Daily Devotional for November 14, 2016

Romans 1:8-12
First, I thank God in the name of Jesus Christ for all of you. I do this because people everywhere in the world are talking about your faith. God has seen how I never stop praying for you, while I serve him with all my heart and tell the good news about his Son.

In all my prayers, I ask God to make it possible for me to visit you. I want to see you and share with you the same blessings that God’s Spirit has given me. Then you will grow stronger in your faith. What I am saying is that we can encourage each other by the faith that is ours.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

In the last 24 hours, I have referenced faith THREE TIMES in correspondence with friends who are concerned about the future.  I’ve prayed for loved ones and acquaintances that are in some difficult situations…and I’ve asked God to work as only He can.

The Apostle Paul speaks in this passage of wishing he could meet some of his loved ones and friends in person, so that they could encourage one another in the LORD face to face.  I know that when I am encouraging Timothy, Zola and Nathan, they sometimes need a hug and a smile to go with my words of hope.  And we adults are no different!

But let’s be real…we can’t be everywhere at once.  So we have the next best thing…correspondence!  We have letters, cards, e-mail messages, texts, FaceTime, Skype…and the telephone!  And we ALWAYS have prayer.  We really have no excuse for failing to encourage one another and sharing our faith in God to see us through every situation and circumstance.  If the Apostle Paul could do this so effectively from his jail cell…surely WE can do this from the comfort of our own home/school/workplace - or wherever we happen to find ourselves!

So here’s my message to you today…keep the faith!  We say we believe in God and trust Him to do all things…now is the time to demonstrate this!  Encourage your friends and neighbors.  If you are with them in person, smile and offer them a hug when they need it.  If you are using modern technology to correspond, include a hopeful emoji where appropriate.  Write a note…send a card…pick up the phone…PRAY!

Fill your heart and mind with the hope and faith that God is still in control – of EVERYTHING – and let others truly see this at work in you.  And let’s all get started today!

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 8, 2016

John 3:19-21
“This is the crisis we’re in: God-light streamed into the world, but men and women everywhere ran for the darkness. They went for the darkness because they were not really interested in pleasing God. Everyone who makes a practice of doing evil, addicted to denial and illusion, hates God-light and won’t come near it, fearing a painful exposure. But anyone working and living in truth and reality welcomes God-light so the work can be seen for the God-work it is.”

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 cannot stress often enough what a wonderful study tool I have found in the book, Jesus Calling*.  I am not affiliated with this author or publisher in any way - but these devotionals speak to me every time I read them. The September 6th entry says in part that (and remember, this is supposed to be Jesus speaking), “The desire to act independently – apart from Me – springs from the root of pride.  Self-sufficiency is subtle, insinuating its way into your thoughts and actions without your realizing it.  But apart from Me, you can do nothing: that is, nothing of eternal value.”

The passage goes on to encourage us to depend on Jesus in every situation…but we are reminded that we have to want to do this.  While it would be simpler for Jesus to force us to be obedient servants, the author explains that freedom to choose is a “godlike privilege I bestowed on you as My image-bearer.”

Let’s be honest…the devil makes it pretty easy and attractive for us to live in darkness. A former pastor used to say that “Sin is fun…otherwise, nobody would be interested!”  When I thought about today’s scripture passage – and the Jesus Calling entry from a couple of days ago – I couldn’t help but think how many people who claim to be Christians have gotten caught up in the collective shadows of dissension that seem to permeate our country today.

Lines are firmly drawn in the sand. It’s become cool and popular to speak one’s mind and let the chips fall where they may…to pit one group against another and deride good people – just because others seem to like it!  There is a good deal of the “speak now and apologize later” mentality – and the fallout from this in some cases is permanent and irreparable.  We want to be cool…to fit in…to be accepted. So we go along with rhetoric that divides rather than unites.

We operate like people who have stepped out of a building into the brightness of a sunny day without wearing any sunglasses. We prefer to jump back into the “comfort” of the shadows as quickly as possible. We are not willing to make the effort to adjust to the bright light – and enjoy it!  We don’t appreciate the warmth of the sun’s life-giving rays.  We have no desire to put on sunscreen and protective clothing and stick around.

And so it is with Jesus.  We don’t want to do the work.  We would rather coast along in the darkness and act like we’re “all that,” and enjoy the relative “comfort” of fitting in and not making waves.

Understand this…sometimes, being a Christian is messy.  It takes courage, confidence, hope and faith.  It takes a willingness to step out of the darkness and say, “I’m following the LIGHT!”  We have to swallow our pride and put on the full armor of God and say, “Wherever You lead, I will follow!” Are YOU courageous enough to do this?  Will you place everything on the line for the One who has already done this - and so much more - for you?

Aren’t you ready to step out of the darkness and into the brilliant Light of Christ, once and for all?  Will this be the day that you do?

©2016 Debbie Robus
  
*Jesus Calling ~ http://jesuscalling.com – is available at most bookstores and major retailers, including Walmart and Target.

Daily Devotional for June 20, 2016

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.

I watched a teacher work with a child at Zola’s pre-K graduation as the students performed a little skit for the crowd.  This child apparently has special needs, and he kept repeatedly getting up and running across the stage with his arms flailing in the air.  The teacher would retrieve the child and speak to him, then gently place him back in line.  I lost track of how many times she did this.

Clearly this child has issues and could not help his behavior.  A lot of people we encounter each day don’t have a good excuse for their thoughts, words and actions.  And yet, Jesus calls on us to gently nudge them back in the right direction…and to forgive them over and again – even when they mistreat us or hurt us in some way.

You may be asking yourself, “Is she saying that we should forgive someone who is abusive and let them keep on harming us or the people we love?”  I am saying that we must forgive these people…but we don’t have to stick around for their mistreatment.  Forgiving someone and standing up for yourself are two entirely different actions.  And sometimes, the most loving and forgiving thing you can do for someone who is repeating a bad behavior is to walk away from them.

This is one of the hardest scripture passages for many of us to wrap our brains around.  We are not wired to forgive repeatedly.  We are not geared toward “tough love.”  Yet Jesus is calling us to practice both.  Who needs your forgiveness…maybe for the umpteenth time?  Who needs to hear, “I love you, but I cannot be around you while you are acting this way” as you practice extending grace, mercy and “tough love?”

I don’t know about you, but I’m going to have to ask for a hefty dose of patience and courage – on an almost-daily basis – in order to accomplish these demonstrations of Christian love!  And I must start today!  Because I know that Jesus is exercising these same qualities as He deals with me and my sins.  To treat others any less would basically say that what He does for me – and for you – is a waste of time and energy…that Jesus might as well give up on us!  I’m not prepared to do this…so the alternative is to follow Him and treat others as He has commanded.  And that means offering forgiveness over…and over…and over. Are you with me?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 15, 2016

Matthew 4:18-20
Walking along the beach of Lake Galilee, Jesus saw two brothers: Simon (later called Peter) and Andrew. They were fishing, throwing their nets into the lake. It was their regular work. Jesus said to them, “Come with me. I’ll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I’ll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass.” They didn’t ask questions, but simply dropped their nets and followed.

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.

Many years ago, I was shopping in Walmart just before Thanksgiving, and I saw my friend, Frances Evans.  We talked about preparing the Thanksgiving meal and how much work was involved, and I mentioned making homemade rolls.  Frances, who was one of the best cooks in the county, said, “Don’t do that!  Go to the freezer case and find the Sister Schubert’s® Parker House Style Rolls.  They are so good that you will never make homemade rolls again!”  I knew if Frances said these rolls were good, they were GOOD!  And she was exactly right!

My dear friend Frances is gone now, but every time I buy Sister Schubert’s rolls®, I think of her.  And while I have made homemade rolls from my Mam-ma Polly’s recipe, these were good enough that even she commented on how delicious the rolls tasted! 

I share this to say that sometimes, there is nothing necessarily wrong with what we are doing or how we are doing it…but Jesus has something so much better in mind for us to accomplish.  There was nothing wrong with Peter and Andrew fishing for a living…but Jesus wanted them to work for Him…to “fish” for the souls of men and women and to share the Good News with them as His disciples.  And the amazing part of this story for me is that they dropped their nets and followed Jesus.

You see, it was one thing for me to mark homemade rolls off my “to-do” list for Thanksgiving dinner and buy frozen rolls.  France had told me they would be delicious, and I knew that she would not steer me wrong. I had eaten countless meals that she prepared.  I had years of “history” with her. But these two men really didn’t know Jesus that well…at least not well enough to drop their very livelihood and leave their homes and families to follow Him.  And yet, they did it!

Peter and Andrew had not grown up with Jesus.  They had met Him…they had been told that He was the Messiah.  But they didn’t have years of “history” with Him.  And still they gave Him their complete faith and hope…they stepped up and out and followed Jesus with complete confidence that He knew best – that their work for Him would matter.

Here’s the thing…in some ways, we really don’t know Jesus all that well, either.  We’ve never even met Him in the flesh.  All we know is what we have been told…what we have read in the Bible…what we have seen demonstrated in the faithful words and actions of others.  And yet, we are called to “come and follow” Him and “fish” for the hearts and souls of others on His behalf.  Honestly, your life may be pretty good already.  Your “old ways” are working fairly well, and there might not seem to be much need for any changes in how you worship and serve.

But often, Jesus calls us to make a few adjustments that add up to so much more…to cast off our “old ways” and take up the His new ones…to step out of our comfort zone and serve a Messiah that we have never physically seen.  Jesus calls us to live for Him and do all that we can to convince others to surrender their hearts serve Him as well.  These are all expressions of incredible faith and hope.  And this is what Jesus asks of us.

So I guess my question today is this…”Are you content to keep ‘fishing’ like you’ve always done it…or are you ready to trust Jesus and try something new?”  Will this be the day/week/year that you step out of your comfort zone and trust Jesus to show you a new – and better – way of doing things?  Are you ready to drop your nets and follow Him…completely and faithfully?  Don’t you think it’s time you were?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 13, 2016

Matthew 25:14-30
“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a man going into another country, who called together his servants and loaned them money to invest for him while he was gone.

“He gave $5,000 to one, $2,000 to another, and $1,000 to the last—dividing it in proportion to their abilities—and then left on his trip. The man who received the $5,000 began immediately to buy and sell with it and soon earned another $5,000. The man with $2,000 went right to work, too, and earned another $2,000.

“But the man who received the $1,000 dug a hole in the ground and hid the money for safekeeping.

“After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to him to account for his money. The man to whom he had entrusted the $5,000 brought him $10,000.

“His master praised him for good work. ‘You have been faithful in handling this small amount,’ he told him, ‘so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Begin the joyous tasks I have assigned to you.’

“Next came the man who had received the $2,000, with the report, ‘Sir, you gave me $2,000 to use, and I have doubled it.’

“‘Good work,’ his master said. ‘You are a good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over this small amount, so now I will give you much more.’

 “Then the man with the $1,000 came and said, ‘Sir, I knew you were a hard man, and I was afraid you would rob me of what I earned,  so I hid your money in the earth and here it is!’

But his master replied, ‘Wicked man! Lazy slave! Since you knew I would demand your profit, you should at least have put my money into the bank so I could have some interest. Take the money from this man and give it to the man with the $10,000.  For the man who uses well what he is given shall be given more, and he shall have abundance. But from the man who is unfaithful, even what little responsibility he has shall be taken from him. And throw the useless servant out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
For several months now, Greg and I have kept our great-nephew, Nathan, on Mondays and Fridays while his parents work and his older siblings are at school.  Today, Timothy joined us, because he was sent home yesterday with a fever, and children cannot return to school until they are fever-free for 24 hours.  This also happens to be Timothy’s 7th birthday.  So we are spending the day playing with Legos® and other toys, watching movies, reading books, and eating pizza - and cheese sandwiches with mayonnaise and “no crust” (Timothy’s personal favorite!).

For today, this is my treasure.  I could choose to pretty well ignore the boys – to plant them in front of the TV and go on about my day.  I could pretend I didn’t hear them when they tell me they are hungry.  I could let 3-year-old Nathan take himself to the bathroom and trust him to wash his own hands afterward (not!) – and even take his own bath and wash his hair himself!  I could get out toys and crayons and set up movies for the children, put a slice of pizza or a cheese sandwich on a plate and say, “You’re on your own.” 

OR, I could spend time working puzzles and chasing the boys with toy airplanes…watching videos and movies on TV…reading books…making sure they have plenty to eat and drink…making them bubble baths and shampooing their hair, and generally letting them know how important they are to us and how much we love them.  The more we “sow into” these boys, the more they will develop into well-rounded children and adults.

My point is that every day, you and I are given responsibility for “treasure” – and today, ours is the nurture and care of these two little boys.  Yours may to be the best student, employee, boss, mom, dad, sister, brother, cousin, teacher or spouse that you can be.  You may be retired, and your “treasure” is the investment you sow into people and projects that further God’s kingdom.  You may be sick or injured, and your “treasure” is to uplift and motivate others by your own prayers, encouragement and demonstration of Christian discipleship.

God calls us to make the most of whatever “treasure” He gives us each day.  We are to recognize His gifts and be faithful stewards of them…to make the most of every single blessing and responsibility – even if it involves Legos®, pizza and cheese sandwiches.  So how are you doing today?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 11, 2016

Matthew 24:36
But no one knows the date and hour when the end will be—not even the angels. No, nor even God’s Son. Only the Father knows.
   
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

This morning, a photo memory of my niece and her three children, taken at a birthday/Mother’s Day celebration party two years ago, appeared on my Facebook wall.  The children were just turning 5, 3, and 2.  Also appearing this morning was a post from a friend I taught kindergarten with “many moons ago.”  Today, her son is 36.  I remember vividly the day he was born – Mother’s Day 1980.  A lot has happened in thirty-six years…and day for day, a lot has happened in just the last two!

As I thought about these events, I was reminded that we could not have predicted much of what happened.  Two years ago, I would never have dreamed that vital, healthy people we loved would no longer be with us.  We could not have predicted the births of new family members, the achievements and accomplishments of others, job changes for some, new homes for others, and a myriad of other life events.  There is so much about daily living that is unpredictable…there are so many things for which we cannot possibly plan.

And yet, God knows them all.  He knows what will happen…and when.  God knows how things will “play out” in our lives…and how we will react to them.  And for every event and possibility we are able to imagine, God knows dozens more that we never thought of – or could not envision.  He sees the big picture where we see only a small window of what will take place.

So we cannot possibly know when Jesus will return…or whether we will still be here.  We don’t know the hour and date of our death…and I am pretty sure we wouldn’t want to know.  But this “unknown” does come with some responsibilities.  We must be ready – for anything.  How can you be ready for sudden death or the loss of a loved one?  How can you be ready for job loss, the disintegration of a relationship, a major disappointment of some sort…or even a great surprise or blessing?  The short answer is, “You can’t!”

But we can live with expectation, faith and hope.  We can wake up every day and say, “I don’t know what You have planned for me today, Lord, but I know that you will equip me to handle it.”  We can get up with a sense of obligation to represent Jesus and His teachings to the best of our ability – with the help of the Holy Spirit.  And we can trust that whatever happens beyond this will be manipulated by God for His purposes.

God is more than able to “make lemons out of lemonade.”  He can take our joys and triumphs…our sorrows and heartaches…the good, the bad, and the ugly…and turn it into something beautiful for His glory.  Our job is to trust Him to do this…and live with hope and confidence in every circumstance that each day brings.  How are you doing so far?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 5, 2016

Luke 16:10-13
Jesus went on to make these comments:

If you’re honest in small things,
    you’ll be honest in big things;
If you’re a crook in small things,
    you’ll be a crook in big things.
If you’re not honest in small jobs,
    who will put you in charge of the store?
No worker can serve two bosses:
    He’ll either hate the first and love the second
Or adore the first and despise the second.
    You can’t serve both God and the Bank.
 
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 think about it, many of us are taught the importance of integrity from an early age. 
A friend asked on Facebook for parents to contribute lists of words or phrases that they use over and over with their children.  While we are not parents, I thought of a few that Greg and I say, like “share”…”say ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’”…and ”be nice to each other.”  We also spend time telling the children, “You can become anything you want”…”You are so smart”…”You did that so well”…”I am proud of you!”

We try to instill in them – just as our parents did with us – the importance of honesty, fairness, and integrity…and the dangers of lying, cheating, stealing – and greed.  And I hope you realize that this scripture passage is about so much more than just the love of money.  It’s really about choices – what and WHO we choose to serve in all areas of life.

Proverbs 15:16 (CEV) says, “It’s better to obey the Lord and have only a little, than to be very rich and terribly confused.”  When we focus on God and doing the things that please Him, our needs will always be met.  We may not drive brand-new cars or live in fancy houses…we may only have a few things to wear and just enough food to sustain us.  But we will be full, satisfied, and abundantly “rich” in the things that truly matter - if we are in the will of God and serve Him humbly. 

When we make hard choices and do the right thing – even though everyone around us is suggesting we do otherwise…we demonstrate faith in God to bless us.  When we operate with integrity and trust God in all things, He fills in the gaps.  It is time for us to focus on God…to serve and operate in His will – and believe that He will handle our troubles and challenges.  It is time for us to concentrate on meeting the needs of others in the name of Jesus - and quit worrying about what is in it for ourselves.

It is time for us to choose WHO we will serve…and then do it…to exhibit the hallmarks of a person of integrity…such as sharing, being polite and kind, lifting people up and speaking positively, always operating in honesty and fairness - and demonstrating our faith in Jesus and His teachings.  It is time to show others that we have chosen richness in Christian faith and discipleship – with no concern over whether monetary wealth will follow or not. 

The time has come to make what will be for some of us hard choices…and get on with the business of doing God’s will rather than serving our own interests.  Are you ready to make this level of commitment - and walk in faith and integrity with Jesus? Will this be the day that you begin?

©2016 Robus

Daily Devotional for May 4, 2016

Luke 14:33
“Simply put, if you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can’t be my disciple.”

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.

“God has other plans.”  This is the phrase my mother uttered over and again, particularly in her last days.  I’ll be honest…as I have gone through things at my Mother’s house - and even sorted and “purged” my own closets and drawers – I’ve wondered…”What was the significance of this item?  Why was it saved and/or treasured?” Over the years, I have wondered what brings certain people together. The old saying that “opposites attract” seems to apply to many friendships and relationships where people on the fringe scratch their heads and wonder, “What does this person see in that one?”  And yet, the relationships are strong – and important to those involved.

So when it comes time to part with some of our prized possessions…or a “breakup” or “death” of some sort occurs between people or relationships (even a job or a move of some kind)…we are often left devastated.  We have attached so much personal significance to these things or people that we cannot imagine a life in which we could function without them.  And yet…this is exactly what Jesus calls us to do.

Understand that Jesus says you must be willing to give up what is dearest to you.  He doesn’t say you will be required to do so.  You may never be asked to sacrifice belongings or people in order to serve Jesus.  But you must be ready and willing to do so, all the same.  This is what separates us and signifies that we are Christ’s disciples…our willingness to forego everything and trust Him to make everything alright.

So if I am truly a disciple of Christ, I have to be able to say, “It’s okay that my parents and other loved ones are no longer alive on this earth.  I trust Jesus to fill in the gaps and comfort me.”  When God tells me that an association or relationship is toxic and I need to detach from the other parties, I have to trust that He will deal with these persons according to His will…and bring new relationships to fill my life and give me joy.  When I hear God saying, “You don’t need another pair of shoes…but a foster child in your town needs clothes,” I know that I must give up satisfying my selfish desire (and cluttering my closet) in favor of meeting someone else’s true need.

My mother had plans to travel…spend time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, friends and family members…write books and visit her beloved Branson “family”…nurture others, and more.  She had stacks of books she was reading or planned to read.  She planted tulip bulbs in the fall and anticipated their blooms in the spring.  She wrote of picking up her apron next Thanksgiving Day and cooking a family dinner once again.  And God had other plans. 

In this case, my mother could do little to change the fact that God was calling her to heaven…but she had a choice about how to react.  She could have gone kicking, screaming and complaining.  She could have told everyone how bitter and angry she was and encouraged us to be mad at God. Instead, she smiled over and over and said, “God has other plans.”  She encouraged us to stay faithful…to trust that God’s will is perfect…to accept that everything on this earth is temporary – both physical possessions and the people we know and love.

This is a daunting question…”Who and what would you be willing to sacrifice for Jesus?”  When we think about what Jesus sacrificed for us, this seems like a rather silly query.  When we consider what Jesus offers us in exchange for our “surrender,” it seems even more absurd.  So today, I suggest that we all spend some time thinking about our discipleship…our relationship to the One who has given us everything, including the promise of Eternal Life…and ask, “what – and who – are we willing to give up for Jesus?”  If/when God has other plans, are we ready to smile and accept them?  Isn’t it time we were?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 26, 2016

John 21:15-19
After breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Master, you know I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

He then asked a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”

“Yes, Master, you know I love you.”

Jesus said, “Shepherd my sheep.”

Then he said it a third time: “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was upset that he asked for the third time, “Do you love me?” so he answered, “Master, you know everything there is to know. You’ve got to know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. I’m telling you the very truth now: When you were young you dressed yourself and went wherever you wished, but when you get old you’ll have to stretch out your hands while someone else dresses you and takes you where you don’t want to go.” He said this to hint at the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. And then he commanded, “Follow me.”

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.

While Timothy was out of school for Spring Break, he delivered Meals on Wheels with Greg, and afterward, they went to Walmart. Timothy had a little spending money, and Greg let him pick out a toy – and he made up the difference in price.  So when the boys came to stay with us last week, Timothy assumed that we would return to the store and shop for more toys.  He was quite disappointed to learn that this was not in our plans.  Trust me…our kids have MORE THAN ENOUGH toys already and get plenty of “treats!”

At one point, Timothy was talking about all we were going to do while he and Nathan visited, and he said, “You must not want to share your love with us anymore.”  I asked him why he thought that, and he said, “Well, if you loved me, you would do what I want!” I laughed.  He knows better than this…he was just being a six-year-old.  But as I read Jesus’ words to His disciples in this passage, I did think about how WE adults often make demands on JESUS – and place conditions on His love.

We have it all twisted.  We want to tell Jesus, “If You loved ME, You would do such-and-such. You would fix ABC or XYZ and make everything perfect in our little world.”  Jesus has nothing to prove to us. The evidence of His love is all around us…and just like Timothy knows that we love him…WE know better when it comes to Jesus’ love! WE should be seeking ways to demonstrate our love to Jesus…not the other way around!

We are not six-year-olds…and it’s time we grew up and developed some “faith muscle.”  Jesus has been very clear about how to show our love to Him - feed His sheep…serve...encourage…love others others…and nurture them in their faith. Offer whatever you can to help people - and give them hope.  Live in a way that instills confidence in the promises of God…and assurance of Eternity in His presence for all who believe in Him.

Feed the lambs…shepherd the sheep…show Jesus how much you love Him.  Jesus shows us His love and care every single day.  He gave His very life on the cross for our sins.  He is preparing a place in Heaven for us for all of Eternity!  It is abundantly clear how much He loves us.  If we truly love HIM…it’s time to show Him.  The time has come to get busy on this…are you with me?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 21, 2016

John 14:15-21
“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

I honestly do not know how people function without faith.  After my mother died, someone commented to me one day about how they felt like an orphan when both of her parents had passed.  And I totally get that…it’s a really different feeling to realize that you have no parents living on this earth. All of my parents and grandparents are in heaven now.  All of those heavy influences in my life are gone.  But at the same time…they are still with me in so many ways. 

I think of my parents every time I pass the china hutch and see their wedding dishes on display there. I look at old photos and remember happy times – and they are with me.  I get out my heavy cast iron Dutch oven and cook something, and Mam-ma Polly is standing right beside me. One of the children curls up his/her mouth in a little smirky smile…and there’s my dad!  More importantly, I hear their sage advice and Christian wisdom echo in my ear as I go about my day.  I think of something I really would like to share with them…and realize that they already know!

In even a more profound way, Jesus is always with us. We may be reminded of His presence if we see a cross or other religious symbol…but it’s so much more than that.  When we read scripture, the Holy Spirit speaks to us.  When you start to “like” that ugly comment on Facebook, and “something” stops you…that’s Jesus speaking to you through His Holy Spirit! 
       
When you are fearful or nervous…lonely or upset…and a sudden “calm” washes over you…that is your Advocate providing you with peace and courage.  When you pray and ask God for answers…and they come…you are keenly aware that He is with you and meeting your needs. When something wonderful happens in your life, and you are filled with incredible joy and elation…you know that the Holy Spirit is celebrating with you – and cheering you on!

Again I say, it must feel incredibly empty to try to live without Jesus and His Holy Spirit.  The sense of loneliness and hopelessness must be overwhelming at times.  I am so grateful that I belong to Jesus and do not have to experience this.  I am thankful that He has not only filled my heart with His truth in the form of the Holy Spirit…but He has also given me the confidence that my loved ones are waiting for me with Him in Heaven. 

I do my very best to keep Jesus’ commands and honor this incredible gift…confident that He will never leave me or let me falter.  Ours is a relationship that I want to nurture at every turn...and you can have this same connection. Paraphrasing the old hymn says…”Because Jesus lives [and His Holy Spirit is my Advocate and constant Truth]…I can face tomorrow.”  What about you?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 18, 2016

John 14:1-4
Jesus said to his disciples, “Don’t be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me. There are many rooms in my Father’s house. I wouldn’t tell you this, unless it was true. I am going there to prepare a place for each of you. After I have done this, I will come back and take you with me. Then we will be together. You know the way to where I am going.”

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Greg and I planned to take the children to the movie theater after church yesterday to see “The Jungle Book.”  So on the way home, I told the kids I would bake them a pizza.  Timothy wanted a cheese sandwich instead.  Zola declared that she wanted pizza…and scrambled eggs.  Nathan agreed that he wanted eggs with his pizza, too.  I made sandwiches for Greg and me…so we had a full-service diner in operation.  Two of the children wanted chocolate milk – the third wanted juice.  And all three of them wanted ALL of this instantaneously.  Nobody wanted to wait for the meal to be prepared.

Now here’s the thing…the kids KNOW that it takes time to bake a pizza – and even pour milk and juice.  They KNOW that we are not about to let them starve – or be deprived in any way.  Still, they tried to act like the world was falling apart because the food and drink did not magically appear at that exact moment!  They demonstrated a total lack of faith in us to feed and care for them.

Now this was not our first rodeo.  We both knew that a lot of this “drama” was an attempt to manipulate us…to see just how tightly they could wind us up.  So we tried to ignore many of their comments and just “git-r-done.”  But here’s where this applies to you and me…we all know that God has promised to meet our every need.  We all have been told repeatedly – and read in scripture numerous times – that Jesus left His Holy Spirit to guide and comfort us. 

We have been given the assurance that we who have confessed our sins to Jesus Christ and surrendered our hearts to Him will be called to Heaven to live with Him when we die…or He will return for us someday and take us home at that time.  Either way, we will be with Jesus for all Eternity!  Yet many of us live such lives of worry and despair.  We operate in hopelessness – and helplessness – at every turn.  We act as if the world is falling apart around us and everyone is doomed.  We need visible, tangible results of Jesus in our lives…and we need them NOW! In behaving this way, we deny our Christian faith…and people are taking notice!

We know better.  And yes, some of us are simply being “drama queens” to some degree.  But a lot of us are just plain weak in the trust department.  We have not fully accepted Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith.  We do not fully operate in confidence that Jesus is the Son of God – and He is not only preparing a room in His Heavenly mansion for us…He is also meeting our needs every minute of the day here on this earth.

When we make this mind shift and fully begin to operate in Christian faith, everything about our life – and our attitudes – will be different…and people will notice.  When we “let go and let God” have control…and trust Him to meet our every need…we are filled with peace and confidence that defies explanation.  The “food” is coming…Jesus is preparing everything…and He totally has our back.  We can relax and spend our time doing the things that serve His Kingdom rather than worry about what will happen next. 

I am convinced that this is a better way to operate…and I’m doing everything I can to grow in faith and kick the Enemy and his little “worry game” to the curb.  My “Heavenly reservation” is made…I’m just waiting on Jesus to get the room ready. I don’t want to spend the time I have left wringing my hands and being frustrated and upset.  Jesus has better things for me to be doing…and I need to be busy accomplishing them.  What about you?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 16, 2016

John 10:7-13
…so he explained it to them.

“I am the Gate for the sheep,” he said. “All others who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. Yes, I am the Gate. Those who come in by way of the Gate will be saved and will go in and out and find green pastures. The thief’s purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.

“I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man will run when he sees a wolf coming and will leave the sheep, for they aren’t his and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf leaps on them and scatters the flock. The hired man runs because he is hired and has no real concern for the sheep.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

A few years ago, my mother-in-law came over for dinner one spring evening.  As she left, Greg and I walked her out onto our porch and toward her car, which was parked just a few feet away on our driveway.  Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of something.  I looked over and saw what turned out to be a more-than-five-foot-long rat snake wound around the base of our wrought iron lantern.  I promptly screamed and ran back inside the house – leaving Greg and his mother standing on the driveway!  I was the “hired man” who deserted his flock!

Yes, I am that afraid of snakes!  Hopefully, had I been with the little children rather than two grown adults, I would have remained a bit more calm and ushered them to safety.  And thankfully, this big guy was relatively harmless and slithered on his way about a half hour later…hopefully to protect our yard from the poisonous reptiles that could actually do us some harm!

In life, we are so often like the “hired man.”  At the first sign of trouble or controversy, we tuck tail and run.  And I get that there are times when it is appropriate to say, “Not my circus – not my monkeys.”  But there are lots of times when Jesus is calling us to trust Him…to stay in step with Him and trust that He’s got our back.  There are moments when we must stand up and demonstrate Christian faith, love, grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness – even when many would turn and run. 

We hear Jesus calling us to stand up for what He has taught us…to remain calm and stand still in the presence of the snake.  And we have a choice…to remain faithful that He’s got our back and do what He asks…or turn away – and essentially deny His sovereignty in our lives.  It’s often a tough call…I get that!  But how deep IS your faith?  How much do you really trust Jesus to know better than you?

It is time for us to stand our ground with Jesus…to take what may often be an unpopular position as we declare Him the final authority in our lives – and our every thought and action.  The end results will be amazing…of that I am certain.  And I’m all in…what about you? 

Will this be the day that you stand firmly behind Jesus…or scream and run away from the “snakes” of this world?  Who is your good Shepherd…and do you really know Him?  Isn’t it time you did?

© Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 11, 2016

Isaiah 25:7-8
At that time he will remove the cloud of gloom, the pall of death that hangs over the earth; he will swallow up death forever. The Lord God will wipe away all tears and take away forever all insults and mockery against his land and people. The Lord has spoken—he will surely do it!
   
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

I brought home all of my mother’s photo albums, and two LARGE containers of loose photos.  I’ve been sorting through these pictures…and scanning several.  A lot of them are not labeled, so I’ve shared some on Facebook…in hopes that friends and acquaintances in my area will recognize someone and help me put names with faces. Many of these photos are from the 1940-1950 era, and some from the 1960-70 time period.  Feedback is incredibly positive.  People LOVE to look at old photos and reminisce about “the good ole days.”  I joked lately that these photos are “the best thing on Facebook” right now!

All you have to do is listen to the nightly news to hear about people trading insults, mocking one another…or someone seeking revenge against a person who has “done him/her wrong.”  As a friend jokingly said recently, we’ve learned to “ask forgiveness instead of permission.”  And we have made a habit of justifying our actions to suit our personal agendas.

I admit, I am frequently dismayed these days by reports of how we are treating one another.  I have all but stopped listening to nightly news…and I skim the newspaper each day for accounts that interest me.  I slide right on past horrific “news stories” on my Facebook wall.  It’s not that I want to live in a bubble and pretend these things don’t happen.  But I simply feel I cannot become bogged down in the misery and disgust of some of these “human” behaviors and actions.

Is this naïve and apathetic on my part?  I don’t think so.  I prefer to dwell on positive stories…to spend my time encouraging others and offering them hope and joy.  I would rather share a happy photo from 40 years ago than to look at pictures of brutalized puppies or “the people of Walmart.”  I would rather read comments and recollections about my great-grandmother and her contemporaries than to hear about the latest round of name-calling between politicians.

I would rather spend my time thinking about how God pours out His grace and mercy on each of us…and how He will honor every promise He has made to “wipe away all tears and take away forever all insults and mockery against his land and people.”  I would rather share the Good News of Jesus with others - and assure them that He will make a way where none seems evident - than to wallow in the pit of frustration and anger over anything for even a second.

I don’t think this is immature or disingenuous on my part.  I believe God has promised to set all things right…and He is counting on us to demonstrate faith in His promise to others.  And we can start by living more positively…by stepping away from participation in much of the ugliness that is perpetuated in every arena of life – from the disgruntled parents on the little league fields to the bickering of politicians to the “Christians” who want to refuse the rights of ordinary citizens to do everything from voting to using a bathroom or sitting at a lunch counter.

Someday, God is going to wipe away every tear and settle every dispute in the lives of each of us. This may happen when He calls us to Heaven…or we may still be around for the return of Jesus.  Either way, it WILL happen!  Meanwhile, we have work to do as His disciples…and we need to get busy!  There is no time to waste on pettiness and disillusionment about things beyond our control.  We either trust God to handle these for us…or we don’t.  Which way are you leaning these days?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 10, 2016

Hebrews 11:32-40
What else can I say? There isn’t enough time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets. Their faith helped them conquer kingdoms, and because they did right, God made promises to them. They closed the jaws of lions and put out raging fires and escaped from the swords of their enemies. Although they were weak, they were given the strength and power to chase foreign armies away.

Some women received their loved ones back from death. Many of these people were tortured, but they refused to be released. They were sure that they would get a better reward when the dead are raised to life. Others were made fun of and beaten with whips, and some were chained in jail. Still others were stoned to death or sawed in two or killed with swords. Some had nothing but sheep skins or goat skins to wear. They were poor, mistreated, and tortured. The world did not deserve these good people, who had to wander in deserts and on mountains and had to live in caves and holes in the ground.

All of them pleased God because of their faith! But still they died without being given what had been promised. This was because God had something better in store for us. And he did not want them to reach the goal of their faith without us.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Nathan and I were watching YouTube videos the other day of ordinary people opening boxed toys.  Every few minutes, Nathan would say, “I want that!” or “I need that toy, Debbie…can we get it?”  I would tell him, “Not now,” as I made a mental note of what he liked – or put something on my “wish list” at Amazon.com for future reference.  Then Nathan would say…”Yeah…but for my birthday!”  I would acknowledge…”Well, MAYBE for your birthday.”

It’s April…Nathan’s birthday is not until August.  For a 3½-year-old, waiting that long is akin to adults waiting for Jesus’ second coming…it’s a LONG TIME!  And if the truth be told, a lot of the toys on “the list” will never be purchased.  If Nathan doesn’t receive a Spider-Man mask that talks and a Spider-Man glove that “spins webs,” he will survive.  And he will be so excited over what he DOES get, that he will hardly notice that anything is missing.

Life is largely about priorities.  In one of my mother’s journals, she mentioned her arch-enemy…time.  Mother never had enough of it.  She said her husband pointed out to her that we all have 24 hours in a day.  I’m sure that did not go over well…and I get that!  We all have desires and goals…aspirations for things we want to accomplish.  We all have struggles and challenges…illnesses and injuries…hurts and heavy hearts at times.  And we all hope against hope that God will fix ALL of this!  And He does…but not always as we imagined or intended!

Just as there will be birthday parties – and presents – for Nathan and his siblings, there will be a “party to end all parties” someday for us in Heaven, if we have surrendered our hearts - and sins - to Jesus. All of the things we hoped and dreamed for – and all of the requests we made known to God - will not matter at that time, because the Ultimate Prize of His perfect promises and designs for our Eternity will be manifested.  In other words…a lot of the things we fight so hard for  - and think we want or need on this earth - really won’t matter in the long run.

Believe me…I’ve thought about this a lot lately.  My mother left many “projects” on the table - books and articles she wanted to write…trips she wanted to take…things she wanted to do with her great-grandchildren…and more.  She quite literally ran out of time.  And you know what?  None of it matters today.  She sits in Heaven at the feet of Jesus with other believers who went before her…and she would not return to work on her “list” for all of the tea in China! God has rewarded her with more time than she can use…and glorious activities to fill it.  She is at peace and has no frustration or sense of urgency about anything.  And this is waiting for us someday, as well.

So let’s shift our focus a little. We must continue to have goals…and hope.  We must continue to believe that God is in the business of fulfilling promises…healing and righting wrongs…fixing our messes and giving us the desires of our heart.  But we must also understand that these must all line up with HIS desires and plans for us…and it all pales in comparison to what He has waiting for us in Heaven. 

If we got all that God promised us now, there would nothing to look forward to afterward. We must live with faith that everything gets better in Paradise…and operate in hope and confidence until the day comes that we see it firsthand. Are you pleasing God with your faith these days?   

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 9, 2016

Hebrews 11:5-6
By an act of faith, Enoch skipped death completely. “They looked all over and couldn’t find him because God had taken him.” We know on the basis of reliable testimony that before he was taken “he pleased God.” It’s impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek 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.
     
When I was a child, the Young Business Men’s Club (YBMC) held an Easter egg hunt each year in our city park.  Among what must have been thousands of dyed boiled eggs were some “prize” eggs that could be redeemed for a baby chick – or a live rabbit if you found a “gold” one! Little did my siblings and I know that my mother had threatened those YBMC members within an inch of their lives if any of us came home with a live animal!  So we eagerly picked up the colored eggs and hoped against hope that we would somehow stumble onto one that could be redeemed for a prize…but we never found one!

We firmly believed that it was possible for us to find the prize egg.  We knew that these bunnies and chicks existed…and we had seen other children “win” them.  So we forged ahead, confident that WE could also find a golden egg.  And while we were disappointed, we still enjoyed the hunt.  We were happy with what we got…and we spent the next several days hiding and “finding” those eggs in our own yard.  And we did this year after year!

This is a loose analogy for today’s scripture passage.  But consider this…we cannot physically “see” God, which is why it has been so hard for me to explain Him to little children.  They operate in the “tangible” world of “I-find-a-prize-egg-and-you-give-me-the-chick-or-bunny!”  But we are not children…and life is not an Easter egg hunt. 

At the core of our Christian faith, we have to believe that God exists – and trust that He will care for us just as He promised.  We have to keep “hunting for the eggs” and serving God in whatever capacity He designates…understanding full well that the “prize” we seek may not be something we can hold in our hands like a “golden egg.”

Our “prize” is salvation through Jesus Christ…and the promise of Eternity spent in His presence.  And getting there may be bumpy – even rocky at times.  For some of us, every day will be something of a struggle in some way.  Does this mean God doesn’t love us and care about our well-being or happiness?  Absolutely not!  In some ways, I believe that God holds a special place in His heart for those who struggle, yet continue to serve with a joyful, faith-filled attitude. 

Let today’s scripture passage soak into your soul.  It is impossible to please God without faith.  You cannot serve Him and do His will if you aren’t confident that He exists and will fulfill His promises.  What do you believe today?  Who do you trust?  Are you willing to continue to “hunt” – and serve – even if you never get a tangible “prize” in this earthly lifetime? 

Do you truly believe that God exists…and that He has great things in store for you?  Isn’t it time you got a handle on this, once and for all?  Will this be the day you begin?
   
©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 8, 2016

Hebrews 11:1-2
What is faith? It is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead. Men of God in days of old were famous for their faith.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

On September 16, 2015, I received an e-mail from my mother, telling me she had gone to the clinic with a urinary tract infection…and during her exam, a nurse practitioner discovered an abnormality on Mother’s stomach.  The nurse sent Mother to our local hospital for a CT-scan, where a mass was found…and subsequent blood work and a biopsy were ordered.  Mother said, “Just pray that this mass is benign. God is in control. It will be okay." In a subsequent message a few days later, Mother said, “This is going to be OK—no matter what. Just going to be a battle ahead.”

And it was a battle.  As many of you know, my mother’s diagnosis was Stage 3C Ovarian Cancer, and the multiple tumors did not respond to chemotherapy. In fact, they almost doubled in size in three months.  On January 12, 2016, my mother’s battle ended.  And she continually insisted that God was in control, but...“He has other plans.” 

Like the “men of God in days of old,” my mother was famous for her faith.  In reading through her Bible study workbooks and other writings, I can see that what she hoped for more than anything was to see Jesus in person – and to please Him while she was still on this earth.  She could not see exactly when – or how – this would happen…but she had faith that it would indeed be so.  And I have faith and confidence that she was right on both counts.

I hear so many people say, “My faith is weak.”  And I get that. There are times when we all face challenges and obstacles that seem too big to overcome.  We will all face numerous situations that test – and hopefully strengthen – our faith.

My mother noted that there was “going to be a battle ahead”…but do not miss that she prefaced this acknowledgment with a statement of faith…”This is going to be OK – no matter what.”  Herein lies the message for us.  We don’t always know the where, when, how or why of the things that happen to us.  But when we trust God…when we make a concerted effort to have faith that He is in complete control of a perfect outcome…God will confirm this in ways that we cannot even begin to imagine – and fill us with complete peace in the process.

What sort of faith do you have these days?  Do you believe for the things that you want to happen…and trust God to bring about the perfect end result?  Or do you throw up your hands at the first sign of trouble and say, “This is simply too much for me”…and cower in a corner?  The Bible is filled with examples of people who exercised a strong “faith muscle” -  and the sad story of some who folded and let the devil have the victory.

I encourage you to spend some time with God today and surrender your burdens and fears to Him.  Pray this prayer…”LORD…I don’t know what You have in store for me…or how You plan to manage the events and challenges of my life.  But I give them all to You.  I am filled with faith and confidence that You know what lies ahead…and You are in complete control.  I thank You for loving me - and for Your perfect plans for my life.  I surrender MY will to YOURS with complete assurance that all will be well, according to Your will.  Amen.” 

When others look at you, do they see someone with a profound faith in God…or someone who operates in fear and uncertainty?  What is faith to you?  Isn’t it time you knew?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for March 31, 2016

Acts 7:54-60
The Jewish leaders were stung to fury by Stephen’s accusation and ground their teeth in rage. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily upward into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at God’s right hand. And he told them, “Look, I see the heavens opened and Jesus the Messiah standing beside God, at his right hand!”

Then they mobbed him, putting their hands over their ears, and drowning out his voice with their shouts, and dragged him out of the city to stone him. The official witnesses—the executioners—took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man named Paul.

And as the murderous stones came hurtling at him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And he fell to his knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” and with that, he died.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
 
I don’t know about you, but I feel like in so many ways, I have often failed to keep “the main thing” the main thing!  When “life” gets in the way, it’s sometimes hard to focus on what really matters, because we get stuck “in the weeds” of illness…death and the “business” that must be attended to afterward…holidays…work…studies…kids and their activities/needs…caregiving…and so much more.  We look up and realize that we have not spent much quality time with God. 

Oh, sure, we’ve talked to God and asked Him for help…strength…courage…stamina…and healing.  We’ve thrown out some desperate cries for His attention.  We might have even mentioned to someone else that we are getting through the days “only because of the grace of God.”  But are we really focused on Him?  Are we truly engaged in living for Jesus and sharing His Good News with others?

If you have a few minutes today, please read the entire seventh chapter of Acts.  Stephen was witnessing and preaching in Jerusalem, and as we read in Verse 9, he met up with “the Jewish cult of ‘The Freedmen’… joined by Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria in Egypt, and the Turkish provinces of Cilicia, and Asia Minor.”  Basically, Stephen gave these men a history lesson of Old Testament scripture, then accused them of resisting the Holy Spirit – and killing Jesus.  It was more than the group could handle…and they dragged Stephen out to the edge of town and stoned him to death.

I am struck by Stephen’s words as he saw the heavens open up and Jesus appeared.  He asked Jesus to receive his spirit…and also to forgive these men who were killing him. This was a truly amazing demonstration of “keeping the main thing the main thing.”  Even in the midst of this horrific act, Stephen was focused on Jesus.  And while hopefully, none of us will ever be literally stoned to death, this scripture passage has practical application for each of us.

Surely there have been times when you wrestled with which way to turn.  On one hand, you could “do the right thing” and face the ridicule (or even wrath) of those around you.  Your choice to honor God with your commitment and daily living might be uncomfortable in a lot of ways. Despite our best efforts to please God, there will be times when we fall short, because we are human. As I sifted through memories and “treasures” my mother saved, I found a 7-year baby book.  In it, she wrote an account of my 2nd birthday party, which included several invited guests.  Mother noted that “Debbie fought with Robin (my cousin, who was also two!), as usual…and Mommy was embarrassed.”  Trust me…it was not the last time I embarrassed my mother!  I know she loved me, but I could easily picture her greeting me with outstretched arms - and a look of disappointment on her face!

So often, we buckle when things get hard and take the easy way out.  And Stephen could have easily done this.  He could have “folded his tent” and moved on and left these rabble-rousers to believe and act as they pleased.  He could also have condemned them for stoning him to death and asked Jesus to “pour out your wrath” on these evil men!  But this would not have honored Stephen’s commitment to Jesus - or his trust in Him to handle such matters according to His will.  And the account of Stephen’s reaction as he saw the gates of Heaven open and His Lord standing there to greet him illustrates the consolation. 

I cling to the thought that when it’s all said and done, Jesus will great me at Heaven’s gate with outstretched arms and a look of delight.  It will make everything worthwhile, won’t it?  So I am working to make better choices…to keep the main thing (Jesus) the MAIN THING!  I am trying to let Him handle other people and mete out justice as He determines.  I look forward to the day when I can say with confidence, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” and see His welcoming smile.  What about you?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for March 28, 2016

Acts 2:38-42   
Peter said, “Turn back to God! Be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven. Then you will be given the Holy Spirit. This promise is for you and your children. It is for everyone our Lord God will choose, no matter where they live.”

Peter told them many other things as well. Then he said, “I beg you to save yourselves from what will happen to all these evil people.” On that day about three thousand believed his message and were baptized. They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
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Three-year-olds can as a LOT of questions…and most start with the word “Why?”  And this is a question I have asked myself quite often lately.  WHY do we do some of the things I do?  WHY do we make sure our little ones get to church almost every Sunday?  WHY do I spend time writing daily devotionals? WHY does Greg spend a good part of his Monday mornings (and sometimes other days) delivering Meals on Wheels to some fourteen people…and take time to stop and visit with them, inquire about their well-being, offer a smile and a word or two of encouragement?  WHY does he do so much for so many others every week, including me?  WHY do we give to charitable organizations and contribute to our church?  WHY do we do what we can to share kindness and the love of Christ with others? 
   
In a nutshell, WHY do we bother?  Because, as I understand scripture - and as Jesus demonstrated in saving the thief on the cross - we don’t technically have to do any of these things in order to be cleansed of our sins by the blood of Jesus. As long as we confess our sins and give our heart to Jesus, we are still guaranteed a seat at His table in heaven…and a “mansion” all our own.  So why bother with serving Jesus on this earth?  What does it really matter?

The answer lies in this scripture passage from Acts 2…and throughout the New Testament writings.  Peter demonstrated this by preaching and teaching…by telling others about Jesus. In the Living Bible, verse 40 says that he “preached a long sermon, telling about Jesus.”  And then we read that they crowd fellowshipped together and even shared a meal and prayer time…that they treated each other like family.

Suppose you were up to your ears in debt and had a mountain of troubles, ranging from health issues to figuring out how to juggle a job and family obligations…and someone stepped in to help you – a “benefactor” of sorts who paid your debts, physically aided you with other challenges, and was generally available whenever and however you needed assistance.  This person assured you that nothing was required in return…that this was a gift to you bestowed out of love and concern. 

At the very least, wouldn’t you want to treat this person with the utmost respect and care?  Wouldn’t you seek ways to do little things for someone who did so much for you?  Wouldn’t take every opportunity to speak kindly of this person to others…to let them know that he/she was someone for whom you had utmost admiration and esteem?

Substitute Jesus for this “benefactor” - and your sins for the debts.  Insert your daily challenges for the issues that a human being might help you with and think of how the Holy Spirit helps you navigate the choppy waters of life.  Now ask yourself WHY you would serve the needy, encourage those in your circle of influence to worship, and demonstrate kindness and concern to others.  It’s because these things are the least we can do for the ONE who has done everything for us. 

Jesus doesn’t require this of us…although He did call us to serve.  He doesn’t stomp His foot or “write us out of the will” if we don’t comply.  Jesus doesn’t want us to serve out of obligation…but out of love and appreciation for all that He has given us.  And this is why I do what I do - out of profound gratitude and affection for my Lord and Savior…my Jesus!  What about you?
       
©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 28, 2016

1 Corinthians 2:10-13    
The Spirit, not content to flit around on the surface, dives into the depths of God, and brings out what God planned all along. Who ever knows what you’re thinking and planning except you yourself? The same with God—except that he not only knows what he’s thinking, but he lets us in on it.

God offers a full report on the gifts of life and salvation that he is giving us. We don’t have to rely on the world’s guesses and opinions. We didn’t learn this by reading books or going to school; we learned it from God, who taught us person-to-person through Jesus, and we’re passing it on to you in the same firsthand, personal way.

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.
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Regretfully, I have been unable to find a hand-written copy of my mother’s signature Chicken Pie recipe.  Mother served this dish at virtually every family dinner…particularly in the last few years.  I know it took her a couple of days to create, because she would boil a chicken one day, debone it the next, then skim the broth and add peas and carrots and seasonings to make the filling.  Then she topped this with homemade biscuits. Just last fall, I told her, “I do not have a copy of your Chicken Pie recipe.”  She replied, “Well, I’ll have to see what I can do about that!” Things deteriorated quickly, and she never got this done.

One of Mother’s lifelong friends has graciously shared HER recipe, which is similar, but not quite the same.  One of my “other mothers” and I have discussed the dish and tried to figure out how to improvise and come close to the original.  In the end, I will probably have to do some “trial and error” runs and hope that my mother speaks to me from heaven and guides my efforts.

The beautiful thing about our relationship with God is that we don’t have to guess and wonder.  There is no such thing as “trial and error.”  As we read in this passage, all we have to do is stay attuned to the word and will of God…to communicate with the Holy Spirit and genuinely seek His guidance…and He will give it to us.  The more you learn to focus on Jesus and listen for His Holy Spirit, the easier it becomes to know that you know that you know that He is guiding you.  And just like when we recreate an unwritten recipe, we can demonstrate to others how to operate in this confidence in Jesus and the Holy Spirit, also.

I used to ask my Mam-ma Polly for recipes, and she would say, “Sugar, I just need to show you.”  Because I knew I would not necessarily remember all that she told me, I did coax her to write down a lot of the recipes that she demonstrated to me.  And we do have a written “back-up” of Jesus’ commands and teachings to share with others in the Holy Bible.  But God wants us to live in such a way that we physically illustrate to others what it means to operate fully in His will…to listen for Jesus speaking through His Holy Spirit…and to confidently act on His wishes.

I’ll do my best to reconstruct the chicken pie, because when we eat it, my family and I will remember my mother and how much love she poured into it.  And I will do my best to operate in the will of Jesus as He speaks to me via the Holy Spirit, so that I can share His love for us with those in my circle of influence.  If we all do this, imagine what we could accomplish for God’s Kingdom! What do you say…are you with me?
  
©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 27, 2016

Psalm 23:1-6
You, Lord, are my shepherd.
I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields of green grass.
You lead me to streams of peaceful water, and you refresh my life.
You are true to your name, and you lead me along the right paths.
I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest, and you fill my cup until it overflows.
Your kindness and love will always be with me each day of my life, and I will live forever in your house, Lord.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Shortly before Christmas, Timothy was watching a YouTube video where a dad and his son opened new toys and described them to the viewers.  For those of you without small children, this has become quite the phenomenon…videos where adults open toys - and wrapped packages or plastic eggs that contain small toys or candy – and sample the wares.  The people on camera describe the contents and sometimes play with the toys or take a bite of the candy and describe the experience.  All three of our children are mesmerized by these videos. Generally, they have little to say…but this particular day, the dad opened a box containing a “Jurassic World Indominus Rex vs. Gyrosphere Pack.”

Timothy’s eyes lit up, and he said, “Oh!  I HAVE to have this!  I NEED this!”  I reminded Timothy that he had already placed his order with Santa, and I was not sure that this was possible.  But he insisted we look the toy up online and see how much it cost…and maybe was there a way that he could have it for Christmas, because this really was ALL that he wanted!

Luckily, Grandma E had not done her shopping yet, and the Indominus Rex was purchased for Timothy – along with a T-Rex for Nathan and some "Frozen" toys for Zola. When Timothy opened the package on Christmas Eve, his face said it all. ”This was JUST what I wanted!” he declared!  And Grandma E was the hero!

It’s a funny thing how we decide what we want/need.  Some of us absolutely need a companion…we feel we cannot function well on our own.  Others believe they absolutely must have the latest fashions, gadgets, electronics, cars, and more.  Still others feel that they are only as good as their latest “success” – academically, physically, economically, and more. They have to be the right weight and shape, achieve the desired scores, earn a certain amount of money, and be surrounded by people who at least appear to like them.  And we all expend a LOT of time and energy to accomplish these goals and maintain this “status.”

I encourage you to stop for just a few minutes and read this scripture passage and let it soak into your soul.  Especially note the first verse…”You, Lord, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.”  The difference in what we find important involves a shift in focus…from ourselves and the world – to JESUS!  And what results is astounding.  For starters…our attitude and demeanor change.  We are no longer chasing our tails to get ahead, to “be somebody,” or to feel happy and content.  And the world notices the shift.

When we begin to rest in Jesus…to fully embrace the concept that He meets our every need and gives us all that is important, we demonstrate to others that Jesus is our Refuge – our Comforter and Provider.  In Him, we have hope and a purpose…and we are able to share with others out of this abundance.  We are able to “feed His sheep” because we trust Him to feed us.

I have no doubt that Timothy has played with his new dinosaur for hours on end.  But in time, he will tire of this toy and move on to the next thing that he simply must have…just as we all do when our focus is on earthly acquisitions and treasures.  Do not misunderstand what I am saying…there is nothing wrong with goals and aspirations.  It is not wrong to have nice things, new toys, or our desire for the company of others.  The key is how we align our priorities.

When we place the focus on Jesus…when we look to Him to be the Author and Finisher of all that we require, everything else falls into place…and we are truly able to say “I will never be in need.”  And we can demonstrate to others that this is possible for them, as well.

So my question today is this…”Who are you asking to meet your needs?”  Are you seeking the latest, greatest “toy” to add to your collection…or are you seeking a seat at the LORD’s table, where His kindness and love are always available?  When others look at you, do they see someone whose needs are met by Jesus…or someone who is “looking for love and confirmation in all the wrong places”?  How you answer matters greatly.  So Who is meeting your needs today?

©2016 Debbie Robus