Job 28:28
And this is what he says to all mankind: ‘Look, to fear the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.’”
The
Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by
permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois
60188. All rights reserved.
I was watching a show
about people who weigh more than 600 pounds and desperately want gastric
bypass surgery to help them lose weight. On one particular episode,
the doctor asked his patient, “What do you eat?” The young man
explained that “I only eat twice a day…but I snack a lot, and I can’t
seem to get by without potatoes – especially potato chips.” The doctor
asked this patient what he thought would happen to him if he stopped
eating the chips. “I would probably lose weight,” he replied.
The
young man really didn’t want to do this. He told the doctor that he
was an emotional eater…that he didn’t eat because he was hungry, but
because he was trying to feed inner conflicts. This is a common
behavior…and the doctor pointed out that if the young man continued to
feed his feelings after surgery, he still would not lose weight.
This
doctor has a reputation for helping morbidly obese people get their
lives back on track…and this young man had a healthy “fear” (respect)
for the doctor’s opinion. He was able to receive psychological
counseling in tandem with the bypass surgery – and he lost almost 400
pounds. But for every “success story” on this program, there are
probably two or three stories of people who simply cannot stop eating
poorly and don’t keep the weight off long-term. In fact, there is a
“five-year mark” that is deemed the true measure of success. If the
patient can lose weight and maintain it for five years, there is a
decent chance that this weight loss will be permanent.
In so many
ways, we are the obese person who looks to God to help us lose our
“weight”…but we don’t want to give up the “chips.” We know that God can
fix us…that He can heal our bodies, minds and souls…that He can resolve
conflicts and set us on the right course in every area of our lives.
But we want Him to do this while we continue right on with our old
habits. We want to wring our hands over people and problems. We want
to eat whatever we choose and sit on our backsides. We want to gripe
and complain, gossip and disparage, and do as we please…and we want God to fix it all.
The
truth is…we can’t have it both ways. A lot of us are wise enough to
trust and “fear” God…but fewer of us have figured out that the real
victory comes in an understanding of how He works. And this means that
we must do our part and forsake evil in all of its forms.
So our
assignment for today is to take a good hard look at our lives and see
where we are allowing “evil” of some sort to control us. Where have we
not fully surrendered to God? Where have we given up on something or
someone instead of humbly trusting God to work in this situation? Where
have we thrown up our hands and said, “It’s no use!” – and “opened the
bag of chips and begun to eat?”
Look at the circumstances of
your life today, and make the necessary changes. Fear (respect) God and
walk in His wisdom – and grow in understanding of how He cares for you
and meets your every need. Surrender your will to God’s…and see how far
He will take you. Make this the day that you shed the weight of a life
not fully offered to God and discover the new “spring in your step”
that comes from letting Him have your burdens. This is the day to
“lighten our load!” I’m all in…are you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label fear of the lord. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fear of the lord. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for December 11, 2015
Ecclesiastes 3:14
I’ve also concluded that whatever God does, that’s the way it’s going to be, always. No addition, no subtraction. God’s done it and that’s it. That’s so we’ll quit asking questions and simply worship in holy fear.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugeterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, our three-year-old Nathan was trying to put some “bristle blocks” together. These are toothed plastic blocks that forge together to form objects and shapes. We had attached a rectangle to four wheels, and Nathan wanted to add another rectangle atop the first one. But instead of snapping this block into place where it belonged, he kept trying to put it over a wheel. He got really upset because this wouldn’t work – and even more upset because I couldn’t make it happen! I kept trying to tell him, “This is not the way it goes together. It won’t work this way.” But Nathan was having none of it.
When I read this scripture, I pictured us – God’s children – standing before Him with our own ideas of how things should be. We show him the “blocks” of our lives and tell Him, “This is how I want to do this.” God says, “That’s not how it’s going to work.” And the argument commences. Often, we are as stubborn as a three-year-old boy. We kick and stomp and demand that God do things our way…that He add this or subtract that and make everything fit our desires. And God just shakes His head in disappointment over our foolishness.
It’s time to grow up! We need to get a grip on God’s power and autonomy over our lives. We need to learn to operate in “holy fear” (respect) for God and His indisputably perfect ways. We need to worship Him…because He deserves our praise and adoration. And we need to trust Him to meet our every need…because He is the only One who can!
The time has come to stop trying to “put the blocks together” like we want…and trust that God has our best interests at heart – always and in all ways. When we recognize that He truly does know what is best for us, we are free to stop questioning and start really believing. Then we can begin to truly live in God’s amazing love and grace – and He can work in and through us. Isn’t this our goal as Christian disciples? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
I’ve also concluded that whatever God does, that’s the way it’s going to be, always. No addition, no subtraction. God’s done it and that’s it. That’s so we’ll quit asking questions and simply worship in holy fear.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugeterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, our three-year-old Nathan was trying to put some “bristle blocks” together. These are toothed plastic blocks that forge together to form objects and shapes. We had attached a rectangle to four wheels, and Nathan wanted to add another rectangle atop the first one. But instead of snapping this block into place where it belonged, he kept trying to put it over a wheel. He got really upset because this wouldn’t work – and even more upset because I couldn’t make it happen! I kept trying to tell him, “This is not the way it goes together. It won’t work this way.” But Nathan was having none of it.
When I read this scripture, I pictured us – God’s children – standing before Him with our own ideas of how things should be. We show him the “blocks” of our lives and tell Him, “This is how I want to do this.” God says, “That’s not how it’s going to work.” And the argument commences. Often, we are as stubborn as a three-year-old boy. We kick and stomp and demand that God do things our way…that He add this or subtract that and make everything fit our desires. And God just shakes His head in disappointment over our foolishness.
It’s time to grow up! We need to get a grip on God’s power and autonomy over our lives. We need to learn to operate in “holy fear” (respect) for God and His indisputably perfect ways. We need to worship Him…because He deserves our praise and adoration. And we need to trust Him to meet our every need…because He is the only One who can!
The time has come to stop trying to “put the blocks together” like we want…and trust that God has our best interests at heart – always and in all ways. When we recognize that He truly does know what is best for us, we are free to stop questioning and start really believing. Then we can begin to truly live in God’s amazing love and grace – and He can work in and through us. Isn’t this our goal as Christian disciples? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 30, 2015
2 Corinthians 5:10-12
For we must all stand before Christ to be judged and have our lives laid bare—before him. Each of us will receive whatever he deserves for the good or bad things he has done in his earthly body.
It is because of this solemn fear of the Lord, which is ever present in our minds, that we work so hard to win others. God knows our hearts, that they are pure in this matter, and I hope that, deep within, you really know it too.
Are we trying to pat ourselves on the back again? No, I am giving you some good ammunition! You can use this on those preachers of yours who brag about how well they look and preach but don’t have true and honest hearts. You can boast about us that we, at least, are well intentioned and honest.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We’ve been practicing on the children’s Christmas program for a month now. The first night, things were very rough. We were all just learning some of the music for the first time. It’s a mix of traditional Christmas hymns and new songs…but the rhythms and nuances of each song are a little un-traditional. I am an assistant to the leader, and I was helping the children with the tempo of the songs. I admit, I was learning right along with them - and fumbling more than a little.
Midway through the practice, a first grader got up and came to me and said, “You need to go home and practice so that you can learn these songs better and teach them to us!” And with a “Hmmph!,” the child spun around and sat down again! I laughed and agreed that yes, I did need to practice and better learn these variations on the songs. And I’ve done that!
I thought this was funny. But there were a few people with whom I shared this story who thought it was appalling. I’ve dealt with enough young children to know that they speak their mind…and this pretty well goes with the territory.
Here’s the thing…I could have played the “adult card” and told this child that I knew better how things should go. I could have spoken to the child’s mother about how I was addressed. But neither of these responses would have been appropriate. Any reaction other than a laugh would indicate that I took myself a little too seriously. And this is what Paul is telling us in this scripture passage.
None of us is perfect. We all make mistakes. Some of us are humble enough to admit that we don’t have all of the answers…that we need God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness each and every day. And some of us think we are “all that and a bag of chips”…and we at least act as if we have no flaws and never make a mess of things!
What does this say to the person who doesn’t fully understand God’s love and mercy? When someone who knows that he/she is an imperfect sinner sees a person who claims to be a Christian - yet operates with a smug arrogance - what is this person to think about the gift of salvation through Jesus?
The point is that we must serve God with respect and humility…knowing that He knows everything we think, say and do – and we will have to answer for these someday. But we must also demonstrate confidence that God is merciful and full of grace – and because we have accepted salvation through the blood of Jesus, the “slate” will be wiped clean.
We must share this same tender grace and mercy with others…and give them an example of Christian faith that they want to claim for themselves. We must give them a reason to confess their sins before God and ask for His forgiveness. We must be the example that what God is doing in our lives…He will surely do in the lives of others. And we can’t do this if we are busy trying to be better than the other guy.
What does your daily living say about who you are as a Christian? Do you operate with respect for God and a humble spirit? Or are you judgmental, arrogant, and a little too smug about your salvation? People are watching…what are you showing them?
©2015 Debbie Robus
For we must all stand before Christ to be judged and have our lives laid bare—before him. Each of us will receive whatever he deserves for the good or bad things he has done in his earthly body.
It is because of this solemn fear of the Lord, which is ever present in our minds, that we work so hard to win others. God knows our hearts, that they are pure in this matter, and I hope that, deep within, you really know it too.
Are we trying to pat ourselves on the back again? No, I am giving you some good ammunition! You can use this on those preachers of yours who brag about how well they look and preach but don’t have true and honest hearts. You can boast about us that we, at least, are well intentioned and honest.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We’ve been practicing on the children’s Christmas program for a month now. The first night, things were very rough. We were all just learning some of the music for the first time. It’s a mix of traditional Christmas hymns and new songs…but the rhythms and nuances of each song are a little un-traditional. I am an assistant to the leader, and I was helping the children with the tempo of the songs. I admit, I was learning right along with them - and fumbling more than a little.
Midway through the practice, a first grader got up and came to me and said, “You need to go home and practice so that you can learn these songs better and teach them to us!” And with a “Hmmph!,” the child spun around and sat down again! I laughed and agreed that yes, I did need to practice and better learn these variations on the songs. And I’ve done that!
I thought this was funny. But there were a few people with whom I shared this story who thought it was appalling. I’ve dealt with enough young children to know that they speak their mind…and this pretty well goes with the territory.
Here’s the thing…I could have played the “adult card” and told this child that I knew better how things should go. I could have spoken to the child’s mother about how I was addressed. But neither of these responses would have been appropriate. Any reaction other than a laugh would indicate that I took myself a little too seriously. And this is what Paul is telling us in this scripture passage.
None of us is perfect. We all make mistakes. Some of us are humble enough to admit that we don’t have all of the answers…that we need God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness each and every day. And some of us think we are “all that and a bag of chips”…and we at least act as if we have no flaws and never make a mess of things!
What does this say to the person who doesn’t fully understand God’s love and mercy? When someone who knows that he/she is an imperfect sinner sees a person who claims to be a Christian - yet operates with a smug arrogance - what is this person to think about the gift of salvation through Jesus?
The point is that we must serve God with respect and humility…knowing that He knows everything we think, say and do – and we will have to answer for these someday. But we must also demonstrate confidence that God is merciful and full of grace – and because we have accepted salvation through the blood of Jesus, the “slate” will be wiped clean.
We must share this same tender grace and mercy with others…and give them an example of Christian faith that they want to claim for themselves. We must give them a reason to confess their sins before God and ask for His forgiveness. We must be the example that what God is doing in our lives…He will surely do in the lives of others. And we can’t do this if we are busy trying to be better than the other guy.
What does your daily living say about who you are as a Christian? Do you operate with respect for God and a humble spirit? Or are you judgmental, arrogant, and a little too smug about your salvation? People are watching…what are you showing them?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 25, 2015
1 John 4:18
We need have no fear of someone who loves us perfectly; his perfect love for us eliminates all dread of what he might do to us. If we are afraid, it is for fear of what he might do to us and shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I am blessed to say that I am fully convinced of Greg’s love for me. I know that not everyone can say this about their relationship…nor can every child say this about his/her parents. Sadly, we live in a world where unconditional, perfect love is not the norm. And I do not wear rose-colored glasses. I know that sometimes I say/do things that aggravate Greg to no end. But still, he loves me and always has my best interests at heart. I do not take this for granted…but man, am I ever glad to be so loved. And I hope that he knows that I love him unconditionally, as well!
I also love Timothy, Zola and Nathan beyond description. I would do almost anything for these children…yet there are times that they get on my last nerve! They are, after all, normal children…so irritating adults is somewhat their job! But they know that I love them…and as far as I can tell, they are not the least bit afraid of me!
None of this “human love” can compare to God’s affection for us. Sure…we all aggravate Him immeasurably at times…but this does not diminish His love for us. Yet some of us are scared to death of Him. I will admit…for many years, I was afraid of God. I operated in fear…I worried that every time I failed Him, I was destined to be rejected and tossed into the depths of hell. Let me assure you…that was a miserable way to live – and it is NOT God’s desire for us in the least!
It is time for us to embrace God’s love for us – and accept Him completely. This is not the same thing as taking Him for granted, which would be totally wrong. Instead, we are to respect God and His power, care, grace, and mercy. But we are also to graciously and honorably say, “Thank you! I will gladly operate in Your love and care and do all I can to glorify such an amazing gift!”
This is the perfect week to shift from a relationship of fearful servanthood to discipleship based in love and gratitude. Are you fully convinced that God really loves you…and do you demonstrate this in your daily living? Isn’t this a good time to begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
We need have no fear of someone who loves us perfectly; his perfect love for us eliminates all dread of what he might do to us. If we are afraid, it is for fear of what he might do to us and shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I am blessed to say that I am fully convinced of Greg’s love for me. I know that not everyone can say this about their relationship…nor can every child say this about his/her parents. Sadly, we live in a world where unconditional, perfect love is not the norm. And I do not wear rose-colored glasses. I know that sometimes I say/do things that aggravate Greg to no end. But still, he loves me and always has my best interests at heart. I do not take this for granted…but man, am I ever glad to be so loved. And I hope that he knows that I love him unconditionally, as well!
I also love Timothy, Zola and Nathan beyond description. I would do almost anything for these children…yet there are times that they get on my last nerve! They are, after all, normal children…so irritating adults is somewhat their job! But they know that I love them…and as far as I can tell, they are not the least bit afraid of me!
None of this “human love” can compare to God’s affection for us. Sure…we all aggravate Him immeasurably at times…but this does not diminish His love for us. Yet some of us are scared to death of Him. I will admit…for many years, I was afraid of God. I operated in fear…I worried that every time I failed Him, I was destined to be rejected and tossed into the depths of hell. Let me assure you…that was a miserable way to live – and it is NOT God’s desire for us in the least!
It is time for us to embrace God’s love for us – and accept Him completely. This is not the same thing as taking Him for granted, which would be totally wrong. Instead, we are to respect God and His power, care, grace, and mercy. But we are also to graciously and honorably say, “Thank you! I will gladly operate in Your love and care and do all I can to glorify such an amazing gift!”
This is the perfect week to shift from a relationship of fearful servanthood to discipleship based in love and gratitude. Are you fully convinced that God really loves you…and do you demonstrate this in your daily living? Isn’t this a good time to begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 24, 2015
1 John 1:9-10
If we claim that we’re free of sin, we’re only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense. On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won’t let us down; he’ll be true to himself. He’ll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing. If we claim that we’ve never sinned, we out-and-out contradict God—make a liar out of him. A claim like that only shows off our ignorance of God.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugeterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The 4th/5th grade Sunday school group and I discussed who might be in God’s family. Surely Moses and Abraham are included…and Mary and Joseph and Jesus’ disciples. Some named family members who have passed – and even a pet or two. We talked about how we are part of God’s family and will join Him and others in heaven someday.
Then one boy said, “Well, Elvis is not part of God’s family…because he ‘did drugs’.” So we had to have a little lesson in sin and salvation through the blood of Jesus. Another boy wisely inserted that “everybody sins.” And I explained that we all sin and do things that displease God, because we are human and imperfect.
But if we have given our heart to Jesus and trusted Him to wash away our sins…and IF we do our dead-level best to live for Him and honor this gift with our thoughts, words and actions, we are forgiven when we sin. And if Elvis did these things, we will meet him in heaven! To go even further, I explained that when we do sin, we must stop and admit this to God and ask His forgiveness. And 1 John 1:9-10 is the proof to back up my claims.
I told the children that we really don’t know who will be in heaven…but I have a feeling that we are in for a few surprises. I believe there will be some folks there that we thought would not “make the cut!” And this is where our judgments get us into trouble! Just as importantly, if we accept Jesus’ gift of salvation and then go on our merry way and do as we please and sin with wild abandon and no remorse, we have disrespected our relationship with God. I hope none of us never makes this mistake.
One point that I made with the students – and want to make with you – is that we must never serve God out of fear. We must never live for Him because we are afraid we will go to hell if we do otherwise. Yes, hell is real – and those who deny God and/or do not accept Jesus’ gift of salvation are destined to spend Eternity there. But fear of hell is not why we should serve God or follow Jesus’ teachings.
God wants us to live for Him out of a deep and abiding love and commitment. He wants us to want to belong to His family. He wants us to readily admit our sins and make a concerted effort to do better…to seek His forgiveness and bask in the unconditional manner in which He delivers redemption. God does not want us to “fear” Him in this manner – all references to “fear of the LORD” in the Bible speak of “healthy respect” – not trepidation and apprehension.
I pray that you are a part of God’s family…that a seat is being prepared for you at His heavenly table for all Eternity. And I pray that you love and serve Him out of a deep desire to belong to Him…and not out of worry and concern or doubt. I pray that your relationship with God is based on respect and understanding of how much He loves you…because in the life of a true Christian, operating in fear of any kind is simply not an option. Now…what are you afraid of?
©2015 Debbie Robus
If we claim that we’re free of sin, we’re only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense. On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won’t let us down; he’ll be true to himself. He’ll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing. If we claim that we’ve never sinned, we out-and-out contradict God—make a liar out of him. A claim like that only shows off our ignorance of God.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugeterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The 4th/5th grade Sunday school group and I discussed who might be in God’s family. Surely Moses and Abraham are included…and Mary and Joseph and Jesus’ disciples. Some named family members who have passed – and even a pet or two. We talked about how we are part of God’s family and will join Him and others in heaven someday.
Then one boy said, “Well, Elvis is not part of God’s family…because he ‘did drugs’.” So we had to have a little lesson in sin and salvation through the blood of Jesus. Another boy wisely inserted that “everybody sins.” And I explained that we all sin and do things that displease God, because we are human and imperfect.
But if we have given our heart to Jesus and trusted Him to wash away our sins…and IF we do our dead-level best to live for Him and honor this gift with our thoughts, words and actions, we are forgiven when we sin. And if Elvis did these things, we will meet him in heaven! To go even further, I explained that when we do sin, we must stop and admit this to God and ask His forgiveness. And 1 John 1:9-10 is the proof to back up my claims.
I told the children that we really don’t know who will be in heaven…but I have a feeling that we are in for a few surprises. I believe there will be some folks there that we thought would not “make the cut!” And this is where our judgments get us into trouble! Just as importantly, if we accept Jesus’ gift of salvation and then go on our merry way and do as we please and sin with wild abandon and no remorse, we have disrespected our relationship with God. I hope none of us never makes this mistake.
One point that I made with the students – and want to make with you – is that we must never serve God out of fear. We must never live for Him because we are afraid we will go to hell if we do otherwise. Yes, hell is real – and those who deny God and/or do not accept Jesus’ gift of salvation are destined to spend Eternity there. But fear of hell is not why we should serve God or follow Jesus’ teachings.
God wants us to live for Him out of a deep and abiding love and commitment. He wants us to want to belong to His family. He wants us to readily admit our sins and make a concerted effort to do better…to seek His forgiveness and bask in the unconditional manner in which He delivers redemption. God does not want us to “fear” Him in this manner – all references to “fear of the LORD” in the Bible speak of “healthy respect” – not trepidation and apprehension.
I pray that you are a part of God’s family…that a seat is being prepared for you at His heavenly table for all Eternity. And I pray that you love and serve Him out of a deep desire to belong to Him…and not out of worry and concern or doubt. I pray that your relationship with God is based on respect and understanding of how much He loves you…because in the life of a true Christian, operating in fear of any kind is simply not an option. Now…what are you afraid of?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 23, 2015
1 Chronicles 16:30-33
God is serious business, take him seriously;
he’s put the earth in place and it’s not moving.
So let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant,
and pass the word among the nations, “God reigns!”
Let Ocean, all teeming with life, bellow,
let Field and all its creatures shake the rafters;
Then the trees in the forest will add their applause
to all who are pleased and present before God
—he’s on his way to set things right!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugeterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
It’s going to be a very busy week for many of us. There are pies to bake, dishes to prep, turkeys to roast – and so much more. Some of us have last-minute projects to complete and classes to attend. Others are scrambling to get on a plane or pack a vehicle and head across the countryside to Grandma’s for the holidays. There is so much happening that many of us will forget WHY we are even celebrating.
We often get so caught up in the stress and “busyness” of our lives that we fail to remember Who put the earth in place! As we hurry through this week and try to juggle all of the balls in the air, let’s stop to give thanks to God, Who makes all things possible.
Let’s be thankful for all that God has given us and show Him the respect and honor that He deserves. Let’s remind ourselves that indeed, God reigns – today, tomorrow, and forever! Without Him, there would be no Thanksgiving…no hope or healing…no salvation or promise of Eternal life! Stop and take a breath this week…give thanks to God for all He does for us…and all that He will do in the days to come.
And at the end of the week, when everything got done, the meal was delicious, and we all had a great time together, thank God for orchestrating that, as well! Let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant…and pass the word…”God reigns!” All thanks be to Him forever and ever!
©2015 Debbie Robus
God is serious business, take him seriously;
he’s put the earth in place and it’s not moving.
So let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant,
and pass the word among the nations, “God reigns!”
Let Ocean, all teeming with life, bellow,
let Field and all its creatures shake the rafters;
Then the trees in the forest will add their applause
to all who are pleased and present before God
—he’s on his way to set things right!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugeterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
It’s going to be a very busy week for many of us. There are pies to bake, dishes to prep, turkeys to roast – and so much more. Some of us have last-minute projects to complete and classes to attend. Others are scrambling to get on a plane or pack a vehicle and head across the countryside to Grandma’s for the holidays. There is so much happening that many of us will forget WHY we are even celebrating.
We often get so caught up in the stress and “busyness” of our lives that we fail to remember Who put the earth in place! As we hurry through this week and try to juggle all of the balls in the air, let’s stop to give thanks to God, Who makes all things possible.
Let’s be thankful for all that God has given us and show Him the respect and honor that He deserves. Let’s remind ourselves that indeed, God reigns – today, tomorrow, and forever! Without Him, there would be no Thanksgiving…no hope or healing…no salvation or promise of Eternal life! Stop and take a breath this week…give thanks to God for all He does for us…and all that He will do in the days to come.
And at the end of the week, when everything got done, the meal was delicious, and we all had a great time together, thank God for orchestrating that, as well! Let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant…and pass the word…”God reigns!” All thanks be to Him forever and ever!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 7, 2015
1 John 4:18
We need have no fear of someone who loves us perfectly; his perfect love for us eliminates all dread of what he might do to us. If we are afraid, it is for fear of what he might do to us and shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Timothy asks me often, “Do you still love me?” Now, he knows that I do, but he seems to need this reassurance. If he misbehaves and I fuss at him, he will sometimes say, “Aww…you don’t love me anymore!” I insist that yes, I still love him…but I am not happy with how he behaved. This is a typical reaction for some children. Timothy apparently got my “people-pleaser” gene! In reality, his worry and concern are wastes of time…but this doesn’t seem to be soaking in with him just yet. Hopefully in time he will be fully convinced that his Uncle Greg and I will always love him.
More than a few of us got this “worry gene” when it comes to trusting the love of God. We are ready at the first sign of trouble to decide that “He must not love me.” We operate in fear of what will happen if we disappoint God...and we just cannot accept that He could love us – warts and all.
Here’s the thing…this really is not about you or me. It’s not about what we have or have not done, as much as it is about the incomprehensible, all-encompassing, unfailing love of our Heavenly Father for each of us. I cannot envision a world where I would not love my little nieces and nephews…and a world does not exist where God would not love us. But we want to dwell in the “human” realm of somehow earning unconditional love…and this simply cannot happen.
So what does this all mean? For me, this is a call to “let go and let God”…to quit worrying about so many things and trust that whatever happens, God has me in the palm of His hand. This is a signal for me stop operating in fear and trepidation over any possible “punishment” that God might deliver out of disappointment or anger. It is a jump-start for me to live with a deep desire to show MY love and respect - and do all that I can to live in God’s will…to listen to His voice and steer clear of the devil’s temptations and suggestions that I am simply not good enough to “merit” His love – and never will be!
This is not how God operates…and the sooner we truly understand this, the sooner we can begin to truly experience His grace, mercy, and blessings. Are you fully convinced that God loves you…that His deepest desire is for you to thrive in everything you experience - and bask in His abundant care and blessings? Won’t you join me today and drop your worries at His feet…and embrace this amazing gift of unconditional love and care? This is the day that the LORD has made…aren’t you ready to really enjoy it?
©2015 Debbie Robus
We need have no fear of someone who loves us perfectly; his perfect love for us eliminates all dread of what he might do to us. If we are afraid, it is for fear of what he might do to us and shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Timothy asks me often, “Do you still love me?” Now, he knows that I do, but he seems to need this reassurance. If he misbehaves and I fuss at him, he will sometimes say, “Aww…you don’t love me anymore!” I insist that yes, I still love him…but I am not happy with how he behaved. This is a typical reaction for some children. Timothy apparently got my “people-pleaser” gene! In reality, his worry and concern are wastes of time…but this doesn’t seem to be soaking in with him just yet. Hopefully in time he will be fully convinced that his Uncle Greg and I will always love him.
More than a few of us got this “worry gene” when it comes to trusting the love of God. We are ready at the first sign of trouble to decide that “He must not love me.” We operate in fear of what will happen if we disappoint God...and we just cannot accept that He could love us – warts and all.
Here’s the thing…this really is not about you or me. It’s not about what we have or have not done, as much as it is about the incomprehensible, all-encompassing, unfailing love of our Heavenly Father for each of us. I cannot envision a world where I would not love my little nieces and nephews…and a world does not exist where God would not love us. But we want to dwell in the “human” realm of somehow earning unconditional love…and this simply cannot happen.
So what does this all mean? For me, this is a call to “let go and let God”…to quit worrying about so many things and trust that whatever happens, God has me in the palm of His hand. This is a signal for me stop operating in fear and trepidation over any possible “punishment” that God might deliver out of disappointment or anger. It is a jump-start for me to live with a deep desire to show MY love and respect - and do all that I can to live in God’s will…to listen to His voice and steer clear of the devil’s temptations and suggestions that I am simply not good enough to “merit” His love – and never will be!
This is not how God operates…and the sooner we truly understand this, the sooner we can begin to truly experience His grace, mercy, and blessings. Are you fully convinced that God loves you…that His deepest desire is for you to thrive in everything you experience - and bask in His abundant care and blessings? Won’t you join me today and drop your worries at His feet…and embrace this amazing gift of unconditional love and care? This is the day that the LORD has made…aren’t you ready to really enjoy it?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 24, 2012
Deuteronomy 10:12
People of Israel, what does the Lord your God want from you? The Lord wants you to respect and follow him, to love and serve him with all your heart and soul…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of my cousin Natalie. I remember when she was born… my husband and I had been married less than a year, and my parents would place this darling baby in my lap and say, “When you finish college, maybe you will have one of these.” When Natalie’s brother Franklin came along four years later, they would hand him to me and say, “Doesn’t this make you want a baby?” As much as I love Natalie and Franklin, babies were not in the plans for us… at least not at that stage in our lives! But oh, how I loved my cousins. They were adorable… and easy to love – and they still are today! I am so proud of who they have become as adults… and parents themselves!
While it is easy to love some people… others are what I would describe as “unlovable” – or at the very least, “unlovely.” Yet, as Disciples of Christ and people who “walk in the fear of the LORD” (meaning we love and respect God and His commandments), we are called to “love one another.” We must recognize that the “unlovely” and “unlovable” are just as important, precious, and adorable to God as we are!
I totally understand how hard this is for us. When the telemarketer calls and interrupts my dinner or an evening movie, I find it hard to be kind and loving. When someone mistreats me - or worse…when I learn of the abuse of a child or watch news reports about the horrors of war or the mistreatment of an animal, I find it hard to love the perpetrator. And while we are right to be outraged and/or insulted… the ultimate judgment and justice resides with God. Trusting Him to handle these things is tantamount to operating in Christian faith.
Today, think of someone that you consider “unlovable” or “unlovely.” I bet you won’t have to look very far – we’re a pretty judgmental lot! Now imagine God wrapping His arms around them and loving them as much as you love your most dear child, cousin, or friend. Consider that this person is just as important to God as we are… and He expects us to treat them fairly. This doesn’t mean we have to go out of our way to be nice to a criminal or bully – but we must love them in our hearts… and genuinely pray for their soul.
We can’t have it both ways. We can’t say we “walk in the fear of the LORD” and also claim we find it impossible to love – or even tolerate – some people. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a lot of work to do in this area. But it could be some of the most important work of my life, and I’m more than ready to begin. To “walk in the fear of the LORD” – keeping God’s commandments – is the foundation of all happiness. This means I’m going to have to work harder at loving those who make it so difficult… and I’m willing to do this. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
People of Israel, what does the Lord your God want from you? The Lord wants you to respect and follow him, to love and serve him with all your heart and soul…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of my cousin Natalie. I remember when she was born… my husband and I had been married less than a year, and my parents would place this darling baby in my lap and say, “When you finish college, maybe you will have one of these.” When Natalie’s brother Franklin came along four years later, they would hand him to me and say, “Doesn’t this make you want a baby?” As much as I love Natalie and Franklin, babies were not in the plans for us… at least not at that stage in our lives! But oh, how I loved my cousins. They were adorable… and easy to love – and they still are today! I am so proud of who they have become as adults… and parents themselves!
While it is easy to love some people… others are what I would describe as “unlovable” – or at the very least, “unlovely.” Yet, as Disciples of Christ and people who “walk in the fear of the LORD” (meaning we love and respect God and His commandments), we are called to “love one another.” We must recognize that the “unlovely” and “unlovable” are just as important, precious, and adorable to God as we are!
I totally understand how hard this is for us. When the telemarketer calls and interrupts my dinner or an evening movie, I find it hard to be kind and loving. When someone mistreats me - or worse…when I learn of the abuse of a child or watch news reports about the horrors of war or the mistreatment of an animal, I find it hard to love the perpetrator. And while we are right to be outraged and/or insulted… the ultimate judgment and justice resides with God. Trusting Him to handle these things is tantamount to operating in Christian faith.
Today, think of someone that you consider “unlovable” or “unlovely.” I bet you won’t have to look very far – we’re a pretty judgmental lot! Now imagine God wrapping His arms around them and loving them as much as you love your most dear child, cousin, or friend. Consider that this person is just as important to God as we are… and He expects us to treat them fairly. This doesn’t mean we have to go out of our way to be nice to a criminal or bully – but we must love them in our hearts… and genuinely pray for their soul.
We can’t have it both ways. We can’t say we “walk in the fear of the LORD” and also claim we find it impossible to love – or even tolerate – some people. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a lot of work to do in this area. But it could be some of the most important work of my life, and I’m more than ready to begin. To “walk in the fear of the LORD” – keeping God’s commandments – is the foundation of all happiness. This means I’m going to have to work harder at loving those who make it so difficult… and I’m willing to do this. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 22, 2012
Psalm 128:1
The Lord will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I saw a news report on a documentary film that has been made about drug dealers in Mexico… except the actors were all children instead of adults. The four-minute film is a commentary on the upcoming presidential elections in our neighboring country to the south. Deemed a “wake-up” call, this “mocumentary” has gone viral on YouTube and ends with a little girl saying, “If this is the future that awaits me, I don't want it. Enough of working for your political parties instead of for us. Enough of cosmetic changes.”
As I watched the video, I was struck by the thought that every adult is someone’s child. And in that context, I would hope we find it a little more difficult to be so harsh and judgmental toward others. At the very least, when we think about the person who commits a heinous crime and see his/her grieving parents on the news, we should have compassion… for them AND – to some degree - for the culprit. Somewhere along the line, this person lost his/her respect for – and obedience to – God’s laws. And in many ways, we have all done the same thing as we choose to follow our own desires – or the will of man – rather than God’s.
We are all familiar with the “Ten Commandments” as given to Moses by God. We probably all know them pretty well by heart. But in the New Testament, Jesus gave us two basic “laws”… “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, mind and soul,” and “Love one another as He has loved us.” If/when we do these things, everything else falls into place. All you have to do is stop and ask yourself if your words and actions reflect a love for God with all your heart, mind and soul… and whether they show a love for others. It’s truly that simple… and that complicated all at once!
If we consider Jesus’ commands, we cannot be judgmental, immoral, unkind, indecent, or perverse. We cannot be arrogant, pious, or proud. We cannot murder, steal, lie or cheat. To love God on this level means we must fully surrender our “program” for God’s… and walk in respect and reverence of Him at all times.
I don’t know what man-made “laws” - or interpretations of God’s law - are governing (and/or burdening) you today. But I do know that the only laws that matter are God’s… and it’s up to us to determine which are which! If we operate in the fear (respect and reverence) of the LORD and walk in His ways… obey His laws… our choices and decisions become fairly simple – and the blessings are sure to be evident. Ask yourself simply and prayerfully, “Does this line up with the word and will of God?” Your answer will determine how you proceed… and inevitably control the outcome.
To paraphrase the little girl in the movie…“Enough of living according to man’s law and his interpretation of the word of God. Enough of pretending to serve God while serving our own interests.” It’s time to make sure we are in step with God’s will at all times. Are you asking the right questions? Whose laws are you following these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
The Lord will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I saw a news report on a documentary film that has been made about drug dealers in Mexico… except the actors were all children instead of adults. The four-minute film is a commentary on the upcoming presidential elections in our neighboring country to the south. Deemed a “wake-up” call, this “mocumentary” has gone viral on YouTube and ends with a little girl saying, “If this is the future that awaits me, I don't want it. Enough of working for your political parties instead of for us. Enough of cosmetic changes.”
As I watched the video, I was struck by the thought that every adult is someone’s child. And in that context, I would hope we find it a little more difficult to be so harsh and judgmental toward others. At the very least, when we think about the person who commits a heinous crime and see his/her grieving parents on the news, we should have compassion… for them AND – to some degree - for the culprit. Somewhere along the line, this person lost his/her respect for – and obedience to – God’s laws. And in many ways, we have all done the same thing as we choose to follow our own desires – or the will of man – rather than God’s.
We are all familiar with the “Ten Commandments” as given to Moses by God. We probably all know them pretty well by heart. But in the New Testament, Jesus gave us two basic “laws”… “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, mind and soul,” and “Love one another as He has loved us.” If/when we do these things, everything else falls into place. All you have to do is stop and ask yourself if your words and actions reflect a love for God with all your heart, mind and soul… and whether they show a love for others. It’s truly that simple… and that complicated all at once!
If we consider Jesus’ commands, we cannot be judgmental, immoral, unkind, indecent, or perverse. We cannot be arrogant, pious, or proud. We cannot murder, steal, lie or cheat. To love God on this level means we must fully surrender our “program” for God’s… and walk in respect and reverence of Him at all times.
I don’t know what man-made “laws” - or interpretations of God’s law - are governing (and/or burdening) you today. But I do know that the only laws that matter are God’s… and it’s up to us to determine which are which! If we operate in the fear (respect and reverence) of the LORD and walk in His ways… obey His laws… our choices and decisions become fairly simple – and the blessings are sure to be evident. Ask yourself simply and prayerfully, “Does this line up with the word and will of God?” Your answer will determine how you proceed… and inevitably control the outcome.
To paraphrase the little girl in the movie…“Enough of living according to man’s law and his interpretation of the word of God. Enough of pretending to serve God while serving our own interests.” It’s time to make sure we are in step with God’s will at all times. Are you asking the right questions? Whose laws are you following these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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