John 6:28-29
“What exactly does God want us to do?” the people asked.
Jesus answered, “God wants you to have faith in the one he sent.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The
children and I have been going back and forth about swimming. The
oldest two have had formal swimming lessons, but Nathan has not. In
their defense, none of these three little ones can touch bottom in the
pool at our community’s Aquatic Center…so they lack confidence to swim
without their life jackets. I have persuaded each child to remove
his/her life jacket and let me help them swim a short distance to the
wall. But it’s not good. Each child is fearful…and despite my best
efforts to assure them that I will not let anything happen to them –
that they will not drown – they protest, cry and pretty well refuse to try.
We
are hoping that a summer of “swimming” at the lake, where they can wade
in and control the depth of the water, will help alleviate this. I am
anticipating a day when I take them to the pool and say, “Let’s swim
without your lifejacket,” and each child has faith in my promise to keep
them safe - and readily agrees.
So many of us are just like
these apprehensive children. We let our fear of the unknown – of “being
unable to touch bottom” – keep us from doing what God has called us to
do. Essentially, we fail to fully trust God to equip us to do the
things that He has designed us to do…and we dishonor His incredible
gifts and blessings.
Let’s be clear…God will not always call us
to do things that are easy and fun. Sometimes, He will steer us in the
direction of someone who is difficult and tries our patience…a task that
seems a little “lowly” or unpleasant…an opportunity that seems daunting
and beyond our capabilities. And when God sanctifies these things for
us, He will fully enable us to accomplish them, just as He ordained.
All we have to do is trust Him and demonstrate faith and confidence in
His ability to protect, undergird, and complete the mission.
How
deep is your faith? How much do you really trust God? Are you ready to
“swim without a lifejacket” and demonstrate confidence in the lessons
He has taught you - and the promises that He has made? Will this be
the day that you fully “let go and let God?” Don’t you think it should
be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label demonstrating faith in God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label demonstrating faith in God. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for April 13, 2016
James 4:4-6
You people aren’t faithful to God! Don’t you know that if you love the world, you are God’s enemies? And if you decide to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. Do you doubt the Scriptures that say, “God truly cares about the Spirit he has put in us”? In fact, God treats us with even greater kindness, just as the Scriptures say,
“God opposes everyone
who is proud,
but he is kind to everyone
who is humble.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In my Jesus Calling®* passage for April 11, the author (speaking as Jesus) says, “The best way to handle unwanted situations is to thank Me for them.” I was reminded of more than one recent report of an injustice that transpired that seemed incredibly unfair to some of the parties involved…especially children. How can we thank God when a child is being used as a pawn in adult disagreements? How can we thank God when our loan has been refused…we are slapped with exorbitant medical bills that require, at best, a huge co-pay…or the business where we’ve been employed for decades suddenly closes its doors? How can we thank God when He has just called our loved one to Heaven and left us brokenhearted?
We have a hard time being faithful in such moments. We want a “Burger King®” kind of faith, where we are allowed to “have it our way” any time of the day. How can we thank God when He doesn’t give us the desires of our heart?
The bigger question is…”How can we NOT thank God?” Don’t we get that we are telling God how to run things when we make demands of Him? When we tell God, “You need to fix ABC or deal with Sam or Sue,” we are acting as His enemy. We have decided that we know better than God what needs to happen.
Instead, we should look at “unwanted situations” and ask, “What are You trying to show me?” We should humbly ask God to help us handle these events – and to show us how He can be glorified by our actions and reactions to them. Jesus Calling® explains that when we demonstrate such faith, we are freed from resentment – and God is freed to work His ways into the situation and produce a good outcome.
Is this easy to do? Absolutely not! But that’s what makes it an act of faith! The more we let God have control in our lives, the less hold the enemy has on us – and the closer we draw to Him. When we humble ourselves before God and submit to His plans and His will, we are free to bask in His glory and care…and to fully experience His profound kindness. Don’t you want this in your life? I know I do! Are you willing to fully surrender in order to get it? Don’t you think you should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
*www.JesusCalling.com
You people aren’t faithful to God! Don’t you know that if you love the world, you are God’s enemies? And if you decide to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. Do you doubt the Scriptures that say, “God truly cares about the Spirit he has put in us”? In fact, God treats us with even greater kindness, just as the Scriptures say,
“God opposes everyone
who is proud,
but he is kind to everyone
who is humble.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In my Jesus Calling®* passage for April 11, the author (speaking as Jesus) says, “The best way to handle unwanted situations is to thank Me for them.” I was reminded of more than one recent report of an injustice that transpired that seemed incredibly unfair to some of the parties involved…especially children. How can we thank God when a child is being used as a pawn in adult disagreements? How can we thank God when our loan has been refused…we are slapped with exorbitant medical bills that require, at best, a huge co-pay…or the business where we’ve been employed for decades suddenly closes its doors? How can we thank God when He has just called our loved one to Heaven and left us brokenhearted?
We have a hard time being faithful in such moments. We want a “Burger King®” kind of faith, where we are allowed to “have it our way” any time of the day. How can we thank God when He doesn’t give us the desires of our heart?
The bigger question is…”How can we NOT thank God?” Don’t we get that we are telling God how to run things when we make demands of Him? When we tell God, “You need to fix ABC or deal with Sam or Sue,” we are acting as His enemy. We have decided that we know better than God what needs to happen.
Instead, we should look at “unwanted situations” and ask, “What are You trying to show me?” We should humbly ask God to help us handle these events – and to show us how He can be glorified by our actions and reactions to them. Jesus Calling® explains that when we demonstrate such faith, we are freed from resentment – and God is freed to work His ways into the situation and produce a good outcome.
Is this easy to do? Absolutely not! But that’s what makes it an act of faith! The more we let God have control in our lives, the less hold the enemy has on us – and the closer we draw to Him. When we humble ourselves before God and submit to His plans and His will, we are free to bask in His glory and care…and to fully experience His profound kindness. Don’t you want this in your life? I know I do! Are you willing to fully surrender in order to get it? Don’t you think you should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
*www.JesusCalling.com
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
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
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 January 17, 2016
Proverbs 14:26-27
Reverence for God gives a man deep strength; his children have a place of refuge and security.
Reverence for the Lord is a fountain of life; its waters keep a man from death.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We all worried this last week about how our three little ones - Timothy, Zola and Nathan - would handle my mother’s death. Ever since my grandmother died in March 2013, Timothy has assumed that anyone who was sick or old would die. It happened to Mam-ma Polly…my mother’s dog, Spot…my sister’s dog, Wrinkles…and our cat, Lucy. So anytime someone is sick – or we mention that “I’m just old,” - Timothy asks, “Are you going to die?”
Given that reference, we really didn’t know what to expect with the children. They knew that Granny had been sick for a few months…but they had no clue what cancer was or how seriously ill she had become. My niece brought the children to visit Mother at home when she went on Hospice care, and they were apprehensive at first about approaching her hospital bed. But one-by-one, they “warmed up” and came around to talk to her. I think Zola even had someone lift her up to kiss my mother.
But what happened when Mother passed was a beautiful thing. The children were sad when their mother told them. But they did not fall apart. When we viewed Mother’s body, each child readily accepted that Granny was dead. They didn’t spend a lot of time with her, but they each patted her hand – and again, Zola gave her a kiss. They were not afraid at all.
In the days that followed, the children played in my mother's back yard – and at the cemetery - with the abandon of happy children. At the visitation and celebration service for her life, they sat quietly and respectfully. Once while we were greeting those in attendance, Timothy stood with me and held my hand. Several around us were standing arm-in-arm, and all of a sudden, I felt this little arm wrap around my legs, just under my backside. Timothy was putting HIS arm around me, also. I cannot count the times that little 6-year-old boy came to comfort me as I greeted people in the visitation line.
As Mother’s service drew to a close, Zola got down from the lap of a cousin and moved to the front pew, where she crawled into the lap of my mother’s husband, Lee. She snuggled against him, and then she turned, held his face in her hands, and gave him a kiss. I saw his entire demeanor completely soften and relax in that sweet moment. It was just what he needed.
My mother would have loved all of this. She would have readily agreed that we have created a place of refuge and security for these children in our demonstrations of respect and reverence for God. We have begun to lay a firm foundation for each of them about who God is and how He loves each of us. They know about heaven…and maybe even better than we grownups, they understand that it is a glorious place where we hope to all end up someday. There is nothing to fear…about death, heaven, or God. The children already understand how amazing He is…and we are teaching them to honor Him with admiration and esteem in all things.
Our three little ones are reminders that life goes on…that as much as we miss my mother and others who have received their heavenly reward, we know they wouldn’t come back for all the tea in China…and we wouldn’t want them to! The “death” that this scripture refers to is not our earthly passing into Eternity with Jesus…but rather that of ending up in the darkest pit of hell as far away from Him as possible. Our prayer is that this would never happen to anyone!
My mother left a legacy of faith, strength and reverence for God that will hopefully transfer to future generations…a promise of Eternity in the presence of God Almighty forever and ever. Our job is to live in such a way we perpetuate this legacy and give our children a secure refuge that offers them the hope of Heaven, as well.
My question to you this day is…how are you doing? What – and WHO – do others see when they look at you? Are you living in a way that demonstrates the joy and hope of Heaven? Are you showing others that a life in Christ represents a place of refuge and security? Isn’t it time you were?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Reverence for God gives a man deep strength; his children have a place of refuge and security.
Reverence for the Lord is a fountain of life; its waters keep a man from death.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We all worried this last week about how our three little ones - Timothy, Zola and Nathan - would handle my mother’s death. Ever since my grandmother died in March 2013, Timothy has assumed that anyone who was sick or old would die. It happened to Mam-ma Polly…my mother’s dog, Spot…my sister’s dog, Wrinkles…and our cat, Lucy. So anytime someone is sick – or we mention that “I’m just old,” - Timothy asks, “Are you going to die?”
Given that reference, we really didn’t know what to expect with the children. They knew that Granny had been sick for a few months…but they had no clue what cancer was or how seriously ill she had become. My niece brought the children to visit Mother at home when she went on Hospice care, and they were apprehensive at first about approaching her hospital bed. But one-by-one, they “warmed up” and came around to talk to her. I think Zola even had someone lift her up to kiss my mother.
But what happened when Mother passed was a beautiful thing. The children were sad when their mother told them. But they did not fall apart. When we viewed Mother’s body, each child readily accepted that Granny was dead. They didn’t spend a lot of time with her, but they each patted her hand – and again, Zola gave her a kiss. They were not afraid at all.
In the days that followed, the children played in my mother's back yard – and at the cemetery - with the abandon of happy children. At the visitation and celebration service for her life, they sat quietly and respectfully. Once while we were greeting those in attendance, Timothy stood with me and held my hand. Several around us were standing arm-in-arm, and all of a sudden, I felt this little arm wrap around my legs, just under my backside. Timothy was putting HIS arm around me, also. I cannot count the times that little 6-year-old boy came to comfort me as I greeted people in the visitation line.
As Mother’s service drew to a close, Zola got down from the lap of a cousin and moved to the front pew, where she crawled into the lap of my mother’s husband, Lee. She snuggled against him, and then she turned, held his face in her hands, and gave him a kiss. I saw his entire demeanor completely soften and relax in that sweet moment. It was just what he needed.
My mother would have loved all of this. She would have readily agreed that we have created a place of refuge and security for these children in our demonstrations of respect and reverence for God. We have begun to lay a firm foundation for each of them about who God is and how He loves each of us. They know about heaven…and maybe even better than we grownups, they understand that it is a glorious place where we hope to all end up someday. There is nothing to fear…about death, heaven, or God. The children already understand how amazing He is…and we are teaching them to honor Him with admiration and esteem in all things.
Our three little ones are reminders that life goes on…that as much as we miss my mother and others who have received their heavenly reward, we know they wouldn’t come back for all the tea in China…and we wouldn’t want them to! The “death” that this scripture refers to is not our earthly passing into Eternity with Jesus…but rather that of ending up in the darkest pit of hell as far away from Him as possible. Our prayer is that this would never happen to anyone!
My mother left a legacy of faith, strength and reverence for God that will hopefully transfer to future generations…a promise of Eternity in the presence of God Almighty forever and ever. Our job is to live in such a way we perpetuate this legacy and give our children a secure refuge that offers them the hope of Heaven, as well.
My question to you this day is…how are you doing? What – and WHO – do others see when they look at you? Are you living in a way that demonstrates the joy and hope of Heaven? Are you showing others that a life in Christ represents a place of refuge and security? Isn’t it time you were?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 20, 2015
Job 28:28
And this is what he says to all mankind: ‘Look, to fear the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.’”
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 was watching a show about people who weigh more than 600 pounds and desperately want gastric bypass surgery to help them lose weight. On one particular episode, the doctor asked his patient, “What do you eat?” The young man explained that “I only eat twice a day…but I snack a lot, and I can’t seem to get by without potatoes – especially potato chips.” The doctor asked this patient what he thought would happen to him if he stopped eating the chips. “I would probably lose weight,” he replied.
The young man really didn’t want to do this. He told the doctor that he was an emotional eater…that he didn’t eat because he was hungry, but because he was trying to feed inner conflicts. This is a common behavior…and the doctor pointed out that if the young man continued to feed his feelings after surgery, he still would not lose weight.
This doctor has a reputation for helping morbidly obese people get their lives back on track…and this young man had a healthy “fear” (respect) for the doctor’s opinion. He was able to receive psychological counseling in tandem with the bypass surgery – and he lost almost 400 pounds. But for every “success story” on this program, there are probably two or three stories of people who simply cannot stop eating poorly and don’t keep the weight off long-term. In fact, there is a “five-year mark” that is deemed the true measure of success. If the patient can lose weight and maintain it for five years, there is a decent chance that this weight loss will be permanent.
In so many ways, we are the obese person who looks to God to help us lose our “weight”…but we don’t want to give up the “chips.” We know that God can fix us…that He can heal our bodies, minds and souls…that He can resolve conflicts and set us on the right course in every area of our lives. But we want Him to do this while we continue right on with our old habits. We want to wring our hands over people and problems. We want to eat whatever we choose and sit on our backsides. We want to gripe and complain, gossip and disparage, and do as we please…and we want God to fix it all.
The truth is…we can’t have it both ways. A lot of us are wise enough to trust and “fear” God…but fewer of us have figured out that the real victory comes in an understanding of how He works. And this means that we must do our part and forsake evil in all of its forms.
So our assignment for today is to take a good hard look at our lives and see where we are allowing “evil” of some sort to control us. Where have we not fully surrendered to God? Where have we given up on something or someone instead of humbly trusting God to work in this situation? Where have we thrown up our hands and said, “It’s no use!” – and “opened the bag of chips and begun to eat?”
Look at the circumstances of your life today, and make the necessary changes. Fear (respect) God and walk in His wisdom – and grow in understanding of how He cares for you and meets your every need. Surrender your will to God’s…and see how far He will take you. Make this the day that you shed the weight of a life not fully offered to God and discover the new “spring in your step” that comes from letting Him have your burdens. This is the day to “lighten our load!” I’m all in…are you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
And this is what he says to all mankind: ‘Look, to fear the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.’”
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 was watching a show about people who weigh more than 600 pounds and desperately want gastric bypass surgery to help them lose weight. On one particular episode, the doctor asked his patient, “What do you eat?” The young man explained that “I only eat twice a day…but I snack a lot, and I can’t seem to get by without potatoes – especially potato chips.” The doctor asked this patient what he thought would happen to him if he stopped eating the chips. “I would probably lose weight,” he replied.
The young man really didn’t want to do this. He told the doctor that he was an emotional eater…that he didn’t eat because he was hungry, but because he was trying to feed inner conflicts. This is a common behavior…and the doctor pointed out that if the young man continued to feed his feelings after surgery, he still would not lose weight.
This doctor has a reputation for helping morbidly obese people get their lives back on track…and this young man had a healthy “fear” (respect) for the doctor’s opinion. He was able to receive psychological counseling in tandem with the bypass surgery – and he lost almost 400 pounds. But for every “success story” on this program, there are probably two or three stories of people who simply cannot stop eating poorly and don’t keep the weight off long-term. In fact, there is a “five-year mark” that is deemed the true measure of success. If the patient can lose weight and maintain it for five years, there is a decent chance that this weight loss will be permanent.
In so many ways, we are the obese person who looks to God to help us lose our “weight”…but we don’t want to give up the “chips.” We know that God can fix us…that He can heal our bodies, minds and souls…that He can resolve conflicts and set us on the right course in every area of our lives. But we want Him to do this while we continue right on with our old habits. We want to wring our hands over people and problems. We want to eat whatever we choose and sit on our backsides. We want to gripe and complain, gossip and disparage, and do as we please…and we want God to fix it all.
The truth is…we can’t have it both ways. A lot of us are wise enough to trust and “fear” God…but fewer of us have figured out that the real victory comes in an understanding of how He works. And this means that we must do our part and forsake evil in all of its forms.
So our assignment for today is to take a good hard look at our lives and see where we are allowing “evil” of some sort to control us. Where have we not fully surrendered to God? Where have we given up on something or someone instead of humbly trusting God to work in this situation? Where have we thrown up our hands and said, “It’s no use!” – and “opened the bag of chips and begun to eat?”
Look at the circumstances of your life today, and make the necessary changes. Fear (respect) God and walk in His wisdom – and grow in understanding of how He cares for you and meets your every need. Surrender your will to God’s…and see how far He will take you. Make this the day that you shed the weight of a life not fully offered to God and discover the new “spring in your step” that comes from letting Him have your burdens. This is the day to “lighten our load!” I’m all in…are you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 18, 2015
Psalm 55:22
Give your burdens to the Lord. He will carry them. He will not permit the godly to slip or fall.
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 lifelong friend of mine watched her baby girl drive off for school this morning for the first time as the licensed operator of a motor vehicle. I looked at the clock yesterday afternoon as a severe thunderstorm accompanied by a flash flood warning approached our community - and realized that our little Zola was on the school bus headed for home. My mother will receive her third chemo treatment tomorrow. The debate rages on about what to do about world issues, including the threats of terrorism and how to address the growing refugee crisis in Syria and other Middle Eastern countries.
This is only the tip of the iceberg. Burdens, worries, and concerns abound for all of us. And if that isn’t enough, let’s add the chaos and stress that surrounds the joy of the upcoming holidays! How many are coming for Thanksgiving dinner? What will we get Uncle Joe for Christmas? How can I be at the Christmas parties of three children when they are all being held at the same hour…and does that room mother really think I have time to make 30 Rudolph cupcakes? Will I survive finals and the end of the semester and be able to enjoy a happy holiday break? What will happen to all of the orphans, hungry and homeless who don’t have any hope of a Happy Thanksgiving or a Merry Christmas – or a stable life beyond the holiday season?
I often tell our children, “You have two choices…A or B. But it’s your choice!” And I am saying this to all of us today. We have two choices…1) we can choose to live in worry, fear, dismay and despair, or 2) we can choose to trust God and give Him our burdens – ALL of them – and allow Him to orchestrate things according to His will. It boils down to whether we want to demonstrate Christian faith – or not.
I don’t mean to be harsh…nor do I suggest that we toss caution to the wind and refrain from utilizing common sense. I am careful to keep my doors locked. I watch my purse when I shop. I remind the children not to talk to strangers and to look both ways before crossing the street. I said a prayer for the safety of ALL who were trying to get home in the rain storm yesterday, and I pray continually for my mother and others who are ill, injured, grieving and/or suffering in some manner. I am planning to enjoy the company around our table on Thanksgiving Day, whether the house is clean and the meal is perfectly cooked or not! And I have vowed NOT to stress out over the hectic holiday schedule…and to focus on Jesus, family, and friends.
I want to be more present in the love, grace, mercy and protection of God…and less fearful, dubious, cynical and exclusive. I want to look at others and recognize that God desires to carry THEIR burdens just as much as mine…and that He can – and WILL – do this! I want to demonstrate more clearly what God is capable of in my life and the lives of others…and I want to operate in confidence that He’s always got my back. And I’m starting here…now…today! What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Give your burdens to the Lord. He will carry them. He will not permit the godly to slip or fall.
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 lifelong friend of mine watched her baby girl drive off for school this morning for the first time as the licensed operator of a motor vehicle. I looked at the clock yesterday afternoon as a severe thunderstorm accompanied by a flash flood warning approached our community - and realized that our little Zola was on the school bus headed for home. My mother will receive her third chemo treatment tomorrow. The debate rages on about what to do about world issues, including the threats of terrorism and how to address the growing refugee crisis in Syria and other Middle Eastern countries.
This is only the tip of the iceberg. Burdens, worries, and concerns abound for all of us. And if that isn’t enough, let’s add the chaos and stress that surrounds the joy of the upcoming holidays! How many are coming for Thanksgiving dinner? What will we get Uncle Joe for Christmas? How can I be at the Christmas parties of three children when they are all being held at the same hour…and does that room mother really think I have time to make 30 Rudolph cupcakes? Will I survive finals and the end of the semester and be able to enjoy a happy holiday break? What will happen to all of the orphans, hungry and homeless who don’t have any hope of a Happy Thanksgiving or a Merry Christmas – or a stable life beyond the holiday season?
I often tell our children, “You have two choices…A or B. But it’s your choice!” And I am saying this to all of us today. We have two choices…1) we can choose to live in worry, fear, dismay and despair, or 2) we can choose to trust God and give Him our burdens – ALL of them – and allow Him to orchestrate things according to His will. It boils down to whether we want to demonstrate Christian faith – or not.
I don’t mean to be harsh…nor do I suggest that we toss caution to the wind and refrain from utilizing common sense. I am careful to keep my doors locked. I watch my purse when I shop. I remind the children not to talk to strangers and to look both ways before crossing the street. I said a prayer for the safety of ALL who were trying to get home in the rain storm yesterday, and I pray continually for my mother and others who are ill, injured, grieving and/or suffering in some manner. I am planning to enjoy the company around our table on Thanksgiving Day, whether the house is clean and the meal is perfectly cooked or not! And I have vowed NOT to stress out over the hectic holiday schedule…and to focus on Jesus, family, and friends.
I want to be more present in the love, grace, mercy and protection of God…and less fearful, dubious, cynical and exclusive. I want to look at others and recognize that God desires to carry THEIR burdens just as much as mine…and that He can – and WILL – do this! I want to demonstrate more clearly what God is capable of in my life and the lives of others…and I want to operate in confidence that He’s always got my back. And I’m starting here…now…today! What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 17, 2015
Psalm 48:9-14
Our God, here in your temple
we think about your love.
You are famous and praised
everywhere on earth,
as you win victories
with your powerful arm.
Mount Zion will celebrate,
and all Judah will be glad,
because you bring justice.
Let’s walk around Zion
and count its towers.
We will see its strong walls
and visit each fortress.
Then you can say
to future generations,
“Our God is like this forever
and will always guide us.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning as I prepared to write this devotional, I must admit that I was conflicted. The world seems turned upside down…senseless terrorism and murder in Paris…displaced and orphaned people by the thousands in the Middle East…people closing their hearts and their “borders” to those who have nowhere to turn…illness and disease…those who are aging and declining – and there is nothing to do but watch it happen…humans in every corner of the world are suffering and troubled…orphans abound in our own back yard, where there are 2 beds for every three children in need. And on top of it all, the weathermen are continually warning that a strong system is approaching with high winds and potentially flooding rains. The list seems unending.
Then I opened my Bible to Psalm 48:9-14 and read these words about the love and power of God Almighty. And I was humbled…and renewed…and encouraged.
It’s easy to get caught up in the worry, frustration and grief of current events. We go from faith-filled prayer warriors to spineless wimps afraid of our own shadows in the blink of an eye! And we should all be ashamed. Where is our confidence in God? Where is our affirmation that these claims in Psalm 48 about His power and strength are absolute and indisputable? Are we telling our next generations the truth…or selling them a bill of goods? Because if we do not truly believe – and internalize – what the Bible tells us about God, we really are failing as Christian witnesses and Disciples.
This is the day to “hitch up your britches”…to “pull yourself up by the bootstraps”…to rise up out of your “funk” and get it together in response to God’s call. It’s time to truly honor our gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ by modeling His teachings and affirming that God is everything the scriptures tell us He is. More importantly, it is time for us to live out what God has demonstrated over and again – in our lives and throughout history…to walk and breathe in the truth of His victories and His power, and to validate this to the world at large.
Worry, fear, and a closed heart have no place in the lives of faith-filled Christians. Today is the day to kick these attitudes to the curb, once and for all, and live out God’s truths. Will you stand with me and make this a day of great renewal? Are you really ready to represent our mighty God? Isn’t it time you were?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Our God, here in your temple
we think about your love.
You are famous and praised
everywhere on earth,
as you win victories
with your powerful arm.
Mount Zion will celebrate,
and all Judah will be glad,
because you bring justice.
Let’s walk around Zion
and count its towers.
We will see its strong walls
and visit each fortress.
Then you can say
to future generations,
“Our God is like this forever
and will always guide us.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning as I prepared to write this devotional, I must admit that I was conflicted. The world seems turned upside down…senseless terrorism and murder in Paris…displaced and orphaned people by the thousands in the Middle East…people closing their hearts and their “borders” to those who have nowhere to turn…illness and disease…those who are aging and declining – and there is nothing to do but watch it happen…humans in every corner of the world are suffering and troubled…orphans abound in our own back yard, where there are 2 beds for every three children in need. And on top of it all, the weathermen are continually warning that a strong system is approaching with high winds and potentially flooding rains. The list seems unending.
Then I opened my Bible to Psalm 48:9-14 and read these words about the love and power of God Almighty. And I was humbled…and renewed…and encouraged.
- We don’t know what to do with all of the senseless violence and hatred in this world. “Our God is like this forever and will always guide us.”
- We are fearful of helping those we do not know and trust. We are powerless to control the weather. Honestly, we are just a little afraid of virtually everything! ”…You win victories with Your powerful arm.”
- We feel helpless to meet the needs of orphans, the elderly, those who are sick and suffering, the grieving, and those who are homeless and in need. “We will see its [Zion’s] strong walls and visit each fortress…we think about Your love.”
- We are weary and do not know how to keep going. Our faith and confidence have wavered in light of all that is happening, and we cannot see how things will ever improve. “…all Judah will be glad, because You bring justice.”
It’s easy to get caught up in the worry, frustration and grief of current events. We go from faith-filled prayer warriors to spineless wimps afraid of our own shadows in the blink of an eye! And we should all be ashamed. Where is our confidence in God? Where is our affirmation that these claims in Psalm 48 about His power and strength are absolute and indisputable? Are we telling our next generations the truth…or selling them a bill of goods? Because if we do not truly believe – and internalize – what the Bible tells us about God, we really are failing as Christian witnesses and Disciples.
This is the day to “hitch up your britches”…to “pull yourself up by the bootstraps”…to rise up out of your “funk” and get it together in response to God’s call. It’s time to truly honor our gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ by modeling His teachings and affirming that God is everything the scriptures tell us He is. More importantly, it is time for us to live out what God has demonstrated over and again – in our lives and throughout history…to walk and breathe in the truth of His victories and His power, and to validate this to the world at large.
Worry, fear, and a closed heart have no place in the lives of faith-filled Christians. Today is the day to kick these attitudes to the curb, once and for all, and live out God’s truths. Will you stand with me and make this a day of great renewal? Are you really ready to represent our mighty God? Isn’t it time you were?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 16, 2015
Isaiah 46:1-3
God is our mighty fortress,
always ready to help
in times of trouble.
And so, we won’t be afraid!
Let the earth tremble
and the mountains tumble
into the deepest sea.
Let the ocean roar and foam,
and its raging waves
shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several days a week, superheroes reign supreme at our house – namely Batman, Spiderman, and Superman. There is no evil they cannot avenge…no mountain too high to climb nor ocean too deep to swim. The sky really IS the limit as they soar high above the buildings and earth below and stamp out crime and troubles of all kinds! Often, three-year-old Nathan wears a Batman cape and mask much of his day…even to eat and nap!
I know this is a rite of passage. For people my age, the “heroes” included cowboys like the Lone Ranger, Roy Rogers and the Rifleman…Mighty Mouse…and Daniel Boone. For many young boys, a “coonskin cap” or a cowboy hat, holster and pistols was as much a part of the daily attire as underwear!
But I think we realized – even as children – that these characters were not real…that they couldn’t really “leap tall buildings in a single bound”…that their powers would not truly save us in times of trouble. So even at the young ages of six, four, and three, we are trying to make a distinction with our little ones about the “powers” of these imaginary characters…and the TRUE powers of God Almighty.
I sometimes wonder if we “grown-ups” really get it. Do we honestly know and trust the “super-powers” of our amazing God? Do we believe that He is our mighty fortress in times of trouble…able to protect us from every difficulty and tribulation? Do we live with confidence in God’s ability to still the “ocean’s roar and foam” in our lives…to stop the “raging waves” and “shake the mountains?” Equally important, do we demonstrate this level of trust and faith to those we encounter in our everyday living?
These are all questions worth asking and giving prayerful consideration. This is a powerful passage of scripture that covers a lot of ground about our Christian faith - and speaks volumes for what we should believe and how we should act. Will you spend some time pondering its words today and imprinting them on your heart? Is God your ultimate super-hero…and do you demonstrate this in your own life? Isn’t it time you did?
© Debbie Robus
God is our mighty fortress,
always ready to help
in times of trouble.
And so, we won’t be afraid!
Let the earth tremble
and the mountains tumble
into the deepest sea.
Let the ocean roar and foam,
and its raging waves
shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several days a week, superheroes reign supreme at our house – namely Batman, Spiderman, and Superman. There is no evil they cannot avenge…no mountain too high to climb nor ocean too deep to swim. The sky really IS the limit as they soar high above the buildings and earth below and stamp out crime and troubles of all kinds! Often, three-year-old Nathan wears a Batman cape and mask much of his day…even to eat and nap!
I know this is a rite of passage. For people my age, the “heroes” included cowboys like the Lone Ranger, Roy Rogers and the Rifleman…Mighty Mouse…and Daniel Boone. For many young boys, a “coonskin cap” or a cowboy hat, holster and pistols was as much a part of the daily attire as underwear!
But I think we realized – even as children – that these characters were not real…that they couldn’t really “leap tall buildings in a single bound”…that their powers would not truly save us in times of trouble. So even at the young ages of six, four, and three, we are trying to make a distinction with our little ones about the “powers” of these imaginary characters…and the TRUE powers of God Almighty.
I sometimes wonder if we “grown-ups” really get it. Do we honestly know and trust the “super-powers” of our amazing God? Do we believe that He is our mighty fortress in times of trouble…able to protect us from every difficulty and tribulation? Do we live with confidence in God’s ability to still the “ocean’s roar and foam” in our lives…to stop the “raging waves” and “shake the mountains?” Equally important, do we demonstrate this level of trust and faith to those we encounter in our everyday living?
These are all questions worth asking and giving prayerful consideration. This is a powerful passage of scripture that covers a lot of ground about our Christian faith - and speaks volumes for what we should believe and how we should act. Will you spend some time pondering its words today and imprinting them on your heart? Is God your ultimate super-hero…and do you demonstrate this in your own life? Isn’t it time you did?
© Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 25, 2015
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
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, I filled in for the teacher of the 2nd-3rd graders at Sunday school. Our lesson was on making good choices…and the introductory premise was that even though it seems like “bad people” often “get away with murder”…while “good people” are allowed to suffer and struggle. But this is not God’s plan at all. The children were encouraged to continue to make good choices…to ask, “What would Jesus do?” - and to follow His example. They were reminded that those who “suffer” with Jesus will be rewarded.
It’s especially hard for seven and eight-year-olds to understand how they are to continue to obey, serve, and trust God in all things when they see people around them who behave badly and seem to be rewarded. There is a tremendous challenge in convincing these youngsters that “God wins in the end” – and those who serve with Him win also. It’s hard for us as adults to understand this, too! There are times when we are all tempted to cut corners or “go with the flow” - and just hope that we don’t get caught!
But as I pointed out this morning, God always knows everything! I shared with them a story of an embarrassing experience I had in high school when a friend approached me one day with a very long snake. The snake was dead, but I didn’t know that – and it really didn’t matter. He knew how frightened I was of snakes, and his very intention was to scare the bejeepers out of me! And it worked! I took off running – in a new dress and wedge sandals - and I fell and probably landed with my skirt up over my head!
My first, second and third thoughts were of revenge…and several mutual friends and I concocted a plot to sneak up behind this boy as he played the piano for our church youth choir and snip off his long, curly hair. That would teach him! When I shared this with the children this morning, there were chants of “Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! Please tell us you did it!” Well, I didn’t – much to their chagrin - and I am glad. The boy had apologized, and while I felt at the time that he was not sincere, my misdeed would not have served any purpose. We talked about the potential outcomes of such an action…loss of a friendship…further retaliation…serious trouble with adults. In the end, I told the children I had something of a “WWJD moment.”
I also shared with the children that I can look back over my life and see how some who have mistreated me don’t seem to have had as many blessings in their life as I have experienced. I’m not saying that God punished them directly for their bad behavior…but I do believe that He planned all along for my life – and my blessings. And because of the ways that I have tried to honor Him in several instances, I believe the tide has turned in my favor as a result.
I also pointed out that our definition of “good” is not the same as God’s. This does not mean that we will live in mansions and drive fancy cars and, as one boy put it…”have MILLIONS of dollars!” What God feels is in our best interest may remain a mystery to us for a long time…maybe our entire earthly lifetime! It may seem like God allows one bad thing after another to happen to us…but all the while, we may be missing the blessings and positive results that He is enacting as a result of our misfortune or suffering.
In the end, I believe this verse from Jeremiah 29 is profoundly important for us as Christians. It is a hallmark of what God promises to each of us who “make good choices” and stay in the right “lane” - those who ask each and every day, “What would Jesus do?” and act accordingly. I cling to this promise…I live in the hope that EVERYTHING that God has planned for me is perfect – even when I can’t see it. I trust that for every blessing I experience along this journey called Life, God is waiting for me at the “Finish Line” with more rewards than I can possibly count…much less carry! I’m trusting His plans…are you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
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, I filled in for the teacher of the 2nd-3rd graders at Sunday school. Our lesson was on making good choices…and the introductory premise was that even though it seems like “bad people” often “get away with murder”…while “good people” are allowed to suffer and struggle. But this is not God’s plan at all. The children were encouraged to continue to make good choices…to ask, “What would Jesus do?” - and to follow His example. They were reminded that those who “suffer” with Jesus will be rewarded.
It’s especially hard for seven and eight-year-olds to understand how they are to continue to obey, serve, and trust God in all things when they see people around them who behave badly and seem to be rewarded. There is a tremendous challenge in convincing these youngsters that “God wins in the end” – and those who serve with Him win also. It’s hard for us as adults to understand this, too! There are times when we are all tempted to cut corners or “go with the flow” - and just hope that we don’t get caught!
But as I pointed out this morning, God always knows everything! I shared with them a story of an embarrassing experience I had in high school when a friend approached me one day with a very long snake. The snake was dead, but I didn’t know that – and it really didn’t matter. He knew how frightened I was of snakes, and his very intention was to scare the bejeepers out of me! And it worked! I took off running – in a new dress and wedge sandals - and I fell and probably landed with my skirt up over my head!
My first, second and third thoughts were of revenge…and several mutual friends and I concocted a plot to sneak up behind this boy as he played the piano for our church youth choir and snip off his long, curly hair. That would teach him! When I shared this with the children this morning, there were chants of “Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! Please tell us you did it!” Well, I didn’t – much to their chagrin - and I am glad. The boy had apologized, and while I felt at the time that he was not sincere, my misdeed would not have served any purpose. We talked about the potential outcomes of such an action…loss of a friendship…further retaliation…serious trouble with adults. In the end, I told the children I had something of a “WWJD moment.”
I also shared with the children that I can look back over my life and see how some who have mistreated me don’t seem to have had as many blessings in their life as I have experienced. I’m not saying that God punished them directly for their bad behavior…but I do believe that He planned all along for my life – and my blessings. And because of the ways that I have tried to honor Him in several instances, I believe the tide has turned in my favor as a result.
I also pointed out that our definition of “good” is not the same as God’s. This does not mean that we will live in mansions and drive fancy cars and, as one boy put it…”have MILLIONS of dollars!” What God feels is in our best interest may remain a mystery to us for a long time…maybe our entire earthly lifetime! It may seem like God allows one bad thing after another to happen to us…but all the while, we may be missing the blessings and positive results that He is enacting as a result of our misfortune or suffering.
In the end, I believe this verse from Jeremiah 29 is profoundly important for us as Christians. It is a hallmark of what God promises to each of us who “make good choices” and stay in the right “lane” - those who ask each and every day, “What would Jesus do?” and act accordingly. I cling to this promise…I live in the hope that EVERYTHING that God has planned for me is perfect – even when I can’t see it. I trust that for every blessing I experience along this journey called Life, God is waiting for me at the “Finish Line” with more rewards than I can possibly count…much less carry! I’m trusting His plans…are you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 8, 2015
1 Peter 5:6-7
If you will humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, in his good time he will lift you up.
Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.
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, my mother began chemotherapy treatments for what is suspected to be ovarian cancer. More tests are necessary to be certain of the origin…but there is no question that she is battling “the beast.” As Mom said to someone in a Facebook response, the medical staff will virtually be pumping poison into her body to kill the cancer…and there can’t help but be side effects and the potential for negative ramifications.
My mother is one of the most faith-filled people I know. She would not allow anyone except her husband to accompany her this morning, so I have waited at home – and prayed - for the “report.” I envisioned my mother walking bravely into the outpatient wing of our local hospital this morning, like countless patients before her. She is facing headlong whatever lies ahead…and she has told us over and over, “No matter what…it will be okay. God is in control.”
But this is happening to my mother. As much as I love and care for my friends and other family members who have experienced cancer, other illnesses, injuries and challenges…this is very real and personal for me now. And I will be honest…I’ve been a little more than worried. I know all of the things that God promises…and that my mother has taught me. I’ve experienced God’s unfailing love and care…His perfect timing…His mighty hand and loving attention to every detail. But I am human, so of course, I have done a little hand-wringing.
Does this make me weak and less of a Christian? I don’t think so. And when you worry, it doesn’t necessarily diminish your faith, either. Now, we must not hang out too long in the “Land of Worries and Fears,” but I believe that God can actually use a little side-trip there to strengthen us in our faith. He understands our humanity…our penchant to “go there.” And I believe that He is calling to us…saying, “Hey, YOU! Look over here! I’m more than ready and able to take care of this for you. All you have to do is turn around and come back over here next to me!” And that is what I am going to do.
I’ve had my momentary panic attack…I’ve expressed my fears and worries to God…and now I am going to let Him have them. I know that whatever He does with them will be perfect…that He truly is holding my mother – and all of us – in the palm of His hand. I am confident that He has sent angels to surround us and attend to our every need. And I KNOW that He is doing this for you, as well.
Won’t you let go and let God have your worries and fears today? Are you ready to turn around and run straight into His arms and experience His amazing love and care? Do you truly understand that with God, everything will be okay – no matter what happens? Isn’t it time to quit wringing our hands and fold them together in a prayer of trust? Will this be the moment that you turn around and run back to God and let Him handle the heavy stuff? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
If you will humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, in his good time he will lift you up.
Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.
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, my mother began chemotherapy treatments for what is suspected to be ovarian cancer. More tests are necessary to be certain of the origin…but there is no question that she is battling “the beast.” As Mom said to someone in a Facebook response, the medical staff will virtually be pumping poison into her body to kill the cancer…and there can’t help but be side effects and the potential for negative ramifications.
My mother is one of the most faith-filled people I know. She would not allow anyone except her husband to accompany her this morning, so I have waited at home – and prayed - for the “report.” I envisioned my mother walking bravely into the outpatient wing of our local hospital this morning, like countless patients before her. She is facing headlong whatever lies ahead…and she has told us over and over, “No matter what…it will be okay. God is in control.”
But this is happening to my mother. As much as I love and care for my friends and other family members who have experienced cancer, other illnesses, injuries and challenges…this is very real and personal for me now. And I will be honest…I’ve been a little more than worried. I know all of the things that God promises…and that my mother has taught me. I’ve experienced God’s unfailing love and care…His perfect timing…His mighty hand and loving attention to every detail. But I am human, so of course, I have done a little hand-wringing.
Does this make me weak and less of a Christian? I don’t think so. And when you worry, it doesn’t necessarily diminish your faith, either. Now, we must not hang out too long in the “Land of Worries and Fears,” but I believe that God can actually use a little side-trip there to strengthen us in our faith. He understands our humanity…our penchant to “go there.” And I believe that He is calling to us…saying, “Hey, YOU! Look over here! I’m more than ready and able to take care of this for you. All you have to do is turn around and come back over here next to me!” And that is what I am going to do.
I’ve had my momentary panic attack…I’ve expressed my fears and worries to God…and now I am going to let Him have them. I know that whatever He does with them will be perfect…that He truly is holding my mother – and all of us – in the palm of His hand. I am confident that He has sent angels to surround us and attend to our every need. And I KNOW that He is doing this for you, as well.
Won’t you let go and let God have your worries and fears today? Are you ready to turn around and run straight into His arms and experience His amazing love and care? Do you truly understand that with God, everything will be okay – no matter what happens? Isn’t it time to quit wringing our hands and fold them together in a prayer of trust? Will this be the moment that you turn around and run back to God and let Him handle the heavy stuff? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 17, 2015
James 4:11-12
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the first day of public school for children in our state. I have every confidence that there were more than a few children who entered the doors of their classrooms with at least a little trepidation…and probably even MORE mothers who tearfully left them. I still remember one mother who stood at the door to my classroom…tears pouring down her face…and said, “This is SO hard!” I knew that her child would be perfectly fine…and so would she. I could see a part of the “story” that she could not…I knew that within five minutes of her departure, her child would probably be playing with the other children – as happy as a clam. But it was hard to convince this mom…and there may have been a little “eye-rolling” on my part!
I have to admit…as I’ve watched our little ones begin their school “career” one-by-one, I have better understood the tug at a parent’s heartstrings when these “babies” step out into the big world. I see their side of the “story.” I know what it’s like as a teacher for parents to say, “You just don’t understand”…and I know how that feels for the parents. I also know what it’s like for a child to have some natural apprehension about an unfamiliar setting and new people. I “get” all sides. And this has been a good lesson for me in why criticism and condemnation is a bad idea.
So often, we only see our “side” of things. And that’s where we get into trouble. Whether we operate out of fear, misinformation, or just a judgmental spirit, we are sometimes condescending and hypercritical of other people and situations...and often, we don’t have a complete picture that includes all of the information. More importantly, we fail to realize that when we do this to others, we are doing the same to God. So when we criticize the person who we think is “lazy, different, or worthless,” we are essentially saying that God does not have the power or desire to make changes in these people…that He intentionally creates “junk”…and this is simply not the case.
When we are judgmental of another person for their choices…or because of their size and appearance, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, struggles of some kind, socio-economic status, or even their spiritual beliefs…we are declaring that God created divisions among us and surely must love us more than the other guy. And we should know better!
As the late Maya Angelou said (and I’m paraphrasing)…“When we know better, we must do better.” If we trust God and believe that He has created us and loves each of us equally, we must act like it. This doesn’t leave any room for criticism and condemnation. Just as surely as the first day of school will come and go and all will settle into their roles and routines, we must trust God to show each of us our “role” and routine…and leave the “fixing” to Him. We.can.do.this! Are you with me?
©2015 Debbie Robus
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the first day of public school for children in our state. I have every confidence that there were more than a few children who entered the doors of their classrooms with at least a little trepidation…and probably even MORE mothers who tearfully left them. I still remember one mother who stood at the door to my classroom…tears pouring down her face…and said, “This is SO hard!” I knew that her child would be perfectly fine…and so would she. I could see a part of the “story” that she could not…I knew that within five minutes of her departure, her child would probably be playing with the other children – as happy as a clam. But it was hard to convince this mom…and there may have been a little “eye-rolling” on my part!
I have to admit…as I’ve watched our little ones begin their school “career” one-by-one, I have better understood the tug at a parent’s heartstrings when these “babies” step out into the big world. I see their side of the “story.” I know what it’s like as a teacher for parents to say, “You just don’t understand”…and I know how that feels for the parents. I also know what it’s like for a child to have some natural apprehension about an unfamiliar setting and new people. I “get” all sides. And this has been a good lesson for me in why criticism and condemnation is a bad idea.
So often, we only see our “side” of things. And that’s where we get into trouble. Whether we operate out of fear, misinformation, or just a judgmental spirit, we are sometimes condescending and hypercritical of other people and situations...and often, we don’t have a complete picture that includes all of the information. More importantly, we fail to realize that when we do this to others, we are doing the same to God. So when we criticize the person who we think is “lazy, different, or worthless,” we are essentially saying that God does not have the power or desire to make changes in these people…that He intentionally creates “junk”…and this is simply not the case.
When we are judgmental of another person for their choices…or because of their size and appearance, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, struggles of some kind, socio-economic status, or even their spiritual beliefs…we are declaring that God created divisions among us and surely must love us more than the other guy. And we should know better!
As the late Maya Angelou said (and I’m paraphrasing)…“When we know better, we must do better.” If we trust God and believe that He has created us and loves each of us equally, we must act like it. This doesn’t leave any room for criticism and condemnation. Just as surely as the first day of school will come and go and all will settle into their roles and routines, we must trust God to show each of us our “role” and routine…and leave the “fixing” to Him. We.can.do.this! Are you with me?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 6, 2015
Hebrews 11:6
You can never please God without faith, without depending on him. Anyone who wants to come to God must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely look for him.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Last night, I saw a commercial that featured Ron Reagan…son of President Ronald Reagan, who was speaking for the Freedom From Religion Foundation. In this 30-second spot, Reagan asks for support for “the nation's largest and most effective association of atheists and agnostics.” He ends his comments with this…”Ron Reagan…lifelong atheist…not afraid of burning in hell.”
Don’t rush to judge Ron Reagan…or his organization. If you go to the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s website and poke around, you will see that their primary mission is to protect the separation of church and state. Try to understand why Reagan and other atheists do not believe that God exists. Could this be in part because of how we Christians behave? Could our words and actions…our judgments and the “causes” we fight for so vehemently…actually belie God’s existence and fuel their thoughts?
Do we demonstrate to others that God not only exists…but that He is the Author and Finisher of our faith? Does our demeanor suggest that we trust God in all things…or are we often observed wringing our hands and worrying over every situation – even while calling on God to handle things? Could it be that our model of Christian discipleship and faith is anything but faithful and confident?
I will be honest…a lot of what I see and hear from Christians is not all that faith-filled. It doesn’t demonstrate a surety that God exists and is who He says He is…that He can do everything the Bible says that He can do. Our words and actions do not affirm that God is autonomous, supreme, omnipotent, all-powerful…and that He loves His children and wants only what is best for them.
I’m afraid that what others see from many of us is someone who is fearful of everything and everyone – particularly those who are different from us in some way. I’m concerned that others look at many of us and see someone who falls apart at the first hint of trouble…someone who is quick to judge, narrow-minded, and has an air of superiority and special privilege because of Who we claim to serve. I truly believe that we might be driving away those who are, at best, “on the fence” about whether God exists…and fully confirming the suspicions of those who have already decided this.
In countless instances, we’ve become so busy making a point that we’re no longer making a difference. And in doing so, I believe that we have also denied God, in large part. But we can change this. We can start to examine our lives…and our behaviors…and we can ask God to show us how and where we need to make adjustments. We can start to operate more in faith and confidence…and show the world Who our God really is – every single minute of the day. It’s not up to us to change the minds of others…but when we leave God room to work and give Him the opportunity, He can – and will – show up in ways we never even imagined.
When others look at you, what – and Who – do they see? Do you really, truly believe in God…and are you depending on Him - for everything? Is this what others see? Don’t you think it’s time they did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
You can never please God without faith, without depending on him. Anyone who wants to come to God must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely look for him.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Last night, I saw a commercial that featured Ron Reagan…son of President Ronald Reagan, who was speaking for the Freedom From Religion Foundation. In this 30-second spot, Reagan asks for support for “the nation's largest and most effective association of atheists and agnostics.” He ends his comments with this…”Ron Reagan…lifelong atheist…not afraid of burning in hell.”
Don’t rush to judge Ron Reagan…or his organization. If you go to the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s website and poke around, you will see that their primary mission is to protect the separation of church and state. Try to understand why Reagan and other atheists do not believe that God exists. Could this be in part because of how we Christians behave? Could our words and actions…our judgments and the “causes” we fight for so vehemently…actually belie God’s existence and fuel their thoughts?
Do we demonstrate to others that God not only exists…but that He is the Author and Finisher of our faith? Does our demeanor suggest that we trust God in all things…or are we often observed wringing our hands and worrying over every situation – even while calling on God to handle things? Could it be that our model of Christian discipleship and faith is anything but faithful and confident?
I will be honest…a lot of what I see and hear from Christians is not all that faith-filled. It doesn’t demonstrate a surety that God exists and is who He says He is…that He can do everything the Bible says that He can do. Our words and actions do not affirm that God is autonomous, supreme, omnipotent, all-powerful…and that He loves His children and wants only what is best for them.
I’m afraid that what others see from many of us is someone who is fearful of everything and everyone – particularly those who are different from us in some way. I’m concerned that others look at many of us and see someone who falls apart at the first hint of trouble…someone who is quick to judge, narrow-minded, and has an air of superiority and special privilege because of Who we claim to serve. I truly believe that we might be driving away those who are, at best, “on the fence” about whether God exists…and fully confirming the suspicions of those who have already decided this.
In countless instances, we’ve become so busy making a point that we’re no longer making a difference. And in doing so, I believe that we have also denied God, in large part. But we can change this. We can start to examine our lives…and our behaviors…and we can ask God to show us how and where we need to make adjustments. We can start to operate more in faith and confidence…and show the world Who our God really is – every single minute of the day. It’s not up to us to change the minds of others…but when we leave God room to work and give Him the opportunity, He can – and will – show up in ways we never even imagined.
When others look at you, what – and Who – do they see? Do you really, truly believe in God…and are you depending on Him - for everything? Is this what others see? Don’t you think it’s time they did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 2, 2015
Exodus 34:10-12
At once, Moses fell to the ground and worshiped, saying, “Please, O Master, if you see anything good in me, please Master, travel with us, hard-headed as these people are. Forgive our iniquity and sin. Own us, possess us.”
And God said, “As of right now, I’m making a covenant with you: In full sight of your people I will work wonders that have never been created in all the Earth, in any nation. Then all the people with whom you’re living will see how tremendous God’s work is, the work I’ll do for you. Take careful note of all I command you today.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Someone recently shared a thought-provoking article titled “An Atheist’s Open Letter to Those Praying for His Son*.” The author and his wife have a baby boy who was born prematurely at 27 weeks. This person does not ask Christians to stop praying for him and his family – nor is there an unkind tone to his message. However, he explains that he and his wife put their faith in modern medicine…and that he believes the prayers offered for them and their son help the person who utters them more than those for whom intercession is made.
In part, the author suggests that Christians should pray for those who already believe in God…that our prayers are wasted on unbelievers. He suggests that instead, we donate to medical research…that we reach out to someone who is in crisis and offer a listening ear…that we volunteer with groups who help those in need (and do so without an underlying agenda!)…and he asks that we do these things rather than talk to a god who will do what he wants anyway.
Hear what this man is saying with an open mind and heart. Do not judge him. Instead, remember that how you react and respond to his comments is crucial. Consider God’s words to Moses…and His directive for each of us. God wants us to work as His agents…to be obedient to His commands…to be good stewards of His blessings and gifts…and to validate to others that His promises are real and steadfast – that His works are extraordinary! And let’s be honest…a true Christian disciple will do some – or all – of the things that this man has suggested…and pray, also!
My point in sharing this article with you is to say that God has called us to be His agents on this earth…to share His “tremendous works” with others. And let’s not measure “tremendous” in terms of physical magnitude. God doesn’t have to write on stone tablets, appear in a burning bush, create a rainbow, or part a body of water in order to show us Who He really is. We should be able to recognize enough “signs and wonders” in our own life to fully acknowledge and believe in His power and supremacy – and we should be able to demonstrate these to others. The evidence is all around us…from modern advances in technology and medicine to the inexplicable Supernatural strength that He offers when we are sick or suffering in some manner.
Our prayers for someone who does not believe in God are important…but our actions – and reactions – might be even more critical! It’s a demonstration of our faith – and our obedience. God has given you gifts and a mission. He sent Jesus to die for your sins and free you of their burden, so that you could concentrate on discipleship rather than ritual and worry over continual atonement. And our most important “mission” might just be to share His love and acceptance with others…even those who do not believe that He exists.
When others look at you, do they see someone who operates in an inexplicable faith…who loves others without judgment and depends upon God to be the Author and Finisher of every aspect of his/her life? Or do they see someone who wears their Christian faith like a badge of superiority…who criticizes and judges anyone who dares to disagree with them on anything – no matter how large or small? Do others look at you and say, “I want what he/she has!”…or do you live in a way that reinforces any negative sentiments they may associate with Christian faith – or with God Himself?
How deep is your faith…and how profound is your demonstration of confidence and hope in God’s promises? When others look at you, what…and WHO – do they see? Isn’t it time you answered this question, once and for all?
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://www.atheistrepublic.com/blog/kevin-davis/atheist-s-open-letter-those-praying-his-son
At once, Moses fell to the ground and worshiped, saying, “Please, O Master, if you see anything good in me, please Master, travel with us, hard-headed as these people are. Forgive our iniquity and sin. Own us, possess us.”
And God said, “As of right now, I’m making a covenant with you: In full sight of your people I will work wonders that have never been created in all the Earth, in any nation. Then all the people with whom you’re living will see how tremendous God’s work is, the work I’ll do for you. Take careful note of all I command you today.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Someone recently shared a thought-provoking article titled “An Atheist’s Open Letter to Those Praying for His Son*.” The author and his wife have a baby boy who was born prematurely at 27 weeks. This person does not ask Christians to stop praying for him and his family – nor is there an unkind tone to his message. However, he explains that he and his wife put their faith in modern medicine…and that he believes the prayers offered for them and their son help the person who utters them more than those for whom intercession is made.
In part, the author suggests that Christians should pray for those who already believe in God…that our prayers are wasted on unbelievers. He suggests that instead, we donate to medical research…that we reach out to someone who is in crisis and offer a listening ear…that we volunteer with groups who help those in need (and do so without an underlying agenda!)…and he asks that we do these things rather than talk to a god who will do what he wants anyway.
Hear what this man is saying with an open mind and heart. Do not judge him. Instead, remember that how you react and respond to his comments is crucial. Consider God’s words to Moses…and His directive for each of us. God wants us to work as His agents…to be obedient to His commands…to be good stewards of His blessings and gifts…and to validate to others that His promises are real and steadfast – that His works are extraordinary! And let’s be honest…a true Christian disciple will do some – or all – of the things that this man has suggested…and pray, also!
My point in sharing this article with you is to say that God has called us to be His agents on this earth…to share His “tremendous works” with others. And let’s not measure “tremendous” in terms of physical magnitude. God doesn’t have to write on stone tablets, appear in a burning bush, create a rainbow, or part a body of water in order to show us Who He really is. We should be able to recognize enough “signs and wonders” in our own life to fully acknowledge and believe in His power and supremacy – and we should be able to demonstrate these to others. The evidence is all around us…from modern advances in technology and medicine to the inexplicable Supernatural strength that He offers when we are sick or suffering in some manner.
Our prayers for someone who does not believe in God are important…but our actions – and reactions – might be even more critical! It’s a demonstration of our faith – and our obedience. God has given you gifts and a mission. He sent Jesus to die for your sins and free you of their burden, so that you could concentrate on discipleship rather than ritual and worry over continual atonement. And our most important “mission” might just be to share His love and acceptance with others…even those who do not believe that He exists.
When others look at you, do they see someone who operates in an inexplicable faith…who loves others without judgment and depends upon God to be the Author and Finisher of every aspect of his/her life? Or do they see someone who wears their Christian faith like a badge of superiority…who criticizes and judges anyone who dares to disagree with them on anything – no matter how large or small? Do others look at you and say, “I want what he/she has!”…or do you live in a way that reinforces any negative sentiments they may associate with Christian faith – or with God Himself?
How deep is your faith…and how profound is your demonstration of confidence and hope in God’s promises? When others look at you, what…and WHO – do they see? Isn’t it time you answered this question, once and for all?
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://www.atheistrepublic.com/blog/kevin-davis/atheist-s-open-letter-those-praying-his-son
Daily Devotional for July 15, 2015
Romans 1:16-17
It’s news I’m most proud to proclaim, this extraordinary Message of God’s powerful plan to rescue everyone who trusts him, starting with Jews and then right on to everyone else! God’s way of putting people right shows up in the acts of faith, confirming what Scripture has said all along: “The person in right standing before God by trusting him really lives.”
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.
“We do not draw people to Christ by loudly discrediting what they believe, by telling them how wrong they are and how right we are, but by showing them a light that is so lovely that they want with all their hearts to know the source of it.” - Madeleine L’Engle - Walking on Water
I saw this quote on Facebook a few days ago – credited to this author of dozens of novels who lived from 1918 to 2007, including Newberry Medal winner A Wrinkle in Time, and National Book Award-winner, A Swiftly Tilting Planet. L’Engle served for more than 30 years as librarian at Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in New York City, where she also maintained an office.
Madeleine L’Engle was by all accounts an extraordinary woman…wife, mother, author, and servant. And the statement is profound and gives us lots to think about in light of today’s scripture passage.
What sort of light are you showing the world? Is it the Light of Christ – or a spotlight of your own making? Some say “Look at me…I have all the answers. What I believe is spot on…and if you disagree, you are the one who is mistaken!” While others live such that their lives and conduct say, “Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.” (paraphrasing 1 John 4:4) Which one best describes you?
Are you a living example of faith in God – in all things? Do people note your acts of faith and service to Him…or are you known as someone who is judgmental, controversial, and divisive? When others look at you and your relationship to Jesus Christ, do they want what you are demonstrating? Or do your demeanor and actions make them want to “run like the wind?”
Isn’t it time we began to more closely model Jesus…to quietly demonstrate our faithfulness and His love, acceptance, grace, mercy and compassion for ALL people? Are you drawing people to Christ…or giving them every reason to run in the opposite direction? Read L’Engle’s quote again and let it soak into your heart and soul. It’s time to figure out which light we are reflecting. Is this the day you will begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
It’s news I’m most proud to proclaim, this extraordinary Message of God’s powerful plan to rescue everyone who trusts him, starting with Jews and then right on to everyone else! God’s way of putting people right shows up in the acts of faith, confirming what Scripture has said all along: “The person in right standing before God by trusting him really lives.”
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.
“We do not draw people to Christ by loudly discrediting what they believe, by telling them how wrong they are and how right we are, but by showing them a light that is so lovely that they want with all their hearts to know the source of it.” - Madeleine L’Engle - Walking on Water
I saw this quote on Facebook a few days ago – credited to this author of dozens of novels who lived from 1918 to 2007, including Newberry Medal winner A Wrinkle in Time, and National Book Award-winner, A Swiftly Tilting Planet. L’Engle served for more than 30 years as librarian at Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in New York City, where she also maintained an office.
Madeleine L’Engle was by all accounts an extraordinary woman…wife, mother, author, and servant. And the statement is profound and gives us lots to think about in light of today’s scripture passage.
What sort of light are you showing the world? Is it the Light of Christ – or a spotlight of your own making? Some say “Look at me…I have all the answers. What I believe is spot on…and if you disagree, you are the one who is mistaken!” While others live such that their lives and conduct say, “Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.” (paraphrasing 1 John 4:4) Which one best describes you?
Are you a living example of faith in God – in all things? Do people note your acts of faith and service to Him…or are you known as someone who is judgmental, controversial, and divisive? When others look at you and your relationship to Jesus Christ, do they want what you are demonstrating? Or do your demeanor and actions make them want to “run like the wind?”
Isn’t it time we began to more closely model Jesus…to quietly demonstrate our faithfulness and His love, acceptance, grace, mercy and compassion for ALL people? Are you drawing people to Christ…or giving them every reason to run in the opposite direction? Read L’Engle’s quote again and let it soak into your heart and soul. It’s time to figure out which light we are reflecting. Is this the day you will begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 16, 2015
Mark 11:22-25
Jesus was matter-of-fact: “Embrace this God-life. Really embrace it, and nothing will be too much for you. This mountain, for instance: Just say, ‘Go jump in the lake’—no shuffling or shilly-shallying—and it’s as good as done. That’s why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you’ll get God’s everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it’s not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive—only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins.”
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.
Sunday in the church nursery, an almost 2-year-old named Stella lost her shoe. I retrieved the sandal and handed it to her. She wanted to put it on by herself. There was an ankle strap with a buckle, and she fussed at me as I took the shoe from her to unfasten the buckle. When I tried to help her put it on her foot, she would kick and squeal.
This little red-headed “ginger snap” got so frustrated as she worked to put on her shoe…but she would not accept any help in buckling the strap or getting it on correctly. She finally just walked around with one shoe on and the other foot bare! She would rather do that than allow someone to help her…to trust that we grownups knew more than she did about how the shoe should go on her foot and fasten!
Stella will figure it out. But when it comes to our prayer life and faith in God, a lot of us are still walking around wearing only one shoe! We still don’t fully understand that we need to pray about everything…and believe that God hears us and answers. Does this mean that we will all drive Maseratis and be dripping in diamonds and furs…that we will never have to work another day in our lives and God will make every single second hunky-dory forever, just because we asked Him to do so? Absolutely not!
What this scripture tells us is that God will meet all of our needs…all the time and in every way. It also tells us that God knows what these needs are…and how best to meet them. So when we pray and ask God for help and guidance, we can relax and rest in the confidence that He will answer… that whatever He gives us will be perfect. So if you tell God you need a car to get to school or work or wherever, and He provides you with a clunker that looks horrible but runs fine, you can trust that this is what you need to be driving.
If you ask God to bring you a soulmate, and the person who comes into your life doesn’t exactly look like a model from the pages of Victoria’s Secret or one of the men in GQ Magazine - but he/she loves Jesus and treats you royally – consider that God has chosen the perfect companion for you, based on His plans and not your selfish desires. When troubles come and you ask God to help you through them…yet the road is rough and rocky…don’t ask “Why me, LORD?” Instead, ask, “What are You showing me? How do You want me to handle this? How can I glorify You in my reactions and responses?”
It’s time for us to accept God’s help…to trust His answers…and to let Him show us how to “put on the other shoe” and live fully in His plans and abundance. This seems like a pretty good day to get started…wouldn’t you agree?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Jesus was matter-of-fact: “Embrace this God-life. Really embrace it, and nothing will be too much for you. This mountain, for instance: Just say, ‘Go jump in the lake’—no shuffling or shilly-shallying—and it’s as good as done. That’s why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you’ll get God’s everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it’s not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive—only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins.”
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.
Sunday in the church nursery, an almost 2-year-old named Stella lost her shoe. I retrieved the sandal and handed it to her. She wanted to put it on by herself. There was an ankle strap with a buckle, and she fussed at me as I took the shoe from her to unfasten the buckle. When I tried to help her put it on her foot, she would kick and squeal.
This little red-headed “ginger snap” got so frustrated as she worked to put on her shoe…but she would not accept any help in buckling the strap or getting it on correctly. She finally just walked around with one shoe on and the other foot bare! She would rather do that than allow someone to help her…to trust that we grownups knew more than she did about how the shoe should go on her foot and fasten!
Stella will figure it out. But when it comes to our prayer life and faith in God, a lot of us are still walking around wearing only one shoe! We still don’t fully understand that we need to pray about everything…and believe that God hears us and answers. Does this mean that we will all drive Maseratis and be dripping in diamonds and furs…that we will never have to work another day in our lives and God will make every single second hunky-dory forever, just because we asked Him to do so? Absolutely not!
What this scripture tells us is that God will meet all of our needs…all the time and in every way. It also tells us that God knows what these needs are…and how best to meet them. So when we pray and ask God for help and guidance, we can relax and rest in the confidence that He will answer… that whatever He gives us will be perfect. So if you tell God you need a car to get to school or work or wherever, and He provides you with a clunker that looks horrible but runs fine, you can trust that this is what you need to be driving.
If you ask God to bring you a soulmate, and the person who comes into your life doesn’t exactly look like a model from the pages of Victoria’s Secret or one of the men in GQ Magazine - but he/she loves Jesus and treats you royally – consider that God has chosen the perfect companion for you, based on His plans and not your selfish desires. When troubles come and you ask God to help you through them…yet the road is rough and rocky…don’t ask “Why me, LORD?” Instead, ask, “What are You showing me? How do You want me to handle this? How can I glorify You in my reactions and responses?”
It’s time for us to accept God’s help…to trust His answers…and to let Him show us how to “put on the other shoe” and live fully in His plans and abundance. This seems like a pretty good day to get started…wouldn’t you agree?
©2015 Debbie Robus
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