John 14:15-21
“If you love me, keep my commands.
And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help
you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot
accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him,
for he lives with you and will be in you.
I will not leave you
as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me
anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On
that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and
I am in you. Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who
loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too
will love them and show myself to them.”
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 honestly do not know how
people function without faith. After my mother died, someone commented
to me one day about how they felt like an orphan when both of her
parents had passed. And I totally get that…it’s a really different
feeling to realize that you have no parents living on this earth. All of
my parents and grandparents are in heaven now. All of those heavy
influences in my life are gone. But at the same time…they are still
with me in so many ways.
I think of my parents every time I
pass the china hutch and see their wedding dishes on display there. I
look at old photos and remember happy times – and they are with me. I
get out my heavy cast iron Dutch oven and cook something, and Mam-ma
Polly is standing right beside me. One of the children curls up his/her
mouth in a little smirky smile…and there’s my dad! More importantly, I
hear their sage advice and Christian wisdom echo in my ear as I go about
my day. I think of something I really would like to share with
them…and realize that they already know!
In even a more profound
way, Jesus is always with us. We may be reminded of His presence if we
see a cross or other religious symbol…but it’s so much more than that.
When we read scripture, the Holy Spirit speaks to us. When you start to
“like” that ugly comment on Facebook, and “something” stops you…that’s
Jesus speaking to you through His Holy Spirit!
When you
are fearful or nervous…lonely or upset…and a sudden “calm” washes over
you…that is your Advocate providing you with peace and courage. When
you pray and ask God for answers…and they come…you are keenly aware that
He is with you and meeting your needs. When something wonderful happens
in your life, and you are filled with incredible joy and elation…you
know that the Holy Spirit is celebrating with you – and cheering you on!
Again
I say, it must feel incredibly empty to try to live without Jesus and
His Holy Spirit. The sense of loneliness and hopelessness must be
overwhelming at times. I am so grateful that I belong to Jesus and do
not have to experience this. I am thankful that He has not only filled
my heart with His truth in the form of the Holy Spirit…but He has also
given me the confidence that my loved ones are waiting for me with Him
in Heaven.
I do my very best to keep Jesus’ commands and honor
this incredible gift…confident that He will never leave me or let me
falter. Ours is a relationship that I want to nurture at every
turn...and you can have this same connection. Paraphrasing the old hymn
says…”Because Jesus lives [and His Holy Spirit is my Advocate and
constant Truth]…I can face tomorrow.” What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label feeling the presence of Jesus through the Holy Spirit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label feeling the presence of Jesus through the Holy Spirit. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for March 24, 2016
Acts 2:1-4
Seven weeks had gone by since Jesus’ death and resurrection, and the Day of Pentecost had now arrived. As the believers met together that day, suddenly there was a sound like the roaring of a mighty windstorm in the skies above them and it filled the house where they were meeting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on their heads. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in languages they didn’t know, for the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Today I’ve been thinking a lot about my mother…probably because I visited one of her lifelong friends earlier, and we reminisced about the fun adventures they shared. I also encountered some dear friends and fellow church members as I shopped at Walmart who spoke of my mother and asked how I was doing. I told them that I am doing well – and for the most part, I believe this. But later, I asked myself, why is this the case? How is it that I have been able to function somewhat normally in the two-plus months since my mother’s fairly sudden death? And the only answer that I can muster is…”I am acting under the power of the Holy Spirit.”
I didn’t feel the “whoosh” of a windstorm, as described in the Book of Acts. In fact, I don’t “feel” anything at all, except a profound calm and confidence. But I do sense that I am operating under the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life, because this is the only explanation that makes any sense.
Today is “Maundy Thursday,” the day we Christians take note of Jesus’ “last supper” with His disciples…His prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane and His betrayal there by Judas. We ponder Jesus’ arrest, Peter’s denial of any relationship with Him, and the horrific beating and torturous “interrogation” inflicted upon Him by the Roman soldiers. And one has to ask how Jesus endured all of this…knowing every step of the way exactly what would happen to Him.
We see in scripture that Jesus actually asked God if there might be another way – one that did not involve so much suffering and agony. And yet, He obediently surrendered to God’s will and sacrificed His life for the sins of each of us. Jesus trusted that God would provide…that He would make a way for Him to endure all of this. And that’s what we must do with the Holy Spirit. This presence is not something we can physically see – or even tangibly feel. But we know when we are experiencing the Holy Spirit’s power, and we must trust Him to steer us through every circumstance that the day brings.
We sense when the Holy Spirit is equipping us with abilities that we would not otherwise possess…when we have an Inner Strength that we are quite certain is not of our own making…when there is Peace and Comfort that defies logic. The God who appeared to a crowd of believers on the Day of Pentecost and caused them to speak in unknown languages is the same God who can fill us with His Holy Spirit and enable us to accomplish things we never imagined we would be able to handle.
If you do not yet recognize the power of the Holy Spirit in your own life, there is no time like the present. All you have to do is call on Him to fill your heart and mind…then trust that He is with you. I have found that sometimes it helps to actually sit and repeat the phrase, “Come, Holy Spirit, and fill me!” And He does!
Jesus sacrificed so much so that our sins could be forgiven…and so that we could have this special Comforter to guide and protect us each day. Won’t you recognize His presence in your heart and mind today? You may not feel the wind and fire or speak in unknown tongues…but He will be with you, all the same. Aren’t you ready to get to know Him?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Seven weeks had gone by since Jesus’ death and resurrection, and the Day of Pentecost had now arrived. As the believers met together that day, suddenly there was a sound like the roaring of a mighty windstorm in the skies above them and it filled the house where they were meeting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on their heads. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in languages they didn’t know, for the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Today I’ve been thinking a lot about my mother…probably because I visited one of her lifelong friends earlier, and we reminisced about the fun adventures they shared. I also encountered some dear friends and fellow church members as I shopped at Walmart who spoke of my mother and asked how I was doing. I told them that I am doing well – and for the most part, I believe this. But later, I asked myself, why is this the case? How is it that I have been able to function somewhat normally in the two-plus months since my mother’s fairly sudden death? And the only answer that I can muster is…”I am acting under the power of the Holy Spirit.”
I didn’t feel the “whoosh” of a windstorm, as described in the Book of Acts. In fact, I don’t “feel” anything at all, except a profound calm and confidence. But I do sense that I am operating under the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life, because this is the only explanation that makes any sense.
Today is “Maundy Thursday,” the day we Christians take note of Jesus’ “last supper” with His disciples…His prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane and His betrayal there by Judas. We ponder Jesus’ arrest, Peter’s denial of any relationship with Him, and the horrific beating and torturous “interrogation” inflicted upon Him by the Roman soldiers. And one has to ask how Jesus endured all of this…knowing every step of the way exactly what would happen to Him.
We see in scripture that Jesus actually asked God if there might be another way – one that did not involve so much suffering and agony. And yet, He obediently surrendered to God’s will and sacrificed His life for the sins of each of us. Jesus trusted that God would provide…that He would make a way for Him to endure all of this. And that’s what we must do with the Holy Spirit. This presence is not something we can physically see – or even tangibly feel. But we know when we are experiencing the Holy Spirit’s power, and we must trust Him to steer us through every circumstance that the day brings.
We sense when the Holy Spirit is equipping us with abilities that we would not otherwise possess…when we have an Inner Strength that we are quite certain is not of our own making…when there is Peace and Comfort that defies logic. The God who appeared to a crowd of believers on the Day of Pentecost and caused them to speak in unknown languages is the same God who can fill us with His Holy Spirit and enable us to accomplish things we never imagined we would be able to handle.
If you do not yet recognize the power of the Holy Spirit in your own life, there is no time like the present. All you have to do is call on Him to fill your heart and mind…then trust that He is with you. I have found that sometimes it helps to actually sit and repeat the phrase, “Come, Holy Spirit, and fill me!” And He does!
Jesus sacrificed so much so that our sins could be forgiven…and so that we could have this special Comforter to guide and protect us each day. Won’t you recognize His presence in your heart and mind today? You may not feel the wind and fire or speak in unknown tongues…but He will be with you, all the same. Aren’t you ready to get to know Him?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 4, 2015
Matthew 8:18-20
“Take this most seriously: A yes on earth is yes in heaven; a no on earth is no in heaven. What you say to one another is eternal. I mean this. When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I’ll be there.”
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.
The director of our church’s Children’s Ministries suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage about a month ago. On MayoClinic.org, I found this description: “Subarachnoid hemorrhage is bleeding in the space between your brain and the surrounding membrane (subarachnoid space).” It has been “touch and go” for much of this month with Donna…and she has endured countless tests and treatments to get everything stabilized. She’s still not there…but she is far closer than she was a month ago.
Everyone loves Donna…and the children have been concerned about her recovery. So when we met Sunday night for the first rehearsal of our Christmas Program, the person in charge asked if anyone would like to lead a closing prayer. A fourth grader named Kael readily volunteered. He prayed sweetly, asking God to help us learn the music and to be able to give a good performance. And then he prayed for Mrs. Donna…that God would heal her and bring her back to us.
In that moment, an hour spent with 30+ children and adults singing “Joy to the World” and dancing along with animated camels on the projection screen while singing “We Three Kings” got incredibly holy. We were gathered to rehearse for the program and learn some new music to celebrate Jesus and glorify God during the Christmas Season…but in that closing prayer, Heaven went into action big time!
Yesterday, while I did my pool workout, I thought about the scripture from Matthew 11 about trading our “yoke” for that of Jesus. I jogged around the pool and gave my “yoke” to Him. I would say, “Lord, I give you this worry. Please take that concern. I give you this person, and that one, and another.” By the end of a half-hour workout, my “yoke” was so much lighter. I felt the presence and comfort of Jesus’ yoke vs. my own. It was one of the best workouts I’ve had in a while…and certainly a holy time.
My point is this…holy moments and opportunities are all around us. They don’t just happen during a formal worship service, a Bible study, or other organized assemblies. When you need Jesus, He is there. When your heart is burdened for someone or something, you can give that “yoke” to Him, and Heaven will go into action! When a 9-year-old child pours out his concern for a beloved spiritual leader - and the sentiment is silently echoed by dozens who are standing with him – God hears the pleas. And He is ready to answer.
So get busy talking to God. Trade your “yoke” for that of Jesus, and feel the burdens lifted from your shoulders. Discover the power of compounded prayers as you “activate the heavens” by sharing your burdens and concerns with others…and agree together over them as you talk to God. Realize that every time you offer to pray for someone – and actually do it…God answers. And He does the same when someone prays for you!
I can imagine that the decibel level in Heaven must be astounding at any given minute, as millions of people lift their worries and concerns to God…and He hears and answers each and every one. Are yours among them? Don’t you think it’s time they were?
©2015 Debbie Robus
“Take this most seriously: A yes on earth is yes in heaven; a no on earth is no in heaven. What you say to one another is eternal. I mean this. When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I’ll be there.”
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.
The director of our church’s Children’s Ministries suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage about a month ago. On MayoClinic.org, I found this description: “Subarachnoid hemorrhage is bleeding in the space between your brain and the surrounding membrane (subarachnoid space).” It has been “touch and go” for much of this month with Donna…and she has endured countless tests and treatments to get everything stabilized. She’s still not there…but she is far closer than she was a month ago.
Everyone loves Donna…and the children have been concerned about her recovery. So when we met Sunday night for the first rehearsal of our Christmas Program, the person in charge asked if anyone would like to lead a closing prayer. A fourth grader named Kael readily volunteered. He prayed sweetly, asking God to help us learn the music and to be able to give a good performance. And then he prayed for Mrs. Donna…that God would heal her and bring her back to us.
In that moment, an hour spent with 30+ children and adults singing “Joy to the World” and dancing along with animated camels on the projection screen while singing “We Three Kings” got incredibly holy. We were gathered to rehearse for the program and learn some new music to celebrate Jesus and glorify God during the Christmas Season…but in that closing prayer, Heaven went into action big time!
Yesterday, while I did my pool workout, I thought about the scripture from Matthew 11 about trading our “yoke” for that of Jesus. I jogged around the pool and gave my “yoke” to Him. I would say, “Lord, I give you this worry. Please take that concern. I give you this person, and that one, and another.” By the end of a half-hour workout, my “yoke” was so much lighter. I felt the presence and comfort of Jesus’ yoke vs. my own. It was one of the best workouts I’ve had in a while…and certainly a holy time.
My point is this…holy moments and opportunities are all around us. They don’t just happen during a formal worship service, a Bible study, or other organized assemblies. When you need Jesus, He is there. When your heart is burdened for someone or something, you can give that “yoke” to Him, and Heaven will go into action! When a 9-year-old child pours out his concern for a beloved spiritual leader - and the sentiment is silently echoed by dozens who are standing with him – God hears the pleas. And He is ready to answer.
So get busy talking to God. Trade your “yoke” for that of Jesus, and feel the burdens lifted from your shoulders. Discover the power of compounded prayers as you “activate the heavens” by sharing your burdens and concerns with others…and agree together over them as you talk to God. Realize that every time you offer to pray for someone – and actually do it…God answers. And He does the same when someone prays for you!
I can imagine that the decibel level in Heaven must be astounding at any given minute, as millions of people lift their worries and concerns to God…and He hears and answers each and every one. Are yours among them? Don’t you think it’s time they were?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 16, 2014
John 16:7
But I tell you that I am going to do what is best for you. That is why I am going away. The Holy Spirit cannot come to help you until I leave. But after I am gone, I will send the Spirit to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We took the kiddos to Pizza Hut for lunch after church yesterday. When Greg went to pay the bill, Timothy wanted to go with him. At first I told him to stay in his seat. But Timothy persisted, and I could see Greg standing at the cash register…so I decided it was safe for Timmy to join him. Plus, Timothy kept saying in a confident-but-not-bossy tone, “I’ll handle it! I can handle it!” So I let him go. And several times in the 10 or 20-foot walk to his uncle, Timothy looked back with a smile and said, “I’ll handle it!”
I’ll be honest…there have been a couple of times in this little guy’s short life when letting him go was truly heart-rending. Twice he came to visit his grandparents and us for extended stays, and then we returned him to Texas to live with his family. We all knew that he needed to be with his parents and his siblings…and he would talk about “going home to Mom and Dad”. But the head and heart are often in conflict – and these experiences were no exception!
We assured Timothy that even though he was separated from us by hundreds of miles, we would always love him…that he would forever be in our hearts. We told him, “Look at the moon and remember that we are seeing the same moon…and we love you to the moon and back!” When we would talk on the phone, we would ask him, “Did you see the moon? Do you remember how much we love you?” More importantly, we reminded him countless times of how much God loved him…and that God would never leave him, no matter where he went. I truly believe this 5-year-old boy comprehends God’s presence, love and care - as much as a child can grasp any intangible concept! He knows that God will “handle it”…no matter where he is or what happens.
Saying “Good-bye” is difficult sometimes…maybe even gut-wrenching…but often necessary. It was important that Timothy return to his parents and siblings. And it was necessary for Jesus to physically leave earth and return to Heaven. Thankfully, Timothy and his family returned to Arkansas almost two years ago, so we have all been reunited in the same community and see each other often. And someday, we believers will be reunited with Jesus. But in the meantime, we can carry His Holy Spirit in our hearts. We know that wherever we go…whatever we do…He is with us. We can feel His love and presence and know that He is near. Like the moon reminded a toddler that he was loved from afar, we have reminders of Christ’s love and care at every turn.
I realize that not every “Good-bye” comes with the assurance that there will be a reunion…at least not an earthly one. Many of us have said a necessary “Good-bye” to loved ones who have passed from this earthly life to a heavenly one…if only our “four-legged” family members. We carry memories of them in our hearts and remind ourselves of their physical existence through photos, conversations with others, and thoughts of the times we shared together. For the most part, these give us comfort…and honestly, I believe these reminders are a gift from God…another way that He assures us that “I’ve got this! This is how I’m helping you handle your grief and loss.”
As I look back over the events of my life, I can see that there are more times that God has handled things for me than I can count. Every day, I realize even more just how near to me the Holy Spirit is…how often and effectively He works in and through me…and provides for my every need. I can’t imagine anyone will be happier to meet Jesus face-to-face than I…but in the meantime, I know that I am never alone. The Spirit has come to me…and every hour of my day, He says, “I’ll handle it!”…and He does! Has the Holy Spirit come to your heart to handle things? Don’t you think it’s time you invited Him to do just that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
But I tell you that I am going to do what is best for you. That is why I am going away. The Holy Spirit cannot come to help you until I leave. But after I am gone, I will send the Spirit to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We took the kiddos to Pizza Hut for lunch after church yesterday. When Greg went to pay the bill, Timothy wanted to go with him. At first I told him to stay in his seat. But Timothy persisted, and I could see Greg standing at the cash register…so I decided it was safe for Timmy to join him. Plus, Timothy kept saying in a confident-but-not-bossy tone, “I’ll handle it! I can handle it!” So I let him go. And several times in the 10 or 20-foot walk to his uncle, Timothy looked back with a smile and said, “I’ll handle it!”
I’ll be honest…there have been a couple of times in this little guy’s short life when letting him go was truly heart-rending. Twice he came to visit his grandparents and us for extended stays, and then we returned him to Texas to live with his family. We all knew that he needed to be with his parents and his siblings…and he would talk about “going home to Mom and Dad”. But the head and heart are often in conflict – and these experiences were no exception!
We assured Timothy that even though he was separated from us by hundreds of miles, we would always love him…that he would forever be in our hearts. We told him, “Look at the moon and remember that we are seeing the same moon…and we love you to the moon and back!” When we would talk on the phone, we would ask him, “Did you see the moon? Do you remember how much we love you?” More importantly, we reminded him countless times of how much God loved him…and that God would never leave him, no matter where he went. I truly believe this 5-year-old boy comprehends God’s presence, love and care - as much as a child can grasp any intangible concept! He knows that God will “handle it”…no matter where he is or what happens.
Saying “Good-bye” is difficult sometimes…maybe even gut-wrenching…but often necessary. It was important that Timothy return to his parents and siblings. And it was necessary for Jesus to physically leave earth and return to Heaven. Thankfully, Timothy and his family returned to Arkansas almost two years ago, so we have all been reunited in the same community and see each other often. And someday, we believers will be reunited with Jesus. But in the meantime, we can carry His Holy Spirit in our hearts. We know that wherever we go…whatever we do…He is with us. We can feel His love and presence and know that He is near. Like the moon reminded a toddler that he was loved from afar, we have reminders of Christ’s love and care at every turn.
I realize that not every “Good-bye” comes with the assurance that there will be a reunion…at least not an earthly one. Many of us have said a necessary “Good-bye” to loved ones who have passed from this earthly life to a heavenly one…if only our “four-legged” family members. We carry memories of them in our hearts and remind ourselves of their physical existence through photos, conversations with others, and thoughts of the times we shared together. For the most part, these give us comfort…and honestly, I believe these reminders are a gift from God…another way that He assures us that “I’ve got this! This is how I’m helping you handle your grief and loss.”
As I look back over the events of my life, I can see that there are more times that God has handled things for me than I can count. Every day, I realize even more just how near to me the Holy Spirit is…how often and effectively He works in and through me…and provides for my every need. I can’t imagine anyone will be happier to meet Jesus face-to-face than I…but in the meantime, I know that I am never alone. The Spirit has come to me…and every hour of my day, He says, “I’ll handle it!”…and He does! Has the Holy Spirit come to your heart to handle things? Don’t you think it’s time you invited Him to do just that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 16, 2014
Isaiah 53
Has anyone believed us
or seen the mighty power
of the Lord in action?
2 Like a young plant or a root
that sprouts in dry ground,
the servant grew up
obeying the Lord.
He wasn’t some handsome king.
Nothing about the way he looked
made him attractive to us.
3 He was hated and rejected;
his life was filled with sorrow
and terrible suffering.
No one wanted to look at him.
We despised him and said,
“He is a nobody!”
4 He suffered and endured
great pain for us,
but we thought his suffering
was punishment from God.
5 He was wounded and crushed
because of our sins;
by taking our punishment,
he made us completely well.
6 All of us were like sheep
that had wandered off.
We had each gone our own way,
but the Lord gave him
the punishment we deserved.
7 He was painfully abused,
but he did not complain.
He was silent like a lamb
being led to the butcher,
as quiet as a sheep
having its wool cut off.
8 He was condemned to death
without a fair trial.
Who could have imagined
what would happen to him?
His life was taken away
because of the sinful things
my people had done.
9 He wasn’t dishonest or violent,
but he was buried in a tomb
of cruel and rich people.
10 The Lord decided his servant
would suffer as a sacrifice
to take away the sin
and guilt of others.
Now the servant will live
to see his own descendants.
He did everything
the Lord had planned.
11 By suffering, the servant
will learn the true meaning
of obeying the Lord.
Although he is innocent,
he will take the punishment
for the sins of others,
so that many of them
will no longer be guilty.
12 The Lord will reward him
with honor and power
for sacrificing his life.
Others thought he was a sinner,
but he suffered for our sins
and asked God to forgive us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A post appeared on Facebook with a link to a story about a company who set up online job interviews for the “World’s Toughest Job”. The “interviewers” spoke via the Internet with dozens of applicants. Some of the criteria for the job included: working up to 135 hours per week (at least one person was told, “Basically, this is a 24/7 position.)…no scheduled breaks…you must be able to stand most of the time, bend and stretch – and lift approximately 75 pounds…a psychology degree was preferred, but a pleasant disposition and the ability to solve problems and act as a mediator were a necessity. You had to be able to work in a chaotic environment…possess a valid driver’s license and be able to drive a mini-van…and be proficient in coordinating schedules, multi-tasking, and handling surprises.
Applicants had to have a good grasp of finance…and medicine. At least one candidate was told, “It would be nice if you had degrees in medicine, finance, culinary arts, and psychology.” Most importantly…there was NO PAY for this position! The majority of the applicants folded pretty quickly. But a few asked questions and stuck around to hear more. At the end of the “interview”, the applicant was told that there really was no job vacancy. I’m sure some of you have already guessed that this was the position of being a mom…and the interviewers suggested to each applicant that he/she might want to give Mom a call and thank her!
There are conflicting views about who is referenced in Isaiah 53, but I believe that this is a prophecy of Jesus and His crucifixion. Scriptures in the Gospels that reference this passage seem to confirm this. And as I read the verses and thought of Jesus, I thought of this mock interview by comparison. What if these were among the criteria on the interview:
Who among us could handle these criteria? We might make it past the first two…maybe even the third and fourth items. But it wouldn’t take long for us to fall by the wayside. We are not up to this! In the “mock interview”, the person in charge told those who applied that millions of people were already doing the “World’s Toughest Job”. But I can assure you, not even a dozen people would line up to try to fill Jesus’ shoes! And any who say they could are liars…or delusional…or both!
None of us could ever for even one minute consider coming close to Jesus. And yet, everything He did was for us. Every supernatural act of stamina, love, mercy, grace, compassion, forgiveness, endurance, tolerance, healing, and nurture was for you…and for me…and for everyone else. As we inch closer to the cross, think of all that Jesus did for you…all that He DOES for you each and every day. Because you see, Jesus is still with you. He left His Holy Spirit to be your companion and comforter. Some of us don’t recognize the Holy Spirit, but He is available...He desires to help you with every single aspect of your life.
Yes, Mom’s have one of the world’s toughest jobs. But Jesus holds the title of World’s Only Savior. He is the only One who could have done such things. He is the only One who will ever love us to this extent. It turns out that the whole gimmick with the “World’s Toughest Job” was created by a card company… http://cardstore.com. Mother’s Day is coming, and this was a fairly effective way to get people thinking about their moms! Several in the video publicly thanked their mothers, while others said they were going to call “Mom” right away.
What will it take to get you to think about Jesus and the cross? Will this criteria and scripture passage be enough to make you think of Him and the sacrifices He made on your behalf? Will it be sufficient to make you fall to your knees and thank Him…to ask, “What can I do for YOU in return?” Don’t you think it should? Jesus was the ONLY One who could have done what He did. Now what will you do for Him?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Has anyone believed us
or seen the mighty power
of the Lord in action?
2 Like a young plant or a root
that sprouts in dry ground,
the servant grew up
obeying the Lord.
He wasn’t some handsome king.
Nothing about the way he looked
made him attractive to us.
3 He was hated and rejected;
his life was filled with sorrow
and terrible suffering.
No one wanted to look at him.
We despised him and said,
“He is a nobody!”
4 He suffered and endured
great pain for us,
but we thought his suffering
was punishment from God.
5 He was wounded and crushed
because of our sins;
by taking our punishment,
he made us completely well.
6 All of us were like sheep
that had wandered off.
We had each gone our own way,
but the Lord gave him
the punishment we deserved.
7 He was painfully abused,
but he did not complain.
He was silent like a lamb
being led to the butcher,
as quiet as a sheep
having its wool cut off.
8 He was condemned to death
without a fair trial.
Who could have imagined
what would happen to him?
His life was taken away
because of the sinful things
my people had done.
9 He wasn’t dishonest or violent,
but he was buried in a tomb
of cruel and rich people.
10 The Lord decided his servant
would suffer as a sacrifice
to take away the sin
and guilt of others.
Now the servant will live
to see his own descendants.
He did everything
the Lord had planned.
11 By suffering, the servant
will learn the true meaning
of obeying the Lord.
Although he is innocent,
he will take the punishment
for the sins of others,
so that many of them
will no longer be guilty.
12 The Lord will reward him
with honor and power
for sacrificing his life.
Others thought he was a sinner,
but he suffered for our sins
and asked God to forgive us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A post appeared on Facebook with a link to a story about a company who set up online job interviews for the “World’s Toughest Job”. The “interviewers” spoke via the Internet with dozens of applicants. Some of the criteria for the job included: working up to 135 hours per week (at least one person was told, “Basically, this is a 24/7 position.)…no scheduled breaks…you must be able to stand most of the time, bend and stretch – and lift approximately 75 pounds…a psychology degree was preferred, but a pleasant disposition and the ability to solve problems and act as a mediator were a necessity. You had to be able to work in a chaotic environment…possess a valid driver’s license and be able to drive a mini-van…and be proficient in coordinating schedules, multi-tasking, and handling surprises.
Applicants had to have a good grasp of finance…and medicine. At least one candidate was told, “It would be nice if you had degrees in medicine, finance, culinary arts, and psychology.” Most importantly…there was NO PAY for this position! The majority of the applicants folded pretty quickly. But a few asked questions and stuck around to hear more. At the end of the “interview”, the applicant was told that there really was no job vacancy. I’m sure some of you have already guessed that this was the position of being a mom…and the interviewers suggested to each applicant that he/she might want to give Mom a call and thank her!
There are conflicting views about who is referenced in Isaiah 53, but I believe that this is a prophecy of Jesus and His crucifixion. Scriptures in the Gospels that reference this passage seem to confirm this. And as I read the verses and thought of Jesus, I thought of this mock interview by comparison. What if these were among the criteria on the interview:
- You must appear simple and ordinary…no flashy clothes or jewelry…you cannot drive a nice car or live in a fancy home.
- You must walk everywhere (and there is a lot of walking!)…or occasionally ride a donkey.
- You must be willing to share meals and lodging with perfect strangers…even the poor, prostitutes, drunkards and lepers.
- You must be able to accept ridicule and persecution without flinching.
- You must heal the sick, raise the dead to new life, and feed the masses…even when there is no food available.
- You must resolve conflicts without violence or showing your temper.
- You must be able to endure physical, mental and emotional abuse of the most wretched kind.
- You must be willing to be beaten to a pulp, flogged in public, crowned with thorns, stripped naked and nailed to a cross.
- You must be able to carry a wooden cross weighing between 80 and 110 pounds for about 1/3 of a mile – after you have been beaten and mutilated.
- You must be willing to take the blame for the sins of the world at large, even though you are totally innocent.
- You must be willing to be put to death for any and all accusations…even though every one of them will be false.
- You must remain loving, compassionate, merciful and forgiving of all who have mistreated or betrayed you…and you must encourage others to do the same.
- You must do everything your boss (our Heavenly Father) tells you…without question.
Who among us could handle these criteria? We might make it past the first two…maybe even the third and fourth items. But it wouldn’t take long for us to fall by the wayside. We are not up to this! In the “mock interview”, the person in charge told those who applied that millions of people were already doing the “World’s Toughest Job”. But I can assure you, not even a dozen people would line up to try to fill Jesus’ shoes! And any who say they could are liars…or delusional…or both!
None of us could ever for even one minute consider coming close to Jesus. And yet, everything He did was for us. Every supernatural act of stamina, love, mercy, grace, compassion, forgiveness, endurance, tolerance, healing, and nurture was for you…and for me…and for everyone else. As we inch closer to the cross, think of all that Jesus did for you…all that He DOES for you each and every day. Because you see, Jesus is still with you. He left His Holy Spirit to be your companion and comforter. Some of us don’t recognize the Holy Spirit, but He is available...He desires to help you with every single aspect of your life.
Yes, Mom’s have one of the world’s toughest jobs. But Jesus holds the title of World’s Only Savior. He is the only One who could have done such things. He is the only One who will ever love us to this extent. It turns out that the whole gimmick with the “World’s Toughest Job” was created by a card company… http://cardstore.com. Mother’s Day is coming, and this was a fairly effective way to get people thinking about their moms! Several in the video publicly thanked their mothers, while others said they were going to call “Mom” right away.
What will it take to get you to think about Jesus and the cross? Will this criteria and scripture passage be enough to make you think of Him and the sacrifices He made on your behalf? Will it be sufficient to make you fall to your knees and thank Him…to ask, “What can I do for YOU in return?” Don’t you think it should? Jesus was the ONLY One who could have done what He did. Now what will you do for Him?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 27, 2013
Romans 5:2-5
Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A friend of mine lost her brother to cancer a few months ago, and she commented on Facebook that “I did not send Christmas cards this year.” Between repeated trips to another state to spend precious time with her brother before he passed and the challenges of caring for her own family (and conducting the children’s program at our church, to boot), she simply did not have the time and energy for sending out seasonal greetings. I don’t know about you, but I fully understand this. Sometimes “life” is such a challenge that we absolutely must prioritize and delegate our strength to the things that really matter. And sending cards during the holidays may be something that we push to the bottom of the list.
Does this mean that we aren’t celebrating Christmas? Have we lost our faith and confidence in the promises and blessings this season represents? Absolutely not! To the contrary, the trials and problems of life often show us that we are tougher than we realize. In turn, our strength and integrity are refined, so that we are more sensitive to the things of this season that really matter… sharing God’s love and care with other people… recognizing His role as the central focus of the holiday… and reminding ourselves of what is truly important.
This may mean scheduling a family dinner at a restaurant rather than slaving over a stove for several days to create the perfect meal – or conversely, making special recipes and carrying on the traditions that have created family memories for decades – and foregoing some other activity in order to find the time to do this. It may mean recognizing that Christmas was not “ruined” because UPS or FedEx did not deliver our packages on time. Or it may mean not giving gifts at all… or seriously curtailing the gift-giving… in order to focus on the true spirit of the holiday – and those who have real, tangible physical needs.
In strengthening our character, we truly do develop a deeper sense of hope. Our focus is narrowed and concentrated on Jesus, who gives us the strength and uses His Holy Spirit to comfort and guide us through times of trial and difficulty. We are better able to reach out to others who are hurting or questioning… those who might be in the early stages of “trial and tribulation”. We can say with confidence that God loves all of us… that He is fully engaged in each and every situation for those who call on Him… and that better days are ahead.
I honestly cannot remember a recent Christmas season where I have been so acutely aware of people who were hurting or in great need of God’s comfort and care. I also cannot remember a Christmas in the last few years in which I have felt more hopeful. I wish there were some way to magically convey this hope to each of you… to fill you with a true assurance that God is at work in your life… strengthening you…building character… and offering you hope. All I can tell you is that He has done this for me – over and again. I know that I am not unique… that what God has done for me, He will surely do for anyone who asks in Jesus’ name.
So even though the actual holiday was two days ago… what are you asking for this Christmas? Will this be the year that you fully recognize God’s strength and power in your life and begin to depend upon the confident hope of salvation through Jesus Christ? Don’t you think it should be?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A friend of mine lost her brother to cancer a few months ago, and she commented on Facebook that “I did not send Christmas cards this year.” Between repeated trips to another state to spend precious time with her brother before he passed and the challenges of caring for her own family (and conducting the children’s program at our church, to boot), she simply did not have the time and energy for sending out seasonal greetings. I don’t know about you, but I fully understand this. Sometimes “life” is such a challenge that we absolutely must prioritize and delegate our strength to the things that really matter. And sending cards during the holidays may be something that we push to the bottom of the list.
Does this mean that we aren’t celebrating Christmas? Have we lost our faith and confidence in the promises and blessings this season represents? Absolutely not! To the contrary, the trials and problems of life often show us that we are tougher than we realize. In turn, our strength and integrity are refined, so that we are more sensitive to the things of this season that really matter… sharing God’s love and care with other people… recognizing His role as the central focus of the holiday… and reminding ourselves of what is truly important.
This may mean scheduling a family dinner at a restaurant rather than slaving over a stove for several days to create the perfect meal – or conversely, making special recipes and carrying on the traditions that have created family memories for decades – and foregoing some other activity in order to find the time to do this. It may mean recognizing that Christmas was not “ruined” because UPS or FedEx did not deliver our packages on time. Or it may mean not giving gifts at all… or seriously curtailing the gift-giving… in order to focus on the true spirit of the holiday – and those who have real, tangible physical needs.
In strengthening our character, we truly do develop a deeper sense of hope. Our focus is narrowed and concentrated on Jesus, who gives us the strength and uses His Holy Spirit to comfort and guide us through times of trial and difficulty. We are better able to reach out to others who are hurting or questioning… those who might be in the early stages of “trial and tribulation”. We can say with confidence that God loves all of us… that He is fully engaged in each and every situation for those who call on Him… and that better days are ahead.
I honestly cannot remember a recent Christmas season where I have been so acutely aware of people who were hurting or in great need of God’s comfort and care. I also cannot remember a Christmas in the last few years in which I have felt more hopeful. I wish there were some way to magically convey this hope to each of you… to fill you with a true assurance that God is at work in your life… strengthening you…building character… and offering you hope. All I can tell you is that He has done this for me – over and again. I know that I am not unique… that what God has done for me, He will surely do for anyone who asks in Jesus’ name.
So even though the actual holiday was two days ago… what are you asking for this Christmas? Will this be the year that you fully recognize God’s strength and power in your life and begin to depend upon the confident hope of salvation through Jesus Christ? Don’t you think it should be?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 25, 2013
John 6:61-69
Jesus knew that his disciples were grumbling. So he asked, “Does this bother you? What if you should see the Son of Man go up to heaven where he came from? The Spirit is the one who gives life! Human strength can do nothing. The words that I have spoken to you are from that life-giving Spirit. But some of you refuse to have faith in me.” Jesus said this, because from the beginning he knew who would have faith in him. He also knew which one would betray him.
Then Jesus said, “You cannot come to me, unless the Father makes you want to come. That is why I have told these things to all of you.”
Because of what Jesus said, many of his disciples turned their backs on him and stopped following him. Jesus then asked his twelve disciples if they were going to leave him. Simon Peter answered, “Lord, there is no one else that we can go to! Your words give eternal life. We have faith in you, and we are sure that you are God’s Holy One.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I read this scripture passage today, I immediately thought, “I know just how Peter felt” [when he said there was no one else that they could go to]. Don’t misunderstand me… I do not consider Jesus a “last resort”…He is the ONLY choice for me. But that doesn’t mean that He has not called me (and you and countless other believers) to do some really hard things… to make some difficult choices and decisions!
If you are like me, there are times when you truly do not know what to do. You don’t have a clue what the best option is in a particular situation… you see pros and cons to all available options. In these instances, I have learned to say, “LORD… it’s up to you. I have no wisdom and discernment about this issue. I don’t even know what to ask You for - except YOUR WILL… so I leave it at that!” Now here’s the tricky part… deep down inside your heart, you probably do have an opinion. You probably know how you really wish things would go. And when God decides differently, you may have to face some difficulties – and accept them. That’s where faith comes into play!
We must follow Jesus…and believe in His life-giving Spirit. We must trust Him to work things out in our best interest. And when He allows our path to be tough and riddled with challenges, we must accept the tests and stick with Him. We must do this not because He is our only hope… but because He is our only hope! Do you see the difference?
I get it. I understand how hard this can be. I am a “git-r-done” kind of girl who likes to cross all the “t’s”, dot all the “i’s” and know exactly how things are going to go from the outset. I like to have a plan, figure out the best way to achieve an outcome, and hop to it! So I am really out of my comfort zone with this faith thing much of the time. Learning to trust God and wait on His timing has not come easily for me… and on any given day, I am still a mess. But I know that Jesus is God’s Holy One… that He is my Rock and my Redeemer – and my only hope. Slowly but surely, I’m learning to rest in that… to trust Him to give me what I need – when I need it! I’m learning to “let go and let God”… and it’s a wonderful thing!
Wherever you are in your journey, understand that there isn’t necessarily a right or wrong answer here...as long as you are trusting in God. You will have days where everything seems peaceful and your confidence soars. There will also be days where you say, “LORD, I don’t think I can do this.” That’s when He will pick you up and carry you for a while. Just do not turn your back on Him. Focus on Jesus and trust Him to always operate in your best interest. Bask in the comfort of feeling His life-giving Spirit deep in your heart!
The most important choice we can ever make is to allow Jesus to make all of the others. Who is making the choices in your life today?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Jesus knew that his disciples were grumbling. So he asked, “Does this bother you? What if you should see the Son of Man go up to heaven where he came from? The Spirit is the one who gives life! Human strength can do nothing. The words that I have spoken to you are from that life-giving Spirit. But some of you refuse to have faith in me.” Jesus said this, because from the beginning he knew who would have faith in him. He also knew which one would betray him.
Then Jesus said, “You cannot come to me, unless the Father makes you want to come. That is why I have told these things to all of you.”
Because of what Jesus said, many of his disciples turned their backs on him and stopped following him. Jesus then asked his twelve disciples if they were going to leave him. Simon Peter answered, “Lord, there is no one else that we can go to! Your words give eternal life. We have faith in you, and we are sure that you are God’s Holy One.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I read this scripture passage today, I immediately thought, “I know just how Peter felt” [when he said there was no one else that they could go to]. Don’t misunderstand me… I do not consider Jesus a “last resort”…He is the ONLY choice for me. But that doesn’t mean that He has not called me (and you and countless other believers) to do some really hard things… to make some difficult choices and decisions!
If you are like me, there are times when you truly do not know what to do. You don’t have a clue what the best option is in a particular situation… you see pros and cons to all available options. In these instances, I have learned to say, “LORD… it’s up to you. I have no wisdom and discernment about this issue. I don’t even know what to ask You for - except YOUR WILL… so I leave it at that!” Now here’s the tricky part… deep down inside your heart, you probably do have an opinion. You probably know how you really wish things would go. And when God decides differently, you may have to face some difficulties – and accept them. That’s where faith comes into play!
We must follow Jesus…and believe in His life-giving Spirit. We must trust Him to work things out in our best interest. And when He allows our path to be tough and riddled with challenges, we must accept the tests and stick with Him. We must do this not because He is our only hope… but because He is our only hope! Do you see the difference?
I get it. I understand how hard this can be. I am a “git-r-done” kind of girl who likes to cross all the “t’s”, dot all the “i’s” and know exactly how things are going to go from the outset. I like to have a plan, figure out the best way to achieve an outcome, and hop to it! So I am really out of my comfort zone with this faith thing much of the time. Learning to trust God and wait on His timing has not come easily for me… and on any given day, I am still a mess. But I know that Jesus is God’s Holy One… that He is my Rock and my Redeemer – and my only hope. Slowly but surely, I’m learning to rest in that… to trust Him to give me what I need – when I need it! I’m learning to “let go and let God”… and it’s a wonderful thing!
Wherever you are in your journey, understand that there isn’t necessarily a right or wrong answer here...as long as you are trusting in God. You will have days where everything seems peaceful and your confidence soars. There will also be days where you say, “LORD, I don’t think I can do this.” That’s when He will pick you up and carry you for a while. Just do not turn your back on Him. Focus on Jesus and trust Him to always operate in your best interest. Bask in the comfort of feeling His life-giving Spirit deep in your heart!
The most important choice we can ever make is to allow Jesus to make all of the others. Who is making the choices in your life today?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 22, 2013
John 14:27
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My maternal grandmother was very opinionated about gifts. She had criteria for what constituted a “gift” and what didn’t. So when my grandfather gave her a box of loose “face powder” one Christmas, she had a fit! “That is NOT a gift!” she told my mother - AND my grandfather! Even though she enjoyed using this product – and it was an expensive item you had to buy at a high-end department store or a pharmacy with a cosmetics counter – she did not consider this an appropriate gift. When my grandmother gave us a present, we learned to make a huge fuss over it. If not, she would usually say, “I can tell you don’t like that. I’ll just take it back.” Sometimes gifts come with “strings” attached!
Just a few years ago, my Mam-ma Polly gave me “birthday money.” Soon afterward, we were driving home from her beauty shop appointment one afternoon, and she asked, “What did you buy with your money?” It was important to her to know that I had used her gift to get something I wanted or needed… and that I had not just stuck it into my pocket and used it for everyday expenses, like gas for the car, a sub sandwich, or diapers for the little ones! Sometimes, what we do with our gifts matters greatly!
Jesus’ “gift” – peace of mind and heart in the form of the Holy Spirit – is not something that can be wrapped in a box with pretty paper and a bow. The presence of the Holy Spirit is not an item that you can purchase at Wal-Mart, a high-end department store, or even in church! Your parents, spouse, best friend, or pastor cannot give you this peace. And you know what else? The peace of the Holy Spirit doesn’t come with “strings” attached! This is a FREE gift to you from Jesus. All you have to do in return is to welcome Him… to recognize His presence…and to treat Him with love, reverence, respect, and gratitude.
The Holy Spirit will not impose upon you. His presence must be invited… requested. Jesus will not ask you, “What did you do with this gift?” Oh, sure… He knows already. But the whole point of Jesus giving us His Holy Spirit is that it comes to us at no charge… with no “conditions of use.” Still, we must ask ourselves…how are we treating the Holy Spirit? Have we made room for Him in our hearts? Do we recognize the incomparable peace He brings us? How are we utilizing this extraordinary present? What will we do with it?
There are a lot of things in life that can give us peace of mind… good health, a steady income, food on the table and a roof over our heads, good friends, a loving family, and more. There are even people in our lives who bring us joy and a semblance of peace. But none of these can compare to the gift of peace and comfort from the Holy Spirit. Nothing can alleviate our troubles and fears like His presence. No other bequest will ever compare… none will offer anything near the benefits and blessings of His presence. Have you received Jesus’ gift of continual peace for your mind and heart? Do you recognize the Holy Spirit and nurture your relationship with Him? How are you “spending” this amazing offering? What you do with this “gift”… truly does matter! What will be your response?
©2013 Debbie Robus
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My maternal grandmother was very opinionated about gifts. She had criteria for what constituted a “gift” and what didn’t. So when my grandfather gave her a box of loose “face powder” one Christmas, she had a fit! “That is NOT a gift!” she told my mother - AND my grandfather! Even though she enjoyed using this product – and it was an expensive item you had to buy at a high-end department store or a pharmacy with a cosmetics counter – she did not consider this an appropriate gift. When my grandmother gave us a present, we learned to make a huge fuss over it. If not, she would usually say, “I can tell you don’t like that. I’ll just take it back.” Sometimes gifts come with “strings” attached!
Just a few years ago, my Mam-ma Polly gave me “birthday money.” Soon afterward, we were driving home from her beauty shop appointment one afternoon, and she asked, “What did you buy with your money?” It was important to her to know that I had used her gift to get something I wanted or needed… and that I had not just stuck it into my pocket and used it for everyday expenses, like gas for the car, a sub sandwich, or diapers for the little ones! Sometimes, what we do with our gifts matters greatly!
Jesus’ “gift” – peace of mind and heart in the form of the Holy Spirit – is not something that can be wrapped in a box with pretty paper and a bow. The presence of the Holy Spirit is not an item that you can purchase at Wal-Mart, a high-end department store, or even in church! Your parents, spouse, best friend, or pastor cannot give you this peace. And you know what else? The peace of the Holy Spirit doesn’t come with “strings” attached! This is a FREE gift to you from Jesus. All you have to do in return is to welcome Him… to recognize His presence…and to treat Him with love, reverence, respect, and gratitude.
The Holy Spirit will not impose upon you. His presence must be invited… requested. Jesus will not ask you, “What did you do with this gift?” Oh, sure… He knows already. But the whole point of Jesus giving us His Holy Spirit is that it comes to us at no charge… with no “conditions of use.” Still, we must ask ourselves…how are we treating the Holy Spirit? Have we made room for Him in our hearts? Do we recognize the incomparable peace He brings us? How are we utilizing this extraordinary present? What will we do with it?
There are a lot of things in life that can give us peace of mind… good health, a steady income, food on the table and a roof over our heads, good friends, a loving family, and more. There are even people in our lives who bring us joy and a semblance of peace. But none of these can compare to the gift of peace and comfort from the Holy Spirit. Nothing can alleviate our troubles and fears like His presence. No other bequest will ever compare… none will offer anything near the benefits and blessings of His presence. Have you received Jesus’ gift of continual peace for your mind and heart? Do you recognize the Holy Spirit and nurture your relationship with Him? How are you “spending” this amazing offering? What you do with this “gift”… truly does matter! What will be your response?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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