John 4:46-50
While Jesus was in Galilee, he returned to the village of Cana, where he had turned the water into wine. There was an official in Capernaum whose son was sick. And when the man heard that Jesus had come from Judea, he went and begged him to keep his son from dying.
Jesus told the official, “You won’t have faith unless you see miracles and wonders!”
The man replied, “Lord, please come before my son dies!”
Jesus then said, “Your son will live. Go on home to him.” The man believed Jesus and started back home.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“I’ll believe it when I see it!”
“Show me the money!”
“Prove it!”
We humans are a skeptical lot! We need reassurance…proof…a “visual” confirmation before we will commit – to pretty much anything! I keep a little basket of toys and puzzles in the cabinet, and when the children have been especially good or worked to “earn” a prize, they are allowed to choose something from the basket. Nathan, in particular, will say, “I need to look in the basket and see what’s in there.” In part, he is deciding whether it is worth his effort…but he also needs reassurance that I really do have some goodies there!
Sometimes, I will say, “You kids don’t need to see the basket…you know what is there!” And other times, I do let them have a look. But more often now, they trust that there ARE good surprises that are worth their effort. They have faith that I would not steer them down a wrong path, and they “work” in hope of a reward.
I have to believe that Jesus knew that the man’s faith was genuine, even when He chided him and the crowd by saying, “You won’t believe without proof!” Jesus might have even been a little irritated or frustrated, because so many really did NOT believe what they were told about Him. But clearly, this father of the sick child was not derailed by the comment. And if you read the verses surrounding this passage, you will see that indeed, Jesus healed his son.
Jesus is probably pretty frustrated and irritated with us many times, as we wring our hands and worry about what will happen. It’s a safe bet that most of us have weak faith on any given day – and for some, this is a way of life. We need proof…we have to have “signs”…until we actually see the hand of Jesus in our daily lives, we will reserve our acceptance – and sometimes, our best efforts.
Start watching and actually searching for Jesus as He shows up in your life and the lives of others. Don’t miss an opportunity to acknowledge His presence…or your faith that He is with you – even when you cannot readily see or feel Him. Point out to others when you see Jesus at work in their lives…not in an “I told you so” way – but as a gentle reminder that He is with them, as well!
Get in the habit of living with faith without the physical presence of signs and wonders. Trust that the “prize basket” of God’s blessings is abundantly full and available to you…that healing has already taken place…that Jesus is with you each and every minute of the day. Continually demonstrate your trust in Jesus with your words, actions – and your very demeanor. Jesus may not let us “see in the basket,” but we know what is there for us – and the time has come to start living like it!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label demonstrating faith in Jesus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label demonstrating faith in Jesus. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for April 30, 2016
Matthew 6:38-40
I came down from heaven not to follow my own whim but to accomplish the will of the One who sent me.
“This, in a nutshell, is that will: that everything handed over to me by the Father be completed—not a single detail missed—and at the wrap-up of time I have everything and everyone put together, upright and whole. This is what my Father wants: that anyone who sees the Son and trusts who he is and what he does and then aligns with him will enter real life, eternal life. My part is to put them on their feet alive and whole at the completion of time.”
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.
For decades, a women’s circle at my church has hosted a breakfast for the graduating high school seniors shortly before their last day of school. This year, I offered to help with the preparation and serving of this breakfast. As the students finished their meal, the class sponsor went over some important information with them…dates and times for baccalaureate…when and where to be for graduation rehearsal…the rescheduling of a group photo… and more. She covered many details, making sure that everything was neatly prepared and tied together so that everyone will be ready for these events - and the final ceremony will hopefully go off without a hitch.
The sponsor also read a little devotional to the students and talked to them about what happens after high school…how college is different – and continual study is required. She reminded them that even those who are joining the workforce will need to learn to discipline themselves to get up and get going every day…that whatever happens in this next chapter of life for these almost-adults, effort will be required to be successful and productive.
Several times, this teacher told the group…”This is not my rule…it came from the administration.” Or she would say, “I did not decide this…I’m telling you what I was told to share.” As for the “life lesson,” she cited comments from several college students and graduates who had told her how challenging life can be after high school. In this passage, Jesus tells His disciples that “I came to do God’s will…and I am giving you EVERYTHING you need, so that when I return for those who believe in Me, you will all be ready.”
The students at the breakfast trust that the information the teacher/sponsor gave them is accurate and vital. We who have given our hearts to Jesus are expected to trust His word for us - and to follow His instructions. What does this include? Jesus has told us to love God with all our heart, mind and soul…and to love others as we love Him. He has commanded us to share His Good News with everyone we encounter…to trust Him in all things…and to have hope and faith that He is preparing a place for us with Him for all Eternity.
Jesus performed miracles to demonstrate that He is all-powerful…that anything is possible with Him. He demonstrated incomparable sacrifice by dying on the cross for our sins. He rose from the grave three days later and instructed His disciples concerning how to minister to others in His absence. And He gave us the Holy Spirit to be our Forever Friend in the interim.
Jesus “covered all the bases.” He left nothing to chance or assumption. He was clear and distinct in His directives to us…and in His demonstrations of why we should trust Him and believe in Him. And if we follow through on these instructions, everything should go exactly as it is supposed to on the day when we are called to Heaven…whether this happens before Christ returns for His church – or during.
I hope all of the students were listening carefully yesterday to the words from the sponsor. More importantly, I hope that WE are listening to Jesus’ words for each of us. He has accomplished the will of the One who sent Him…now it is time to do OUR part to honor His commitment and commandments. How do you think you are doing so far?
©2016 Debbie Robus
I came down from heaven not to follow my own whim but to accomplish the will of the One who sent me.
“This, in a nutshell, is that will: that everything handed over to me by the Father be completed—not a single detail missed—and at the wrap-up of time I have everything and everyone put together, upright and whole. This is what my Father wants: that anyone who sees the Son and trusts who he is and what he does and then aligns with him will enter real life, eternal life. My part is to put them on their feet alive and whole at the completion of time.”
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.
For decades, a women’s circle at my church has hosted a breakfast for the graduating high school seniors shortly before their last day of school. This year, I offered to help with the preparation and serving of this breakfast. As the students finished their meal, the class sponsor went over some important information with them…dates and times for baccalaureate…when and where to be for graduation rehearsal…the rescheduling of a group photo… and more. She covered many details, making sure that everything was neatly prepared and tied together so that everyone will be ready for these events - and the final ceremony will hopefully go off without a hitch.
The sponsor also read a little devotional to the students and talked to them about what happens after high school…how college is different – and continual study is required. She reminded them that even those who are joining the workforce will need to learn to discipline themselves to get up and get going every day…that whatever happens in this next chapter of life for these almost-adults, effort will be required to be successful and productive.
Several times, this teacher told the group…”This is not my rule…it came from the administration.” Or she would say, “I did not decide this…I’m telling you what I was told to share.” As for the “life lesson,” she cited comments from several college students and graduates who had told her how challenging life can be after high school. In this passage, Jesus tells His disciples that “I came to do God’s will…and I am giving you EVERYTHING you need, so that when I return for those who believe in Me, you will all be ready.”
The students at the breakfast trust that the information the teacher/sponsor gave them is accurate and vital. We who have given our hearts to Jesus are expected to trust His word for us - and to follow His instructions. What does this include? Jesus has told us to love God with all our heart, mind and soul…and to love others as we love Him. He has commanded us to share His Good News with everyone we encounter…to trust Him in all things…and to have hope and faith that He is preparing a place for us with Him for all Eternity.
Jesus performed miracles to demonstrate that He is all-powerful…that anything is possible with Him. He demonstrated incomparable sacrifice by dying on the cross for our sins. He rose from the grave three days later and instructed His disciples concerning how to minister to others in His absence. And He gave us the Holy Spirit to be our Forever Friend in the interim.
Jesus “covered all the bases.” He left nothing to chance or assumption. He was clear and distinct in His directives to us…and in His demonstrations of why we should trust Him and believe in Him. And if we follow through on these instructions, everything should go exactly as it is supposed to on the day when we are called to Heaven…whether this happens before Christ returns for His church – or during.
I hope all of the students were listening carefully yesterday to the words from the sponsor. More importantly, I hope that WE are listening to Jesus’ words for each of us. He has accomplished the will of the One who sent Him…now it is time to do OUR part to honor His commitment and commandments. How do you think you are doing so far?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 20, 2016
John 14:11-14
“Believe me: I am in my Father and my Father is in me. If you can’t believe that, believe what you see—these works. The person who trusts me will not only do what I’m doing but even greater things, because I, on my way to the Father, am giving you the same work to do that I’ve been doing. You can count on it. From now on, whatever you request along the lines of who I am and what I am doing, I’ll do it. That’s how the Father will be seen for who he is in the Son. I mean it. Whatever you request in this way, I’ll do.
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, we took the children to see “The Jungle Book” at our local theater. As we were driving home from church, Timothy said, “I’ve been to three movies at the movie theater…you took me to see ‘Planes’…Granny and Pap-Pa Lee took us to see ‘Minions’…and now you are taking us to see ‘The Jungle Book!’”
Over the course of the afternoon, all three children talked about how their Granny [my mother] – took them to the movie last year. For the record, Mother thought that experience was something of a disaster. Nathan was barely three years old, and he wore his 3D glasses on his head most of the time…the other two wiggled and squirmed and (in her opinion) didn’t grasp the plot of the movie at all. But in their minds, it was fantastic. They each one have a fond memory of going to the movie with their great-grandmother and grandpa.
In many ways, we are “carrying the torch” for my mother. She wanted the children to have swim lessons, music lessons, trips to museums and parks, outings to the movies, and many more experiences and adventures. And of course, it was VERY important to Mother that the children attend church and learn about God. Thankfully, these are things that Greg and I can do for the children. We are blessed with both the time and the means to provide these opportunities. We trust that God will continue to grant us good health and stamina to keep up with three active kiddos!
I know that God will help us accomplish what we prayerfully pursue with the children. If the things we ask for line up with His will, they will happen. I cannot even envision what the next several years will involve as these kids grow and become involved in more activities and cultivate individual interests. I know that God is going to present us with a lot of different avenues for serving Him – not only with our own family, but in the church and community, also. And I trust that whatever He ordains, we can accomplish. He has promised that it will be so.
There are a lot of ordinary people doing extraordinary things…because they are powered by faith in what Jesus promised. They trust Him to make a way where none seems evident…to equip them for the tasks that He sets before them…and to enable them to “carry the torch” for the next generation. This is our calling…our destiny. And we have a choice…to accept this mission and operate fully in faith…or to do nothing and deny the power of Jesus to work in and through us.
I saw a post on Facebook that said, “Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, consider how far you have come. Remember everything you have faced, all the battles you have won, and all the fears you have overcome.” This didn’t just HAPPEN! God saw us through these things…and He will equip us for so much more. It’s time to “hitch up our britches” and get going. I’m in…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
“Believe me: I am in my Father and my Father is in me. If you can’t believe that, believe what you see—these works. The person who trusts me will not only do what I’m doing but even greater things, because I, on my way to the Father, am giving you the same work to do that I’ve been doing. You can count on it. From now on, whatever you request along the lines of who I am and what I am doing, I’ll do it. That’s how the Father will be seen for who he is in the Son. I mean it. Whatever you request in this way, I’ll do.
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, we took the children to see “The Jungle Book” at our local theater. As we were driving home from church, Timothy said, “I’ve been to three movies at the movie theater…you took me to see ‘Planes’…Granny and Pap-Pa Lee took us to see ‘Minions’…and now you are taking us to see ‘The Jungle Book!’”
Over the course of the afternoon, all three children talked about how their Granny [my mother] – took them to the movie last year. For the record, Mother thought that experience was something of a disaster. Nathan was barely three years old, and he wore his 3D glasses on his head most of the time…the other two wiggled and squirmed and (in her opinion) didn’t grasp the plot of the movie at all. But in their minds, it was fantastic. They each one have a fond memory of going to the movie with their great-grandmother and grandpa.
In many ways, we are “carrying the torch” for my mother. She wanted the children to have swim lessons, music lessons, trips to museums and parks, outings to the movies, and many more experiences and adventures. And of course, it was VERY important to Mother that the children attend church and learn about God. Thankfully, these are things that Greg and I can do for the children. We are blessed with both the time and the means to provide these opportunities. We trust that God will continue to grant us good health and stamina to keep up with three active kiddos!
I know that God will help us accomplish what we prayerfully pursue with the children. If the things we ask for line up with His will, they will happen. I cannot even envision what the next several years will involve as these kids grow and become involved in more activities and cultivate individual interests. I know that God is going to present us with a lot of different avenues for serving Him – not only with our own family, but in the church and community, also. And I trust that whatever He ordains, we can accomplish. He has promised that it will be so.
There are a lot of ordinary people doing extraordinary things…because they are powered by faith in what Jesus promised. They trust Him to make a way where none seems evident…to equip them for the tasks that He sets before them…and to enable them to “carry the torch” for the next generation. This is our calling…our destiny. And we have a choice…to accept this mission and operate fully in faith…or to do nothing and deny the power of Jesus to work in and through us.
I saw a post on Facebook that said, “Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, consider how far you have come. Remember everything you have faced, all the battles you have won, and all the fears you have overcome.” This didn’t just HAPPEN! God saw us through these things…and He will equip us for so much more. It’s time to “hitch up our britches” and get going. I’m in…what about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 9, 2016
1 John 5:5-10
The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus—the Divine Christ! He experienced a life-giving birth and a death-killing death. Not only birth from the womb, but baptismal birth of his ministry and sacrificial death. And all the while the Spirit is confirming the truth, the reality of God’s presence at Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion, bringing those occasions alive for us. A triple testimony: the Spirit, the Baptism, the Crucifixion. And the three in perfect agreement.
If we take human testimony at face value, how much more should we be reassured when God gives testimony as he does here, testifying concerning his Son.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I’m sure you have heard the phrase, “If you read it on the Internet, then it must be true!” This is said tongue-in-cheek, of course. But sadly, a lot of people “buy in” to the word of others – on a wide variety of topics! I was dismayed to hear some sixth-graders discussing politicians last week at church. I was disappointed by how (I’m sure with help from their parents) they appear to believe what these people are peddling…hook, line, and sinker. Never mind the name calling and infantile behaviors of some of these folks…these kids are “in” – and you can tell that they want to be just like the candidate their family is supporting.
So the question being asked in this scripture passage is this…”Why are we so eager to believe and support the word of mere human beings, yet we often fail to accept what God tells us – not once, but three times? Why will we accept the word of someone who says that the world is falling apart, and he/she knows how to fix it…but we don’t act like we believe that with God, all things are possible? Why do we laugh – and even cheer – when a politician berates, belittles or disparages others – as we fail to respect Jesus’ holy commandment to “love one another?”
Do we really know who Jesus is…and how He operates in our lives? If God spoke to us through Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion…and His Holy Spirit nudges our hearts and minds every day…why do we not believe that Jesus is the Son of God? “Oh, we DO believe this!” you may be saying. Really? Are you acting as if you believe it? Are you following God’s commandments, demonstrating love, forgiveness, grace, mercy and compassion to all other people? Are you living each and every day in a way that says to others, “Jesus is alive within me. His Holy Spirit flows through me every single day.”?
Many of us are terribly gullible and naïve. We are ready to believe anyone who comes along looking impressive and knowledgeable. We trust that whatever is placed before us – such as on the Internet – MUST be true (which would explain the picture I got last week on Facebook of a “nursing” mother rattlesnake with about a dozen “babies” laid out along her side!). We willingly step in line and follow a lot of people who are peddling nothing more than veritable “snake oil.” And yet, when presented with THREE testimonies to the sovereignty and supremacy of Jesus Christ, we act like we need more proof!
Misplaced priorities and allegiance? You tell me! Misguided loyalty? I’d say so! Are we failing to recognize Jesus for Who He really is? Unforgivable! It’s time to get real…about our faith…about who Jesus is in our heart and mind…and about how we live for Him. And it begins today. Are you ready to choose Jesus over the world at large? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus—the Divine Christ! He experienced a life-giving birth and a death-killing death. Not only birth from the womb, but baptismal birth of his ministry and sacrificial death. And all the while the Spirit is confirming the truth, the reality of God’s presence at Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion, bringing those occasions alive for us. A triple testimony: the Spirit, the Baptism, the Crucifixion. And the three in perfect agreement.
If we take human testimony at face value, how much more should we be reassured when God gives testimony as he does here, testifying concerning his Son.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I’m sure you have heard the phrase, “If you read it on the Internet, then it must be true!” This is said tongue-in-cheek, of course. But sadly, a lot of people “buy in” to the word of others – on a wide variety of topics! I was dismayed to hear some sixth-graders discussing politicians last week at church. I was disappointed by how (I’m sure with help from their parents) they appear to believe what these people are peddling…hook, line, and sinker. Never mind the name calling and infantile behaviors of some of these folks…these kids are “in” – and you can tell that they want to be just like the candidate their family is supporting.
So the question being asked in this scripture passage is this…”Why are we so eager to believe and support the word of mere human beings, yet we often fail to accept what God tells us – not once, but three times? Why will we accept the word of someone who says that the world is falling apart, and he/she knows how to fix it…but we don’t act like we believe that with God, all things are possible? Why do we laugh – and even cheer – when a politician berates, belittles or disparages others – as we fail to respect Jesus’ holy commandment to “love one another?”
Do we really know who Jesus is…and how He operates in our lives? If God spoke to us through Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion…and His Holy Spirit nudges our hearts and minds every day…why do we not believe that Jesus is the Son of God? “Oh, we DO believe this!” you may be saying. Really? Are you acting as if you believe it? Are you following God’s commandments, demonstrating love, forgiveness, grace, mercy and compassion to all other people? Are you living each and every day in a way that says to others, “Jesus is alive within me. His Holy Spirit flows through me every single day.”?
Many of us are terribly gullible and naïve. We are ready to believe anyone who comes along looking impressive and knowledgeable. We trust that whatever is placed before us – such as on the Internet – MUST be true (which would explain the picture I got last week on Facebook of a “nursing” mother rattlesnake with about a dozen “babies” laid out along her side!). We willingly step in line and follow a lot of people who are peddling nothing more than veritable “snake oil.” And yet, when presented with THREE testimonies to the sovereignty and supremacy of Jesus Christ, we act like we need more proof!
Misplaced priorities and allegiance? You tell me! Misguided loyalty? I’d say so! Are we failing to recognize Jesus for Who He really is? Unforgivable! It’s time to get real…about our faith…about who Jesus is in our heart and mind…and about how we live for Him. And it begins today. Are you ready to choose Jesus over the world at large? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 22, 2016
John 5:20-23
“But you haven’t seen the half of it yet, for in the same way that the Father raises the dead and creates life, so does the Son. The Son gives life to anyone he chooses. Neither he nor the Father shuts anyone out. The Father handed all authority to judge over to the Son so that the Son will be honored equally with the Father. Anyone who dishonors the Son, dishonors the Father, for it was the Father’s decision to put the Son in the place of honor."
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.
Every family has traditional meals or foods…”family favorites”…signature dishes. My mother had her share – many given to her by my grandmothers, other relatives, and friends. She passed these along to me and my sister…and to my niece, Jasmine – her grand-daughter. Just this morning, Jasmine told me of finding a recipe book this weekend at my Mother’s that was clearly meant for her. It was filled with hand-written recipes – many with notations as to who shared them or how they were specially prepared. There were even hand-written recipe cards from my grandmothers tucked in between the pages.
My sister and I also have recipe books from my mother – a Christmas gift several years ago. I treasure the hand-written recipes and the notes about a favorite dessert for my grandmother to serve to her coffee klatch – or a dish that Mother remembered her grandmother serving at holiday time. We will save these books – and prepare the dishes – and make sure that our little ones know about them and create them for generations to come. There are no “secret recipes” in this collection. We will gladly share every one of them with anyone who asks.
Here’s where I am headed with this. God gave Jesus the authority to give Eternal life to anyone He chooses…to judge who has truly committed to follow Him… and to create new Disciples to carry on the work of furthering God’s Kingdom. When we share the Good News of Jesus, we are carrying out the desires of God and perpetuating His message to future generations. In a manner of speaking, God left us a “recipe book” for how to live and follow Him – through Jesus Christ. We are to share these “recipes” with the world at large.
There are to be no secrets…we are not to stockpile the Good News of Jesus for ourselves. Eternal Life is available to all who call on the name of Jesus and carry His Holy Spirit in their hearts. We should be ready, willing and able to tell anyone who asks us about Jesus and what He has done for us. We should be prepared to demonstrate His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion at a moment’s notice. True Christian disciples should have no trouble showing others how to walk in faith – or offering them hope in the promises of God through His Son, Jesus.
The other day, I made my grandmother’s “Orange Refrigerator Cake” recipe. My mother prepared this countless times for us when I was growing up. With every bite, I was transported back in time. Childhood memories of life with relatively few cares or worries flooded my mind and heart…and I was reminded of how much I was loved. As we love others with the love of Christ and “feed His sheep,” we are reminded of how much God loves us. We are flooded with hope and joy – peace and comfort – and assurance that Heaven will be a glorious place!
Are you doing your part to share the love of Jesus with others? Are you perpetuating the “traditions” and sharing the “recipe” for Eternal Life in Christ? Are you “feeding His sheep”…or are you selfishly keeping His Good News to yourself? Will this be the day that you start “making memories” and “sharing recipes” for Eternal Life with others? Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
“But you haven’t seen the half of it yet, for in the same way that the Father raises the dead and creates life, so does the Son. The Son gives life to anyone he chooses. Neither he nor the Father shuts anyone out. The Father handed all authority to judge over to the Son so that the Son will be honored equally with the Father. Anyone who dishonors the Son, dishonors the Father, for it was the Father’s decision to put the Son in the place of honor."
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.
Every family has traditional meals or foods…”family favorites”…signature dishes. My mother had her share – many given to her by my grandmothers, other relatives, and friends. She passed these along to me and my sister…and to my niece, Jasmine – her grand-daughter. Just this morning, Jasmine told me of finding a recipe book this weekend at my Mother’s that was clearly meant for her. It was filled with hand-written recipes – many with notations as to who shared them or how they were specially prepared. There were even hand-written recipe cards from my grandmothers tucked in between the pages.
My sister and I also have recipe books from my mother – a Christmas gift several years ago. I treasure the hand-written recipes and the notes about a favorite dessert for my grandmother to serve to her coffee klatch – or a dish that Mother remembered her grandmother serving at holiday time. We will save these books – and prepare the dishes – and make sure that our little ones know about them and create them for generations to come. There are no “secret recipes” in this collection. We will gladly share every one of them with anyone who asks.
Here’s where I am headed with this. God gave Jesus the authority to give Eternal life to anyone He chooses…to judge who has truly committed to follow Him… and to create new Disciples to carry on the work of furthering God’s Kingdom. When we share the Good News of Jesus, we are carrying out the desires of God and perpetuating His message to future generations. In a manner of speaking, God left us a “recipe book” for how to live and follow Him – through Jesus Christ. We are to share these “recipes” with the world at large.
There are to be no secrets…we are not to stockpile the Good News of Jesus for ourselves. Eternal Life is available to all who call on the name of Jesus and carry His Holy Spirit in their hearts. We should be ready, willing and able to tell anyone who asks us about Jesus and what He has done for us. We should be prepared to demonstrate His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion at a moment’s notice. True Christian disciples should have no trouble showing others how to walk in faith – or offering them hope in the promises of God through His Son, Jesus.
The other day, I made my grandmother’s “Orange Refrigerator Cake” recipe. My mother prepared this countless times for us when I was growing up. With every bite, I was transported back in time. Childhood memories of life with relatively few cares or worries flooded my mind and heart…and I was reminded of how much I was loved. As we love others with the love of Christ and “feed His sheep,” we are reminded of how much God loves us. We are flooded with hope and joy – peace and comfort – and assurance that Heaven will be a glorious place!
Are you doing your part to share the love of Jesus with others? Are you perpetuating the “traditions” and sharing the “recipe” for Eternal Life in Christ? Are you “feeding His sheep”…or are you selfishly keeping His Good News to yourself? Will this be the day that you start “making memories” and “sharing recipes” for Eternal Life with others? Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 5, 2015
2 Timothy 1:7-10
God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.
So don’t be embarrassed to speak up for our Master or for me, his prisoner. Take your share of suffering for the Message along with the rest of us. We can only keep on going, after all, by the power of God, who first saved us and then called us to this holy work. We had nothing to do with it. It was all his idea, a gift prepared for us in Jesus long before we knew anything about it. But we know it now. Since the appearance of our Savior, nothing could be plainer: death defeated, life vindicated in a steady blaze of light, all through the work of Jesus.
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.
A dear friend posted a photo on Facebook yesterday of two darling young children…a twin brother and sister who appeared to be sharing a secret. These children were her nephew and niece, who celebrated their 50th birthdays in June. In late August, my friend’s nephew suffered a heart attack and died. Shortly before Thanksgiving, his sister was diagnosed with cancer…and she joined him in heaven on February 3rd. My friend lost her own son almost 20 years ago when he was only 17. She told me… “I know how much it hurt to lose one...CAN.NOT.IMAGINE losing two [children] within 5 months!”
I know that others understand this grief, as well…my thoughts went immediately to the family of two sons in their 60s who died last year within six months of each other. I’ve seen the toll these losses took on their mother, father, sister and others. And I know that in both families, many must be asking where God could possibly be found amidst such heartache.
The Apostle Paul writes to Timothy from a prison cell, where he was no doubt subjected to countless indignities – if not outright torture. He reminds Timothy of the anguish of Jesus on our behalf and suggests that we must “take our share of the suffering” as His children. In other words, the world will be watching to see how we handle tragedy and heartache…and God will be right beside us to help us handle every minute of it. Paul does not discount how difficult or challenging this will be for us…but he does remind us that Jesus undergirds our efforts with Supernatural strength to “suffer” all things.
I am so proud of how my friends in both of these families are handling the tremendous grief and heartache that has befallen them. They have not turned their backs on God…they have embraced Him all the more as they seek His strength and comfort. I know that their demonstration of His power and presence has influenced countless onlookers - including me!
God never leaves us! He understands when we cry out to Him and ask for His help…when we admit that we are heartbroken and/or suffering. He hears our petitions…and He meets us wherever we happen to be at any particular moment. OUR JOB is to speak up…to demonstrate our faith and confidence in God’s power to handle all circumstances...and to recognize His presence in every situation.
Are you wondering where God is today? My guess is that He is standing right beside you – or holding you securely in His arms - ready to minister to your every need with perfection. Will this be the day that you give Him a chance to do so?
©2015 Debbie Robus
God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.
So don’t be embarrassed to speak up for our Master or for me, his prisoner. Take your share of suffering for the Message along with the rest of us. We can only keep on going, after all, by the power of God, who first saved us and then called us to this holy work. We had nothing to do with it. It was all his idea, a gift prepared for us in Jesus long before we knew anything about it. But we know it now. Since the appearance of our Savior, nothing could be plainer: death defeated, life vindicated in a steady blaze of light, all through the work of Jesus.
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.
A dear friend posted a photo on Facebook yesterday of two darling young children…a twin brother and sister who appeared to be sharing a secret. These children were her nephew and niece, who celebrated their 50th birthdays in June. In late August, my friend’s nephew suffered a heart attack and died. Shortly before Thanksgiving, his sister was diagnosed with cancer…and she joined him in heaven on February 3rd. My friend lost her own son almost 20 years ago when he was only 17. She told me… “I know how much it hurt to lose one...CAN.NOT.IMAGINE losing two [children] within 5 months!”
I know that others understand this grief, as well…my thoughts went immediately to the family of two sons in their 60s who died last year within six months of each other. I’ve seen the toll these losses took on their mother, father, sister and others. And I know that in both families, many must be asking where God could possibly be found amidst such heartache.
The Apostle Paul writes to Timothy from a prison cell, where he was no doubt subjected to countless indignities – if not outright torture. He reminds Timothy of the anguish of Jesus on our behalf and suggests that we must “take our share of the suffering” as His children. In other words, the world will be watching to see how we handle tragedy and heartache…and God will be right beside us to help us handle every minute of it. Paul does not discount how difficult or challenging this will be for us…but he does remind us that Jesus undergirds our efforts with Supernatural strength to “suffer” all things.
I am so proud of how my friends in both of these families are handling the tremendous grief and heartache that has befallen them. They have not turned their backs on God…they have embraced Him all the more as they seek His strength and comfort. I know that their demonstration of His power and presence has influenced countless onlookers - including me!
God never leaves us! He understands when we cry out to Him and ask for His help…when we admit that we are heartbroken and/or suffering. He hears our petitions…and He meets us wherever we happen to be at any particular moment. OUR JOB is to speak up…to demonstrate our faith and confidence in God’s power to handle all circumstances...and to recognize His presence in every situation.
Are you wondering where God is today? My guess is that He is standing right beside you – or holding you securely in His arms - ready to minister to your every need with perfection. Will this be the day that you give Him a chance to do so?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 2, 2015
2 Thessalonians 2:1-3
When our Lord Jesus returns, we will be gathered up to meet him. So I ask you, my friends, not to be easily upset or disturbed by people who claim that the Lord has already come. They may say that they heard this directly from the Holy Spirit, or from someone else, or even that they read it in one of our letters. But don’t be fooled! People will rebel against God. Then before the Lord returns, the wicked one who is doomed to be destroyed will appear.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In late 2014, the movie Left Behind* debuted. The movie stars Nicholas Cage as Rayford Steele, an airline pilot who discovers that the Rapture has come while he was in flight - and he was “left behind”, along with his daughter and countless others. In the blink of an eye, Steele’s wife and son – both born-again Christians - were carried to heaven with others who professed a belief in Jesus Christ. We’ve not seen the movie yet…but we did read all of the books in the “Left Behind” series…and I assume that the film depicts the chaos that ensues as people try to cope with what happens after millions of people suddenly vanish into thin air.
I enjoyed reading the “Left Behind” series, written by Jerry Jenkins and Tim LaHaye. I found the story to be an interesting “take” on the Book of Revelation and what could happen when things are put into motion for the Second Coming of Christ. I know several people who devote a lot of time to studying “end times” and Bible prophecy. They put a lot of stock in signs and symbols…and turn things like beautiful “blood moons” into a warning that “Doomsday” is upon us!
Again, I do not discount the prophecy of the Bible – nor do I condemn those who express such an interest in these things. At the same time, I do not operate in fear and worry over when Jesus will return…and what this “sign” or that means. I would rather enjoy the beautiful red moon rises that God gives us than worry about whether they signal “the beginning of the End!” In the words of the Apostle Paul…I am content to go or stay.
Sadly, a lot of Christians have become more concerned with worrying about “end times” than in living for Jesus now! If you know where you are headed…and Who you serve…your interest in the “Doomsday” message should be limited to a mere passing glance. This doesn’t mean that we should argue with those who worry. But since we don’t plan on being “left behind”…we needn’t be bothered by their talk. Focus on demonstrating your faith and confidence in Jesus…enjoy reading this series of books if you wish – and seeing the movie…and serve as a walking example of the Light of Christ.
In Psalm 16:11, we read…”You have shown me the path to life, and you make me glad by being near to me. Sitting at your right side, I will always be joyful.” It’s time we stopped worrying about the future and started living in the nearness of Jesus. He is HERE…He is by our side. Let’s serve him with a joyful and peaceful heart this year. Let’s make this the year that worry and fear are “left behind”.
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2467046/
When our Lord Jesus returns, we will be gathered up to meet him. So I ask you, my friends, not to be easily upset or disturbed by people who claim that the Lord has already come. They may say that they heard this directly from the Holy Spirit, or from someone else, or even that they read it in one of our letters. But don’t be fooled! People will rebel against God. Then before the Lord returns, the wicked one who is doomed to be destroyed will appear.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In late 2014, the movie Left Behind* debuted. The movie stars Nicholas Cage as Rayford Steele, an airline pilot who discovers that the Rapture has come while he was in flight - and he was “left behind”, along with his daughter and countless others. In the blink of an eye, Steele’s wife and son – both born-again Christians - were carried to heaven with others who professed a belief in Jesus Christ. We’ve not seen the movie yet…but we did read all of the books in the “Left Behind” series…and I assume that the film depicts the chaos that ensues as people try to cope with what happens after millions of people suddenly vanish into thin air.
I enjoyed reading the “Left Behind” series, written by Jerry Jenkins and Tim LaHaye. I found the story to be an interesting “take” on the Book of Revelation and what could happen when things are put into motion for the Second Coming of Christ. I know several people who devote a lot of time to studying “end times” and Bible prophecy. They put a lot of stock in signs and symbols…and turn things like beautiful “blood moons” into a warning that “Doomsday” is upon us!
Again, I do not discount the prophecy of the Bible – nor do I condemn those who express such an interest in these things. At the same time, I do not operate in fear and worry over when Jesus will return…and what this “sign” or that means. I would rather enjoy the beautiful red moon rises that God gives us than worry about whether they signal “the beginning of the End!” In the words of the Apostle Paul…I am content to go or stay.
Sadly, a lot of Christians have become more concerned with worrying about “end times” than in living for Jesus now! If you know where you are headed…and Who you serve…your interest in the “Doomsday” message should be limited to a mere passing glance. This doesn’t mean that we should argue with those who worry. But since we don’t plan on being “left behind”…we needn’t be bothered by their talk. Focus on demonstrating your faith and confidence in Jesus…enjoy reading this series of books if you wish – and seeing the movie…and serve as a walking example of the Light of Christ.
In Psalm 16:11, we read…”You have shown me the path to life, and you make me glad by being near to me. Sitting at your right side, I will always be joyful.” It’s time we stopped worrying about the future and started living in the nearness of Jesus. He is HERE…He is by our side. Let’s serve him with a joyful and peaceful heart this year. Let’s make this the year that worry and fear are “left behind”.
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2467046/
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