven months apart in age. When we were toddlers, my grandmother had cribs in her bedroom for each of us, and she positioned my sister’s next to her bed. The only way Grandmother could get my sister to sleep at night was to hold her hand until she fell asleep. For some reason, there is something very comforting about someone holding our hand, particularly when we are in a stressful or uncomfortable situation. I have found myself standing over Timothy’s crib and holding his hand to encourage him to fall asleep… and it often is all that is needed.
Now we see a scriptural reference to hand holding. If it makes you feel better to have your grandma, your great-aunt, a significant other, or just a good friend hold your hand, imagine how great it will feel to hold GOD’s hand! He is already on the job, doing just that… all we have to do is recognize Him. So the next time you need a hand to hold, remember GOD is there to help you, and He is holding your hand all the way. Don’t you feel better already?!
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am the LORD your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My sister and I are only eleven months apart in age. When we were toddlers, my grandmother had cribs in her bedroom for each of us, and she positioned my sister’s next to her bed. The only way Grandmother could get my sister to sleep at night was to hold her hand until she fell asleep. For some reason, there is something very comforting about someone holding our hand, particularly when we are in a stressful or uncomfortable situation. I have found myself standing over Timothy’s crib and holding his hand to encourage him to fall asleep… and it often is all that is needed.
Now we see a scriptural reference to hand holding. If it makes you feel better to have your grandma, your great-aunt, a significant other, or just a good friend hold your hand, imagine how great it will feel to hold GOD’s hand! He is already on the job, doing just that… all we have to do is recognize Him. So the next time you need a hand to hold, remember GOD is there to help you, and He is holding your hand all the way. Don’t you feel better already?!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 4, 2010
April 4 ~ 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
What if I could speak all languages of humans and of angels? If I did not love others, I would be nothing more than a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. What if I could prophesy and understand all secrets and all knowledge? And what if I had faith that moved mountains? I would be nothing, unless I loved others. What if I gave away all that I owned and let myself be burned alive? I would gain nothing, unless I loved others.
Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. Love isn't selfish or quick tempered. It doesn't keep a record of wrongs that others do. Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil. `Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting.
Love never fails! Everyone who prophesies will stop, and unknown languages will no longer be spoken. All that we know will be forgotten. We don't know everything, and our prophecies are not complete. But what is perfect will someday appear, and what isn't perfect will then disappear. When we were children, we thought and reasoned as children do. But when we grew up, we quit our childish ways.
Now all we can see of God is like a cloudy picture in a mirror. Later we will see him face to face. We don't know everything, but then we will, just as God completely understands us. For now there are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I can’t think of a better day for this scripture passage. When we consider God’s love for us – a love that caused Him to send His only Son to die for our sins – this scripture passage is a fitting one. When we think of the resurrection – how the power of God was so strong that even death and the tomb could not contain Jesus – it is fitting to read these verses.
There is no way we can comprehend the depth and breadth of God’s love for us. It is all-consuming, overwhelming, incredible, amazing… and given unconditionally. God’s love is beyond anything in our capacity. But we can strive to love others more… to be patient, humble, without envy and pride, courteous, slow to anger, quick to forget, supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting. We can grow up and at least try to act more like Christ and model the behavior He showed us.
We can show God our gratitude and give Him praise for loving us so well… and for sending Jesus. We can thank Him that Christ rose from the grave… and that in doing so, we are promised that we will rise to spend Eternity with Him someday. If we do not strive to love as Jesus taught, the “Easter experience” is wasted on us. If we do not have faith that God will fulfill His promises, then why did Christ die on the cross and rise from the tomb? If we do not love others, Jesus does not matter. And we all know better – Jesus does matter – nothing about Jesus is a waste!
We don’t know everything – God has not revealed all of the answers. But we have faith, hope and love… and for now, these are sufficient. Today and in days to come, give all three your heartiest workout. And toss in praise and thanksgiving to God, as well. Hallelujah! Christ is Risen! Praise be to God Almighty! Happy Easter… share God’s love with others today… and always!
©2010 Debbie Robus
What if I could speak all languages of humans and of angels? If I did not love others, I would be nothing more than a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. What if I could prophesy and understand all secrets and all knowledge? And what if I had faith that moved mountains? I would be nothing, unless I loved others. What if I gave away all that I owned and let myself be burned alive? I would gain nothing, unless I loved others.
Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. Love isn't selfish or quick tempered. It doesn't keep a record of wrongs that others do. Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil. `Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting.
Love never fails! Everyone who prophesies will stop, and unknown languages will no longer be spoken. All that we know will be forgotten. We don't know everything, and our prophecies are not complete. But what is perfect will someday appear, and what isn't perfect will then disappear. When we were children, we thought and reasoned as children do. But when we grew up, we quit our childish ways.
Now all we can see of God is like a cloudy picture in a mirror. Later we will see him face to face. We don't know everything, but then we will, just as God completely understands us. For now there are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I can’t think of a better day for this scripture passage. When we consider God’s love for us – a love that caused Him to send His only Son to die for our sins – this scripture passage is a fitting one. When we think of the resurrection – how the power of God was so strong that even death and the tomb could not contain Jesus – it is fitting to read these verses.
There is no way we can comprehend the depth and breadth of God’s love for us. It is all-consuming, overwhelming, incredible, amazing… and given unconditionally. God’s love is beyond anything in our capacity. But we can strive to love others more… to be patient, humble, without envy and pride, courteous, slow to anger, quick to forget, supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting. We can grow up and at least try to act more like Christ and model the behavior He showed us.
We can show God our gratitude and give Him praise for loving us so well… and for sending Jesus. We can thank Him that Christ rose from the grave… and that in doing so, we are promised that we will rise to spend Eternity with Him someday. If we do not strive to love as Jesus taught, the “Easter experience” is wasted on us. If we do not have faith that God will fulfill His promises, then why did Christ die on the cross and rise from the tomb? If we do not love others, Jesus does not matter. And we all know better – Jesus does matter – nothing about Jesus is a waste!
We don’t know everything – God has not revealed all of the answers. But we have faith, hope and love… and for now, these are sufficient. Today and in days to come, give all three your heartiest workout. And toss in praise and thanksgiving to God, as well. Hallelujah! Christ is Risen! Praise be to God Almighty! Happy Easter… share God’s love with others today… and always!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 2, 2010
April 2 ~ Matthew 28:2-7
Suddenly a strong earthquake struck, and the Lord's angel came down from heaven. He rolled away the stone and sat on it. The angel looked as bright as lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards shook from fear and fell down, as though they were dead.
The angel said to the women, "Don't be afraid! I know you are looking for Jesus, who was nailed to a cross. He isn't here! God has raised him to life, just as Jesus said he would. Come, see the place where his body was lying. Now hurry! Tell his disciples that he has been raised to life and is on his way to Galilee. Go there, and you will see him. That is what I came to tell you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Blackberry, iPhone, Kindle, iPad and more… it seems like the way we get information changes daily. Someone reporting on the new iPad said, “This is how we will read newspapers and magazines in the future.” While God can use any of these devices to speak to us or work in our lives, He frequently uses another resource… angels. And in the days following Jesus’ crucifixion, God used an angel to roll away the stone and deliver the news to Mary and the other women that Jesus was not there.
Think about it… God used an angel to tell Zechariah that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son. He sent an angel in a dream to tell Joseph to go ahead with his marriage to Mary, who was already pregnant. An angel told the shepherds in the field that a Savior had been born in Bethlehem. Another angel spoke to Joseph in a dream and told him to flee to Egypt to protect Jesus from being killed by King Herod. Throughout the Bible, God used angels to deliver news. And even today, God uses angels to speak to us. They may not look as bright as lightning or wear clothes as white as snow, but if we are paying attention, angels are with us. When you are in a situation where you are afraid or lonely, angels are with you. Angels sing and celebrate good news and events with you. Angels are present when a new life begins… and angels usher you into God’s presence in heaven when you die.
Angels are real… and significant. Why else would God have used an angel to deliver such important news? An angel first reported that Jesus was raised to life. Why is this important for us today? I believe we often fail to recognize God’s presence – how He attends to us in many forms… even sending angels to surround us and see after our every need. This is just one more of the countless ways God cares for us… an extension of His loving act of sending us Jesus.
So as you go about your day, know that God is with you. Feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in your heart… and feel the blessings of angels that surround you on God’s behalf. Listen for any word they may have for you from our Heavenly Father. That “little voice” in your head may actually be the whisper of an angel! Thank God for loving us so much that He not only lifted Jesus from the tomb, but He sent an angel to share this Great News! Don’t be afraid… Jesus is ALIVE… and God’s angels are always with you! And the best part is that you don’t need an iPhone, Blackberry, or other electronic device to hear from either of them!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Suddenly a strong earthquake struck, and the Lord's angel came down from heaven. He rolled away the stone and sat on it. The angel looked as bright as lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards shook from fear and fell down, as though they were dead.
The angel said to the women, "Don't be afraid! I know you are looking for Jesus, who was nailed to a cross. He isn't here! God has raised him to life, just as Jesus said he would. Come, see the place where his body was lying. Now hurry! Tell his disciples that he has been raised to life and is on his way to Galilee. Go there, and you will see him. That is what I came to tell you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Blackberry, iPhone, Kindle, iPad and more… it seems like the way we get information changes daily. Someone reporting on the new iPad said, “This is how we will read newspapers and magazines in the future.” While God can use any of these devices to speak to us or work in our lives, He frequently uses another resource… angels. And in the days following Jesus’ crucifixion, God used an angel to roll away the stone and deliver the news to Mary and the other women that Jesus was not there.
Think about it… God used an angel to tell Zechariah that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son. He sent an angel in a dream to tell Joseph to go ahead with his marriage to Mary, who was already pregnant. An angel told the shepherds in the field that a Savior had been born in Bethlehem. Another angel spoke to Joseph in a dream and told him to flee to Egypt to protect Jesus from being killed by King Herod. Throughout the Bible, God used angels to deliver news. And even today, God uses angels to speak to us. They may not look as bright as lightning or wear clothes as white as snow, but if we are paying attention, angels are with us. When you are in a situation where you are afraid or lonely, angels are with you. Angels sing and celebrate good news and events with you. Angels are present when a new life begins… and angels usher you into God’s presence in heaven when you die.
Angels are real… and significant. Why else would God have used an angel to deliver such important news? An angel first reported that Jesus was raised to life. Why is this important for us today? I believe we often fail to recognize God’s presence – how He attends to us in many forms… even sending angels to surround us and see after our every need. This is just one more of the countless ways God cares for us… an extension of His loving act of sending us Jesus.
So as you go about your day, know that God is with you. Feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in your heart… and feel the blessings of angels that surround you on God’s behalf. Listen for any word they may have for you from our Heavenly Father. That “little voice” in your head may actually be the whisper of an angel! Thank God for loving us so much that He not only lifted Jesus from the tomb, but He sent an angel to share this Great News! Don’t be afraid… Jesus is ALIVE… and God’s angels are always with you! And the best part is that you don’t need an iPhone, Blackberry, or other electronic device to hear from either of them!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 31, 2010
March 31 ~ 1 Corinthians 15:3-8
I told you the most important part of the message exactly as it was told to me. That part is: Christ died for our sins, as the Scriptures say. He was buried, and three days later he was raised to life, as the Scriptures say. Christ appeared to Peter, then to the twelve. After this, he appeared to more than five hundred other followers. Most of them are still alive, but some have died. He also appeared to James, and then to all of the apostles. Finally, he appeared to me, even though I am like someone who was born at the wrong time.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The burden of proof is often a deciding factor in countless life situations, from court cases to new inventions to medical research. Everyone wants proof before they will believe something. If you weren’t drinking and driving, take a breathalyzer test and prove it in court. If this new vacuum cleaner really does pick up more than its competitor, show me in a side-by-side comparison. If this new drug really does cure cancer, I want to see results and case studies that confirm this! If Jesus really rose from the grave… I want to hear this news from people who were there!
Ah… there’s the rub… we really can’t talk to anyone who was actually there. We have to rely on the reports of Paul, the Apostles, the Disciples, and over five hundred other people who saw Jesus after the crucifixion and burial. Is that enough proof? Can we take the word of these people? Some would argue that we cannot trust these accounts. We believe the words of some people we never met who claim they were there and saw this. Don’t we demand more proof than that for even simple things, like showing ID at the grocery store?
The fact is that we are very much operating in faith that this happened. We are trusting Paul and others to tell us honestly what they saw and heard. Why would we trust them? We are such skeptical people by nature. Why do we believe this? We believe because the evidence really is overwhelming. Think about it. The story has not changed in almost 2000 years. Geologists and historians have been able to document many of the events and evidence surrounding the crucifixion. But more than this, we have learned from experience that God’s word is infallible. If we have been paying attention, we have seen that His promises play out in our own lives in so many ways every single day. If you have cultivated a relationship with God and His Holy Spirit, you already feel differently on the inside. You know that you know that you know that this is real… and that Paul’s account of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is 100% accurate.
There will be some who will not believe. There will be some who are skeptical and say that they cannot accept all of this as anything but a colorful story … the proof is just not compelling enough. But I am not among them. The proof is more than compelling to me. As we approach Easter weekend, and I think about the events of that few days, I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that every second of it happened just as written. I am humbled and heartsick as I think about Jesus agonizing in the Garden of Gethsemane as He prayed for God to find another way, if possible. I am physically sick as I consider the torture and crucifixion… imagine each spike being driven into Christ’s hands and feet. I am incredibly numb and grief stricken as I imagine the rumble of thunder, the dark skies, and the earth trembling after Jesus says, “It is finished.” I am overcome with joy and elation to realize on the third day that the grave was empty, and Jesus overcame death! I KNOW that He now sits in heaven at the right hand of God, and He talks to God about ME every single day!
More than that, I know that Jesus talks to God about YOU each day, also. He loves us so much that, in His mind, everything that happened was worth the price. Whatever you are going through today, know this… you can handle it because of Jesus. You can get through this and “rise again” in Him. Just as God raised Jesus from the grave, He will raise you from whatever is challenging you today. We are not alone… we have a Saviour! The proof is overwhelming… can you see Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I told you the most important part of the message exactly as it was told to me. That part is: Christ died for our sins, as the Scriptures say. He was buried, and three days later he was raised to life, as the Scriptures say. Christ appeared to Peter, then to the twelve. After this, he appeared to more than five hundred other followers. Most of them are still alive, but some have died. He also appeared to James, and then to all of the apostles. Finally, he appeared to me, even though I am like someone who was born at the wrong time.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The burden of proof is often a deciding factor in countless life situations, from court cases to new inventions to medical research. Everyone wants proof before they will believe something. If you weren’t drinking and driving, take a breathalyzer test and prove it in court. If this new vacuum cleaner really does pick up more than its competitor, show me in a side-by-side comparison. If this new drug really does cure cancer, I want to see results and case studies that confirm this! If Jesus really rose from the grave… I want to hear this news from people who were there!
Ah… there’s the rub… we really can’t talk to anyone who was actually there. We have to rely on the reports of Paul, the Apostles, the Disciples, and over five hundred other people who saw Jesus after the crucifixion and burial. Is that enough proof? Can we take the word of these people? Some would argue that we cannot trust these accounts. We believe the words of some people we never met who claim they were there and saw this. Don’t we demand more proof than that for even simple things, like showing ID at the grocery store?
The fact is that we are very much operating in faith that this happened. We are trusting Paul and others to tell us honestly what they saw and heard. Why would we trust them? We are such skeptical people by nature. Why do we believe this? We believe because the evidence really is overwhelming. Think about it. The story has not changed in almost 2000 years. Geologists and historians have been able to document many of the events and evidence surrounding the crucifixion. But more than this, we have learned from experience that God’s word is infallible. If we have been paying attention, we have seen that His promises play out in our own lives in so many ways every single day. If you have cultivated a relationship with God and His Holy Spirit, you already feel differently on the inside. You know that you know that you know that this is real… and that Paul’s account of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is 100% accurate.
There will be some who will not believe. There will be some who are skeptical and say that they cannot accept all of this as anything but a colorful story … the proof is just not compelling enough. But I am not among them. The proof is more than compelling to me. As we approach Easter weekend, and I think about the events of that few days, I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that every second of it happened just as written. I am humbled and heartsick as I think about Jesus agonizing in the Garden of Gethsemane as He prayed for God to find another way, if possible. I am physically sick as I consider the torture and crucifixion… imagine each spike being driven into Christ’s hands and feet. I am incredibly numb and grief stricken as I imagine the rumble of thunder, the dark skies, and the earth trembling after Jesus says, “It is finished.” I am overcome with joy and elation to realize on the third day that the grave was empty, and Jesus overcame death! I KNOW that He now sits in heaven at the right hand of God, and He talks to God about ME every single day!
More than that, I know that Jesus talks to God about YOU each day, also. He loves us so much that, in His mind, everything that happened was worth the price. Whatever you are going through today, know this… you can handle it because of Jesus. You can get through this and “rise again” in Him. Just as God raised Jesus from the grave, He will raise you from whatever is challenging you today. We are not alone… we have a Saviour! The proof is overwhelming… can you see Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 30, 2010
March 30 ~ Ephesians 1:19-21
I want you to know about the great and mighty power that God has for us followers. It is the same wonderful power he used when he raised Christ from death and let him sit at his right side in heaven. There Christ rules over all forces, authorities, powers, and rulers. He rules over all beings in this world and will rule in the future world as well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Sometime in the last few months, you have probably lost electrical power. It may have been due to ice or snow – or high winds and thunderstorms… or simply caused by a squirrel who decided to tightrope dance across the power lines. At any rate, when we lose electrical power, we seem to lose our way for a time. Everywhere we turn, there is something we can’t do like we normally do, because we don’t have power. Flip a switch? Oh, yeah… no power. Want to go somewhere? You have to manually raise your garage door, because the electric door opener isn’t working. Need to make a phone call? Can’t use that cordless phone, can you?! You can’t use your microwave, or maybe your stove. You can’t watch television, and you have limited battery life in your cell phones and laptops! If you live in a rural area, you may not be able to use your water, either, because your well pump runs on electricity! Very quickly, you learn the might and value of “power,” and you can’t wait for it to return!
What if we lost God’s power? Hopefully, we are depending on God to wield His power for us 24/7 in ways great and small. Hopefully we trust Him to use His power to keep us healthy, safe (from worldly enemies as well as the devil), fed, clothed, and mentally sound. We trust God to bring the sunshine each day and to provide plant and animal life to feed us, water to hydrate, people who can teach us and nurture us Spiritually through His word, and more.
You may not have consciously and deliberately given God’s power in your life much thought. Much like our electricity, you may have taken God’s power for granted. Let’s start today to pay closer attention to how God’s power is evidenced in our lives. Let’s make a list – at least mentally – of where God is operating on our behalf. Let’s stop taking this for granted and realize that God’s power has gotten us to this point and will carry us into the future – well into Eternity! Without God’s power, Jesus would never have been raised from the dead. Without God’s power, we would never have salvation and the promise of heaven. Without God’s power, the lights would go out for us in more ways than one. Thank God for giving us Jesus – and for the ways He will wield His power for us in the future. Feel the power of God in your life today… and give Him praise for exercising it on your behalf.
©2010 Debbie Robus
I want you to know about the great and mighty power that God has for us followers. It is the same wonderful power he used when he raised Christ from death and let him sit at his right side in heaven. There Christ rules over all forces, authorities, powers, and rulers. He rules over all beings in this world and will rule in the future world as well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Sometime in the last few months, you have probably lost electrical power. It may have been due to ice or snow – or high winds and thunderstorms… or simply caused by a squirrel who decided to tightrope dance across the power lines. At any rate, when we lose electrical power, we seem to lose our way for a time. Everywhere we turn, there is something we can’t do like we normally do, because we don’t have power. Flip a switch? Oh, yeah… no power. Want to go somewhere? You have to manually raise your garage door, because the electric door opener isn’t working. Need to make a phone call? Can’t use that cordless phone, can you?! You can’t use your microwave, or maybe your stove. You can’t watch television, and you have limited battery life in your cell phones and laptops! If you live in a rural area, you may not be able to use your water, either, because your well pump runs on electricity! Very quickly, you learn the might and value of “power,” and you can’t wait for it to return!
What if we lost God’s power? Hopefully, we are depending on God to wield His power for us 24/7 in ways great and small. Hopefully we trust Him to use His power to keep us healthy, safe (from worldly enemies as well as the devil), fed, clothed, and mentally sound. We trust God to bring the sunshine each day and to provide plant and animal life to feed us, water to hydrate, people who can teach us and nurture us Spiritually through His word, and more.
You may not have consciously and deliberately given God’s power in your life much thought. Much like our electricity, you may have taken God’s power for granted. Let’s start today to pay closer attention to how God’s power is evidenced in our lives. Let’s make a list – at least mentally – of where God is operating on our behalf. Let’s stop taking this for granted and realize that God’s power has gotten us to this point and will carry us into the future – well into Eternity! Without God’s power, Jesus would never have been raised from the dead. Without God’s power, we would never have salvation and the promise of heaven. Without God’s power, the lights would go out for us in more ways than one. Thank God for giving us Jesus – and for the ways He will wield His power for us in the future. Feel the power of God in your life today… and give Him praise for exercising it on your behalf.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 28, 2010
March 28 ~ Acts 13:30-35
But God raised him from death! Then for many days Jesus appeared to his followers who had gone with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. Now they are telling our people about him. God made a promise to our ancestors. And we are here to tell you the good news that he has kept this promise to us. It is just as the second Psalm says about Jesus, "You are my son because today I have become your Father." God raised Jesus from death and will never let his body decay. It is just as God said, "I will make to you the same holy promise that I made to David." And in another psalm it says, "God will never let the body of his Holy One decay."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“I promise.” We say that so often. We tell our babies and small children, “I promise I will be right back.” We tell family and friends, “I promise I will remember to do such-and-such for you,” or “I promise I will never lie to you, “ or even “I promise I will do better.” We tell our teachers, “I promise, the dog ate my homework!”
“I promise, I promise!” But how many of our promises are reliable? How often do we fall short of delivering on our promises? What if GOD fell short? What if He had allowed Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, but somehow He never resurrected Jesus’ body? What if God had allowed Jesus’ body to decay? Our “Good News” wouldn’t be very good, would it?!
There’s more to consider... before we gave our hearts to Jesus, we were “dead” in sin. But Jesus bought and paid for our sins on the cross, and then He rose from the grave. Because of this, we are no longer “dead” in sin. We have risen to new life in Christ. God promised this, too! If God had failed to honor even one part of His promises, we would not be saved from sin and guaranteed an eternity with Him in heaven.
Because we are human, we often fail to honor our promises, even when our intentions are the best in the world. Thankfully, God NEVER fails to honor a promise. We can rest assured that what He has said He will do for us will be done. This is wonderful news! I promise this is true… because GOD has promised it!
2009 Debbie Robus
But God raised him from death! Then for many days Jesus appeared to his followers who had gone with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. Now they are telling our people about him. God made a promise to our ancestors. And we are here to tell you the good news that he has kept this promise to us. It is just as the second Psalm says about Jesus, "You are my son because today I have become your Father." God raised Jesus from death and will never let his body decay. It is just as God said, "I will make to you the same holy promise that I made to David." And in another psalm it says, "God will never let the body of his Holy One decay."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“I promise.” We say that so often. We tell our babies and small children, “I promise I will be right back.” We tell family and friends, “I promise I will remember to do such-and-such for you,” or “I promise I will never lie to you, “ or even “I promise I will do better.” We tell our teachers, “I promise, the dog ate my homework!”
“I promise, I promise!” But how many of our promises are reliable? How often do we fall short of delivering on our promises? What if GOD fell short? What if He had allowed Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, but somehow He never resurrected Jesus’ body? What if God had allowed Jesus’ body to decay? Our “Good News” wouldn’t be very good, would it?!
There’s more to consider... before we gave our hearts to Jesus, we were “dead” in sin. But Jesus bought and paid for our sins on the cross, and then He rose from the grave. Because of this, we are no longer “dead” in sin. We have risen to new life in Christ. God promised this, too! If God had failed to honor even one part of His promises, we would not be saved from sin and guaranteed an eternity with Him in heaven.
Because we are human, we often fail to honor our promises, even when our intentions are the best in the world. Thankfully, God NEVER fails to honor a promise. We can rest assured that what He has said He will do for us will be done. This is wonderful news! I promise this is true… because GOD has promised it!
2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 25, 2010
March 25 ~ Luke 24:46-48
He told them: "The Scriptures say that the Messiah must suffer, then three days later he will rise from death. They also say that all people of every nation must be told in my name to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. So beginning in Jerusalem, you must tell everything that has happened."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose someone knew some really great news that would help you tremendously. Let’s say, for instance, that you were sick, and someone knew exactly how to make you feel better – or even cure you – but he/she kept the information from you. Let’s say you desperately needed a job, and family members and friends knew of several companies that were hiring, but they never bothered to let you know… and you did not have access to this information any other way. Or, let’s say that someone let you walk around all day with a hole in your pants or your skirt tucked into your underwear… and nobody told you about this and saved you from further embarrassment. Thankfully, most of these scenarios are unlikely today, especially given the lightning speed with which “news” travels over phone lines and Internet social networks.
Now consider if the disciples had not shared the knowledge of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection with others. Suppose that there was limited firsthand information about the crucifixion from those who observed it. Maybe the word traveled as far as nearby villages as people ventured away and spread the news. But suppose that nobody ever told about the empty grave… the rolled away stone… the resurrection of Jesus on the third day. What would have happened? Wouldn’t this negate the entire sacrifice and effort of Jesus on our behalf? If we didn’t know about Jesus… and about His sacrifices and the fact that He rose on the third day and is ALIVE… how would we ever come to know Him and believe in Him? How would we ever learn of His promises – and our promise of a home with Him for eternity?
The simple fact is that someone had to tell. Jesus commanded His disciples to tell everything that had happened… but only after He empowered them with His Holy Spirit? Why was this important? Because, as humans, we tend to color things a bit… make them fuzzy around the edges… sugarcoat the rough stuff or operate in fear instead of love. Jesus wanted to make sure that His Holy Spirit led us as we shared His story and message. But He definitely wants it to be shared! And honestly, if we can tell half the world on Facebook that someone just saw Miley Cyrus shopping in a department store, can’t we tell others about Jesus Christ and how He bought and paid for our sins on the cross and now LIVES with our Heavenly Father? Can’t we share the message of how Jesus has changed our life and will do the same for others? Can’t we ask the Holy Spirit to lead us in sharing the Good News with every nation?
God has given us everything we need to accomplish this – Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, technology and communication tools galore. Now all we have to do is get up and get going. We have people to tell… Good News to share! We must tell everything that has happened and encourage everyone to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. Who have you told this news today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
He told them: "The Scriptures say that the Messiah must suffer, then three days later he will rise from death. They also say that all people of every nation must be told in my name to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. So beginning in Jerusalem, you must tell everything that has happened."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Suppose someone knew some really great news that would help you tremendously. Let’s say, for instance, that you were sick, and someone knew exactly how to make you feel better – or even cure you – but he/she kept the information from you. Let’s say you desperately needed a job, and family members and friends knew of several companies that were hiring, but they never bothered to let you know… and you did not have access to this information any other way. Or, let’s say that someone let you walk around all day with a hole in your pants or your skirt tucked into your underwear… and nobody told you about this and saved you from further embarrassment. Thankfully, most of these scenarios are unlikely today, especially given the lightning speed with which “news” travels over phone lines and Internet social networks.
Now consider if the disciples had not shared the knowledge of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection with others. Suppose that there was limited firsthand information about the crucifixion from those who observed it. Maybe the word traveled as far as nearby villages as people ventured away and spread the news. But suppose that nobody ever told about the empty grave… the rolled away stone… the resurrection of Jesus on the third day. What would have happened? Wouldn’t this negate the entire sacrifice and effort of Jesus on our behalf? If we didn’t know about Jesus… and about His sacrifices and the fact that He rose on the third day and is ALIVE… how would we ever come to know Him and believe in Him? How would we ever learn of His promises – and our promise of a home with Him for eternity?
The simple fact is that someone had to tell. Jesus commanded His disciples to tell everything that had happened… but only after He empowered them with His Holy Spirit? Why was this important? Because, as humans, we tend to color things a bit… make them fuzzy around the edges… sugarcoat the rough stuff or operate in fear instead of love. Jesus wanted to make sure that His Holy Spirit led us as we shared His story and message. But He definitely wants it to be shared! And honestly, if we can tell half the world on Facebook that someone just saw Miley Cyrus shopping in a department store, can’t we tell others about Jesus Christ and how He bought and paid for our sins on the cross and now LIVES with our Heavenly Father? Can’t we share the message of how Jesus has changed our life and will do the same for others? Can’t we ask the Holy Spirit to lead us in sharing the Good News with every nation?
God has given us everything we need to accomplish this – Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, technology and communication tools galore. Now all we have to do is get up and get going. We have people to tell… Good News to share! We must tell everything that has happened and encourage everyone to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. Who have you told this news today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 22, 2010
March 22 ~ Matthew 20:18-19
We are now on our way to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses. They will sentence him to death, and then they will hand him over to foreigners who will make fun of him. They will beat him and nail him to a cross. But on the third day he will rise from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a new show on NBC called “Who Do You Think You Are?” in which celebrities trace their family roots. The first episode followed actress Lisa Kudrow, of “Friends” fame, as she traveled to Poland to search for her ancestors. What she found there was heartbreaking. Her great-grandmother and other family members had been marched to their death by the Nazis in a small village called Ilya. History indicates that these Jewish men, women, and children were stripped naked and led in groups of three or four to the edge of a large concrete cellar and shot, then dumped into the cellar. Later, the bodies were burned.
Lisa was visibly shaken as she stood where her great-grandmother had stood and thought of her and the others, waiting there and knowing what was about to happen. She said, “I keep thinking of the children.” As I watched this story, I thought of the children, too. What did her great-grandmother say to them? Did she comfort them and reassure them it would be okay? Or was she visibly frightened – and did she convey that fear to the others?
I also thought of another “child” – Jesus, the Son of God. He knew what was going to happen, and He knew how horrific His torture and death would be. But He endured it anyway – for each of us. God knew that the sacrifice of His son would ensure that His children – you and I – would have eternal life. He apparently felt it was a reasonable exchange. Personally, I don’t think I could sacrifice the life of my own child…even to save the masses. But then, I don’t have God’s capacity for unconditional love, grace and mercy!
I am so humbled and grateful for the sacrifices of Jesus. I am heartbroken for the horrific injustices that were inflicted upon the Jews and others throughout history. But I know a God who makes everything new… a God who holds our hand through even the most heinous experiences and says, “I’m with you. I love you. Trust me, and I will save you.” I don’t understand God’s love for us, but I don’t have to – all I have to do is accept Him. God’s love is a gift – freely given to all who will believe in Him. Are you ready to receive this love and claim victory over sin and death? Are you ready to live in Christ Jesus and look forward to spending eternity with Him? If you have not already chosen a life in Christ, today is the perfect time to do so. If you have, perhaps you need to spend some time in prayer and thanksgiving for all God has done in your life. Jesus Christ rose from the dead and will return for us. Will you be ready?
©2010 Debbie Robus
We are now on our way to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses. They will sentence him to death, and then they will hand him over to foreigners who will make fun of him. They will beat him and nail him to a cross. But on the third day he will rise from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a new show on NBC called “Who Do You Think You Are?” in which celebrities trace their family roots. The first episode followed actress Lisa Kudrow, of “Friends” fame, as she traveled to Poland to search for her ancestors. What she found there was heartbreaking. Her great-grandmother and other family members had been marched to their death by the Nazis in a small village called Ilya. History indicates that these Jewish men, women, and children were stripped naked and led in groups of three or four to the edge of a large concrete cellar and shot, then dumped into the cellar. Later, the bodies were burned.
Lisa was visibly shaken as she stood where her great-grandmother had stood and thought of her and the others, waiting there and knowing what was about to happen. She said, “I keep thinking of the children.” As I watched this story, I thought of the children, too. What did her great-grandmother say to them? Did she comfort them and reassure them it would be okay? Or was she visibly frightened – and did she convey that fear to the others?
I also thought of another “child” – Jesus, the Son of God. He knew what was going to happen, and He knew how horrific His torture and death would be. But He endured it anyway – for each of us. God knew that the sacrifice of His son would ensure that His children – you and I – would have eternal life. He apparently felt it was a reasonable exchange. Personally, I don’t think I could sacrifice the life of my own child…even to save the masses. But then, I don’t have God’s capacity for unconditional love, grace and mercy!
I am so humbled and grateful for the sacrifices of Jesus. I am heartbroken for the horrific injustices that were inflicted upon the Jews and others throughout history. But I know a God who makes everything new… a God who holds our hand through even the most heinous experiences and says, “I’m with you. I love you. Trust me, and I will save you.” I don’t understand God’s love for us, but I don’t have to – all I have to do is accept Him. God’s love is a gift – freely given to all who will believe in Him. Are you ready to receive this love and claim victory over sin and death? Are you ready to live in Christ Jesus and look forward to spending eternity with Him? If you have not already chosen a life in Christ, today is the perfect time to do so. If you have, perhaps you need to spend some time in prayer and thanksgiving for all God has done in your life. Jesus Christ rose from the dead and will return for us. Will you be ready?
©2010 Debbie Robus
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