Daily Devotional for October 8, 2016

Matthew 21:18-22
When Jesus got up the next morning, he was hungry. He started out for the city, and along the way he saw a fig tree. But when he came to it, he found only leaves and no figs. So he told the tree, “You will never again grow any fruit!” Right then the fig tree dried up.

The disciples were shocked when they saw how quickly the tree had dried up. But Jesus said to them, “If you have faith and don’t doubt, I promise that you can do what I did to this tree. And you will be able to do even more. You can tell this mountain to get up and jump into the sea, and it will. If you have faith when you pray, you will be given whatever you ask for.”

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

I volunteer at the elementary school in Timothy and Zola’s classes…usually on Fridays.  Timmy told me yesterday that he was spending Saturday night with his PawPaw…and they were going to the store to buy him a small Lego® set. Timmy absolutely LOVES Legos®!  So when I left school near the end of the day, I hugged and kissed Timmy and said, “Have a good Saturday!”  He hung his head and said, “It won’t be good.”  I laughed, because this was all for my benefit…and I reminded him of the fun time he was going to have with his grandfather.  Timmy demonstrated no faith that he could have plenty of fun somewhere besides our house!

So often, we shoot ourselves in the foot, just like a 7-year-old boy.  We make up our minds long before we ever think of talking to God that what we are asking for is simply impossible.  We not only doubt the power of our prayer…we demonstrate a lack of faith in God’s ability to answer. Does this mean that we can ask for absolutely anything, and because we believe for it, God will grant us our every wish? Certainly not!  I knew someone who once stated openly that he knew that God was going to give him a Mercedes Benz…because he had prayed for it!  God doesn’t operate in this manner…and this is not how He answers prayers from even the most faith-filled Christian!

We have to function within the framework that God has presented in scripture.  We have to understand the teachings of Jesus - and the inherent expectations of us as Christ’s disciples.  We must submit to the will of God and trust that when we ask for something, we will receive what God believes is best for us.  He will answer…but it may not be exactly as we expected.

We so often pray with doubt – and without expectation.  We must learn to trust that God has our back…that He truly does want what is best for us.  When we begin to believe this…and ask in a humble and obedient manner for His help, care and blessings, God truly will deliver.  You may never drive anything but a “clunker,” but it won’t matter – to you or anyone else.

Let’s be the kind of faithful disciple that demonstrates to the world…”I’m right where God wants me to be…and I am good with that! He hears my prayers and answers…and with Him, all things are possible!”  And let’s pray expectantly and faithfully - and harness the power of God – and see how many “mountains” we can move!

©2016 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 18, 2015

1 Thessalonians 3:9-10
What would be an adequate thanksgiving to offer God for all the joy we experience before him because of you? We do what we can, praying away, night and day, asking for the bonus of seeing your faces again and doing what we can to help when your faith falters.

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

I try to visit our local aquatic center three days per week to work out.  As I jog around the pool and do “high-knees” and “crossover kicks”, I talk to God and thank Him for my incredible blessings. As I stretch, lunge, do bicep curls and anvil curls, I pray - and lift my family, friends, those who are sick and suffering, world leaders, our church and its leaders…and more “praises and concerns”.  In the course of 45 minutes to an hour, God and I can cover a lot of ground!  This is one way that I can offer thanksgiving to Him for all of the joy that He – and these people – bring to my life.

Several of my cousins and my best friend live four hours away in another Arkansas town.  I rarely see them in person.  But I “talk” to a few of them on Facebook and via e-mail…and sometimes even by phone…several times a week.  I know that they “have my back,” and I have theirs.  I pray for them and encourage them…and many of these people do the same for me.  I find this connection to be a joy and a comfort…and I count it a privilege to be able to pray for them and share in their lives via modern technology.  They bless me in ways I cannot even count.

What’s my point? (Because you KNOW that I’m trying to make one!)  I believe there is one factor that strengthens each and every one of my relationships…and this is prayer!  Let’s be clear…my prayer life is a work in progress.  But I cannot tell you how many times I have encountered a friend or loved one who needs encouragement, and I am able to say, “I’ve been praying for you” or “I prayed for you this morning/afternoon.”  It strengthens the bond – between us, and with God – to know that we are sharing and caring in this manner.

Just yesterday, I read a CaringBridge report about a lifelong acquaintance who is slowly and steadily recovering from a serious illness that nearly killed her several months ago.  As I read about the tremendous milestone that she accomplished yesterday, I smiled and thanked God.  I thought of the prayers I have offered (along with those of countless others)…and I knew that our persistence and faithfulness made a difference.  Let me hasten to add that, even if this dear woman’s results were less positive – or if she were to be called to heaven today – our prayers on her would still matter.  They would still have strengthened our bond and cultivated our faithfulness.

The bottom line is that we have to be active and present in our relationships with God – and with others.  Prayer matters…it really does!  Communion with God strengthens our interaction with friends, acquaintances and family members.  God-given technology enables us to keep in touch and encourage in amazing ways…to engage with one another and “be the hands and feet of Jesus” even when we cannot literally be in close physical proximity.  And when an actual reunion does occur, the bond is made even sweeter because of what we have shared through a faith-filled dialog with God.

Make this the day that you figure out how to incorporate prayer into your routine.  You don’t have to schedule a “pool workout” time for prayer.  Pepper brief conversations with God throughout your day.  As you think of someone you know/love, whisper a prayer of gratitude for your relationship – and ask God to bless and care for this person…to encourage him/her as needed…and to fill each heart with joy and peace.  Your relationships will strengthen…your bonds will deepen…and you will see a difference.  I’m praying for you today…who are YOU praying for?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 11, 2013

James 1:5-8
If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who “worry their prayers” are like wind-whipped waves. Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.

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.

In our publishing business, my husband and I handled a lot of “customer service” calls. One of the things I heard over and over was, “This is probably a dumb question, but…” My response was always, “There are no dumb questions.” I will grant you… some of the questions seemed pretty ridiculous, because the answers seemed obvious to us. But for the person asking, these were serious queries. The last thing we wanted to do was to make him/her feel inferior or foolish.

When I read this passage today, I thought about how we come to God with our questions and problems. I wonder if we truly realize that He has every answer! God knows exactly what we should do and how everything will play out…and there are no “dumb questions” when we are talking with Him. More importantly, we can trust that God will not only hear our prayers… He will answer them and guide our steps.

How do you know that what you are hearing is truly God’s answer? This is a huge question… one that we wrestle with every day. Some look for “signs”… others go with a “gut feeling”… and yes, some “worry their prayers” half to death – wringing their hands and wondering if they made the right choices. And sometimes, you have well-meaning – even wise and caring – advisors telling you that your “answers” are not the right ones. What do you do with all of this?

My experience has shown me that there will be times when things readily fall into place, and I feel that I heard correctly from God. Everything may not play out exactly as I anticipated… but in the end, I see God’s hand in the results. There will also be a few times when I miss the mark… when I think God has led me in one direction, and I learn that I was not quite on target. The GOOD NEWS is that even in these times, God doesn’t desert me. If I faithfully and genuinely trust Him for outcomes, He will work even when I have misinterpreted His message. There may be some bumps in the road… challenges and hurdles I didn’t anticipate – much less want… but God will show me how to correct my course and get back on track.

The KEY is to communicate with God about everything, to faithfully work to follow His will… and then to trust Him for the outcomes. The one thing we must not do is “worry our prayers” and second-guess them. If we have humbly and earnestly sought God’s will in prayer, we cannot play the “woulda-shoulda-coulda” game afterward.

This is not easy. But God never promised us easy. I heard Pastor Rick Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Life, say that he once asked a man how he was doing. The man replied, “I’m doing very well… under the circumstances.” Pastor Warren’s reply was, “What are you doing under them? Being under your circumstances is like being under a mattress… you’ll smother! Get on top of them!” God wants us to come to him with all of our questions, problems, and concerns… and to trust Him to show us how to sit on top of them. He wants us to trust Him for the right answers… and the outcomes.

My question to all of us today is this… “Where are we sitting? Are we under the “mattress” of our circumstances? Have we deemed our questions/situations to be too dumb for God to handle? Do we fully trust His ability to answer us? Do we trust our ability to hear from Him… and are we following through on His answers with confidence? Have we stopped “worrying our prayers” and started trusting God to guide us in all situations? Isn’t it time we did?

©2013 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for March 8, 2012

John 16:23-24
"This is what I want you to do: Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!

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.

In February, my husband and I both experienced a bout of the flu. For several days, I was unable to do my normal workout routine. Once I started to feel better, I eased back into my almost-daily regimen. I knew that the longer I went without working out, the harder it would be to get back into a groove. In large part, it was about diligence and determination. And the same can be said of our prayer life. When it comes to prayer, many of us find it very easy to fall into complacency. We get in a hurry and let other things get in the way. So instead of truly communicating with God, we give a quick “lip service” to a laundry list of concerns and desires… and we expect God to do the rest.

There is more to prayer than merely listing our needs for God. And while He already knows our heart – and our wishes – there is a “protocol” for effective prayer. In my notes, I have written… “To get results, pray ‘by the rules’: get the Word, know your covenant, understand your inheritance.” In other words, instead of praying, “Lord, heal me…” we might say, “Lord, I know that ‘by His stripes, I am healed,’ (Isaiah 53:5) so I am asking You to make me well, according to Your will – and in your perfect timing.” When we pray for a friend in need, we might say, “Father, You have promised to give us what we ask in Your name, so I am asking for you to do XYZ for Bill or Sue, in line with your plans for them,” (John 16:23-24) instead of merely saying, “LORD, I pray for Bill/Sue.”

I’m not saying that there won’t be times when quickly lifting a concern or naming someone to God is better than no prayer at all… but we should all begin to treat our prayer time with as much reverence and importance as we give to a daily workout, the nightly news, or following our favorite TV show or sport. If we are going to expect answers to our prayers… if we are truly operating in faith that God will give us our hearts’ desires, according to His will – and the joy overflowing that comes with them… we must treat our prayers with care and respect.

Does this mean we should schedule prayer time with God like we do a workout or watching our favorite TV program or sporting event? Not necessarily… although this will often help us make prayer time more of a habit and part of our daily routine. This is not about when we pray… but more about how we communicate with God. Start working on making your prayers more effective… more specific and based in the Word of God and your faithful expectations for His perfect answers.

Try this… offer a diligent, “by-the-rules” prayer for one or two concerns at a time as you go about your day. I’m betting that when you get ready for bed, you can look back and see that you communicated with God far more often – and effectively – than if you had spent a concentrated hour listing your concerns and praising Him. Look for ways all day long to thank Him… take a few minutes here and there to lift concerns as they come to mind… to recall the promises of God’s word with relation to these concerns… and to believe for His perfect outcome. See if you don’t feel closer to God as a result… and more joyful, as He answers and honors your faithfulness.

Father, I thank You for the blood of Jesus and all that He accomplished for us on the cross. I praise you for promising to give us the desires of our heart when we pray according to Your will… and I ask You to bless those who are reading this message. Strengthen each of them as they spend more time in diligent, deliberate communication with You. I ask that You answer them according to Your perfect plans… and that You shower them with the blessings You have promised – and joy overflowing. Thank You, LORD, for hearing my prayers and honoring Your covenant with me… and all who trust in You. Amen.

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for March 3, 2012

Proverbs 25:19
A friend you can't trust in times of trouble is like having a toothache or a sore foot.

Galatians 5:16
If you are guided by the Spirit, you won't obey your selfish desires.

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

The incredible devastation of tornadoes that have ravaged our nation this week is truly mind boggling. My heart is broken for the victims of these storms, and I am praying that God will care for each of them and offer comfort and hope in the days ahead. But you may have seen the news video of the incredible tornado that was barreling down on one city, and a woman can be heard clearly praying for the storm to miss her. Miraculously, the storm turns, and her home is spared… but her town is wiped away.

I will be the first to tell you that I would have prayed exactly as that woman did… and I am not saying she was selfish or wrong to do so. But when fear sets in, we often call things into our life that we don’t need. If we could get into a mindset of calling on God to provide us with what we need, according to His will, rather than what we think is best, we might be astounded by the results. Does this mean that praying for God to stop the storm completely or to protect all in its path might have had a different outcome for this woman and her community? Not necessarily. But we often pray selfishly, giving little regard to the ultimate outcome and its ramifications for anyone but ourselves.

Our goal should be to grow closer to God… to become more like Jesus… and that means letting go of any and all selfish motives. I heard the question posed recently, “If you were in a sinking boat with two other people, and only two of you could be saved… whom would you choose?” What was your first thought – does it depend on who the other two people are and what they mean to you? Or did you think of your own faith in God… your promise of Eternity in heaven with Him… and say, “I would gladly go”? Did you base your answer on your relationship with God… and possibly the relationship you believe the other two had with Him, as well?

When we begin to operate in faith rather than fear, everything changes… our opinions, our outlooks, our prayers, our choices. I repeat, if I saw a massive tornado approaching my house, I might very well ask God to save me. But hopefully I would also ask Him to protect all in its path, according to His will… and accept whatever outcome He chose as sovereign and absolute.

Where are you operating in fear these days? Where are you living selfishly, and possibly calling into your life things that you really don’t need? Where are you asking God for blessings and care at the potential expense of others? Where are you failing to trust in His complete perfection? Is this the day you begin to change? Will you ask God to meet your needs completely, according to His will… and rest in His choices? Are you the friend that others can trust… or are you like a selfish “toothache?” Isn’t it time we reversed our fear and started living in unwavering faith?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 22, 2012

Romans 8:26-28
In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words. All of our thoughts are known to God. He can understand what is in the mind of the Spirit, as the Spirit prays for God's people. We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves him. They are the ones God has chosen for his purpose...

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

It’s getting progressively harder for my grandmother to talk. The words she wants to use do not come… nor do her thoughts. Often, when she is trying to tell me something, I do a lot of guessing… or she uses hand gestures that mean something to me, and I know what she is trying to say. When we are with others and she wants to say something, she will often end up waving her hand and saying, “Debbie will tell you.” I’ve come to know her so well that quite frequently I can do a fairly good job of understanding what is in her mind and putting it into words for others.

This is what the Holy Spirit often does for us. He knows our heart… our innermost thoughts… desires… needs… and He can convey them to God when we cannot seem to find the words. We often think of Romans 8:28 as a justification of God’s will, or an explanation of failures… “all things work together for the good”. But actually, this passage refers to all forms of communication with God – all forms of prayer - working together for the good that God desires for us. Whether we are talking to him directly, speaking in tongues, singing praises, or allowing the Holy Spirit to speak for us… all forms of prayerful communication work together to accomplish God’s will.

Just because my grandmother cannot always verbalize what she is thinking or needing doesn’t mean we cannot communicate. For several years following a stroke that claimed her mother’s speech, my dear friend “talked” with her mom via a system of pointing to letters of the alphabet to spell things. Helen Keller was deaf and blind, but she was able to communicate with others via human touch. And we can use a variety of methods to communicate clearly with God every minute of the day. The key is to recognize that there are many ways to speak with God, and even when we can’t seem to find the right words to express our thoughts and feelings, He still hears us.

I sometimes have a hard time understanding what my grandmother is telling me… and often we both get frustrated before I figure out what she is saying – or we both give up and move on to something else. But that never happens with God. He always knows exactly what we are saying… His responses are given in love, timely, and perfect. He never gives up or grows weary… and He weaves everything we communicate to Him together to give us the best possible outcome.

I am glad that God hears me in so many ways. I am glad that when I can’t express myself, the Holy Spirit takes over for me. Doesn’t it give you hope, peace, and comfort to know that all you have to say is, “Here I am, LORD… I need you…” and He does the rest? Do you have the power of the Holy Spirit working in your heart – and on your behalf? Do you have all forms of prayer working together for the good in your life? Isn’t today a good time to begin to utilize them?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 31, 2012

Ephesians 6:18
Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God's people.

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

We never know where God will show up… or how He will speak to us. As we were driving home from junior-high basketball games in Conway recently, we passed a church in Guy, Arkansas. The lighted marquee on the front lawn had one simple message: Ephesians 6:18. I made a mental note to check this scripture passage when I got home. The verse fit perfectly with conversations I have been having with a few people recently about the power and effectiveness of prayer.

Someone commented to me that they had been reviewing prayer journals and discovered that their prayers for some people were for the same concerns over more than a decade… some for even twenty or thirty years or more. I’ve noticed much the same thing in my own prayer journals. The natural question to ask is… “Are my prayers going unheard? Why hasn’t God answered?”

The truth is that we have no clue how God has answered. We asked for one thing… God may have delivered another. We prayed for certain outcomes, but we have no idea how much God may have answered our prayers and protected and blessed those we lifted. And just as importantly… we do not dictate God’s timing. Our responsibility as faith-filled disciples is to never stop praying… especially for others. We are to continue to ask God to work in the lives of His children… and to trust Him to know the best way to do this.

For the record… there are plenty of entries in my prayer journals – and those of others – that God has clearly answered just as we requested. We can cite countless examples of healings, deliverance, restoration, and more. We must remember to focus on these… and to believe that in situations where we cannot physically see God’s answer, He is at also work.

In The Message, Ephesians 6:13-18 says “Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.”

There really is nothing to add. Prayer truly is essential… and effective. Our job is to keep praying… and to trust God to know how – and when – to answer perfectly.

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 24, 2012

Acts 4:11-16
While the man kept holding on to Peter and John, the whole crowd ran to them in amazement at the place known as Solomon's Porch. Peter saw that a crowd had gathered, and he said: Friends, why are you surprised at what has happened? Why are you staring at us? Do you think we have some power of our own? Do you think we were able to make this man walk because we are so religious? The God that Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and our other ancestors worshiped has brought honor to his Servant Jesus. He is the one you betrayed. You turned against him when he was being tried by Pilate, even though Pilate wanted to set him free. You rejected Jesus, who was holy and good. You asked for a murderer to be set free, and you killed the one who leads people to life. But God raised him from death, and all of us can tell you what he has done. You see this man, and you know him. He put his faith in the name of Jesus and was made strong. Faith in Jesus made this man completely well while everyone was watching.

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

More than once, I’ve heard someone say to another person… “I know you have a direct line to heaven, so please pray for me,” or something to that effect. And I admit, I have said that a few times to someone who I thought was a strong disciple of Christ. The trouble with this concept is that the “direct line” to God is not exclusive to a select few people. God does not give more attention to one person over another. We all have the same “line” to God… the difference is in how we utilize it.

Honestly, most people probably say this to another person as a way of paying them a compliment or acknowledging the blessings of his/her faithfulness. But we really need to be careful what we say… even with the best of intentions. What makes the prayers of certain people seem more effective is a result of their level of faith and trust in God. In truth, their prayers are not heard more often than ours… ahead of ours… or instead of ours! But their trust in God to answer may trump ours any day of the week.

People who go to church every Sunday, sing in the choir, serve in leadership roles in the church, or do mission work do not have their prayers answered - or live a problem-free life - because of their actions. Your heart… and your faith… are what matters. The most powerful, faithful, devoted servant of God may be a little old lady in the nursing home who trusts God to meet her needs and prays daily – and faithfully – for the needs of others. The soldier stationed in a foreign country who trusts God for safety and “daily bread” – in the trenches and for his/her family back at home – may receive more of God’s blessings than the deacon or church leader who is always in “high profile” for his/her latest projects, missions, or acts of service. Some of the people you consider to be “strong Christians” may actually have fairly weak faith behind their public persona.

What makes a Christian strong, confident, able and blessed is a matter of faith, not specific actions or mere talk. We can say all the right things… work in the church and serve in our community… be a “good person” and a friend to everyone we encounter… and still not operate in faith. Until we develop a deep, abiding faith in God… until we trust Him completely and operate from this foundation rather than the expectations and standards of the world… we will never truly experience all that God has for us.

Do not misunderstand me. Service is important… Jesus commanded us to love one another and to serve in His name. Corporate worship is important… we are called to fellowship with others – to come together to praise God and study His word. A positive attitude and sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with others is mandated by scripture. But all of these are fueled by a genuine faith in our Heavenly Father. Without a true faith in the promises of God, much of what we say and do is merely “lip service” to make us look good and feel better.

We cannot know for certain what is in another person’s heart… and we are not to judge anyway. We must cultivate our own relationship with God based entirely in faith that He will meet our every need, according to His will. We must trust Him to make us strong and well… and to always “take our calls.” People are watching… and they may see what appears to be a faith-filled Christian with a “direct line” to God. But God knows our hearts. He knows whether we are merely “religious” or truly operating in faith and trust. He hears our prayers… and more importantly, the intention behind them. What are your intentions… are you operating in faith, or merely “talking religion?”

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for January 9, 2012

Acts 1:22-26
"Judas must now be replaced. The replacement must come from the company of men who stayed together with us from the time Jesus was baptized by John up to the day of his ascension, designated along with us as a witness to his resurrection."

They nominated two: Joseph Barsabbas, nicknamed Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed, "You, O God, know every one of us inside and out. Make plain which of these two men you choose to take the place in this ministry and leadership that Judas threw away in order to go his own way." They then drew straws. Matthias won and was counted in with the eleven apostles.

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.

One of the most puzzling questions many have is, “How do you know when you’ve truly heard from God?” Few, if any of us, get a lightning bolt… much less an audible Voice that tells us how to proceed. So how do you know when you are really hearing from God? As I read this scripture passage, I had to laugh when I got to the part where the people prayed to God for an answer… and then “drew straws.”

Surely picking a name out of the hat or “drawing straws” is not how God communicates with us… or is it? If you go back and read the verses in Acts 1 leading up to this passage, you will see that the disciples were following God’s word from scripture… replacing Judas, who had fulfilled prophecy and betrayed Jesus, then killed himself on a farm he bought with the dirty money. There were about 120 people gathered together, including Jesus’ mother Mary, His brothers, the disciples, and other followers.

Two names were placed in nomination, and then they prayed before drawing a name of one of the nominees. The more I thought about this, the more I realized what the message of this passage is for us today. God shows up in amazing, unexpected places. And He very well may tell us to “draw straws” for our answer. But the KEY to the passage comes before the name was drawn. The most important part of the passage is the verse where the people ask God to “make plain which of these two men you choose to take the place in this ministry and leadership.”

As long as we are communicating with God and asking Him to guide or steps and our choices, He can utilize any tool or method to deliver our answer. If you have a hard choice to make, and God plainly directs you to “draw straws,” then do it. If He sends you an audible message in the form of advice from a trusted Christian brother or sister that you cannot shake… that’s probably what you are supposed to do. If you just know in your gut that one choice is right over another, God is probably giving you that physical nudge. If you have prayerfully sought God’s guidance, He can show up to answer in amazing ways that may even seem off-the-wall to some.

How do you know when you’ve heard from God? When you have spent time talking with Him and done all of the necessary preparation… then listened… God will show up. Whatever He is telling you to do… however He is reaching you and giving you the solution…don’t hesitate to follow through on His message. Have you consulted God about your decisions for today? Eenie, meenie, miney, moe… who has some straws to draw?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for November 13, 2011

John 17:13-23
Now I'm returning to you. I'm saying these things in the world's hearing so my people can experience my joy completed in them. I gave them your word; the godless world hated them because of it, because they didn't join the world's ways, just as I didn't join the world's ways. I'm not asking that you take them out of the world but that you guard them from the Evil One. They are no more defined by the world than I am defined by the world. Make them holy—consecrated—with the truth; your word is consecrating truth. In the same way that you gave me a mission in the world, I give them a mission in the world. I'm consecrating myself for their sakes so they'll be truth-consecrated in their mission.

I'm praying not only for them but also for those who will believe in me because of them and their witness about me. The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind—just as you, Father, are in me and I in you, so they might be one heart and mind with us. Then the world might believe that you, in fact, sent me. The same glory you gave me, I gave them, so they'll be as unified and together as we are—I in them and you in me. Then they'll be mature in this oneness, and give the godless world evidence that you've sent me and loved them in the same way you've loved me.

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

Recently I told you about watching a television program called “Our America with Lisa Ling,” which documented the experiences of veterans with PTSD who were attending a week-long therapy retreat in New Mexico. I was struck by the words of a Native American “Medicine Man” to one of the veterans… “You did what you were supposed to do. This is not on you.” These words truly struck a chord with me, because so often, we do all God is calling us to do in a specific situation… yet we feel like we need to do more. We become mired in guilt and frustration and fail to recognize that often, we must step away in order for God to finish the job.

Jesus is saying in this passage, “I have done what I came to earth to do. I have nurtured these Disciples and given them the foundation and tools to grow in Your love… now it is time for God to take over. He will equip these believers to witness to others. He will strengthen them and meet their daily needs.” Notice that Jesus continues to pray for these people, but He does not anguish over what is beyond His control… and He does not try to do God’s work for Him.

I don’t know what is happening in your life. I know that it is human nature to give our concerns to God… then pick them up again. We lack faith… our trust in God is often shallow. Today, I feel quite certain you have something that you need to give to God. It may be a friend or family member… it may be a co-worker or classmate. Maybe you are working and studying as hard as you can in a difficult class, and you need to ask God to make the difference and bless your efforts. Maybe you have spread yourself as thinly as you can to help this cause and another… and it’s time to take a breath and let God work and multiply your service. Maybe you have carried a burden of guilt and shame over a situation that you supposedly gave to God a long time ago… but you keep picking it back up and stewing about it over and again.

Today is the day to ask God… “Have I done all I can in this instance? Is it time to let go and trust You to do the rest?” This is the time to stop berating yourself over things you were never supposed to accomplish on your own… to ask God to “take it from here.” In some way/shape/form, you have done all you can do… you have done your part… now it’s time to let God do His. Are you ready to do this?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 3, 2011

Psalm 116:1-2
I love you, LORD! You answered my prayers. You paid attention to me, and so I will pray to you as long as I live.

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

Timothy loves a YouTube video from Sesame Street that features comedian Jon Stewart demonstrating the word “practice.” In this clip, Stewart reads the definition of the word “practice” several times, reiterating that practice means to do something over and over again until you get it right. When it comes to prayer, we could all use some practice!

The more I pray, the more I see God at work and experience His answers… feel His presence and His attention to even the tiniest details of my life. And I have to tell you, this motivates me to pray even more… to pray to God as long as I live!

I encourage you to give prayer some practice… to pray over and over again until you get it right… feel God’s attention and His answers. I am pretty sure you will find the same outcome as I did… and you will want to pray as long as you live, also.

We have everything to gain and nothing to lose. God is waiting to talk with us… to lavish His love and attention upon us. Won’t you “pick up the phone”, so to speak, and dial in to a connection with Him? See for yourself what blessings the “practice” of prayer can bring to you and those for whom you pray.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 11, 2011

Psalm 111:1-4
Shout praises to the LORD! With all my heart I will thank the LORD when his people meet. The LORD has done many wonderful things! Everyone who is pleased with God's marvelous deeds will keep them in mind. Everything the LORD does is glorious and majestic, and his power to bring justice will never end. The LORD God is famous for his wonderful deeds, and he is kind and merciful.

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

You may feel like this is a strange scripture passage to share on a day when we commemorate the 10th anniversary of one of the most horrific events in our nation’s history. But even in the midst of such mind-boggling devastation, God was there. And if you ask family members of some of the victims, they will tell you that the love and support – and prayers – of people they didn’t even know have strengthened them and reminded them of God’s kindness, mercy, and power. And for that, they shout praises to the LORD!

I have had the honor of corresponding with the families of two victims of 9/11 over the last decade. Joe Henry was the son of Ed and Alice. Ed and Joe’s brother were NYC firefighters, too… just like his grandfather had been. In fact, Ed suffered a serious back injury at the Twin Towers, where Joe died. Imagine the gut-wrenching despair of Alice as she tended to her husband while grieving the loss of her 24-year-old son, whose body was never recovered.

Imagine the devastation of Veronica Squef, wife of NYC Firefighter Keith Glascoe, as she sat with her two babies, Nolan and Owen… pregnant with their third child… and grieved for her husband who had perished. Consider what it must have been like for her, and dozens of other mothers, to deliver babies whose daddies were gone in a split second with the dust and rubble of Ground Zero.

I know in my heart that these two families, along with countless others, could not have survived these last ten years without God’s wonderful deeds… His kindness, mercy, and power. I know that they have made it through dozens of days on the wings of prayers lifted by people like you and me… and God’s answers. And I know that if they can survive this horrible event and hold their heads up… walk with joy and confidence in a future filled with God’s bright promises… then so can we!

Today, as we pause to remember the events of 9/11/2001, let us also give thanks to God, who is bigger than even the worst day of our lives. Give Him glory for bringing perfect justice… according to His will and timing. Praise Him for equipping us to endure what seems impossible to handle… and for showing us how to move forward with our lives through His grace. God bless all who were directly – and indirectly – affected by the events of September 11, 2001… and may God bless each of us as we strive to operate in His power, mercy and grace.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for August 18, 2011

Psalm 107:5-15
You were hungry and thirsty and about to give up. You were in serious trouble, but you prayed to the LORD, and he rescued you. Right away he brought you to a town. You should praise the LORD for his love and for the wonderful things he does for all of us.

To everyone who is thirsty, he gives something to drink; to everyone who is hungry, he gives good things to eat. Some of you were prisoners suffering in deepest darkness and bound by chains, because you had rebelled against God Most High and refused his advice.

You were worn out from working like slaves, and no one came to help. You were in serious trouble, but you prayed to the LORD, and he rescued you. He brought you out of the deepest darkness and broke your chains. You should praise the LORD for his love and for the wonderful things he does for all of us.

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

On August 5th, 12-year-old Charles “Dale” Ostrander was swimming off the coast of Washington state, just north of Long Beach. Dale was with a church group, swimming in the Pacific Ocean, when a riptide current pulled him under and began to sweep him out to sea. A 12-year-old girl with a surfboard tried to rescue Dale, but the current was too swift. When she made it to shore, she clung to the sand and said, “He’s dead. What am I supposed to do?” More rescuers retrieved Dale’s body from the waters, where he had been pulled underwater for 20-25 minutes. He was unconscious and limp. Nobody gave Dale much hope for survival. Dale’s fellow church members fell to their knees on the beach and prayed for him

In a blog established to chronicle this story – www.prayersfordale.blogspot.com – a post dated August 14th describes how Dale’s father, Chad, spoke to the congregation at church several days later:

“Brother Ostrander said, ‘We didn't understand, we just accepted. I knelt by his bed and put Dale on the altar, like Abraham. I told God, “You offered your son, you know how it feels. Thank you for letting us say goodbye.” We tried to let the girls know that he wasn't coming back. That night, the doctor knelt down right by Dale's ear and said, “Dale, open your eyes!” and his eyes opened! We thought, “Wow, there's hope!”’

Today Dale got up and walked down the hall with help from the physical therapist. In Chad Ostrander's words: ‘God has shown us a miracle.’"

I can’t help but believe that God has great plans for Dale Ostrander. Every shred of logic and intelligence tells us that this child should have died in those powerful waters. Yet God allowed Dale to live. Truly, he was in serious trouble…and God rescued him.

Some of us are in some pretty strong currents, too. We have our own “riptides” pulling us under, and we are drowning a little every day. Others among us have “circled the drain” from time to time…yet God rescued us. Did we stop to thank Him? Did we even recognize His powerful hands reaching down and saving us?

Do we understand that we are often suffering under the chains and riptides of our own making… and God stands ready to save us, if only we will ask? Truly, the rescue of this 12-year-old boy is a miracle… and not all horrific events like this come to such a happy end. But so often, we fail to recognize that a rescue from our troubles is only a prayer away. We fail to see that we can ask God for anything… and He will answer perfectly. And often if we do ask, we fail to believe that God really heard us… and that help truly is on the way.

Clearly this boy’s parents prayed faithfully… trusting God for a perfect outcome. They didn’t know if that would mean life for their son on this earth – or in heaven. But they prayed and believed anyway, as did the fellow church members who were with Dale Ostrander on August 5th. The question for us is… are we praying faithfully and believing God will deliver a perfect outcome? Are we thanking Him for all of the times He has rescued us already… and trusting Him to be our lifeline in the future? Isn’t it about time we stuck out our hand and let God pull us safely to shore, so to speak? Are you ready for a rescue?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for August 5, 2011

Psalm 103:3-6
He forgives your sins—every one.
He heals your diseases—every one.
He redeems you from hell—saves your life!
He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.
He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal.
He renews your youth—you're always young in his presence.

God makes everything come out right;
he puts victims back on their feet.

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

I am on the list to receive prayer requests from my mother’s church, my Emmaus community, and my own church. I also see needs expressed on Facebook and receive requests from friends and family members as special prayer concerns arise. Some days, the list of expressed needs is quite lengthy, and the burdens can become rather daunting. So many people are hurting in one way or another… illness… grief and loss…the challenges of aging…the challenges of youth and being a teenager, heading off to college or becoming an adult…economic woes… sin… we all have a laundry list of things to talk with God about each and every day. And then we turn on the television and hear the news of incomprehensible suffering in Third World countries… and we can’t help but be overwhelmed at times.

The GOOD NEWS is that God has answers! Many of them are outlined in Psalm 103…and I really love how this translation enumerates them. He heals diseases… every one of them! He saves you from hell… wraps you in goodness…renews your youth. Best of all, He makes everything right! I don’t know about you... but for me, this is fantastic news! I am moved to tears to think of this incredible love and protection… to know that God really is listening to my prayers and meeting my needs.

I don’t know what you are enduring today. You may be ill or have family members who are sick… you may be facing major challenges, such as a new school, a new job, or moving to a new city. You may have suffered a major loss – a loved one, a relationship change, or even the death of a beloved pet. You may feel old and tired… discouraged, depressed, or disappointed. You may have a heavy burden of sin that you are carrying like a backpack filled with rocks. But all of this and so much more matters to God… and He is ready to make things right.

Will you get instant relief? Possibly… although God’s timing is not always as quick as we would like. Will you feel God’s presence? Yes… if you maintain close contact with Him and truly seek Him on a regular basis. Will things get better? Absolutely! It may take awhile…but keep praying and believing. Keep trusting God to meet your every need. Don’t hesitate to ask fellow believers to pray for you – and with you. It is an honor and a blessing to pray for others, and there is tremendous power in corporate prayer. Flood the “airwaves” today with prayer and praise… let God set you back on your feet – and make things right for you and those you love.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for June 21, 2011

2 Samuel 7:28-29
"And now, Master GOD, being the God you are, speaking sure words as you do, and having just said this wonderful thing to me, please, just one more thing: Bless my family; keep your eye on them always. You've already as much as said that you would, Master GOD! Oh, may your blessing be on my family permanently!"

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.

Recently, we added a new member to our family. Three weeks ago, we welcomed Timothy’s baby sister, Zola, to the world. As soon as we knew that Zola was on the way, I began to pray for her. When the doctor declared that the baby would be a girl and a name was selected, I began to ask God specifically to nurture and protect Zola… before her birth and always. In the same way, I am praying for the unborn baby girl that my cousin and his wife are expecting, as well as the many nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives in our extended family.

I don’t always pray for my family members by name… sometimes the prayer is more collective, as in “Please protect my husband’s brothers, their wives and children,” or “LORD, bless my cousins in northwest Arkansas and my husband’s family in Iowa.” But I believe these prayers make a difference… and pack more punch than we realize!

There is a lot of talk in the Old Testament about covenants – agreements between God and His children… promises to lead them through trials and tribulations and keep them safe. In the New Testament, the covenant between us and God comes from the blood of Jesus. When we invite Jesus to be LORD of our life, this covenant blood covers all of our sins and secures our future with Him in heaven. And when we pray and ask God for help, protection, answers, healing, and more… He hears us and delivers – according to His will.

I believe we fail to recognize the power of reminding God of His covenant with us as it extends to our family. There is power in the prayer, “Father, you promised to bless my family and keep your eye on them.” There is even more power in the confidence that God will do exactly this! I have seen the power of these prayers in action… I’ve seen the blessings and protection of God over my family members in a variety of situations. And I’ve come to recognize the power of God’s promise in the lives of those who are faithful. This makes me want to operate more fully in faith.

As much as people are watching, God is watching even more closely. When he sees a family member who is faithful and serving with honor… glorifying His name and trusting Him to mark their steps… I believe God looks at the extended family and blesses accordingly when asked. You may have family members who are not believers… or who certainly are not serving God and honoring Him in their lives. But because of your faithfulness and fervent prayers, God may bring about events that change this. I’m not saying your faith can save your family – or that they can be Christians “by proxy” through you. But I am saying that God will look at you – your service, your requests, and your faithfulness – and He will bless you in ways you can’t imagine – even to caring for your extended family.

So remember to talk to God often about everything – but be sure to remind Him of His covenant with you and your family. Ask Him to bless your parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins – and those yet to come in future generations. Believe that God will hear your prayers and answer according to His will… which is always perfect. Then operate in the confidence that God is “on the clock” – for you and your family!

©2011 Debbie Robus