John 20:1-9
Early Sunday morning, while it was
still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone was
rolled aside from the entrance.
She ran and found Simon Peter
and me and said, “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and I
don’t know where they have put him!”
We ran to the tomb to see; I
outran Peter and got there first, and stooped and looked in and saw the
linen cloth lying there, but I didn’t go in. Then Simon Peter arrived
and went on inside. He also noticed the cloth lying there, while the
swath that had covered Jesus’ head was rolled up in a bundle and was
lying at the side. Then I went in too, and saw, and believed that he had
risen - for until then we hadn’t realized that the Scriptures said he
would come to life again!
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
saw a talk show interview with actor/comedian/filmmaker Mel Brooks in
which he spoke of his dear friend, the late actor Gene Wilder. Brooks
said he knew that his friend was not well – that his time on earth was
growing short. But once Wilder passed, Mel Brooks said that he actually
felt “shocked” for a while. Brooks could not accept that he would
never be able to call Wilder and speak to him again. This this is a
typical reaction for someone who is grieving…part of a normal process.
When
American gymnasts Simone Biles and Aly Raisman took the gold and silver
medals, respectively, in the 2016 Rio Olympics, there were a few
moments where the two young women and their coaches stood and hugged
each other somewhat in disbelief. The “talk” for days had been that
these girls would win medals. It was certainly no surprise that Biles
took the gold. But in the initial moments, there was a bit of surprise
and excitement…and awe! Again, this was a normal reaction. The
culmination of all that had happened was almost overwhelming.
Think
of a time when someone told you something…but what they were saying
didn’t really register. Maybe you were not paying enough attention.
Perhaps you simply did not comprehend what you were being told. Or
maybe, what you were hearing was so astounding that you didn’t think it
could possibly be accurate or really happen. So when you realized that this.was.real…you were “dazed and confused” – at least momentarily.
When I read this scripture passage, I asked myself…”What is our take-away?” And the message I kept getting is…”pay attention!”
So often, we are caught up in a myriad of circumstances and emotions –
many of them important, but some not so much – and we don’t really
comprehend what we read or hear. This is especially true when it comes
to God’s word for our life. So we can read a scripture passage over and
again for decades…and one day, it all “clicks” and we realize…”THIS is
what Jesus was saying!” Or we move along through life and don’t realize
that Scriptures told us plainly what would happen in this or that
situation…and we simply didn’t grasp it!
The bottom line is that
we must pay closer attention to God’s word for us…both written and
whispered. We must be awake and alert to His “signs and wonders”…in
tune with His directives. We must ask questions…dig deeper…and really
GET what we are being fed! The mission is too important…the message is
unbelievably crucial. We don’t have time to waste…and figuring things
out after the fact – when “the tomb is empty” – is unacceptable. God
wants us to be so attuned to His word that we anticipate what is coming
next…that we expect Him to show up…that we are never caught off guard.
I
don’t know about you, but this means that I have work to do! I have to
get my act together and sharpen my focus. I have to start seeking God
more and living with confidence that He is always close at hand. I have
to be less shocked when God shows up and “shows out”…and better
prepared for His miraculous presence and perfection. I suspect it is
much the same for you, as well.
Will you be like John and Peter
at the empty tomb? Or will this be the day that you sit up a little
straighter, perk your ears, and zero in on what God is showing you? Are
you truly paying attention? Don't you think you should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label expectation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label expectation. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for September 14, 2012
James 4:13-15
And now I have a word for you who brashly announce, “Today—at the latest, tomorrow—we’re off to such and such a city for the year. We’re going to start a business and make a lot of money.” You don’t know the first thing about tomorrow. You’re nothing but a wisp of fog, catching a brief bit of sun before disappearing. Instead, make it a habit to say, “If the Master wills it and we’re still alive, we’ll do this or that.”
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 my grandmother lives to November 5th, we will celebrate her 100th birthday. I’ve begun to make plans… reserved the parlor at her assisted living facility, sent in the forms to Willard Scott for recognition on the TODAY show, and started thinking about refreshments and who to invite. At the same time, I am well aware that a LOT can happen in fifty-two days – especially when you are 99 and in declining health. So I preface all statements about future events with regard to my Mam-ma Polly with the word “if.”
I’ve also learned that any and all plans are subject to change. People get sick, accidents happen, events beyond our control occur… and our course is revised. Sometimes these are momentary setbacks… sometimes the result of the alteration is permanent. Many probably thought Hurricane Katrina would blow through and change things for a few days – or possibly weeks. No one knew that, in some ways, all of our lives would be forever altered by this natural disaster. We could not predict that terrorists would fly planes into the Twin Towers on a beautiful September morning eleven years ago and alter life for millions of people worldwide.
My friend had no clue that a visit to the doctor to investigate her husband’s headaches would result in a diagnosis of a cancerous – and virtually incurable – brain tumor. A young man who got caught in a 40+-car pileup on his way to work one icy, foggy morning last fall in Tennessee did not know that his life was over… his one-month marriage finished…that his destiny was heaven instead of his place of work.
Please understand that this is not meant to be a “bad news” message. More importantly, do not for one minute think that I am saying that God caused any of these events. But I know that He used them, because God never wastes an opportunity to work in and through His people. I am not telling you to stop making plans… to forget goals and aspirations. I am just reminding you that we are not in charge… and every plan we make is subject to change. We must learn to plan with God in mind. We must focus on expecting God to chart our course… and to guide us as we make our plans.
We must develop such a close relationship with God that we know for certain when HE is the one trying to alter our course… and when we are listening to the devil. And we must be very careful not to blame Satan when God says, “You’re on the wrong path.” “The devil did this,” is not a good excuse – or an “out” when things don’t go our way! We must trust that any alterations God allows in our plans are for our benefit…and we must be ready and willing to say, “Okay, LORD… which way do I go now?”
Will the devil try to trip you up? Absolutely – and often! Will you know the difference between his interference and a change in course designed or allowed by God? I surely hope so! Are you prepared to let God to chart your path… to guide your plans according to His perfect will? More importantly, will you accept God’s modifications with a glad heart and complete faith that plans are perfect? Do you get it that every minute of our life is like a wispy fog… here one minute and gone the next… but that God’s love and care – and His plans for us – endure forever?
Prayerfully – and carefully – plot a course for your life. Make every effort to stay attuned to God’s will and His design for each step you take. Live deliberately... don't put off telling others you love them, "mending fences," or fulfilling obligations. If you feel that God has told you something is important enough to incorporate into your plans, the phrase "I'll do it later" should not be uttered. Learn to tell the difference between the devil’s efforts to trip you up and a bona fide change in course delivered by God.
Live in the faith and confidence of knowing that you are obediently operating in God’s will for your life, and that He will never desert you… never allow more than you can handle with His help. When changes in your plans happen, stop and ask Him, “Which way now, LORD?” – and mean it!
©2012 Debbie Robus
And now I have a word for you who brashly announce, “Today—at the latest, tomorrow—we’re off to such and such a city for the year. We’re going to start a business and make a lot of money.” You don’t know the first thing about tomorrow. You’re nothing but a wisp of fog, catching a brief bit of sun before disappearing. Instead, make it a habit to say, “If the Master wills it and we’re still alive, we’ll do this or that.”
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 my grandmother lives to November 5th, we will celebrate her 100th birthday. I’ve begun to make plans… reserved the parlor at her assisted living facility, sent in the forms to Willard Scott for recognition on the TODAY show, and started thinking about refreshments and who to invite. At the same time, I am well aware that a LOT can happen in fifty-two days – especially when you are 99 and in declining health. So I preface all statements about future events with regard to my Mam-ma Polly with the word “if.”
I’ve also learned that any and all plans are subject to change. People get sick, accidents happen, events beyond our control occur… and our course is revised. Sometimes these are momentary setbacks… sometimes the result of the alteration is permanent. Many probably thought Hurricane Katrina would blow through and change things for a few days – or possibly weeks. No one knew that, in some ways, all of our lives would be forever altered by this natural disaster. We could not predict that terrorists would fly planes into the Twin Towers on a beautiful September morning eleven years ago and alter life for millions of people worldwide.
My friend had no clue that a visit to the doctor to investigate her husband’s headaches would result in a diagnosis of a cancerous – and virtually incurable – brain tumor. A young man who got caught in a 40+-car pileup on his way to work one icy, foggy morning last fall in Tennessee did not know that his life was over… his one-month marriage finished…that his destiny was heaven instead of his place of work.
Please understand that this is not meant to be a “bad news” message. More importantly, do not for one minute think that I am saying that God caused any of these events. But I know that He used them, because God never wastes an opportunity to work in and through His people. I am not telling you to stop making plans… to forget goals and aspirations. I am just reminding you that we are not in charge… and every plan we make is subject to change. We must learn to plan with God in mind. We must focus on expecting God to chart our course… and to guide us as we make our plans.
We must develop such a close relationship with God that we know for certain when HE is the one trying to alter our course… and when we are listening to the devil. And we must be very careful not to blame Satan when God says, “You’re on the wrong path.” “The devil did this,” is not a good excuse – or an “out” when things don’t go our way! We must trust that any alterations God allows in our plans are for our benefit…and we must be ready and willing to say, “Okay, LORD… which way do I go now?”
Will the devil try to trip you up? Absolutely – and often! Will you know the difference between his interference and a change in course designed or allowed by God? I surely hope so! Are you prepared to let God to chart your path… to guide your plans according to His perfect will? More importantly, will you accept God’s modifications with a glad heart and complete faith that plans are perfect? Do you get it that every minute of our life is like a wispy fog… here one minute and gone the next… but that God’s love and care – and His plans for us – endure forever?
Prayerfully – and carefully – plot a course for your life. Make every effort to stay attuned to God’s will and His design for each step you take. Live deliberately... don't put off telling others you love them, "mending fences," or fulfilling obligations. If you feel that God has told you something is important enough to incorporate into your plans, the phrase "I'll do it later" should not be uttered. Learn to tell the difference between the devil’s efforts to trip you up and a bona fide change in course delivered by God.
Live in the faith and confidence of knowing that you are obediently operating in God’s will for your life, and that He will never desert you… never allow more than you can handle with His help. When changes in your plans happen, stop and ask Him, “Which way now, LORD?” – and mean it!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 4, 2012
1 Chronicles 17:23-27
LORD God, please do what you promised me and my descendants. Then you will be famous forever, and everyone will say, "The LORD All-Powerful rules Israel and is their God
My kingdom will be strong, because you are my God, and you have promised that my descendants will be kings. That's why I have the courage to pray to you like this, even though I am only your servant.
You are the LORD God, and you have made this good promise to me. Now please bless my descendants forever, and let them always be your chosen kings. You have already blessed my family, and I know you will bless us forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Four days into this New Year, some of us are filled with high expectations for great accomplishments and abundant blessings. We have set some lofty goals, but we feel confident that we can reach them. Still others have already folded. The first couple of days of an exercise plan were just too hard… we’ve blown our diet… this month’s paycheck is already spent to cover our Christmas debt, and we feel completely defeated.
What makes the difference between confidence and defeat? Often, it boils down to a matter of focus… and where we have placed our trust. Too many of us do not believe that God wants us to live like kings. Mind you, I’m not talking about monetary wealth here… I’m talking about something far more important!
God wants us to give Him our praise and our loyalty… but He also wants us to share our burdens and needs – and to ask Him for help. More than this, God wants us to believe that He will answer and bless us. When we truly start to believe that all things are possible with God, we have the confidence to persevere through hard workouts. We try again another day to stick to a diet and get healthy and fit. We ask God to show us how to set up a budget – and stick to it – and to get out of the financial mess in which we find ourselves.
When we put God first and have the courage to pray to Him with the confidence of a king, He makes big things happen in our lives. If you don’t believe me, just try it. Sit down and have a real, honest conversation with God. Tell Him exactly what you think you need… express your goals and your heart’s desires to Him. Then ask God to help you meet these needs and goals, according to His will. Tell Him that you are placing your trust in Him to make a way where none seems possible… and mean it!
Make this the year that your primary resolution is to draw closer to God and trust Him to handle every single day of your life. Make this the year that you live in abundance and kick a spirit of defeat to the curb. Make this the year when you truly start to live like an heir to the throne of Almighty God… and give Him the glory for honoring His promises – and blessing you and your family. Trust God to make you strong and bless you like a king… and prepare to be amazed when He does exactly this!
©2012 Debbie Robus
LORD God, please do what you promised me and my descendants. Then you will be famous forever, and everyone will say, "The LORD All-Powerful rules Israel and is their God
My kingdom will be strong, because you are my God, and you have promised that my descendants will be kings. That's why I have the courage to pray to you like this, even though I am only your servant.
You are the LORD God, and you have made this good promise to me. Now please bless my descendants forever, and let them always be your chosen kings. You have already blessed my family, and I know you will bless us forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Four days into this New Year, some of us are filled with high expectations for great accomplishments and abundant blessings. We have set some lofty goals, but we feel confident that we can reach them. Still others have already folded. The first couple of days of an exercise plan were just too hard… we’ve blown our diet… this month’s paycheck is already spent to cover our Christmas debt, and we feel completely defeated.
What makes the difference between confidence and defeat? Often, it boils down to a matter of focus… and where we have placed our trust. Too many of us do not believe that God wants us to live like kings. Mind you, I’m not talking about monetary wealth here… I’m talking about something far more important!
God wants us to give Him our praise and our loyalty… but He also wants us to share our burdens and needs – and to ask Him for help. More than this, God wants us to believe that He will answer and bless us. When we truly start to believe that all things are possible with God, we have the confidence to persevere through hard workouts. We try again another day to stick to a diet and get healthy and fit. We ask God to show us how to set up a budget – and stick to it – and to get out of the financial mess in which we find ourselves.
When we put God first and have the courage to pray to Him with the confidence of a king, He makes big things happen in our lives. If you don’t believe me, just try it. Sit down and have a real, honest conversation with God. Tell Him exactly what you think you need… express your goals and your heart’s desires to Him. Then ask God to help you meet these needs and goals, according to His will. Tell Him that you are placing your trust in Him to make a way where none seems possible… and mean it!
Make this the year that your primary resolution is to draw closer to God and trust Him to handle every single day of your life. Make this the year that you live in abundance and kick a spirit of defeat to the curb. Make this the year when you truly start to live like an heir to the throne of Almighty God… and give Him the glory for honoring His promises – and blessing you and your family. Trust God to make you strong and bless you like a king… and prepare to be amazed when He does exactly this!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 5, 2010
Acts 4:31
After they had prayed, the meeting place shook. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and bravely spoke God's message.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you asked most Christians, “Do you pray?” they would readily say, “Oh, yes!” If you asked them, “Does the earth shake when you pray?” most people would probably laugh at you – or look at you like you were crazy and walk away. Don’t miss my point. I’m not saying that we should expect the ground to shake every time we pray. But often we offer God “lip service,” and our prayers are more filled with ritual than the presence of the Holy Spirit! We are more concerned with “how” we pray than actual communion with God … and it shows!
During our prayer time, we need to be mindful of the Holy Spirit. We need to invite Him to fill us … and then we must recognize His presence. We need to pray with expectation! If you go back and read the verses leading up to Acts 4:31, you will see that Peter and John had been praying for courage. They were asking God to give them bravery as they shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ, healed the sick and lame, and ministered in Jesus’ name. And they didn’t say, “If you give us opportunities to minister and heal” – they asked for bravery when they did these things. You could easily argue that their “bravery” was the very essence of the Holy Spirit manifested in them!
So my challenge to you this day – and to myself – is to pray with sincerity and expectation. Let’s acknowledge the power of the Holy Spirit to work in and through us to accomplish great things in the name of Jesus. Let’s be specific in our prayers, humble before God, grateful for His blessings, and confident that He is going to answer in mighty ways. Let’s expect the ground to shake (at least figuratively), and let’s step out in faith that God will fill us to overflowing with His Holy Spirit and use us to accomplish great things for His kingdom. No more “lip service” – it’s time for a whole lotta shakin’ to begin!
©2010 Debbie Robus
After they had prayed, the meeting place shook. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and bravely spoke God's message.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you asked most Christians, “Do you pray?” they would readily say, “Oh, yes!” If you asked them, “Does the earth shake when you pray?” most people would probably laugh at you – or look at you like you were crazy and walk away. Don’t miss my point. I’m not saying that we should expect the ground to shake every time we pray. But often we offer God “lip service,” and our prayers are more filled with ritual than the presence of the Holy Spirit! We are more concerned with “how” we pray than actual communion with God … and it shows!
During our prayer time, we need to be mindful of the Holy Spirit. We need to invite Him to fill us … and then we must recognize His presence. We need to pray with expectation! If you go back and read the verses leading up to Acts 4:31, you will see that Peter and John had been praying for courage. They were asking God to give them bravery as they shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ, healed the sick and lame, and ministered in Jesus’ name. And they didn’t say, “If you give us opportunities to minister and heal” – they asked for bravery when they did these things. You could easily argue that their “bravery” was the very essence of the Holy Spirit manifested in them!
So my challenge to you this day – and to myself – is to pray with sincerity and expectation. Let’s acknowledge the power of the Holy Spirit to work in and through us to accomplish great things in the name of Jesus. Let’s be specific in our prayers, humble before God, grateful for His blessings, and confident that He is going to answer in mighty ways. Let’s expect the ground to shake (at least figuratively), and let’s step out in faith that God will fill us to overflowing with His Holy Spirit and use us to accomplish great things for His kingdom. No more “lip service” – it’s time for a whole lotta shakin’ to begin!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 12, 2010
Psalm 4:3
The LORD has chosen everyone who is faithful to be his very own, and he answers my prayers.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Often we are selected for certain committees, posts, organizations, and more... and given promises of great rewards. But there are catches. In order to receive these “rewards,” we must act a certain way or deliver a certain level of effort and energy. With God, there are no “catches” … there is nothing we can do to earn His love and the right to ask Him for anything in prayer. He does ask us to be faithful to Him… and in return, He answers our prayers, according to His will. But working extra hard or trying to be an “Uber Christian” doesn’t elevate our status in His eyes.
Bottom line: Being a child of God is the ultimate honor and privilege. We can take anything to God in prayer, and He will hear us. He deserves our faithfulness.
This is really a no-brainer! Are you giving Him your best these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
The LORD has chosen everyone who is faithful to be his very own, and he answers my prayers.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
- “Congratulations! You have been chosen to serve on the outreach team at your church! This team is responsible for delivering support and nurture to all church members, as well as prospective members. Only those who have exhibited unwavering faith in God and a ‘glowing aura’ of the Holy Spirit were selected for this honor. In exchange for your service, God will give you special favor. You can ask Him anything, and He will push your requests to the top of the list.”
Often we are selected for certain committees, posts, organizations, and more... and given promises of great rewards. But there are catches. In order to receive these “rewards,” we must act a certain way or deliver a certain level of effort and energy. With God, there are no “catches” … there is nothing we can do to earn His love and the right to ask Him for anything in prayer. He does ask us to be faithful to Him… and in return, He answers our prayers, according to His will. But working extra hard or trying to be an “Uber Christian” doesn’t elevate our status in His eyes.
Bottom line: Being a child of God is the ultimate honor and privilege. We can take anything to God in prayer, and He will hear us. He deserves our faithfulness.
This is really a no-brainer! Are you giving Him your best these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 8, 2010
2 Kings 6:16
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all been there… we’ve all had a time when we felt like “the deck was stacked against us.” The obstacles seemed too large… we couldn’t see how we could overcome such huge odds. But we learn in this passage that “there are more troops on our side than theirs.”
Still not convinced? Consider this… with God on our side, we don’t need large armies. We don’t need huge odds in our favor… we’ve already got the overwhelming “Majority Vote!” Once again, we underestimate our God! We fail to recognize that He can defeat any and all enemies… and He can do it single-handedly.
It’s time we recognized God’s power in our life. It’s time we started to humbly seek His will, then act courageously as He leads us. We’ve been meek, timid and fearful long enough. Now it’s time to act like God’s children… and to begin to really live for Him! Don’t be afraid… with God on our side, we have all the “troops” we need!
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all been there… we’ve all had a time when we felt like “the deck was stacked against us.” The obstacles seemed too large… we couldn’t see how we could overcome such huge odds. But we learn in this passage that “there are more troops on our side than theirs.”
Still not convinced? Consider this… with God on our side, we don’t need large armies. We don’t need huge odds in our favor… we’ve already got the overwhelming “Majority Vote!” Once again, we underestimate our God! We fail to recognize that He can defeat any and all enemies… and He can do it single-handedly.
It’s time we recognized God’s power in our life. It’s time we started to humbly seek His will, then act courageously as He leads us. We’ve been meek, timid and fearful long enough. Now it’s time to act like God’s children… and to begin to really live for Him! Don’t be afraid… with God on our side, we have all the “troops” we need!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 1, 2010
Colossians 1:21-23
You used to be far from God. Your thoughts made you his enemies, and you did evil things. But his Son became a human and died. So God made peace with you, and now he lets you stand in his presence as people who are holy and faultless and innocent.
But you must stay deeply rooted and firm in your faith. You must not give up the hope you received when you heard the good news. It was preached to everyone on earth, and I myself have become a servant of this message.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently my mom floated the Buffalo River with her husband’s family, and at one “swimming hole,” people were climbing massive bluffs and jumping back into the river. Swimmers below were encouraging those jumping to “conquer your fears,” and telling them, “You can do it!” And Mom said most did just that – even those whose faces indicated they were scared silly! However, she said one or two climbed back down and accepted defeat… and in this instance, that was just fine.
In our spiritual life, “backing off” and “climbing down” are not okay. Defeat is not an option. The cost of our salvation was far too high. The price Jesus Christ paid to stand in the gap for us with God was just too costly for us to back down and stop fighting. We must keep trusting – keep believing – and keep holding on to the promises of God for us and others. And more than this, we must never give up on one another. We must become, as the Apostle Paul, “a servant of this message.” We must vigilantly remind others how precious they are to God. We must pray for them, encourage them, and never, never, EVER give up.
We can do it! We must “conquer our fears” – with the Lord’s help – and trust Him to honor His promises… to us and to others. We must stay deeply rooted and firm in our faith and be servants of God’s message to everyone around us. I say again… defeat is not an option when it comes to Jesus and our faith. How deeply are you rooted these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You used to be far from God. Your thoughts made you his enemies, and you did evil things. But his Son became a human and died. So God made peace with you, and now he lets you stand in his presence as people who are holy and faultless and innocent.
But you must stay deeply rooted and firm in your faith. You must not give up the hope you received when you heard the good news. It was preached to everyone on earth, and I myself have become a servant of this message.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently my mom floated the Buffalo River with her husband’s family, and at one “swimming hole,” people were climbing massive bluffs and jumping back into the river. Swimmers below were encouraging those jumping to “conquer your fears,” and telling them, “You can do it!” And Mom said most did just that – even those whose faces indicated they were scared silly! However, she said one or two climbed back down and accepted defeat… and in this instance, that was just fine.
In our spiritual life, “backing off” and “climbing down” are not okay. Defeat is not an option. The cost of our salvation was far too high. The price Jesus Christ paid to stand in the gap for us with God was just too costly for us to back down and stop fighting. We must keep trusting – keep believing – and keep holding on to the promises of God for us and others. And more than this, we must never give up on one another. We must become, as the Apostle Paul, “a servant of this message.” We must vigilantly remind others how precious they are to God. We must pray for them, encourage them, and never, never, EVER give up.
We can do it! We must “conquer our fears” – with the Lord’s help – and trust Him to honor His promises… to us and to others. We must stay deeply rooted and firm in our faith and be servants of God’s message to everyone around us. I say again… defeat is not an option when it comes to Jesus and our faith. How deeply are you rooted these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 29, 2010
June 29 ~ 1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone were robbing you, and they said, “Give me all your money,” would you keep a little in your back pocket? Probably not! You would give this complete stranger everything you could think of – and quickly – hoping the robber wasn’t going to harm you! So why is it that we withhold some of our worries and cares from God, when we know that He is going to take care of us? Why do we doubt God so readily, which is exactly what we do when we withhold our concerns and burdens from Him?
I could go into my ideas on why we do this… but they really don’t matter. What matters is that we need to STOP! We need to give all our cares to God… from the small, seemingly silly ones all the way to the gigantic ones that seem insurmountable.
The lyrics to “Cast All Your Cares,” a song by Christian artist Gary Oliver, say, “When troubles come… all you have to do is call Him. When sickness comes… call Him… for He cares for you, and He knows what you’re going through. Why don’t you cast all your cares upon the Lord.” If you want to listen to the song, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxABJT59Vhk and hear this song in its entirety. Then make an effort to cast all your cares upon the Lord. God even wants those you feel would be small and ridiculous to anyone else. Those you feel there is no way they can be resolved… God wants them, too! Let’s give our cares to God and expect Him to handle them, according to His will. I believe we will be amazed, astounded, and totally blown away by His grace and mercy – and how well He truly does care for us in every way! What have you got to lose? Cast all your cares upon the Lord today, and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone were robbing you, and they said, “Give me all your money,” would you keep a little in your back pocket? Probably not! You would give this complete stranger everything you could think of – and quickly – hoping the robber wasn’t going to harm you! So why is it that we withhold some of our worries and cares from God, when we know that He is going to take care of us? Why do we doubt God so readily, which is exactly what we do when we withhold our concerns and burdens from Him?
I could go into my ideas on why we do this… but they really don’t matter. What matters is that we need to STOP! We need to give all our cares to God… from the small, seemingly silly ones all the way to the gigantic ones that seem insurmountable.
The lyrics to “Cast All Your Cares,” a song by Christian artist Gary Oliver, say, “When troubles come… all you have to do is call Him. When sickness comes… call Him… for He cares for you, and He knows what you’re going through. Why don’t you cast all your cares upon the Lord.” If you want to listen to the song, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxABJT59Vhk and hear this song in its entirety. Then make an effort to cast all your cares upon the Lord. God even wants those you feel would be small and ridiculous to anyone else. Those you feel there is no way they can be resolved… God wants them, too! Let’s give our cares to God and expect Him to handle them, according to His will. I believe we will be amazed, astounded, and totally blown away by His grace and mercy – and how well He truly does care for us in every way! What have you got to lose? Cast all your cares upon the Lord today, and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 21, 2010
June 21 ~ Zechariah 8:13
People of Judah and Israel, you have been a curse to the nations, but I will save you and make you a blessing to them. So don't be afraid or lose courage.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For several years, a friend of mine tried to talk me into attending a Walk to Emmaus. I kept putting it off. See, I thought I needed to “fix” a few things before I went on such a “Spiritual” retreat. What I learned is that God was not expecting me to fix anything – He just expected me to come to Him and let Him do the rest! My Walk to Emmaus was an incredible, amazing, life-changing event. But God did not “fix” everything for me there. You see, I believe that God leaves a few things undone, so that we will still need Him and stay humble.
At the same time, I also believe that God is not sitting back waiting for us to fix ourselves – He’s waiting on us to come to Him for the fixing! And, I don’t believe there is anything we have ever done or said or thought that is so horrible that God will not love us or help us. He’s said as much in this scripture. He has said that even people who “have been a curse to the nations” can become a blessing to them. That’s you and me, too! Woo-hoo! This is great news!
Don’t be afraid or lose courage. Don’t stay away from God because you feel you aren’t good enough – or you aren’t ready. Run as fast as you can to Him! Let God do the “fixing” and change your curses into blessings. He can – He will… are you willing to let Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
People of Judah and Israel, you have been a curse to the nations, but I will save you and make you a blessing to them. So don't be afraid or lose courage.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
For several years, a friend of mine tried to talk me into attending a Walk to Emmaus. I kept putting it off. See, I thought I needed to “fix” a few things before I went on such a “Spiritual” retreat. What I learned is that God was not expecting me to fix anything – He just expected me to come to Him and let Him do the rest! My Walk to Emmaus was an incredible, amazing, life-changing event. But God did not “fix” everything for me there. You see, I believe that God leaves a few things undone, so that we will still need Him and stay humble.
At the same time, I also believe that God is not sitting back waiting for us to fix ourselves – He’s waiting on us to come to Him for the fixing! And, I don’t believe there is anything we have ever done or said or thought that is so horrible that God will not love us or help us. He’s said as much in this scripture. He has said that even people who “have been a curse to the nations” can become a blessing to them. That’s you and me, too! Woo-hoo! This is great news!
Don’t be afraid or lose courage. Don’t stay away from God because you feel you aren’t good enough – or you aren’t ready. Run as fast as you can to Him! Let God do the “fixing” and change your curses into blessings. He can – He will… are you willing to let Him?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 19, 2010
June 19 ~ Joel 2:20-21
...The LORD works wonders and does great things. So tell the soil to celebrate and wild animals to stop being afraid. Grasslands are green again; fruit trees and fig trees are loaded with fruit. Grapevines are covered with grapes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When 9-11, Hurricane Katrina, and the earthquake in Haiti occurred, we all wondered how in the world recovery would ever be possible. Where does one even begin to clean up a mess such as these? But in each case, we have seen – and are seeing still – the order created from chaos. We’ve seen the rubble removed, and new growth emerge. I am reminded of my grandparents’ house fire in 1982, where the fire raged hot enough to reduce even a cast-iron claw-footed bath tub to ashes. When spring and summer came, beautiful petunias bloomed where the house foundation had been bulldozed away… a testament to rebirth and a new day.
In this passage, God is telling us that destruction and devastation will come, but so will a new day… a reason for the soil to celebrate. Vegetation returns to burning mountainsides and forests. Droughts are replaced by thirst-quenching rains – and flooding waters recede. Even the present-day oil spill crisis will resolve in time and beaches will be clean again. And our own lives have an ebb and flow – even if it seems like yours is filled with one challenge or disaster after another. For me, it seemed liked the 1990s were filled with nothing but the loss of loved ones. Every time we turned around, we were planning the funeral of a family member and/or dear friend. You may be suffering with a debilitating illness or injury – or caring for someone who is seriously (or terminally) ill. You may have lost your job or your home. You may have lost loved ones. Or you may have just started a new job, moved into a new home, or had a new baby. All of these are stressors… and our lives are filled with “ups and downs” and challenges at every turn. But the good news is that God is right there with us. He never moves… and whatever is taken from you – whatever you suffer – God will make right at some point. “WHEN?” you may be asking. You may feel that you’ve had enough already. Trust God’s timing. I can’t tell you when or how He will work in your life, but He surely will.
I can’t stress enough – even to myself – that we simply must stop operating in fear and recognize God’s presence in our lives. We have to turn to Him for strength and protection, and leave hand-wringing and debilitating worry behind. The LORD works wonders and does great things. It’s high time we recognize Him and give Him command and control.
©2010 Debbie Robus
...The LORD works wonders and does great things. So tell the soil to celebrate and wild animals to stop being afraid. Grasslands are green again; fruit trees and fig trees are loaded with fruit. Grapevines are covered with grapes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When 9-11, Hurricane Katrina, and the earthquake in Haiti occurred, we all wondered how in the world recovery would ever be possible. Where does one even begin to clean up a mess such as these? But in each case, we have seen – and are seeing still – the order created from chaos. We’ve seen the rubble removed, and new growth emerge. I am reminded of my grandparents’ house fire in 1982, where the fire raged hot enough to reduce even a cast-iron claw-footed bath tub to ashes. When spring and summer came, beautiful petunias bloomed where the house foundation had been bulldozed away… a testament to rebirth and a new day.
In this passage, God is telling us that destruction and devastation will come, but so will a new day… a reason for the soil to celebrate. Vegetation returns to burning mountainsides and forests. Droughts are replaced by thirst-quenching rains – and flooding waters recede. Even the present-day oil spill crisis will resolve in time and beaches will be clean again. And our own lives have an ebb and flow – even if it seems like yours is filled with one challenge or disaster after another. For me, it seemed liked the 1990s were filled with nothing but the loss of loved ones. Every time we turned around, we were planning the funeral of a family member and/or dear friend. You may be suffering with a debilitating illness or injury – or caring for someone who is seriously (or terminally) ill. You may have lost your job or your home. You may have lost loved ones. Or you may have just started a new job, moved into a new home, or had a new baby. All of these are stressors… and our lives are filled with “ups and downs” and challenges at every turn. But the good news is that God is right there with us. He never moves… and whatever is taken from you – whatever you suffer – God will make right at some point. “WHEN?” you may be asking. You may feel that you’ve had enough already. Trust God’s timing. I can’t tell you when or how He will work in your life, but He surely will.
I can’t stress enough – even to myself – that we simply must stop operating in fear and recognize God’s presence in our lives. We have to turn to Him for strength and protection, and leave hand-wringing and debilitating worry behind. The LORD works wonders and does great things. It’s high time we recognize Him and give Him command and control.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 15, 2010
June 15 ~ Isaiah 51:7
If you want to do right and to obey my teaching with all your heart, then pay close attention. Don't be discouraged when others insult you and say hurtful things.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I was channel surfing, and I stopped to listen to a message from a televangelist who was talking about “seed, time, and harvest,” a common teaching of “prosperity ministers.” I listened long enough to hear him call for 1000 people to rush to their telephones and pledge a “seed gift” of $1000 for his organization… and they were going to receive “immeasurable favor” from God in the form of great financial wealth in 2010. I had to laugh, because I don’t believe for one second that God requires specific dollar donations like this in order to answer prayers and bless His children.
We have to be careful, because Satan can use this sort of message to get us off course and focused on the wrong things. And he cleverly does this by interspersing some pearls of wisdom and solid teaching. Many cannot sift through the junk and discern the truths of God from Satan’s lies and his distractions of things like promises of immeasurable wealth. And honestly, this sort of teaching and preaching is insulting to me, because I believe God does want us to plant seeds, give Him time to work, and then expect a “harvest.” But I am not necessarily talking about money, much less “immeasurable wealth.”
In and amongst all of the pleas for a $1000 seed, this speaker did say something that I felt was important enough to repeat… Every single day, you and I are planting seeds. Our “seeds” may be words of kindness and encouragement spoken to someone. Or we may help a buddy move into a new apartment or cook a meal for a grieving neighbor. We may give our old clothes to the thrift store… or we might give money to the church or donate to a fundraiser to send kids to church camp. OR… we may sow seeds of gossip, dissention, disrespect, untruth, and hate. The choice is ours. Just like planting flower or vegetable seeds, time is needed for these seeds to take root and grow. But eventually, there is a harvest. Sometimes it comes quickly, and sometimes, it can take a long time. But we must not be discouraged. And here’s the kicker… we must expect a harvest.
I think where I have often failed is in my expectation. I have sown the seeds and forgotten them. I didn’t consciously believe God for a harvest when I wrote a note of encouragement or taught a junior high Sunday School class. I didn’t consciously recognize that I was sowing seeds in the kindergartners and first graders I taught – or the checker I smiled at in Wal-Mart. I also didn’t give much thought to the repercussions of sowing seeds of unkind words, gossip, or rudeness. If we stopped and thought about the seeds we sow – and the “harvest” – we might sow better seeds! We might also reap a better “harvest” and more fully experience God’s blessings and favor. When we expect God to show up in our lives, He surely will.
So my questions for all of us today are…
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you want to do right and to obey my teaching with all your heart, then pay close attention. Don't be discouraged when others insult you and say hurtful things.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I was channel surfing, and I stopped to listen to a message from a televangelist who was talking about “seed, time, and harvest,” a common teaching of “prosperity ministers.” I listened long enough to hear him call for 1000 people to rush to their telephones and pledge a “seed gift” of $1000 for his organization… and they were going to receive “immeasurable favor” from God in the form of great financial wealth in 2010. I had to laugh, because I don’t believe for one second that God requires specific dollar donations like this in order to answer prayers and bless His children.
We have to be careful, because Satan can use this sort of message to get us off course and focused on the wrong things. And he cleverly does this by interspersing some pearls of wisdom and solid teaching. Many cannot sift through the junk and discern the truths of God from Satan’s lies and his distractions of things like promises of immeasurable wealth. And honestly, this sort of teaching and preaching is insulting to me, because I believe God does want us to plant seeds, give Him time to work, and then expect a “harvest.” But I am not necessarily talking about money, much less “immeasurable wealth.”
In and amongst all of the pleas for a $1000 seed, this speaker did say something that I felt was important enough to repeat… Every single day, you and I are planting seeds. Our “seeds” may be words of kindness and encouragement spoken to someone. Or we may help a buddy move into a new apartment or cook a meal for a grieving neighbor. We may give our old clothes to the thrift store… or we might give money to the church or donate to a fundraiser to send kids to church camp. OR… we may sow seeds of gossip, dissention, disrespect, untruth, and hate. The choice is ours. Just like planting flower or vegetable seeds, time is needed for these seeds to take root and grow. But eventually, there is a harvest. Sometimes it comes quickly, and sometimes, it can take a long time. But we must not be discouraged. And here’s the kicker… we must expect a harvest.
I think where I have often failed is in my expectation. I have sown the seeds and forgotten them. I didn’t consciously believe God for a harvest when I wrote a note of encouragement or taught a junior high Sunday School class. I didn’t consciously recognize that I was sowing seeds in the kindergartners and first graders I taught – or the checker I smiled at in Wal-Mart. I also didn’t give much thought to the repercussions of sowing seeds of unkind words, gossip, or rudeness. If we stopped and thought about the seeds we sow – and the “harvest” – we might sow better seeds! We might also reap a better “harvest” and more fully experience God’s blessings and favor. When we expect God to show up in our lives, He surely will.
So my questions for all of us today are…
- What kind of seed are we sowing?
- Are we expecting a “harvest” and believing God for it?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 22, 2010
May 22 ~ Numbers 14:9
So don't rebel. We have no reason to be afraid of the people who live there. The LORD is on our side, and they won't stand a chance against us!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
New and/or unfamiliar situations can be daunting for anyone. Small children who are entering the kindergarten or pre-school classroom for the first time may stall at the door – or even turn and cling to their mothers. More than once, I’ve had to reassure a mother, “Go ahead… five minutes after you leave he/she will have stopped crying and be fine.” I’ve even pried at least one child from the support post on the covered walkway as he screamed while his tearful mother drove away. Every single child was indeed fine after a few minutes. But stepping into the unknown and out of a comfort zone was huge for them.
In Numbers 13 and 14, Moses and Aaron have sent Caleb and Joshua to scout out the land of Canaan. They returned and reported it was “flowing with milk and honey.” It was also home to some large fortified cities. Caleb admits that there is opposition to a takeover there, but he believes the Israelites can do it. But once the people see the land for themselves, they are not so sure. They rebel and want to turn and go back to Egypt, claiming they would have been better off to die there than step into what they perceive as a death trap. So in essence, they are “clinging to the pole on the covered walkway” – frozen in their tracks with fear.
Now the point is, God had told Moses to investigate the land of Canaan. He had sanctioned this, and Moses was obedient. And when we are obedient – even when it seems like a scary - or even risky - leap of faith, God paves the way and protects us. So when your friends want you to go do things with them you know you shouldn’t, don’t fear being ridiculed. Trust God to protect you. When your boss is asking you to lie or do something dishonest or illegal at work, don’t fear losing your job… trust God to make sure that you will always have one – even if it means relocating. When someone invites you to church or a new Bible study, and you don’t want to go because “I won’t know anyone there,” step out in faith that God will help you get acquainted, if He is leading you to attend.
The key to success in this is to always consult God about everything. Don’t take a new job, accept a marriage proposal, have a baby, or move to a new city without talking to Him about it first. But also don’t join a Bible study, serve on a committee, or even run for Class President without consulting God. Make sure you have talked to God about every decision and choice in your life, both the big ones and those that seem insignificant. In all things, ask God where He is leading you… then let go of the pole and move forward.
©2010 Debbie Robus
So don't rebel. We have no reason to be afraid of the people who live there. The LORD is on our side, and they won't stand a chance against us!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
New and/or unfamiliar situations can be daunting for anyone. Small children who are entering the kindergarten or pre-school classroom for the first time may stall at the door – or even turn and cling to their mothers. More than once, I’ve had to reassure a mother, “Go ahead… five minutes after you leave he/she will have stopped crying and be fine.” I’ve even pried at least one child from the support post on the covered walkway as he screamed while his tearful mother drove away. Every single child was indeed fine after a few minutes. But stepping into the unknown and out of a comfort zone was huge for them.
In Numbers 13 and 14, Moses and Aaron have sent Caleb and Joshua to scout out the land of Canaan. They returned and reported it was “flowing with milk and honey.” It was also home to some large fortified cities. Caleb admits that there is opposition to a takeover there, but he believes the Israelites can do it. But once the people see the land for themselves, they are not so sure. They rebel and want to turn and go back to Egypt, claiming they would have been better off to die there than step into what they perceive as a death trap. So in essence, they are “clinging to the pole on the covered walkway” – frozen in their tracks with fear.
Now the point is, God had told Moses to investigate the land of Canaan. He had sanctioned this, and Moses was obedient. And when we are obedient – even when it seems like a scary - or even risky - leap of faith, God paves the way and protects us. So when your friends want you to go do things with them you know you shouldn’t, don’t fear being ridiculed. Trust God to protect you. When your boss is asking you to lie or do something dishonest or illegal at work, don’t fear losing your job… trust God to make sure that you will always have one – even if it means relocating. When someone invites you to church or a new Bible study, and you don’t want to go because “I won’t know anyone there,” step out in faith that God will help you get acquainted, if He is leading you to attend.
The key to success in this is to always consult God about everything. Don’t take a new job, accept a marriage proposal, have a baby, or move to a new city without talking to Him about it first. But also don’t join a Bible study, serve on a committee, or even run for Class President without consulting God. Make sure you have talked to God about every decision and choice in your life, both the big ones and those that seem insignificant. In all things, ask God where He is leading you… then let go of the pole and move forward.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 29, 2010
April 29 ~ Proverbs 3:27-32
Do all you can for everyone who deserves your help. Don't tell your neighbor to come back tomorrow, if you can help today. Don't try to be mean to neighbors who trust you. Don't argue just to be arguing, when you haven't been hurt. Don't be jealous of cruel people or follow their example. The LORD doesn't like anyone who is dishonest, but he lets good people be his friends.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, we were hosting a party during the Christmas holidays. As we sent out invitations, we learned that another couple who lived in our town was hosting a party the same evening – and many of our mutual friends were invited to both. We had invited this couple to the party we were hosting, but we had not received an RSVP. The day before our party, I got a phone call, and the host of the other party said, “We’d love to come to your party, but some relatives have come to visit, and we are going to be busy with them. So maybe we can make it another time.” I thanked him for letting me know – but all the while, I knew the real reason they weren’t coming was because of their own party. I don’t know why this person didn’t want to tell me that they were hosting a party. I wasn’t seeking an invitation to join them. And many of our friends came to our party and left early to attend the other party…and that was fine with us.
The problem I had with this whole scenario is that it colored how I thought of these friends. If this person would create such a detailed lie about something so insignificant as a party invitation, what else would he lie about? If this was considered acceptable behavior, how did he treat others – both socially and in his profession? In the end, I decided to “take the high road” and try to let it go… and you can see how well I’ve done! The point is… even though I have let it go for the most part, deep down it still impacts how I view this person. I try to think that he was either having a bad day and not thinking clearly, or he felt the lie would be less hurtful than saying, “We’re having our own party and can’t come to yours.” Still, I wonder on some levels… is he trustworthy?
If we are going to be disciples of Christ and represent Him to the world, we have to be honest and real at all times and in all things. This is not a license to be cruel or overly blunt with people. But we do need to consider how we treat others and why we say the things we do. We need to analyze our behavior to see where we need to be more loving, considerate, and honest. There is a good way and a bad way to deliver the truth… and with God’s help, we can operate in the former. If we are cruel, dishonest, or uncaring toward others, we risk permanent damage to the image they have of us… and very possibly we nullify our Christian witness with that person. Remember the “Golden Rule” – treat others as you wish to be treated – and rest in the knowledge that God is pleased and wants you for His friend.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Do all you can for everyone who deserves your help. Don't tell your neighbor to come back tomorrow, if you can help today. Don't try to be mean to neighbors who trust you. Don't argue just to be arguing, when you haven't been hurt. Don't be jealous of cruel people or follow their example. The LORD doesn't like anyone who is dishonest, but he lets good people be his friends.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, we were hosting a party during the Christmas holidays. As we sent out invitations, we learned that another couple who lived in our town was hosting a party the same evening – and many of our mutual friends were invited to both. We had invited this couple to the party we were hosting, but we had not received an RSVP. The day before our party, I got a phone call, and the host of the other party said, “We’d love to come to your party, but some relatives have come to visit, and we are going to be busy with them. So maybe we can make it another time.” I thanked him for letting me know – but all the while, I knew the real reason they weren’t coming was because of their own party. I don’t know why this person didn’t want to tell me that they were hosting a party. I wasn’t seeking an invitation to join them. And many of our friends came to our party and left early to attend the other party…and that was fine with us.
The problem I had with this whole scenario is that it colored how I thought of these friends. If this person would create such a detailed lie about something so insignificant as a party invitation, what else would he lie about? If this was considered acceptable behavior, how did he treat others – both socially and in his profession? In the end, I decided to “take the high road” and try to let it go… and you can see how well I’ve done! The point is… even though I have let it go for the most part, deep down it still impacts how I view this person. I try to think that he was either having a bad day and not thinking clearly, or he felt the lie would be less hurtful than saying, “We’re having our own party and can’t come to yours.” Still, I wonder on some levels… is he trustworthy?
If we are going to be disciples of Christ and represent Him to the world, we have to be honest and real at all times and in all things. This is not a license to be cruel or overly blunt with people. But we do need to consider how we treat others and why we say the things we do. We need to analyze our behavior to see where we need to be more loving, considerate, and honest. There is a good way and a bad way to deliver the truth… and with God’s help, we can operate in the former. If we are cruel, dishonest, or uncaring toward others, we risk permanent damage to the image they have of us… and very possibly we nullify our Christian witness with that person. Remember the “Golden Rule” – treat others as you wish to be treated – and rest in the knowledge that God is pleased and wants you for His friend.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 16, 2010
April 16 ~ Galatians 5:22-26
God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways. And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. God's Spirit has given us life, and so we should follow the Spirit. But don't be conceited or make others jealous by claiming to be better than they are.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, I was shopping in the grocery store. I looked up as a very dirty, disheveled man came through the door. For a second, I thought to myself, “What is he doing in here?” When I got a closer look, he was a man I know very well… and he happens to be quite wealthy! Apparently he was doing yard work or heavy outside carpentry or something and happened to need an item from the store. I admit, I was ashamed of myself for my earlier thought!
Be honest… probably every single one of us has judged someone else on their appearance. We’ve deemed ourselves to be better than others based on this… or what kind of car they drive, whether they went to college, where they work, their neighborhood, or even how they smell. We quickly label people as smart or dumb, rich or poor, fat or skinny, and more. We lose our patience, our joy, our gentleness, and our self-control over the smallest of things. And often, our first thought about another person is, “What can he/she do for me?” We wonder how associating with them will affect our reputation – positively or negatively. Who does this person know and how can it help or hurt us? This is totally the opposite of what God desires and how operating in the Holy Spirit should affect us. Frankly, when we operate and behave any other way, we are pretty much denying Christ! We can’t have it both ways – either we serve ourselves or we serve God… and the reward for serving Him is love, happiness, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. That sounds like traits I really want to have - don’t you?
Let’s look at our lives today and see where we need to toss out some old baggage and thought processes and fill ourselves more with the Holy Spirit. Let’s start to live like the children of the Most High God… saved and sanctified by the blood of Jesus Christ. Let’s operate under the power of the Holy Spirit and see how good life can be. I’m ready… are you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways. And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. God's Spirit has given us life, and so we should follow the Spirit. But don't be conceited or make others jealous by claiming to be better than they are.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, I was shopping in the grocery store. I looked up as a very dirty, disheveled man came through the door. For a second, I thought to myself, “What is he doing in here?” When I got a closer look, he was a man I know very well… and he happens to be quite wealthy! Apparently he was doing yard work or heavy outside carpentry or something and happened to need an item from the store. I admit, I was ashamed of myself for my earlier thought!
Be honest… probably every single one of us has judged someone else on their appearance. We’ve deemed ourselves to be better than others based on this… or what kind of car they drive, whether they went to college, where they work, their neighborhood, or even how they smell. We quickly label people as smart or dumb, rich or poor, fat or skinny, and more. We lose our patience, our joy, our gentleness, and our self-control over the smallest of things. And often, our first thought about another person is, “What can he/she do for me?” We wonder how associating with them will affect our reputation – positively or negatively. Who does this person know and how can it help or hurt us? This is totally the opposite of what God desires and how operating in the Holy Spirit should affect us. Frankly, when we operate and behave any other way, we are pretty much denying Christ! We can’t have it both ways – either we serve ourselves or we serve God… and the reward for serving Him is love, happiness, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. That sounds like traits I really want to have - don’t you?
Let’s look at our lives today and see where we need to toss out some old baggage and thought processes and fill ourselves more with the Holy Spirit. Let’s start to live like the children of the Most High God… saved and sanctified by the blood of Jesus Christ. Let’s operate under the power of the Holy Spirit and see how good life can be. I’m ready… are you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 16, 2010
February 16 ~ Matthew 15:36
…he took the seven loaves of bread and the fish and gave thanks. He then broke them and handed them to his disciples, who passed them around to the crowds.Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last summer, my grandmother called one early afternoon and said she was cooking supper for my mom and her husband, and she wondered if my husband and I wanted to join them. I asked what she was preparing, because my grandmother is 97, and she is not used to cooking for a large group like she once did. She said so far she was preparing green beans, corn, sweet potatoes, and a lemon pie… and that my mom was bringing ribs. I offered to bring some chicken that I was already cooking for our dinner.
By the time we got to her house for dinner, not only were my mom and her husband there, my sister and her husband, my niece, and our great-nephew were there, too. If you lost count, that is seven adults and one baby! I asked my grandmother, was she sure she had enough to feed that many people? Her response was, “Well, if not… at least we’ll all be together.” The menu had grown to include mashed potatoes, cornbread, hot made-from-scratch yeast rolls, black-eyed peas, cole slaw, and sliced tomatoes! I think we could have easily fed twice as many people. I don’t know if we will all be together like that for a meal in my grandmother’s home ever again. God blessed not only the food (and multiplied it), but He blessed the company, also.
So often, we sell God short. We look at what we DON’T have, rather than what we have… or we look at our situation and feel our resources are too limited to accomplish much. Unlike my grandmother, who takes a “dab of this” and a “dab of that” and puts it together to create a feast or something remarkable, we often throw up our hands and say, “I can’t work in these conditions,” or “I don’t have enough to get by!” or “I’m only one person – I can’t accomplish much.” Again, we sell God short – along with His ability to work in and through us to accomplish great things. We all know how this story in Matthew 15 ends. Jesus fed thousands with seven loaves of bread. He prayed and asked God for help, and God multiplied, fed and blessed.
When was the last time you prayed and asked God to help in a situation where you felt inadequate? When did you last ask Him to give you what you lack? Isn’t it about time we started depending on the One who can do all things? Isn’t it time we acknowledged His abilities and power… and trusted Him to deliver? Won’t you start today by asking God to fill in the gaps where you have needs? See for yourself what amazing things can be accomplished in His name and by His power. See how far your “little dab” will go with God’s help!
©2009 Debbie Robus
…he took the seven loaves of bread and the fish and gave thanks. He then broke them and handed them to his disciples, who passed them around to the crowds.Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last summer, my grandmother called one early afternoon and said she was cooking supper for my mom and her husband, and she wondered if my husband and I wanted to join them. I asked what she was preparing, because my grandmother is 97, and she is not used to cooking for a large group like she once did. She said so far she was preparing green beans, corn, sweet potatoes, and a lemon pie… and that my mom was bringing ribs. I offered to bring some chicken that I was already cooking for our dinner.
By the time we got to her house for dinner, not only were my mom and her husband there, my sister and her husband, my niece, and our great-nephew were there, too. If you lost count, that is seven adults and one baby! I asked my grandmother, was she sure she had enough to feed that many people? Her response was, “Well, if not… at least we’ll all be together.” The menu had grown to include mashed potatoes, cornbread, hot made-from-scratch yeast rolls, black-eyed peas, cole slaw, and sliced tomatoes! I think we could have easily fed twice as many people. I don’t know if we will all be together like that for a meal in my grandmother’s home ever again. God blessed not only the food (and multiplied it), but He blessed the company, also.
So often, we sell God short. We look at what we DON’T have, rather than what we have… or we look at our situation and feel our resources are too limited to accomplish much. Unlike my grandmother, who takes a “dab of this” and a “dab of that” and puts it together to create a feast or something remarkable, we often throw up our hands and say, “I can’t work in these conditions,” or “I don’t have enough to get by!” or “I’m only one person – I can’t accomplish much.” Again, we sell God short – along with His ability to work in and through us to accomplish great things. We all know how this story in Matthew 15 ends. Jesus fed thousands with seven loaves of bread. He prayed and asked God for help, and God multiplied, fed and blessed.
When was the last time you prayed and asked God to help in a situation where you felt inadequate? When did you last ask Him to give you what you lack? Isn’t it about time we started depending on the One who can do all things? Isn’t it time we acknowledged His abilities and power… and trusted Him to deliver? Won’t you start today by asking God to fill in the gaps where you have needs? See for yourself what amazing things can be accomplished in His name and by His power. See how far your “little dab” will go with God’s help!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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