Daily Devotional for November 2, 2016

Matthew 6:14-15
“In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can’t get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God’s part.”

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.

Since this election cycle is almost over (thank goodness!), I had better use all of the “election analogies” I can in the next few days!  So here goes…when a candidate makes promises about what he/she will do in office, this person calls upon voters to mark their ballots accordingly to give him/her a majority.  “Put me in office,” he/she says…”and I will do XYZ.”  Let’s be honest…whether this claim is true or not, there will be zero opportunity to find out if that person isn’t elected!”

Our “part” is important. EVERY vote counts!  And whether or not every campaign promise affects us directly, the only way to experience any impact from the results is to vote…to have a say…to make a choice!

I know this is a bit of a stretch…but stick with me. God is ready, willing, and able to forgive us – when we do two things: 1) confess and repent of our sins; and 2) forgive any grudges and/or ill will toward others.  We cannot ask God to do something for us that we are not willing to do for the rest of His children.  So essentially, when we ask God to forgive us but refuse to forgive others, it’s a lot like saying, “I support Candidate XYZ”…and then failing to go to the polls and cast a vote!  We have to do our part.

Does this mean that God only loves us when we comply with Him…when He has things “His way?”  Not at all!  God will always love us. But He wants us to demonstrate OUR love for HIM by treating others with love, kindness, grace, mercy, compassion – and yes, forgiveness.  This makes us true disciples…NOT “doormats.”  In this manner, we convey to God – and to the world – that “because Jesus died for my sins – and You forgave them – I am willing to offer the same grace and mercy to others in Your name.”

If you feel a disconnect between your prayers and God’s answers, examine whether or not you are truly doing your part.  Where are you harboring any semblance of unforgiveness?  Where are you carrying a grudge, judging someone harshly, or operating in any manner of unkindness?  Check your thoughts, words and actions and make sure you are serving God with humble obedience, faithfulness, and forgiveness of others. Reconnect with God…and make every prayer count to the fullest!

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 20, 2016

Luke 10:25-37
Just then a religion scholar stood up with a question to test Jesus. “Teacher, what do I need to do to get eternal life?”

He answered, “What’s written in God’s Law? How do you interpret it?”

He said, “That you love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence—and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself.”

“Good answer!” said Jesus. “Do it and you’ll live.”

Looking for a loophole, he asked, “And just how would you define ‘neighbor’?”

Jesus answered by telling a story. “There was once a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked by robbers. They took his clothes, beat him up, and went off leaving him half-dead. Luckily, a priest was on his way down the same road, but when he saw him he angled across to the other side. Then a Levite religious man showed up; he also avoided the injured man.

“A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man’s condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I’ll pay you on my way back.’

“What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?”

“The one who treated him kindly,” the religion scholar responded.

Jesus said, “Go and do the same.”

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.

Police have apprehended the 28-year-old man who allegedly placed a series of homemade bombs along the streets of New York City and a couple of New Jersey communities in recent days.  Fingerprints left on some of the bombs led to this man’s arrest after a brief shootout with police in which he and two policemen were wounded.

Not long after news broke about this man’s apprehension, politicians took the airwaves to weigh in with their opinions.  One person complained loudly that this suspected bomber will most likely receive quality medical care and be treated by top-notch doctors. In my mind, there are two obvious reasons to do this…1) we don’t often apprehend a would-be bomber and have the opportunity to question him/her to possibly learn things that might help prevent future acts of terrorism; and just as importantly…2) it’s the right thing to do.

I watched news coverage as emergency personnel loaded this young man into an ambulance.  I looked at his face and thought of our own nephews – about this same age - and our little great-nephews and cousins who we love so dearly. I couldn’t help but look at him as the precious son of a mother and father – or the perhaps someone’s beloved brother or nephew. I do not in any way condone this man’s actions, and I do hope that justice is served.  But I also pray that he encounters some “Good Samaritans” among the law enforcement and medical personnel who will attend to him now.

Perhaps he will be treated by a doctor or nurse who will give him the same tender care that would be given to his/her own child or loved one. Maybe he will be handled with respect and fairness…and just MAYBE this young man will recognize that this is better than he deserves. It is possible that this would-be bomber might see the love of Jesus in the words and actions of those who are now guarding his every move…and that God will be glorified.

Every day, we waste countless opportunities to love others as Christ loves us.  We are so caught up in “What’s in it for me?” that we fail to see what Jesus wants us to see…to minister to others in His name and let Him control the end result.  We don’t look at others as Jesus sees them…with the same lens through which He views each of us.  We do not consider them to be as precious in Jesus’ sight…and we don’t love them like He does – or as He loves us.

Jesus is not ours exclusively…He came to save the world…not just the minuscule “sphere” in which you and I operate.  Isn’t it time you opened your heart and mind to what He desires?  Will this be the day that we become the “Good Samaritans” - wherever and whenever Christ provides us with an opportunity?  Don’t you think it’s time we did?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for August 29, 2016

John 18:19-23
The high priest questioned Jesus about his followers and his teaching. But Jesus told him, “I have spoken freely in front of everyone. And I have always taught in our meeting places and in the temple, where all of our people come together. I have not said anything in secret. Why are you questioning me? Why don’t you ask the people who heard me? They know what I have said.”

As soon as Jesus said this, one of the temple police hit him and said, “That’s no way to talk to the high priest!”

Jesus answered, “If I have done something wrong, say so. But if not, why did you hit me?”

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

Our daily news is filled with reports of people saying or doing shocking - and sometimes abhorrent things. We read and hear accounts of everything from name calling and degradation of others…to heinous acts of cruelty…to public protests of this issue or that one, and much more. Sometimes, we are shocked by these words and actions…but quite often, these behaviors come as no surprise, given the reputation of the people involved.

I am not condoning these exploits and comments.  But we have come to expect a certain level of behavior – or misbehavior – from quite a few folks.  By the same token…we know people of integrity who consistently offer truth, grace, mercy, kindness, and wisdom in their daily living.  As the old saying goes…”It takes all kinds.”

Even a person of utmost character and uprightness will have his/her detractors.  Jesus certainly said or did nothing to deserve to be slapped around, spit upon, beaten to a pulp and crucified.  He didn’t say or do anything different to merit such cruelty from the high priests after His arrest. His message was consistent…His actions were unwavering.  Yet Jesus was persecuted. And on our best day as Christian disciples, you and I will be subject to criticism and unfair assessment, as well.

OUR JOB is to remain steady in our faith and witness…to develop a reputation for upright character and fairness – and to do everything we can to never falter.  There will be those who want to trip us up…or judge us without merit.  There will even be people who say unkind things about us – and maybe spread malicious (and untrue) rumors about us to disparage our character.  They will look for the least little thing to jump on and “slap us around.”  So we must bring our “A-game” at all times!

What sort of reputation do you have with others?  Are you “one of those” from whom ugly, disrespectful comments and actions or outbursts are expected?  Do you give others reason to question your discipleship and loyalty to Christ?  Or are you known as someone who is consistent in his/her faithfulness and witness?  Are you able to rise above criticism and disparagement from those who might try to denigrate your efforts to share the Good News of Jesus…and continue to serve Him with dignity and honor?  And are you careful not to criticize or judge others?

What is your level of commitment to serving Jesus – and to serving others in His name?  When someone “slaps you around,” how do you react? Let Christ’s example be your model.  Honor your commitment to Him by always going the extra mile…even when the devil puts obstacles and distractions in your path. This will probably happen at some point…will you be ready to handle it?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for June 14, 2016

Colossians 3:13
Be gentle and ready to forgive; never hold grudges. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.

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

The mass murder of innocent people in Orlando, Florida, has broken our hearts once again over such a senseless act.  For many, it has also re-opened old wounds.  From 9-11 to Sandy Hook to Charleston…and countless heartbreaking events in between...people are reeling and saddened over the compounded effect of these horrific crimes. 

For me, Orlando in particular has caused me to revisit some upsetting memories of events that occurred last summer.  In particular, I have been reminded of some very unkind and ugly remarks that were made in “church settings” toward members of the LGBTQ community following the SCOTUS decision regarding same sex marriage.  I have also recalled some equally disgusting comments that were spouted about our President after he attended memorial services for the victims of the shooting in Charleston, South Carolina – and sang “Amazing Grace.”

In the past year, I have tried to forgive those who said such horrible things.  I am a work in progress.  But over and again, I feel I must keep trying.  Because in my ear, I hear the voice of Jesus reminding me, “I forgave you…now YOU must forgive others.”

“But LORD…” I cry out.  “They said terrible things about people I love and respect!  They made comments that were not true.  They were so unkind and unloving!”

“Have you not read the unkind things in scripture that were said of Me?  Was I not beaten, spit upon, mocked, and crucified?  Have I turned my back on my persecutors?”

“But, LORD!”

“Yes…BUT LORD, indeed!”

Because of Jesus, we cannot harbor hatred and thoughts or feelings of unforgiveness…toward anyone.  Because of Jesus, I have to redouble my efforts to be kind and loving toward those who have spoken and acted so hatefully.  I have to be kind to the people who I look at and wonder whether they are genuine when they smile and “play nice”…or if in truth they could smack me down because of my own thoughts and feelings - and never blink an eye. We truly do not know what is in another person’s heart and mind…and in some ways, it doesn’t matter.  We are to love them anyway - and treat them exactly as Jesus would.

I know!  It’s so very hard.  I find myself wanting to continually say, “But, LORD!”  And yet, I am reminded that because of Jesus, I have to change my attitude.  “But, LORD, indeed!  But for Him and His loving sacrifice and demonstration of forgiveness, we would be so very lost.  And yet, we are “found”…and forgiven…and SAVED…and promised Eternity in His presence.

Take a long, hard look at your life today.  Be brutally honest and lay bare your soul as you examine where you are operating in unkindness, hatred, and unforgiveness.  Stop protesting and saying, “But, LORD!” and start saying, “LORD, help me!”  He can, and He will…and the world will be a better place because of it. Change starts with one person.  Be that person in your circle of influence.  Let go of grudges, judgments, and unkind thoughts and feelings.  Discover the power of God to make tremendous changes in His people…and let Him begin with you.
   
©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for May 17, 2016

Matthew 5:21-22
“You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell ‘stupid!’ at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.

If ever there was a profound scripture passage for the present day, this is it!  I don’t know about you (and I don’t mean to hold a grudge), but there have been times when people have said things to me that cut me to the bone – and stayed with me.  More importantly, I am quite certain that there have been times that I have said things to another person that were like a knife to his/her heart.  The unavoidable truth is that “words can kill.”

So what are we to do?  Words are also like toothpaste…you can’t put it back in the tube – and you can’t retract what you have said. You can ask forgiveness…and pray that the other person is gracious and merciful enough to grant it.  But ultimately, once you have insulted someone or said something hurtful, those words are probably going to resonate for a good while – if not forever.

So we must redouble our efforts to be careful and thoughtful…to stop and measure what we are about to say before we say it!  We are to remember that we are speaking of another human being who is equally important in God’s eyes.  We must remind ourselves that - to some extent - an insult toward this person is an insult toward God, who created him/her.

This is a stark lesson for us today…a jolt that should make us really stop and think about what we are saying about others – and toward them personally.  We should ask God to give us the strength and courage to always operate in love – even when every fiber of our being wants to scream, shout, rant, rave, and call the other person terrible names.  Words have the power to kill.  How are you using yours?

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 11, 2015

John 14:6
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
 
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
 
It’s an icy day in Arkansas.  Freezing rain has spread across much of the state, and many local churches canceled services to keep people off of slick roadways, sidewalks and parking lots. Better safe than sorry…I don’t think God takes any pleasure in one of his children suffering an injury – or worse – while trying to get to a Sunday church service!
 
A friend of mine whose church services were canceled for today posted this comment on Facebook…”Since we didn't have church this morning.....thought for the day: John 17 tells of Jesus's prayer for His disciples as He's about to leave them. What three things would you pray for your children if you knew you would die in 24 hours?”
 
I had already formulated some thoughts in my head, but they were confirmed when I read John 14:6.  My first prayer would be that my “children” – and other loved ones – know Jesus.  I mean, really KNOW Him!  My second prayer would be that their every word, thought, deed and action would be guided by God…that they would be so in tune with Him through prayer, Bible study and Christian fellowship that He directs their every breath.  My third prayer would be that they always love others as Jesus loves them…that they would be tolerant, accepting, gracious, merciful, compassionate, and forgiving…without exception.
 
I do not fear death – nor leaving others behind.  I anticipate that they will join me in heaven someday.  But if I knew that these three prayers would be accomplished in those I hold near and dear, I would have full confidence and peace in my departure.  With this thought in mind, I am making it my goal to demonstrate these prayers in my own life…to model this Christian faithfulness and discipleship to those in my midst – whether I am here for one more minute or dozens of years.  What about you?
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for August 26, 2014

Matthew 6:12
... and forgive us our sins, just as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us.

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

When I was in tenth grade, I studied geometry.  Our teacher, Mrs. Berry, taught us about mathematical theorems and properties.  A theorem has been defined as “a general proposition not self-evident but proved by a chain of reasoning; a truth established by means of accepted truths.”  We wrote “proofs” that outlined how we arrived at certain conclusions.  There were lots of “if - then” statements...as in, “If 2 sides and the included angle of one triangle are congruent respectively to 2 sides and the included angles of a second triangle, then the 2 triangles are congruent.”  Yeah, I know...I had a love/hate relationship with geometry class.  The proofs could be fun...but they could also make us a little crazy!  And for the life of me, I could not see what benefits this information would provide in adult life!

But here’s the thing...there are “if - then” statements all throughout our lives...”theorems” that dictate and determine how situations and circumstances will play out.  And one of these “theorems” is that if we want God to forgive us...then we must forgive others first.  Simply put, we cannot ask God to show mercy toward us if we are unwilling to do the same for our fellow man.  This would amount to asking God to declare that we are better than others...deserving of special treatment...more important to Him than the next guy.

When we ask God to forgive us and refuse to forgive others, we essentially say, “I don’t have to play by the rules. God will give me a ‘pass’.”  I am pretty sure Jesus didn’t hang on the cross and say, “With my very life’s blood, I forgive the sins of the world...but only some of these people will have to forgive others in my name. A few get special exceptions and advantages.” 

Would you really want to serve a Savior who operated this way?  Don’t worry...you don’t have to...because the forgiveness of Jesus doesn’t work this way - never has and never will!  Jesus was emphatically clear about this...if you forgive others, then I will hear your requests to be forgiven. 

I can still remember showing proofs to Mrs. Berry that she vetoed. The properties and evidence were not right. The logical order was out of kilter. Somehow, things didn’t quite “line up” as they should...and often it was one teeny tiny thing that was amiss. Until we got everything right, she would say, “Go back and do it again.”  And until we get this right, Jesus is pretty much saying the same thing.

If there are areas in your life where you can’t seem to get headed in the right direction, take some time to do a little soul searching.  If you have prayed repeatedly over an issue or situation and feel you have not received an answer, ask yourself where you might have missed a step and blocked the forgiveness of Jesus and His mercy in your life because of your unwillingness to follow His commands.  Jesus doesn’t play games...but this is no “sport” with Him.  Purely and simply, this is His commandment to us - to forgive others and show them mercy - in order to receive His pardon and understanding in our own situations.

Take a good look at the “proofs” in your life.  Examine your “work” and see where you need make revisions.  If you share grace, mercy and forgiveness with others, then you can boldly ask Jesus to do the same for you. Just as it is with geometry, no steps can be omitted if you wish to reach the right conclusion.  When you logically and thoroughly trace each thought or action, you can determine where you stumbled and make the necessary changes.  Will this be the day that you set things right by offering forgiveness and mercy to others?  Have you successfully ordered all of the steps in your “proof”?  Isn’t it time you did?

©2014 Debbie Robus