Romans 5:15-17
Yet the rescuing gift is not exactly
parallel to the death-dealing sin. If one man’s sin put crowds of people
at the dead-end abyss of separation from God, just think what God’s
gift poured through one man, Jesus Christ, will do! There’s no
comparison between that death-dealing sin and this generous, life-giving
gift. The verdict on that one sin was the death sentence; the verdict
on the many sins that followed was this wonderful life sentence. If
death got the upper hand through one man’s wrongdoing, can you imagine
the breathtaking recovery life makes, sovereign life, in those who grasp
with both hands this wildly extravagant life-gift, this grand
setting-everything-right, that the one man Jesus Christ provides?
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.
On
June 1, 2016, at 3:45 a.m., a 28-year-old woman drove on to the
Interstate 430 bridge in Little Rock, Arkansas…traveling in the wrong
direction. She collided with 60-year-old Gary Digiuseppe, who was on
his way to work as an on-air news reporter for radio station KARN 102.9
FM. Both cars caught fire…both drivers were killed. A co-worker
actually reported this crash on-air before he knew that one of the
victims was his friend, Gary. At 3:45 a.m. on June 1, 2016, dozens of
lives were forever impacted – and changed – by this accident.
Police
and highway department officials note that traveling the wrong way on
an Interstate highway happens more often than we realize…people make an
errant turn and find themselves entering on an exit ramp. We will never
know why or how this young woman came to be on the wrong side of the
bridge on this fateful morning. But every day, countless events – and
the decisions of others - change our lives forever. And so it was with
Adam in the Garden of Eden. Because he ate the forbidden fruit
presented by Eve, death became a physical – and possibly spiritual -
reality for all of us today. I would say that this decision had
probably one of the biggest impacts on the most people – EVER!
But
here’s the thing…JESUS made an even bigger impact, because He reversed
the finality of spiritual death. Because of Jesus and His sacrifice on
the cross, our sins can be forgiven. We can enjoy Eternal Life in His
presence. Jesus Christ offers the greatest impact on the most people
forever and ever…hands down! And we can all get in on this and share in
His gift.
There are a lot of situations and circumstances that
we cannot change. We can’t stop the poor decisions of others. We cannot
prevent physical death. Things will happen, people will argue, and
relationships will be broken – possibly for the rest of our mortal
lives. We can’t prevent natural disasters or many illnesses and
injuries. In short, “life” just happens…and it has a tremendous – and
lasting – effect on many of us. But when we focus on Jesus and what He
offers us, we can handle these other “life impacts.” When we trust Him
for our salvation – and focus on serving Him and fulfilling His purpose
for our lives…we can put these other life-changing events into proper
perspective.
My heart breaks for the family and friends of the
two people who lost their lives…and I pray that they both reside in
Heaven with Jesus today. I thank God that because of Him and the blood
of Jesus, we have hope – even in the midst of a tragedy like this one. I
am reminded just how much impact the words, thoughts and actions of one
person can have on so many others…and I am even more determined to make
sure that mine glorify God’s amazing gift through His only Son to the
very best of my ability. What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label gift of salvation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label gift of salvation. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for October 27, 2015
John 14:26-27
But when the Father sends the Comforter instead of me—and by the Comforter I mean the Holy Spirit—he will teach you much, as well as remind you of everything I myself have told you.
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of TyndalePublishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We’re headed toward that time of year when we start to think a lot about gifts…as in “What will I get XYZ for Christmas?” Retailers are more than ready to offer suggestions about how we should spend our money – and what would be the best present for Grandma or Jimmy! Often, we are encouraged to give something expendable…food, cologne and toiletries, candles and room fragrances, or coloring/activity books and art supplies that are quickly used, so that there is a built-in urge to buy more!
I like to give lasting gifts…a keepsake that someone will treasure for a long time. A couple of years ago, my cousin Natalie gave me a leather bracelet for my birthday that says, “only love today.” It’s a reminder that God is with me…that for this day, He wants me to focus on operating in love. This is also a subtle reminder that we are only to concern ourselves with one day at a time. I wear this bracelet almost every day, and it does indeed remind me that God’s Holy Spirit is with me, guiding me to walk in love. It also reminds me of my sweet cousin and our special bond.
Another lasting gift is my wedding band. I have worn it for more than 41 years now, and it reminds me of the promises that Greg and I have made…and of how much we love each other. When I look at that gold band, I am comforted by the peace of our enduring love and commitment to each other. Whether we are together or not, I feel Greg’s presence and devotion every single moment.
The Holy Spirit is not something that we wear like a bracelet or a wedding band, but His presence in our heart is no less profound or impactful. God’s Holy Spirit is most certainly not an expendable gift, like food or perfume. His is the gentle voice you hear suggesting that you take this path or that…reminding you to be still and “let it go”…calming you in the midst of something that has you in a tizzy or a major panic. His peace is everlasting…not like the momentary relief or exhilaration that we feel after a happy incident.
The peace of the Holy Spirit is that inner calm that says, “You can do this! You’ve got this! I’m right here beside you, and everything will be okay.” The peace of the Holy Spirit allows us to be calm in the face of adversity…to say, “This is going to be okay” – and mean it! Does this mean there will never be times of temporary panic…that we will not be affected by grief, pain and suffering…that we won’t ever experience troubles? Absolutely not!
But when we “wear” the Holy Spirit in our hearts and listen for His voice, we always feel God’s presence. We know that He is working – often behind the scenes – to make a way where we cannot see one. We understand that God wants us to put one foot in front of the other and keep walking…and to know that He will carry us when the steps are too difficult. He wants us to “be still and know” that He is God…and to experience lasting peace that only He can give.
I still give baked goods and “temporary” gifts to others…and there is no such thing as a “bad gift” shared in the spirit of love. But the best gift we’ll ever receive is Salvation in Jesus Christ… the presence of His Holy Spirit that follows…and the peace that He brings. Have you received this gift for yourself? Isn’t it time that you did? Ask Jesus to forgive your sins…to be the LORD and Savior of your life…and then invite His Holy Spirit to dwell in your heart. Call on Him by saying, “Come, Holy Spirit!”…and welcome the peace that He brings forever and ever.
©2015 Debbie Robus
But when the Father sends the Comforter instead of me—and by the Comforter I mean the Holy Spirit—he will teach you much, as well as remind you of everything I myself have told you.
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of TyndalePublishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We’re headed toward that time of year when we start to think a lot about gifts…as in “What will I get XYZ for Christmas?” Retailers are more than ready to offer suggestions about how we should spend our money – and what would be the best present for Grandma or Jimmy! Often, we are encouraged to give something expendable…food, cologne and toiletries, candles and room fragrances, or coloring/activity books and art supplies that are quickly used, so that there is a built-in urge to buy more!
I like to give lasting gifts…a keepsake that someone will treasure for a long time. A couple of years ago, my cousin Natalie gave me a leather bracelet for my birthday that says, “only love today.” It’s a reminder that God is with me…that for this day, He wants me to focus on operating in love. This is also a subtle reminder that we are only to concern ourselves with one day at a time. I wear this bracelet almost every day, and it does indeed remind me that God’s Holy Spirit is with me, guiding me to walk in love. It also reminds me of my sweet cousin and our special bond.
Another lasting gift is my wedding band. I have worn it for more than 41 years now, and it reminds me of the promises that Greg and I have made…and of how much we love each other. When I look at that gold band, I am comforted by the peace of our enduring love and commitment to each other. Whether we are together or not, I feel Greg’s presence and devotion every single moment.
The Holy Spirit is not something that we wear like a bracelet or a wedding band, but His presence in our heart is no less profound or impactful. God’s Holy Spirit is most certainly not an expendable gift, like food or perfume. His is the gentle voice you hear suggesting that you take this path or that…reminding you to be still and “let it go”…calming you in the midst of something that has you in a tizzy or a major panic. His peace is everlasting…not like the momentary relief or exhilaration that we feel after a happy incident.
The peace of the Holy Spirit is that inner calm that says, “You can do this! You’ve got this! I’m right here beside you, and everything will be okay.” The peace of the Holy Spirit allows us to be calm in the face of adversity…to say, “This is going to be okay” – and mean it! Does this mean there will never be times of temporary panic…that we will not be affected by grief, pain and suffering…that we won’t ever experience troubles? Absolutely not!
But when we “wear” the Holy Spirit in our hearts and listen for His voice, we always feel God’s presence. We know that He is working – often behind the scenes – to make a way where we cannot see one. We understand that God wants us to put one foot in front of the other and keep walking…and to know that He will carry us when the steps are too difficult. He wants us to “be still and know” that He is God…and to experience lasting peace that only He can give.
I still give baked goods and “temporary” gifts to others…and there is no such thing as a “bad gift” shared in the spirit of love. But the best gift we’ll ever receive is Salvation in Jesus Christ… the presence of His Holy Spirit that follows…and the peace that He brings. Have you received this gift for yourself? Isn’t it time that you did? Ask Jesus to forgive your sins…to be the LORD and Savior of your life…and then invite His Holy Spirit to dwell in your heart. Call on Him by saying, “Come, Holy Spirit!”…and welcome the peace that He brings forever and ever.
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 10, 2014
Acts 10:4-6
Peter fairly exploded with his good news: “It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open. The Message he sent to the children of Israel—that through Jesus Christ everything is being put together again—well, he’s doing it everywhere, among everyone.
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.
This morning, a Facebook friend posted a “video” about a man who died and was summoned for judgment by God. To his horror and shame, his life and all of the mistakes he had made – every sin he had committed - was reviewed. Then an angel looked in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and the man’s name was nowhere to be found. The man was thrown into the "lake of fire" known as Hell.
The video concluded with a look at how things could have gone, had the man only surrendered his heart to Jesus and asked for His forgiveness. 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminded us that…”Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new.” And the words of Isaiah 1:18 were presented to assure us…”This is God’s Message: ‘If your sins are blood-red, they’ll be snow-white. If they’re red like crimson, they’ll be like wool.’”
My friend accompanied this post with these words…”Powerful, hopefully by sharing this I can inspire someone, just as I was!!!” I hope so, too…because the real message of Christmas is not found in the tinsel and the garlands, the packages and the parties. The true message of Christmas lies in the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ…our promise and hope that God sent to earth in the form of a tiny baby. The message of Christmas really lies in the story of Easter…the crucifixion, death and resurrection of the Christ Child – all to pay for OUR sins and mistakes.
The real gift of Christmas is the anticipation of eternity spent in the presence of God. This gift is open to all of us who will freely choose to follow Jesus. As we read Peter’s words to the church in Acts, we are reminded that the door is open to any and ALL who choose to accept this gift. God plays no favorites, indeed! If you have received the gift of salvation in Jesus, every other gift is just fluff…something nice to tide you over until heaven – but made all the more enjoyable because of that confidence.
What is the message of Christmas for you this year? Have you received the ultimate Gift? Jesus is standing at the door…holding it open for you to enter into an eternal relationship with Him and live in His presence forever. Aren’t you ready to cross the threshold?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Peter fairly exploded with his good news: “It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open. The Message he sent to the children of Israel—that through Jesus Christ everything is being put together again—well, he’s doing it everywhere, among everyone.
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.
This morning, a Facebook friend posted a “video” about a man who died and was summoned for judgment by God. To his horror and shame, his life and all of the mistakes he had made – every sin he had committed - was reviewed. Then an angel looked in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and the man’s name was nowhere to be found. The man was thrown into the "lake of fire" known as Hell.
The video concluded with a look at how things could have gone, had the man only surrendered his heart to Jesus and asked for His forgiveness. 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminded us that…”Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new.” And the words of Isaiah 1:18 were presented to assure us…”This is God’s Message: ‘If your sins are blood-red, they’ll be snow-white. If they’re red like crimson, they’ll be like wool.’”
My friend accompanied this post with these words…”Powerful, hopefully by sharing this I can inspire someone, just as I was!!!” I hope so, too…because the real message of Christmas is not found in the tinsel and the garlands, the packages and the parties. The true message of Christmas lies in the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ…our promise and hope that God sent to earth in the form of a tiny baby. The message of Christmas really lies in the story of Easter…the crucifixion, death and resurrection of the Christ Child – all to pay for OUR sins and mistakes.
The real gift of Christmas is the anticipation of eternity spent in the presence of God. This gift is open to all of us who will freely choose to follow Jesus. As we read Peter’s words to the church in Acts, we are reminded that the door is open to any and ALL who choose to accept this gift. God plays no favorites, indeed! If you have received the gift of salvation in Jesus, every other gift is just fluff…something nice to tide you over until heaven – but made all the more enjoyable because of that confidence.
What is the message of Christmas for you this year? Have you received the ultimate Gift? Jesus is standing at the door…holding it open for you to enter into an eternal relationship with Him and live in His presence forever. Aren’t you ready to cross the threshold?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 23, 2014
Ephesians 1:7-10
Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we’re a free people—free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! He thought of everything, provided for everything we could possibly need, letting us in on the plans he took such delight in making. He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Recently, I did an online search for some free sheet music for piano arrangements of hymns. The search results included a site that sounded perfect. So when I visited the actual website, I was disappointed to see that each piano arrangement had a “click here to purchase” button. Where was the “free” stuff? Then I noticed that there was a button to click for “free information” about piano arrangements of hymns. Deceptive advertising? Yes...but sadly, not all that uncommon. These days, you truly have to read the fine print...on virtually everything!
But here’s the GOOD NEWS...there is no “fine print” when it comes to Jesus. His blood paid for our sins on the cross...ALL.OF.THEM. Just like this scripture passage tells us, God thought of absolutely everything and sent Jesus to handle it all for us. There is nothing that was left undone...no plans are incomplete. God loves us so much that He accounted for everything.
This does not give us license to go on our merry way and do whatever we please, confident that Jesus has us, quite literally...covered! This actually adds to our responsibilities and duties. Such a Gift as our salvation and the promise of eternal life begs for our devotion and discipleship in return! But God knows us...He knows we are human – and therefore imperfect. We will have days when things simply do not go well for us...or anyone else in our line of fire! And on those days, God says, “It’s paid for...I’ve got this! Jesus has already paid the price in full. Now go...and do better tomorrow.”
Isn’t this wonderful news? Aren’t you grateful to God for such an amazing sacrifice in the form of His Son, Jesus Christ? Doesn’t the very thought of this make you love Him even more...and desire to worship and serve Him with every fiber of your being? Will you stop today and affirm your promise to honor Jesus in everything you say and do...to give Him the glory and the reverence that He is due...and to show your respect with every single word and gesture?
Not all “free gifts” are truly free...but Jesus’ gift of salvation most certainly is! Isn’t it time we held this in the highest regard? Wouldn’t today be a perfect time to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we’re a free people—free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! He thought of everything, provided for everything we could possibly need, letting us in on the plans he took such delight in making. He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Recently, I did an online search for some free sheet music for piano arrangements of hymns. The search results included a site that sounded perfect. So when I visited the actual website, I was disappointed to see that each piano arrangement had a “click here to purchase” button. Where was the “free” stuff? Then I noticed that there was a button to click for “free information” about piano arrangements of hymns. Deceptive advertising? Yes...but sadly, not all that uncommon. These days, you truly have to read the fine print...on virtually everything!
But here’s the GOOD NEWS...there is no “fine print” when it comes to Jesus. His blood paid for our sins on the cross...ALL.OF.THEM. Just like this scripture passage tells us, God thought of absolutely everything and sent Jesus to handle it all for us. There is nothing that was left undone...no plans are incomplete. God loves us so much that He accounted for everything.
This does not give us license to go on our merry way and do whatever we please, confident that Jesus has us, quite literally...covered! This actually adds to our responsibilities and duties. Such a Gift as our salvation and the promise of eternal life begs for our devotion and discipleship in return! But God knows us...He knows we are human – and therefore imperfect. We will have days when things simply do not go well for us...or anyone else in our line of fire! And on those days, God says, “It’s paid for...I’ve got this! Jesus has already paid the price in full. Now go...and do better tomorrow.”
Isn’t this wonderful news? Aren’t you grateful to God for such an amazing sacrifice in the form of His Son, Jesus Christ? Doesn’t the very thought of this make you love Him even more...and desire to worship and serve Him with every fiber of your being? Will you stop today and affirm your promise to honor Jesus in everything you say and do...to give Him the glory and the reverence that He is due...and to show your respect with every single word and gesture?
Not all “free gifts” are truly free...but Jesus’ gift of salvation most certainly is! Isn’t it time we held this in the highest regard? Wouldn’t today be a perfect time to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 24, 2014
2 Corinthians 2:14-15
But thanks be to God! For through what Christ has done, he has triumphed over us so that now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Gospel like a sweet perfume. As far as God is concerned there is a sweet, wholesome fragrance in our lives. It is the fragrance of Christ within us, an aroma to both the saved and the unsaved all around 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.
Yesterday, I made apple pies. I shared one with my cousins, and one of them said, “I bet your house smells amazing!” And yes, it did smell good as the aroma of freshly baked pie wafted through the rooms. We all associate certain thoughts and memories with smells – both good ones and those that are not so pleasant. If you have ever had a bad experience with a certain smell, unhappy memories will be triggered pretty much every time you encounter that aroma afterward…and you may be left feeling unsettled – or even agitated.
Perhaps you share fond memories associated with smells. For me, it is those little crumbly wafer-style ice cream cones. My grandmother kept them – along with ice cream (usually Neopolitan, so we could each choose our favorite flavor!) – and I think of her every time I smell those. Today, I keep them for our children, and each time we have an ice cream cone, I remember my grandmother.
I shared some baby clothes that Timothy had outgrown with my friend Melissa, and as she took them out of the sack, she asked her daughter Ada, “Do you know who gave us these clothes?” Ada replied, “Yes…Mrs. Devvie! They smell like her!” My cousin Natalie tells me that her little boy, Owen, has made the same comment – that the clothes I have made for him “smell like Aunt Debbie”. We think it must be the fabric softener I use. And speaking of fabric softener…I purchased dryer sheets last week while I was shopping. All the way home, my car smelled wonderful…the sweet, soothing fragrance from those boxes filled my vehicle and gave me a wonderful sense of calm and relaxation.
The Bible tells us that Christ’s presence within our hearts is a sweet fragrance…an aroma to savor. He gives us peace, calm, and rest as we let the cares of the world – and freedom from our sin – go by the wayside, and we simply bask in His love and care. His is not a palpable aroma in the physical sense – like that of dryer sheets, an apple pie or an ice cream cone. But the sweet perfume of Jesus is the most lasting fragrance…the most powerful and effective scent…the most peaceful and restful “aroma” we will ever experience.
Do you carry the sweet perfume of Jesus’ love and care with you? Is the aroma of His grace and mercy - and His sacrifice for your sins - filling your heart and soul today? Are you resting in the beautiful fragrance of Christ…relaxing in the bountiful and glorious aroma of His continual presence? Don’t you want to “smell like Jesus”? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
But thanks be to God! For through what Christ has done, he has triumphed over us so that now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Gospel like a sweet perfume. As far as God is concerned there is a sweet, wholesome fragrance in our lives. It is the fragrance of Christ within us, an aroma to both the saved and the unsaved all around 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.
Yesterday, I made apple pies. I shared one with my cousins, and one of them said, “I bet your house smells amazing!” And yes, it did smell good as the aroma of freshly baked pie wafted through the rooms. We all associate certain thoughts and memories with smells – both good ones and those that are not so pleasant. If you have ever had a bad experience with a certain smell, unhappy memories will be triggered pretty much every time you encounter that aroma afterward…and you may be left feeling unsettled – or even agitated.
Perhaps you share fond memories associated with smells. For me, it is those little crumbly wafer-style ice cream cones. My grandmother kept them – along with ice cream (usually Neopolitan, so we could each choose our favorite flavor!) – and I think of her every time I smell those. Today, I keep them for our children, and each time we have an ice cream cone, I remember my grandmother.
I shared some baby clothes that Timothy had outgrown with my friend Melissa, and as she took them out of the sack, she asked her daughter Ada, “Do you know who gave us these clothes?” Ada replied, “Yes…Mrs. Devvie! They smell like her!” My cousin Natalie tells me that her little boy, Owen, has made the same comment – that the clothes I have made for him “smell like Aunt Debbie”. We think it must be the fabric softener I use. And speaking of fabric softener…I purchased dryer sheets last week while I was shopping. All the way home, my car smelled wonderful…the sweet, soothing fragrance from those boxes filled my vehicle and gave me a wonderful sense of calm and relaxation.
The Bible tells us that Christ’s presence within our hearts is a sweet fragrance…an aroma to savor. He gives us peace, calm, and rest as we let the cares of the world – and freedom from our sin – go by the wayside, and we simply bask in His love and care. His is not a palpable aroma in the physical sense – like that of dryer sheets, an apple pie or an ice cream cone. But the sweet perfume of Jesus is the most lasting fragrance…the most powerful and effective scent…the most peaceful and restful “aroma” we will ever experience.
Do you carry the sweet perfume of Jesus’ love and care with you? Is the aroma of His grace and mercy - and His sacrifice for your sins - filling your heart and soul today? Are you resting in the beautiful fragrance of Christ…relaxing in the bountiful and glorious aroma of His continual presence? Don’t you want to “smell like Jesus”? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 18, 2013
Romans 3:23-26
But in our time something new has been added. What Moses and the prophets witnessed to all those years has happened. The God-setting-things-right that we read about has become Jesus-setting-things-right for us. And not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him. For there is no difference between us and them in this. Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ.
God sacrificed Jesus on the altar of the world to clear that world of sin. Having faith in him sets us in the clear. God decided on this course of action in full view of the public—to set the world in the clear with himself through the sacrifice of Jesus, finally taking care of the sins he had so patiently endured. This is not only clear, but it’s now—this is current history! God sets things right. He also makes it possible for us to live in his rightness.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One of my all-time favorite television shows is “I Love Lucy”. Every episode, Lucy gets herself into some kind of mess… and she usually recruits Ethel to help her figure out how to get out of it! She tries very hard to cover up her mistakes… she especially tries to keep her husband Ricky from finding out what has happened. But in the end, she usually needs rescuing… and often it is at the hands and mercy of Ricky Ricardo!
Many of us are a lot like Lucy and Ethel. We have these grand schemes of how we think everything ought to work out… or we see something we want – or want to happen – and we start plotting and planning how we can make it so. We may involve others in our shenanigans… or we may try to do things completely on our own. But in the end, we have one royal mess on our hands… and then we need someone to mercifully save us.
Lest you think this doesn’t apply to you, let me ask you a question or two. Have you ever wondered how on earth you were going to pass a test for which you had not adequately studied and prepared? Do you ever make big promises to someone that, going in, you know you will not be able to deliver…but you hope you can figure it all out later on and no one will be the wiser? Do you ever lie… even a little or about seemingly small things… so that people will see you in a particular light – or things will go your way? Have you ever cheated (or as Lucy might describe it “fibbed a little”) in order to achieve a desired outcome? Have you ever tried to make yourself look good at another’s expense?
These are just some of the thousands of ways that we make messes of our lives each and every day…and then wonder how we will work our way out of them. Sometimes, we have a “go-to” person who helps us make amends and mop up the trouble. Other times, we have to muddle through on our own. And more times than we care to admit, we just pretend it never happened and move on…never realizing that our disorder and disobedience accumulates into a cluttered jumble of a life.
And that’s where God comes into the picture. He stands ready and able to help us fix things, once and for all. God knows us and the sorry state of affairs we are capable of creating on our own. Yet He loves us and desires to rescue us from a life that is so messy and chaotic. He can equip us to right all of the wrongs… to ask forgiveness where necessary… and to set things right wherever possible. More importantly, with God’s help – and because of His incredible love, grace, mercy and forgiveness – we don’t have to keep on repeating the same old mistakes.
Our lives are not perpetual episodes of “I Love Lucy”! Without her continual escapades, the show would cease to exist. But the end of our “antics” can be the beginning of our life in Christ… and it can be far better than anything we ever could imagine or create on our own. We know what God offers… we know what He sacrificed through Jesus Christ in order for us to attain it. The choice is ours whether to accept Him and allow Him to operate in and through us… or not. How will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
But in our time something new has been added. What Moses and the prophets witnessed to all those years has happened. The God-setting-things-right that we read about has become Jesus-setting-things-right for us. And not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him. For there is no difference between us and them in this. Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ.
God sacrificed Jesus on the altar of the world to clear that world of sin. Having faith in him sets us in the clear. God decided on this course of action in full view of the public—to set the world in the clear with himself through the sacrifice of Jesus, finally taking care of the sins he had so patiently endured. This is not only clear, but it’s now—this is current history! God sets things right. He also makes it possible for us to live in his rightness.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One of my all-time favorite television shows is “I Love Lucy”. Every episode, Lucy gets herself into some kind of mess… and she usually recruits Ethel to help her figure out how to get out of it! She tries very hard to cover up her mistakes… she especially tries to keep her husband Ricky from finding out what has happened. But in the end, she usually needs rescuing… and often it is at the hands and mercy of Ricky Ricardo!
Many of us are a lot like Lucy and Ethel. We have these grand schemes of how we think everything ought to work out… or we see something we want – or want to happen – and we start plotting and planning how we can make it so. We may involve others in our shenanigans… or we may try to do things completely on our own. But in the end, we have one royal mess on our hands… and then we need someone to mercifully save us.
Lest you think this doesn’t apply to you, let me ask you a question or two. Have you ever wondered how on earth you were going to pass a test for which you had not adequately studied and prepared? Do you ever make big promises to someone that, going in, you know you will not be able to deliver…but you hope you can figure it all out later on and no one will be the wiser? Do you ever lie… even a little or about seemingly small things… so that people will see you in a particular light – or things will go your way? Have you ever cheated (or as Lucy might describe it “fibbed a little”) in order to achieve a desired outcome? Have you ever tried to make yourself look good at another’s expense?
These are just some of the thousands of ways that we make messes of our lives each and every day…and then wonder how we will work our way out of them. Sometimes, we have a “go-to” person who helps us make amends and mop up the trouble. Other times, we have to muddle through on our own. And more times than we care to admit, we just pretend it never happened and move on…never realizing that our disorder and disobedience accumulates into a cluttered jumble of a life.
And that’s where God comes into the picture. He stands ready and able to help us fix things, once and for all. God knows us and the sorry state of affairs we are capable of creating on our own. Yet He loves us and desires to rescue us from a life that is so messy and chaotic. He can equip us to right all of the wrongs… to ask forgiveness where necessary… and to set things right wherever possible. More importantly, with God’s help – and because of His incredible love, grace, mercy and forgiveness – we don’t have to keep on repeating the same old mistakes.
Our lives are not perpetual episodes of “I Love Lucy”! Without her continual escapades, the show would cease to exist. But the end of our “antics” can be the beginning of our life in Christ… and it can be far better than anything we ever could imagine or create on our own. We know what God offers… we know what He sacrificed through Jesus Christ in order for us to attain it. The choice is ours whether to accept Him and allow Him to operate in and through us… or not. How will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 6, 2013
2 Corinthians 5:17This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
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.
Yesterday after pre-K, I took Timothy to get a haircut. Our friend Tiger is a barber, and Timothy loves to go to his barber shop. Tiger has a lot of pictures of tigers (go figure). He is also a pilot, and he has a framed photograph of his plane hanging on the wall. Timothy asked “Mr. Tiger” all about flying his plane while he got his haircut. He said to Tiger several times, “You’re gonna cut my hair too long, right?” He meant, “You’re not going to cut off all my hair, are you?”! Tiger assured him that he would leave plenty of hair… and that new hair would grow to replace what had been cut!
Timothy went in the door looking a little shaggy and ragged around the edges, and he emerged neatly trimmed. I looked at him later as he played in the floor, and I could see the soft, round, still-little-boyish edges to his face. But in many ways, he looked like a new person. Out with the old… in with the new!
I don’t know about you, but I always feel a little like a “new person” when I get a haircut. Everything seems crisper and neater…like a “weight” has been lifted. It gives me a mental boost and makes me feel better about myself. And on a much grander scale, this is what happens when we invite Jesus into our heart to be the LORD of our life! But unlike the decision to get a haircut… our salvation is anything but temporary!
Life is filled with choices… none more important than when we choose to follow Jesus. Our salvation is a game changer…it not only makes us feel like a new person – we truly are changed forever! And the cool thing is that the changes are permanent. We may need a “spiritual trim” from time to time, but this is one “makeover” that trumps all others. We never have to go back to our “old life”… we don’t ever have to revisit the sins of our past or wrestle with the mistakes and poor choices we’ve made. We’re done with all of that… or we should be!
A once-every-six-weeks haircut is about as close to a makeover as a 4-year-old comes. But someday, he will be old enough to understand what it means to choose Jesus for himself. Do you understand this choice? Is your old life gone forever? Have you chosen a new life in Christ? Wouldn’t you like to leave your past behind and receive His salvation… to face the promise of Eternity in heaven with Him? Are you living the life of one who has had a “Spiritual makeover?” Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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.
Yesterday after pre-K, I took Timothy to get a haircut. Our friend Tiger is a barber, and Timothy loves to go to his barber shop. Tiger has a lot of pictures of tigers (go figure). He is also a pilot, and he has a framed photograph of his plane hanging on the wall. Timothy asked “Mr. Tiger” all about flying his plane while he got his haircut. He said to Tiger several times, “You’re gonna cut my hair too long, right?” He meant, “You’re not going to cut off all my hair, are you?”! Tiger assured him that he would leave plenty of hair… and that new hair would grow to replace what had been cut!
Timothy went in the door looking a little shaggy and ragged around the edges, and he emerged neatly trimmed. I looked at him later as he played in the floor, and I could see the soft, round, still-little-boyish edges to his face. But in many ways, he looked like a new person. Out with the old… in with the new!
I don’t know about you, but I always feel a little like a “new person” when I get a haircut. Everything seems crisper and neater…like a “weight” has been lifted. It gives me a mental boost and makes me feel better about myself. And on a much grander scale, this is what happens when we invite Jesus into our heart to be the LORD of our life! But unlike the decision to get a haircut… our salvation is anything but temporary!
Life is filled with choices… none more important than when we choose to follow Jesus. Our salvation is a game changer…it not only makes us feel like a new person – we truly are changed forever! And the cool thing is that the changes are permanent. We may need a “spiritual trim” from time to time, but this is one “makeover” that trumps all others. We never have to go back to our “old life”… we don’t ever have to revisit the sins of our past or wrestle with the mistakes and poor choices we’ve made. We’re done with all of that… or we should be!
A once-every-six-weeks haircut is about as close to a makeover as a 4-year-old comes. But someday, he will be old enough to understand what it means to choose Jesus for himself. Do you understand this choice? Is your old life gone forever? Have you chosen a new life in Christ? Wouldn’t you like to leave your past behind and receive His salvation… to face the promise of Eternity in heaven with Him? Are you living the life of one who has had a “Spiritual makeover?” Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 12, 2013
Isaiah 57:2
For those who follow godly paths
will rest in peace when they die.
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.
This week, I attended the funeral of my childhood friend Kenny. At his funeral, the pastor noted that we all know death is inevitable… but we don’t expect the sudden death of someone 55 years young. He shared stories about my friend and told of his earlier life when he was healthy, energetic and enthused… completely engaged in life. In later years, health issues caused Kenny to become reclusive… even paranoid. At the time of his death, Kenny had isolated himself so completely from everyone except his mother, brother and immediate family that his brother said, “He really had no close friends.” Many of his classmates, childhood friends and acquaintances came to his funeral…giving testimony to the person we all knew and loved - the healthy guy who once made us laugh and smile.
There was one more story that the pastor related… the most important story of all, really. He told of how a church member went out on weekly visitation ministry one evening and happened to stop in to visit with Kenny. There, he shared the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ and how He died on the cross for our sins. Kenny invited Jesus to be the LORD of his life. Talk about a “game changer!”
As I thought about my friend and his life - and death - I couldn’t help but feel a tremendous sense of tranquility. I know he is no longer tormented. I know that he is at HOME and has found rest and complete peace at the feet of Jesus. I fully understand that sometimes our healing and reconciliation comes in death.
If you are a young person reading this devotional, death may not be on your radar screen. We all seem to have a sense of immortality in our early years. We don’t want to consider death… and we figure we have lots and lots of years ahead of us before we have to consider it. Then someone we know and love dies… a grandparent or a parent…another family member… a close friend… or even a celebrity we admired. Suddenly, we are distraught, frightened, confused… and totally disheartened. We don’t know what to make of it all… and we start to think about our own lives… and deaths.
Even if you are a Christian, this may be a daunting thought for you. If you have been to more than one funeral, you have probably heard the pastor read from John 14, where Jesus tells us there are “many mansions” in His house… and He is preparing a place for each of us. You may be thinking… “Yeah… but I’m doing just fine right here on earth! I don’t really need a mansion!” Or you may have fear and dread about leaving your family and friends behind.
Please read the words of Isaiah 57:2 again. Those who follow Godly paths will rest in peace. I cannot tell you exactly when I made the switch from thinking of heaven as an intimidating place to one of tremendous peace and joy. It probably began more than 20 years ago, when my grandfather - and then my father-in-law – died suddenly. As I watched other beloved family members and friends suffer with debilitating diseases or the rigors of aging, I began to see what a relief death would be for them. It wasn’t long until I realized that many of us have a large number of loved ones waiting for us in heaven… already enjoying the blessings and rewards God promised them through Jesus Christ.
Yesterday I shared scripture from Isaiah about the hills singing and the trees clapping as we pass by. My mother told me that this is how she pictures heaven. As we arrive, hills will sing, trees will clap… and those who went before us will open their arms widely to embrace us with a “We’re so glad you’re here… you’re gonna love this place!” My sweet childhood friend, Kenny, will be among them.
I feel like someone reading this today needs to hear about the peace of heaven. If you are not that person… you could be in any given moment. I pray you will come to think of Paradise as not only a “friendly place”… but your destination for ultimate peace and joy. As you grieve and mourn the passing of loved ones who you miss dearly, think of them in complete bliss… healthy, whole, abundantly blessed, and continually in the presence of Jesus. Enjoy your earthly life… but look forward to the day you can join them and experience eternal peace.
If you have not yet offered Jesus your heart, as my friend did one evening, I pray that you will do so. Secure your place on the “waiting list” for heaven. Start making preparations for your “move” by living for Jesus every single day you are placed on this earth. Get so comfortable in your relationship with God that you anticipate the moment when the hills will sing for you and the trees will clap… and you will rest forever in His peace.
©2013 Debbie Robus
For those who follow godly paths
will rest in peace when they die.
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.
This week, I attended the funeral of my childhood friend Kenny. At his funeral, the pastor noted that we all know death is inevitable… but we don’t expect the sudden death of someone 55 years young. He shared stories about my friend and told of his earlier life when he was healthy, energetic and enthused… completely engaged in life. In later years, health issues caused Kenny to become reclusive… even paranoid. At the time of his death, Kenny had isolated himself so completely from everyone except his mother, brother and immediate family that his brother said, “He really had no close friends.” Many of his classmates, childhood friends and acquaintances came to his funeral…giving testimony to the person we all knew and loved - the healthy guy who once made us laugh and smile.
There was one more story that the pastor related… the most important story of all, really. He told of how a church member went out on weekly visitation ministry one evening and happened to stop in to visit with Kenny. There, he shared the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ and how He died on the cross for our sins. Kenny invited Jesus to be the LORD of his life. Talk about a “game changer!”
As I thought about my friend and his life - and death - I couldn’t help but feel a tremendous sense of tranquility. I know he is no longer tormented. I know that he is at HOME and has found rest and complete peace at the feet of Jesus. I fully understand that sometimes our healing and reconciliation comes in death.
If you are a young person reading this devotional, death may not be on your radar screen. We all seem to have a sense of immortality in our early years. We don’t want to consider death… and we figure we have lots and lots of years ahead of us before we have to consider it. Then someone we know and love dies… a grandparent or a parent…another family member… a close friend… or even a celebrity we admired. Suddenly, we are distraught, frightened, confused… and totally disheartened. We don’t know what to make of it all… and we start to think about our own lives… and deaths.
Even if you are a Christian, this may be a daunting thought for you. If you have been to more than one funeral, you have probably heard the pastor read from John 14, where Jesus tells us there are “many mansions” in His house… and He is preparing a place for each of us. You may be thinking… “Yeah… but I’m doing just fine right here on earth! I don’t really need a mansion!” Or you may have fear and dread about leaving your family and friends behind.
Please read the words of Isaiah 57:2 again. Those who follow Godly paths will rest in peace. I cannot tell you exactly when I made the switch from thinking of heaven as an intimidating place to one of tremendous peace and joy. It probably began more than 20 years ago, when my grandfather - and then my father-in-law – died suddenly. As I watched other beloved family members and friends suffer with debilitating diseases or the rigors of aging, I began to see what a relief death would be for them. It wasn’t long until I realized that many of us have a large number of loved ones waiting for us in heaven… already enjoying the blessings and rewards God promised them through Jesus Christ.
Yesterday I shared scripture from Isaiah about the hills singing and the trees clapping as we pass by. My mother told me that this is how she pictures heaven. As we arrive, hills will sing, trees will clap… and those who went before us will open their arms widely to embrace us with a “We’re so glad you’re here… you’re gonna love this place!” My sweet childhood friend, Kenny, will be among them.
I feel like someone reading this today needs to hear about the peace of heaven. If you are not that person… you could be in any given moment. I pray you will come to think of Paradise as not only a “friendly place”… but your destination for ultimate peace and joy. As you grieve and mourn the passing of loved ones who you miss dearly, think of them in complete bliss… healthy, whole, abundantly blessed, and continually in the presence of Jesus. Enjoy your earthly life… but look forward to the day you can join them and experience eternal peace.
If you have not yet offered Jesus your heart, as my friend did one evening, I pray that you will do so. Secure your place on the “waiting list” for heaven. Start making preparations for your “move” by living for Jesus every single day you are placed on this earth. Get so comfortable in your relationship with God that you anticipate the moment when the hills will sing for you and the trees will clap… and you will rest forever in His peace.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 25, 2012
James 1:16-18
Don’t be fooled, my dear friends. Every good and perfect gift comes down from the Father who created all the lights in the heavens. He is always the same and never makes dark shadows by changing. He wanted us to be his own special people, and so he sent the true message to give us new birth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever gone to a garage sale and discovered an item on the table that you gave a friend or family member, you know the sinking feeling that comes with this discovery – especially if the item has clearly never been used. Did the recipient not like your gift? Did you insult him/her? Was there something wrong with it? Worse yet… have you ever been holding your own sale and someone arrived who had given YOU a gift… and now that item was clearly in sight on the table and available for purchase? Even if the gift was something you could not use, didn’t like, or simply didn’t work for you in some manner, the feeling of embarrassment can weigh heavily.
I try to give “good gifts”…to select items that I believe the recipient will enjoy or really wants or needs. But I also have tried to develop a spirit of giving that goes like this… once I present another person with a gift, it is theirs to do with as they please. They can use it, love it, wear it, sell it, give it away… or throw it in the trash if they want. Once a gift leaves my hands, I no longer control it. The recipient is free to use the item as he/she pleases.
I will be the first to admit, if I give someone a gift and they tear it up or discard it right away, I’m a little disappointed. I am quite delighted when I give a friend or family member something and then see it proudly displayed, worn or utilized. I want to offer others gifts that will please them or enhance their life in some way. But I must be prepared to let go of these bequests and trust the receiver’s use of them.
God is such a wonderful giver. He picks out the very best gifts for each of us. Out of His incredible wisdom and care for us, He grants unsurpassed blessings upon our lives… He selects perfectly and bestows generously. He also gives unconditionally. Certainly, God is disappointed when we do not appreciate the things He gives us. I imagine He is heartbroken when we don’t even bother to take them out of the box, so to speak – as in talents and abilities we never cultivate. But He blesses us anyhow and gives us the freedom to do as we please with His endowments.
When God comes to the “garage sale” that is your life, do you really want Him to see the gifts He has given you on the table, discounted deeply, and perhaps “new in the box”? Do you want God to find His offerings discarded in the trash can? We’re not talking a trinket you were given just because someone felt obligated to offer you something. We’re talking hand-selected presents from GOD! Remember, God doesn’t make junk… and He doesn’t give it to His children, either!
How are you treating God’s gifts today? Are you recognizing that what He gives you is perfect and uniquely designed just for YOU? Are you showing respect for His ultimate gift - His only Son, Jesus Christ - and the sacrifice of Jesus’ blood on the cross for your sins? When was the last time you thanked God…REALLY thanked Him… for being such a generous, loving Father? Isn’t this the perfect time to do exactly that?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Don’t be fooled, my dear friends. Every good and perfect gift comes down from the Father who created all the lights in the heavens. He is always the same and never makes dark shadows by changing. He wanted us to be his own special people, and so he sent the true message to give us new birth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever gone to a garage sale and discovered an item on the table that you gave a friend or family member, you know the sinking feeling that comes with this discovery – especially if the item has clearly never been used. Did the recipient not like your gift? Did you insult him/her? Was there something wrong with it? Worse yet… have you ever been holding your own sale and someone arrived who had given YOU a gift… and now that item was clearly in sight on the table and available for purchase? Even if the gift was something you could not use, didn’t like, or simply didn’t work for you in some manner, the feeling of embarrassment can weigh heavily.
I try to give “good gifts”…to select items that I believe the recipient will enjoy or really wants or needs. But I also have tried to develop a spirit of giving that goes like this… once I present another person with a gift, it is theirs to do with as they please. They can use it, love it, wear it, sell it, give it away… or throw it in the trash if they want. Once a gift leaves my hands, I no longer control it. The recipient is free to use the item as he/she pleases.
I will be the first to admit, if I give someone a gift and they tear it up or discard it right away, I’m a little disappointed. I am quite delighted when I give a friend or family member something and then see it proudly displayed, worn or utilized. I want to offer others gifts that will please them or enhance their life in some way. But I must be prepared to let go of these bequests and trust the receiver’s use of them.
God is such a wonderful giver. He picks out the very best gifts for each of us. Out of His incredible wisdom and care for us, He grants unsurpassed blessings upon our lives… He selects perfectly and bestows generously. He also gives unconditionally. Certainly, God is disappointed when we do not appreciate the things He gives us. I imagine He is heartbroken when we don’t even bother to take them out of the box, so to speak – as in talents and abilities we never cultivate. But He blesses us anyhow and gives us the freedom to do as we please with His endowments.
When God comes to the “garage sale” that is your life, do you really want Him to see the gifts He has given you on the table, discounted deeply, and perhaps “new in the box”? Do you want God to find His offerings discarded in the trash can? We’re not talking a trinket you were given just because someone felt obligated to offer you something. We’re talking hand-selected presents from GOD! Remember, God doesn’t make junk… and He doesn’t give it to His children, either!
How are you treating God’s gifts today? Are you recognizing that what He gives you is perfect and uniquely designed just for YOU? Are you showing respect for His ultimate gift - His only Son, Jesus Christ - and the sacrifice of Jesus’ blood on the cross for your sins? When was the last time you thanked God…REALLY thanked Him… for being such a generous, loving Father? Isn’t this the perfect time to do exactly that?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 18, 2012
Ephesians 2:8-9
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you get a job and make enough money to buy a new car, you have every right to say… “I deserve this… I worked hard for it. I earned it!” If someone gives you a new car as a gift, you have nothing to brag about, except possibly to say, “Look what So-and-So gave me!” You did nothing to earn this car. It was all the doing of the person who gave it to you.
The same can be said of our salvation… our promise of Eternal Life in Heaven… or for that matter, any blessings we receive on this earth. They are gifts from God, and we didn’t do a single thing to earn them. We can’t… it’s impossible! Moreover, we don’t deserve any of these gifts… yet they are freely given.
We can earn enough money to buy a car, but we can never “earn” the gifts of God. This is the difference… what makes our Christian faith unique. We can’t be good enough, serve sufficiently, love amply, light an adequate number of candles, say abundant prayers, or atone in any way for our salvation. God gave this gift to us completely – without merit or any expectation of repayment. We cannot brag about this, but we can tell everyone else how generous and loving, gracious and merciful our God is… and we should do this at every turn.
From time to time, we need to be reminded of God’s incredible gifts… and humbled with regard to receiving them. We need to remember that we cannot out-give God… nor can we earn our salvation and His blessings. The only thing we can do is accept Jesus… receive God’s gifts… and respect His favor by living in a way that honors and glorifies Him.
In the 1960s, there was a television show called “The Guns of Will Sonnet.” The lead character was played by Walter Brennan, who liked to brag about his prowess with guns. In the first episode, he told someone that his grandson was a better shot than his son… and that he was better than both of them, adding, “no brag, just fact.” Our salvation is a glorious blessing… and something of which we should be proud and grateful. We should tell everyone we know how to get in on this amazing, incredible gift! But we should also tell them that a new life in Christ cannot be bought… nor will it ever be deserved. Our promise of Eternal Life truly is “no brag, just fact.” Have you thanked God lately for such a generous gift? Isn’t this a good day to start?
©2012 Debbie Robus
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you get a job and make enough money to buy a new car, you have every right to say… “I deserve this… I worked hard for it. I earned it!” If someone gives you a new car as a gift, you have nothing to brag about, except possibly to say, “Look what So-and-So gave me!” You did nothing to earn this car. It was all the doing of the person who gave it to you.
The same can be said of our salvation… our promise of Eternal Life in Heaven… or for that matter, any blessings we receive on this earth. They are gifts from God, and we didn’t do a single thing to earn them. We can’t… it’s impossible! Moreover, we don’t deserve any of these gifts… yet they are freely given.
We can earn enough money to buy a car, but we can never “earn” the gifts of God. This is the difference… what makes our Christian faith unique. We can’t be good enough, serve sufficiently, love amply, light an adequate number of candles, say abundant prayers, or atone in any way for our salvation. God gave this gift to us completely – without merit or any expectation of repayment. We cannot brag about this, but we can tell everyone else how generous and loving, gracious and merciful our God is… and we should do this at every turn.
From time to time, we need to be reminded of God’s incredible gifts… and humbled with regard to receiving them. We need to remember that we cannot out-give God… nor can we earn our salvation and His blessings. The only thing we can do is accept Jesus… receive God’s gifts… and respect His favor by living in a way that honors and glorifies Him.
In the 1960s, there was a television show called “The Guns of Will Sonnet.” The lead character was played by Walter Brennan, who liked to brag about his prowess with guns. In the first episode, he told someone that his grandson was a better shot than his son… and that he was better than both of them, adding, “no brag, just fact.” Our salvation is a glorious blessing… and something of which we should be proud and grateful. We should tell everyone we know how to get in on this amazing, incredible gift! But we should also tell them that a new life in Christ cannot be bought… nor will it ever be deserved. Our promise of Eternal Life truly is “no brag, just fact.” Have you thanked God lately for such a generous gift? Isn’t this a good day to start?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 3, 2012
Ephesians 1:11-14
It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.
It's in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. This signet from God is the first installment on what's coming, a reminder that we'll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life.
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.
A lot of us are familiar with “installment plans.” Many jobs have a “starting salary” that increases as you take on more tasks or accrue months or years of service. In time, you may receive pay raises, bonuses, and more. Some people open a savings account for newborn babies, and as the children grow, more money is placed in these accounts… creating a “college fund” or “nest egg” for use when the child matures or reaches a certain age. You can probably think of other instances where a “base amount” is given to someone, and additional payments and perks are provided over time.
Let’s face it… getting regular “installments” creates something of an incentive to keep working… to perform well… to earn more benefits and accolades. We only have to look as far as lottery winners who blow through their fortune in short order to see what often happens when too much is awarded at once! And so it is with God’s wisdom and truth for us… and all that He has planned for our lives. God grants us Salvation and all of the security and blessings that come with a life in Christ. As we grow and serve, He provides us with “perks, raises and incentives” to continue our discipleship.
Part of the excitement of being a Christian is the anticipation of what God has in store for us next. I don’t know about you, but I am exhilarated by even the idea that I don’t know for sure how or where God will show up in my life next… but I know for certain that He will! This is a huge motivator to work harder… to spend more time in His presence… to be ready for whatever He wants to send my way.
So often, we are eager to have everything at once. We humans are not notoriously patient! We want all that God has in store for us… and we want it now! But God knows that we cannot handle everything at once. He knows the value of allowing us to grow into our new life in Christ… and to lean on His discernment for the pace and volume of the blessings He bestows. Our job is to remain faithful… to stay in close communion with God… to listen to Him and follow His lead.
The old adage “good things come to those who wait” applies to Christians, too. In our case… good things come to those who wait upon the LORD! Are you waiting on the LORD these days? Are you anticipating His next installment in your life… and will you be ready when it comes?
©2012 Debbie Robus
It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.
It's in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. This signet from God is the first installment on what's coming, a reminder that we'll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life.
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.
A lot of us are familiar with “installment plans.” Many jobs have a “starting salary” that increases as you take on more tasks or accrue months or years of service. In time, you may receive pay raises, bonuses, and more. Some people open a savings account for newborn babies, and as the children grow, more money is placed in these accounts… creating a “college fund” or “nest egg” for use when the child matures or reaches a certain age. You can probably think of other instances where a “base amount” is given to someone, and additional payments and perks are provided over time.
Let’s face it… getting regular “installments” creates something of an incentive to keep working… to perform well… to earn more benefits and accolades. We only have to look as far as lottery winners who blow through their fortune in short order to see what often happens when too much is awarded at once! And so it is with God’s wisdom and truth for us… and all that He has planned for our lives. God grants us Salvation and all of the security and blessings that come with a life in Christ. As we grow and serve, He provides us with “perks, raises and incentives” to continue our discipleship.
Part of the excitement of being a Christian is the anticipation of what God has in store for us next. I don’t know about you, but I am exhilarated by even the idea that I don’t know for sure how or where God will show up in my life next… but I know for certain that He will! This is a huge motivator to work harder… to spend more time in His presence… to be ready for whatever He wants to send my way.
So often, we are eager to have everything at once. We humans are not notoriously patient! We want all that God has in store for us… and we want it now! But God knows that we cannot handle everything at once. He knows the value of allowing us to grow into our new life in Christ… and to lean on His discernment for the pace and volume of the blessings He bestows. Our job is to remain faithful… to stay in close communion with God… to listen to Him and follow His lead.
The old adage “good things come to those who wait” applies to Christians, too. In our case… good things come to those who wait upon the LORD! Are you waiting on the LORD these days? Are you anticipating His next installment in your life… and will you be ready when it comes?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 8, 2012
2 Peter 1:3-4
Everything that goes into a life of pleasing God has been miraculously given to us by getting to know, personally and intimately, the One who invited us to God. The best invitation we ever received! We were also given absolutely terrific promises to pass on to you—your tickets to participation in the life of God after you turned your back on a world corrupted by lust.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In the 1980s and 1990s, my mom and dad went on several FAM tours. According to a document at www.latour.lsu.edu, a FAM tour is “a free or reduced-rate trip offered to travel professionals to acquaint them with what a destination, attraction or supplier has to offer.” In my mom’s case, these destinations and attractions (like resorts, theme parks and more) hoped that she would write a favorable review of their offerings for the magazines and newspapers in which her articles were published.
In the mid-1990s, my mother was offered a free cruise aboard The Big Red Boat… a “Looney Tunes”-themed cruise ship sailing from Florida to the Bahamas. For the cruise, my mom was told she could not only bring my dad… but also her children! Even though my siblings and I were grown, Mom invited me, my sister, and my niece to join them… and we did!
Because of my mother’s association with certain editors and publishers, she was invited to enjoy this opportunity. And because she passed on the invitation to us, we could enjoy this 4-day cruise, as well. My mother established this relationship and her reputation as a writer, and she enjoyed trips to several major cities and resorts… the nicest rooms, tickets to top events, gourmet meals, and much more. She and my dad could easily have taken the cruise by themselves, but they graciously extended an invitation to us to join them. Once we accepted the invitation, we had to purchase our own plane tickets and fly to Florida to meet them and board the boat. But once we got there, everything else was provided.
Do you see where I’m headed with this? God sent Jesus to earth with an offer of salvation – forgiveness of our sins and Eternal life – as well as blessings we can’t even count in this lifetime. All we have to do is accept the invitation… and agree to serve Him and share His Good News with others. And the best part is that we can bring others along with us! We can tell those we encounter about Jesus and invite them to enjoy the same promises and blessings that God has offered us.
Those who offer FAM tours have no guarantee that the attendees will produce glowing reviews and write dozens of articles that drum up plenty of new business. Yet they continue to offer the tours. And God offers His gift of salvation and Eternal Life, knowing that many of us will accept His invitation to follow… and then do the bare minimum as Christian believers. Still… He offers.
I’m not sure why so many of us are reluctant to operate in the lavish blessings of God. I can’t explain why we treat the One who has given us EVERYTHING so poorly… or with such ambivalence. I’m certainly not sure why He wants to bless such an ungrateful lot like us… but He does. The invitation from God is better than any FAM tour or free cruise. Accepting and showing appreciation should be a no-brainer.
Have you said “Yes!” to God’s invitation? How are you treating Him in return? Are you living in a way that glorifies and honors this lavish gift… and have you shared God’s invitation through Jesus Christ with others? Isn’t it about time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Everything that goes into a life of pleasing God has been miraculously given to us by getting to know, personally and intimately, the One who invited us to God. The best invitation we ever received! We were also given absolutely terrific promises to pass on to you—your tickets to participation in the life of God after you turned your back on a world corrupted by lust.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In the 1980s and 1990s, my mom and dad went on several FAM tours. According to a document at www.latour.lsu.edu, a FAM tour is “a free or reduced-rate trip offered to travel professionals to acquaint them with what a destination, attraction or supplier has to offer.” In my mom’s case, these destinations and attractions (like resorts, theme parks and more) hoped that she would write a favorable review of their offerings for the magazines and newspapers in which her articles were published.
In the mid-1990s, my mother was offered a free cruise aboard The Big Red Boat… a “Looney Tunes”-themed cruise ship sailing from Florida to the Bahamas. For the cruise, my mom was told she could not only bring my dad… but also her children! Even though my siblings and I were grown, Mom invited me, my sister, and my niece to join them… and we did!
Because of my mother’s association with certain editors and publishers, she was invited to enjoy this opportunity. And because she passed on the invitation to us, we could enjoy this 4-day cruise, as well. My mother established this relationship and her reputation as a writer, and she enjoyed trips to several major cities and resorts… the nicest rooms, tickets to top events, gourmet meals, and much more. She and my dad could easily have taken the cruise by themselves, but they graciously extended an invitation to us to join them. Once we accepted the invitation, we had to purchase our own plane tickets and fly to Florida to meet them and board the boat. But once we got there, everything else was provided.
Do you see where I’m headed with this? God sent Jesus to earth with an offer of salvation – forgiveness of our sins and Eternal life – as well as blessings we can’t even count in this lifetime. All we have to do is accept the invitation… and agree to serve Him and share His Good News with others. And the best part is that we can bring others along with us! We can tell those we encounter about Jesus and invite them to enjoy the same promises and blessings that God has offered us.
Those who offer FAM tours have no guarantee that the attendees will produce glowing reviews and write dozens of articles that drum up plenty of new business. Yet they continue to offer the tours. And God offers His gift of salvation and Eternal Life, knowing that many of us will accept His invitation to follow… and then do the bare minimum as Christian believers. Still… He offers.
I’m not sure why so many of us are reluctant to operate in the lavish blessings of God. I can’t explain why we treat the One who has given us EVERYTHING so poorly… or with such ambivalence. I’m certainly not sure why He wants to bless such an ungrateful lot like us… but He does. The invitation from God is better than any FAM tour or free cruise. Accepting and showing appreciation should be a no-brainer.
Have you said “Yes!” to God’s invitation? How are you treating Him in return? Are you living in a way that glorifies and honors this lavish gift… and have you shared God’s invitation through Jesus Christ with others? Isn’t it about time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 16, 2012
Acts 2:37-42
When the people heard this, they were very upset. They asked Peter and the other apostles, "Friends, what shall we do?"
Peter said, "Turn back to God! Be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven. Then you will be given the Holy Spirit. This promise is for you and your children. It is for everyone our Lord God will choose, no matter where they live."
Peter told them many other things as well. Then he said, "I beg you to save yourselves from what will happen to all these evil people." On that day about three thousand believed his message and were baptized. They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Our little nephew, Timothy, is fascinated by the moon. Almost since he was born, I have read a “good-night” story to him that had a moon depicted on every page. When he learned to talk, “moon” was one of his first words. And I will never forget the first night he saw the actual moon in the sky and made the connection to the picture in his book. With wide eyes, he pointed and exclaimed in an excited voice, “MOON!”
We have spent many evenings looking at the moon. Last fall, my husband and I took Timothy outside several times at night to sit on our driveway and enjoy the moonlight. We would tell him, “Wherever you are, remember that you are seeing the same moon we see. Every time you look at the moon, you will know that Aunt Debbie and Uncle Greg love you very much!” The moon connects us in a way that makes sense to a two-year-old.
There is a lot of important “meat” in this scripture passage. But one thing I don’t want you to miss is the part where Peter says, “This promise is for you and your children. It is for everyone our Lord God will choose, no matter where they live.” In other words, wherever you are, the God who loved me enough to send Jesus did the same thing for you… and your children - and those yet to come. The same Holy Spirit who dwells in my heart can dwell in yours… and in the hearts of those for generations yet to be born. This is HUGE, and I don’t want you to miss it!
Does this mean that my grandmother’s faith and devotion to Jesus “covers” me and “gets me in?” If your father is a devoted, Spirit-filled Christian, is Peter saying that you are also a Christian because of your kinship? Absolutely not! Every person must choose to follow Jesus for himself/herself. BUT… the gift of salvation through Jesus is offered – and available – to each of us.
Consider this… the moon that shines from the night sky now is the same moon that shone over Bethlehem when Jesus was born. The God who created the heavens and earth – and the moon – is the same God who wants to fill you with His Holy Spirit and dwell with you each and every day. This is a gift too amazing to ignore… love, grace, mercy and forgiveness just for me – yet offered equally to anyone else who will ask and accept! Just as people living halfway around the world see the same moon that we see…they can feel the presence of the Holy Spirit just like we do.
Don’t you want this? Doesn’t it give you joy and comfort to realize that God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow… and He offers each of us the opportunity to know Him uniquely – yet collectively? Doesn’t it amaze you see the moon and realize that every person who looks at that shining orb is loved by the same God… and can experience His salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ? I don’t know about you, but I find this overwhelmingly awesome… incredible… and a blessing I would never want to miss!
As Timothy grows in his understanding of many things, we will tell him more and more about our Heavenly Father and His precious Son, Jesus Christ. I think a good start would be to amend our reminder to him that every time he sees the moon, he will know that he is loved – not only by his aunt and uncle – but especially by God. In time, I pray this will bring him great joy and peace, as he comes to know the LORD personally and feels His presence daily.
What about you? Do you have this personal relationship with Jesus? Do you feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life? There is no better time to begin than today. Whether you are asking Jesus to forgive your sins and bring the Holy Spirit for the first time – or renewing your commitment – this is the perfect day to turn back to God. And the next time you look at the moon, remember how much you are loved – by those who surround you on earth… and most especially by the God who created it!
©2012 Debbie Robus
When the people heard this, they were very upset. They asked Peter and the other apostles, "Friends, what shall we do?"
Peter said, "Turn back to God! Be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven. Then you will be given the Holy Spirit. This promise is for you and your children. It is for everyone our Lord God will choose, no matter where they live."
Peter told them many other things as well. Then he said, "I beg you to save yourselves from what will happen to all these evil people." On that day about three thousand believed his message and were baptized. They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Our little nephew, Timothy, is fascinated by the moon. Almost since he was born, I have read a “good-night” story to him that had a moon depicted on every page. When he learned to talk, “moon” was one of his first words. And I will never forget the first night he saw the actual moon in the sky and made the connection to the picture in his book. With wide eyes, he pointed and exclaimed in an excited voice, “MOON!”
We have spent many evenings looking at the moon. Last fall, my husband and I took Timothy outside several times at night to sit on our driveway and enjoy the moonlight. We would tell him, “Wherever you are, remember that you are seeing the same moon we see. Every time you look at the moon, you will know that Aunt Debbie and Uncle Greg love you very much!” The moon connects us in a way that makes sense to a two-year-old.
There is a lot of important “meat” in this scripture passage. But one thing I don’t want you to miss is the part where Peter says, “This promise is for you and your children. It is for everyone our Lord God will choose, no matter where they live.” In other words, wherever you are, the God who loved me enough to send Jesus did the same thing for you… and your children - and those yet to come. The same Holy Spirit who dwells in my heart can dwell in yours… and in the hearts of those for generations yet to be born. This is HUGE, and I don’t want you to miss it!
Does this mean that my grandmother’s faith and devotion to Jesus “covers” me and “gets me in?” If your father is a devoted, Spirit-filled Christian, is Peter saying that you are also a Christian because of your kinship? Absolutely not! Every person must choose to follow Jesus for himself/herself. BUT… the gift of salvation through Jesus is offered – and available – to each of us.
Consider this… the moon that shines from the night sky now is the same moon that shone over Bethlehem when Jesus was born. The God who created the heavens and earth – and the moon – is the same God who wants to fill you with His Holy Spirit and dwell with you each and every day. This is a gift too amazing to ignore… love, grace, mercy and forgiveness just for me – yet offered equally to anyone else who will ask and accept! Just as people living halfway around the world see the same moon that we see…they can feel the presence of the Holy Spirit just like we do.
Don’t you want this? Doesn’t it give you joy and comfort to realize that God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow… and He offers each of us the opportunity to know Him uniquely – yet collectively? Doesn’t it amaze you see the moon and realize that every person who looks at that shining orb is loved by the same God… and can experience His salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ? I don’t know about you, but I find this overwhelmingly awesome… incredible… and a blessing I would never want to miss!
As Timothy grows in his understanding of many things, we will tell him more and more about our Heavenly Father and His precious Son, Jesus Christ. I think a good start would be to amend our reminder to him that every time he sees the moon, he will know that he is loved – not only by his aunt and uncle – but especially by God. In time, I pray this will bring him great joy and peace, as he comes to know the LORD personally and feels His presence daily.
What about you? Do you have this personal relationship with Jesus? Do you feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life? There is no better time to begin than today. Whether you are asking Jesus to forgive your sins and bring the Holy Spirit for the first time – or renewing your commitment – this is the perfect day to turn back to God. And the next time you look at the moon, remember how much you are loved – by those who surround you on earth… and most especially by the God who created it!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 14, 2011
Psalm 118:21-24
I praise the LORD for answering my prayers and saving me. The stone that the builders tossed aside has now become the most important stone. The LORD has done this, and it is amazing to us. This day belongs to the LORD! Let's celebrate and be glad today.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning when I woke up, I saw sunlight streaming across a hickory tree in our back yard. Its leaves are turning a brilliant yellow in the cool air of fall. This is not the greatest tree in the world… it “forked” somewhere above our second story, and a recent strong wind blew the dead section out, leaving an even more off-balance looking tree standing on the bluff.
Still, dozens of squirrels feed on hickory nuts from this tree… evidence of their buffet covers the ground around the trunk. The tree still delights us with its brilliance in the fall – and shade in spring/summer. Flying squirrels still live in a hole in the side, and woodpeckers of several varieties enjoy feasting on bugs in the bark… and our suet cakes in the winter!
Others would probably declare this tree unimportant and in need of cutting. And someday, we very well may lose this tree… either to a strong wind, or we may decide it should not stand so close to our house in its weakened condition. But for now, the tree still has value to us – and to the little creatures that live on our bluff. It is still very much an “important stone” in our yard. And God showed me the beauty of this tree in the morning sunlight.
Later in the morning, we took a 30-mile drive to Searcy to shop, and I marveled at the beauty God is giving us with his “paintbrush,” in the form of brilliant red sumac, yellow goldenrod, lavender wildflowers, brilliant leaves in a variety of hues, and a bright blue sky with wispy white clouds to accent it all. I thought of how He cares as much about a tiny patch of goldenrod as He does for you and me… and how no stone is unimportant to Him. And I was humbled… and grateful.
When we feel discouraged… unsettled, disappointed, insignificant, misunderstood, disrespected, or even worthless… we must remember that we are still vitally important to God. We mean so much to Him that He sent His Son to save us… to ensure that we have a way to Him – and that He will always be there for us. And for this, we should be incredibly grateful and thankful.
Today, I am humbled by God’s love and care… and incredibly appreciative. I am taking extra time to stop and tell Him how much I love Him, and I encourage you to do the same. Let’s celebrate and be glad for all God does for us… and let’s be sure He knows how grateful we are!
©2011 Debbie Robus
I praise the LORD for answering my prayers and saving me. The stone that the builders tossed aside has now become the most important stone. The LORD has done this, and it is amazing to us. This day belongs to the LORD! Let's celebrate and be glad today.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning when I woke up, I saw sunlight streaming across a hickory tree in our back yard. Its leaves are turning a brilliant yellow in the cool air of fall. This is not the greatest tree in the world… it “forked” somewhere above our second story, and a recent strong wind blew the dead section out, leaving an even more off-balance looking tree standing on the bluff.
Still, dozens of squirrels feed on hickory nuts from this tree… evidence of their buffet covers the ground around the trunk. The tree still delights us with its brilliance in the fall – and shade in spring/summer. Flying squirrels still live in a hole in the side, and woodpeckers of several varieties enjoy feasting on bugs in the bark… and our suet cakes in the winter!
Others would probably declare this tree unimportant and in need of cutting. And someday, we very well may lose this tree… either to a strong wind, or we may decide it should not stand so close to our house in its weakened condition. But for now, the tree still has value to us – and to the little creatures that live on our bluff. It is still very much an “important stone” in our yard. And God showed me the beauty of this tree in the morning sunlight.
Later in the morning, we took a 30-mile drive to Searcy to shop, and I marveled at the beauty God is giving us with his “paintbrush,” in the form of brilliant red sumac, yellow goldenrod, lavender wildflowers, brilliant leaves in a variety of hues, and a bright blue sky with wispy white clouds to accent it all. I thought of how He cares as much about a tiny patch of goldenrod as He does for you and me… and how no stone is unimportant to Him. And I was humbled… and grateful.
When we feel discouraged… unsettled, disappointed, insignificant, misunderstood, disrespected, or even worthless… we must remember that we are still vitally important to God. We mean so much to Him that He sent His Son to save us… to ensure that we have a way to Him – and that He will always be there for us. And for this, we should be incredibly grateful and thankful.
Today, I am humbled by God’s love and care… and incredibly appreciative. I am taking extra time to stop and tell Him how much I love Him, and I encourage you to do the same. Let’s celebrate and be glad for all God does for us… and let’s be sure He knows how grateful we are!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 29, 2011
August 29 ~ John 8:1-11
Jesus walked out to the Mount of Olives. Then early the next morning he went to the temple. The people came to him, and he sat down and started teaching them. The Pharisees and the teachers of the Law of Moses brought in a woman who had been caught in bed with a man who wasn't her husband. They made her stand in the middle of the crowd. Then they said, "Teacher, this woman was caught sleeping with a man who isn't her husband. The Law of Moses teaches that a woman like this should be stoned to death! What do you say?"
They asked Jesus this question, because they wanted to test him and bring some charge against him. But Jesus simply bent over and started writing on the ground with his finger.
They kept on asking Jesus about the woman. Finally, he stood up and said, "If any of you have never sinned, then go ahead and throw the first stone at her!" Once again he bent over and began writing on the ground. The people left one by one, beginning with the oldest. Finally, Jesus and the woman were there alone. Jesus stood up and asked her, "Where is everyone? Isn't there anyone left to accuse you?" "No sir," the woman answered. Then Jesus told her, "I am not going to accuse you either. You may go now, but don't sin anymore."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I would love to know what Jesus wrote in the sand. I’ve done some searching on the Internet, and some suggest He was merely doodling. Others say he was drawing a circle in which the accused stood for stoning. Anyone in the circle when it was completed was subject to stoning – maybe He thought some of the Pharisees wouldn’t move fast enough! Still others say Jesus was listing the sins of every person present… who else hadcommitted adultery – and with whom. Even another suggested that Jesus was writing out the law that said that this woman could only be stoned if the sinless person cast the first blow, because inability to comply would be the only thing that would cause the leaders to dissipate.
At the end of the day, it really doesn’t matter what Jesus wrote… but the fact that He was less than fully present in the activities of making accusations and berating this woman matters greatly. See, we are all this woman, in some manner, because we are all sinners. And lest you start protesting that her sins were so much greater than yours, let me remind you again that sin is sin… and we are all sinners – except for Jesus.So when Jesus let this woman go and said, “I’m not going to accuse you, either,” He granted her grace and mercy far beyond anything any of us deserve. He told each of us the same thing, in essence, when He died on the cross for our sins. He took our burden upon Himself, and we are charged to “go now, but don’t sin anymore.” There is every chance we won’t be able to hold up to our end of the bargain, but we must try. When we fall short, we must confess, pick ourselves up, ask forgiveness, and move ahead, glorifying God for His grace, mercy, and unending love.
I don’t know about you, but when I find myself in the circle, being accused (even by my own conscience) of my sins and shortcomings, I’m so happy to know that Jesus is standing beside me – drawing in the sand. I’m grateful that He does not condemn me… and that because of my salvation through Him, I am forever set upright and given another chance. If you have asked Jesus to become LORD of your life and invited His Holy Spirit to live in your heart, you can enjoy this same grace, mercy and salvation.
So the question of the day is… “What is Jesus writing in the sand beside your circle?”
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus walked out to the Mount of Olives. Then early the next morning he went to the temple. The people came to him, and he sat down and started teaching them. The Pharisees and the teachers of the Law of Moses brought in a woman who had been caught in bed with a man who wasn't her husband. They made her stand in the middle of the crowd. Then they said, "Teacher, this woman was caught sleeping with a man who isn't her husband. The Law of Moses teaches that a woman like this should be stoned to death! What do you say?"
They asked Jesus this question, because they wanted to test him and bring some charge against him. But Jesus simply bent over and started writing on the ground with his finger.
They kept on asking Jesus about the woman. Finally, he stood up and said, "If any of you have never sinned, then go ahead and throw the first stone at her!" Once again he bent over and began writing on the ground. The people left one by one, beginning with the oldest. Finally, Jesus and the woman were there alone. Jesus stood up and asked her, "Where is everyone? Isn't there anyone left to accuse you?" "No sir," the woman answered. Then Jesus told her, "I am not going to accuse you either. You may go now, but don't sin anymore."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I would love to know what Jesus wrote in the sand. I’ve done some searching on the Internet, and some suggest He was merely doodling. Others say he was drawing a circle in which the accused stood for stoning. Anyone in the circle when it was completed was subject to stoning – maybe He thought some of the Pharisees wouldn’t move fast enough! Still others say Jesus was listing the sins of every person present… who else hadcommitted adultery – and with whom. Even another suggested that Jesus was writing out the law that said that this woman could only be stoned if the sinless person cast the first blow, because inability to comply would be the only thing that would cause the leaders to dissipate.
At the end of the day, it really doesn’t matter what Jesus wrote… but the fact that He was less than fully present in the activities of making accusations and berating this woman matters greatly. See, we are all this woman, in some manner, because we are all sinners. And lest you start protesting that her sins were so much greater than yours, let me remind you again that sin is sin… and we are all sinners – except for Jesus.So when Jesus let this woman go and said, “I’m not going to accuse you, either,” He granted her grace and mercy far beyond anything any of us deserve. He told each of us the same thing, in essence, when He died on the cross for our sins. He took our burden upon Himself, and we are charged to “go now, but don’t sin anymore.” There is every chance we won’t be able to hold up to our end of the bargain, but we must try. When we fall short, we must confess, pick ourselves up, ask forgiveness, and move ahead, glorifying God for His grace, mercy, and unending love.
I don’t know about you, but when I find myself in the circle, being accused (even by my own conscience) of my sins and shortcomings, I’m so happy to know that Jesus is standing beside me – drawing in the sand. I’m grateful that He does not condemn me… and that because of my salvation through Him, I am forever set upright and given another chance. If you have asked Jesus to become LORD of your life and invited His Holy Spirit to live in your heart, you can enjoy this same grace, mercy and salvation.
So the question of the day is… “What is Jesus writing in the sand beside your circle?”
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 27, 2011
John 7:14-19
With the Feast already half over, Jesus showed up in the Temple, teaching. The Jews were impressed, but puzzled: "How does he know so much without being schooled?"
Jesus said, "I didn't make this up. What I teach comes from the One who sent me. Anyone who wants to do his will can test this teaching and know whether it's from God or whether I'm making it up. A person making things up tries to make himself look good. But someone trying to honor the one who sent him sticks to the facts and doesn't tamper with reality. It was Moses, wasn't it, who gave you God's Law? But none of you are living it. So why are you trying to kill me?"
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Friends on Facebook have been contributing to a page about recollections of our home town when we were kids. More than one has remembered Whitaker Drug Store, were we could sit at the counter and order fountain sodas and other treats. And many have remembered getting a drink there called a “suicide.” Basically, the ladies behind the counter put in a little bit of every syrup available and added carbonated water for “fizz.” I don’t remember if I ever drank a “suicide,” but I know plenty of times that I – and others – have tried to create our own culinary concoction with less than stellar results!
I will experiment a little here and there when cooking, but I’ve pretty well learned from a few mistakes in the kitchen. Now I mostly stick to the recipe and leave the tampering to someone more adventuresome! I am content to have people enjoy my cooking, and I will gladly give the credit to whatever cookbook author or good cook willing to share recipes deserves the recognition. And hopefully, people are comfortable eating what I prepare… confident that I’ve not made things up as I went along! I never went to culinary school… but I had good teachers who taught me how to navigate the kitchen and produce a tasty meal.
Now if I were to continually strike out and create dishes of my own invention, would I have the right to be mad at Julia Child, Betty Crocker, or the Southern Living cooks because my results were poor? Would it make sense to be angry at someone who shared a recipe with me if I changed the ingredients and didn’t follow the cooking directions… and the result was inedible? So why do we think we can study God’s word and receive His guidance and instruction, then “have it our way?”
Why are we persuaded by sinful friends and acquaintances who clearly are not behaving in a Christ-like manner? Why do we choose “Spiritual suicide” when we already know that the results are going to leave a bad taste in our mouth and have horrendous consequences? What right do we have to be mad at God when things don’t go the way we want?
When will we learn? When will we begin to recognize the power and authority of God Almighty? When will we see that God sent Jesus to show us how to live… how to conduct ourselves in all sorts of situations… how to resist temptation… how to love others in His name… how to spread the Gospel and model Christ-like behavior for others? When will we realize that fakes and phonies are a dime a dozen… but Jesus is the Real Deal?
Remember John 3:16 – God loves us so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, so that we could live – forever! All we have to do is believe in Him… all we have to do is acknowledge that Jesus is truly who He said He was, ever since “back in the day”… and commit our heart and soul to living for Him continually in the “now!” Jesus brought us the recipe for success, joy, and Eternal Life! Are you ready to follow Him?
©2011 Debbie Robus
With the Feast already half over, Jesus showed up in the Temple, teaching. The Jews were impressed, but puzzled: "How does he know so much without being schooled?"
Jesus said, "I didn't make this up. What I teach comes from the One who sent me. Anyone who wants to do his will can test this teaching and know whether it's from God or whether I'm making it up. A person making things up tries to make himself look good. But someone trying to honor the one who sent him sticks to the facts and doesn't tamper with reality. It was Moses, wasn't it, who gave you God's Law? But none of you are living it. So why are you trying to kill me?"
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Friends on Facebook have been contributing to a page about recollections of our home town when we were kids. More than one has remembered Whitaker Drug Store, were we could sit at the counter and order fountain sodas and other treats. And many have remembered getting a drink there called a “suicide.” Basically, the ladies behind the counter put in a little bit of every syrup available and added carbonated water for “fizz.” I don’t remember if I ever drank a “suicide,” but I know plenty of times that I – and others – have tried to create our own culinary concoction with less than stellar results!
I will experiment a little here and there when cooking, but I’ve pretty well learned from a few mistakes in the kitchen. Now I mostly stick to the recipe and leave the tampering to someone more adventuresome! I am content to have people enjoy my cooking, and I will gladly give the credit to whatever cookbook author or good cook willing to share recipes deserves the recognition. And hopefully, people are comfortable eating what I prepare… confident that I’ve not made things up as I went along! I never went to culinary school… but I had good teachers who taught me how to navigate the kitchen and produce a tasty meal.
Now if I were to continually strike out and create dishes of my own invention, would I have the right to be mad at Julia Child, Betty Crocker, or the Southern Living cooks because my results were poor? Would it make sense to be angry at someone who shared a recipe with me if I changed the ingredients and didn’t follow the cooking directions… and the result was inedible? So why do we think we can study God’s word and receive His guidance and instruction, then “have it our way?”
Why are we persuaded by sinful friends and acquaintances who clearly are not behaving in a Christ-like manner? Why do we choose “Spiritual suicide” when we already know that the results are going to leave a bad taste in our mouth and have horrendous consequences? What right do we have to be mad at God when things don’t go the way we want?
When will we learn? When will we begin to recognize the power and authority of God Almighty? When will we see that God sent Jesus to show us how to live… how to conduct ourselves in all sorts of situations… how to resist temptation… how to love others in His name… how to spread the Gospel and model Christ-like behavior for others? When will we realize that fakes and phonies are a dime a dozen… but Jesus is the Real Deal?
Remember John 3:16 – God loves us so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, so that we could live – forever! All we have to do is believe in Him… all we have to do is acknowledge that Jesus is truly who He said He was, ever since “back in the day”… and commit our heart and soul to living for Him continually in the “now!” Jesus brought us the recipe for success, joy, and Eternal Life! Are you ready to follow Him?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 11, 2011
John 6:16-29
That evening, Jesus' disciples went down to the lake. They got into a boat and started across for Capernaum. Later that evening Jesus had still not come to them, and a strong wind was making the water rough.
When the disciples had rowed for three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the water. He kept coming closer to the boat, and they were terrified. But he said, "I am Jesus! Don't be afraid!" The disciples wanted to take him into the boat, but suddenly the boat reached the shore where they were headed.
The people who had stayed on the east side of the lake knew that only one boat had been there. They also knew that Jesus had not left in it with his disciples. But the next day some boats from Tiberias sailed near the place where the crowd had eaten the bread for which the Lord had given thanks. They saw that Jesus and his disciples had left. Then they got into the boats and went to Capernaum to look for Jesus. They found him on the west side of the lake and asked, "Rabbi, when did you get here?"
Jesus answered, "I tell you for certain that you are not looking for me because you saw the miracles, but because you ate all the food you wanted. Don't work for food that spoils. Work for food that gives eternal life. The Son of Man will give you this food, because God the Father has given him the right to do so." "What exactly does God want us to do?" the people asked.
Jesus answered, "God wants you to have faith in the one he sent."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all had someone be nice to us when they wanted something. There are some people who only come around or act interested in others when they are hoping to gain something from the interaction or relationship. I don’t mean to be cynical or skeptical, but often you can spot these people coming a mile away. And even if there is no ulterior motive, the history with this person makes it hard to believe that he/she is genuine.
It’s somewhat like when a teenager’s mom cooks his/her favorite dish, and the teen would do just about anything to get Mom to cook it again. The teenager really doesn’t notice all the wonderful, important things a mom does every day for him/her and the rest of the family (extended family, friends, community and more). It’s all about that favorite meal… personal gratification… and the teen will go to great lengths to schmooze Mom so that she will cook it again.
If we honestly look at our relationship to God, we are much the same. We pretty well always have our hand out in some manner. “LORD, please do this for me… Father, I need a miracle… God, heal me, my relationship, my family, my friends.” We’re not interested in God’s miracles and healing in the context of the world at large – much less giving back in service and dedication. We want God to feed us… to meet our needs at that very moment.
Let’s be clear… there is nothing wrong with asking God to meet our needs. He can… He will… He wants to do this for us. He wants to heal our bodies, minds, and relationships… and to do the same for those in our circle of family and friends. He wants to give us answers to our troubles and bless us each and every day. But He wants us to love and follow Him because of the Bread of Life… the gift of eternal salvation He provides to us through the blood of Jesus Christ.
God doesn’t want us to believe in Him and serve Him because He cured our cancer, helped us pass a biology test, or we ran extra fast in the 5k or cross-country event. He doesn’t want us to follow Him because He gives us a roof over our head and a good job to pay the bills. He wants us to look beyond these material, “now” things and say, “I will follow you all the days of my life because you gave me Jesus.”
For me, this was a simple – but highly powerful – illustration. Some people are following Jesus for the “fish dinner” that He provides – that “favorite meal”. They are willing to love Jesus and serve Him – and basically butter Him up – for whatever is in it for them at the moment… the “quick fix.” But God wants us to be in it for the “Daily Bread” – the meal that satisfies our soul more than our bellies... and lasts! God wants us to follow Him and serve because we love Him and desire to be a part of His Kingdom forever.
What are your motives? Do you serve Jesus for the instant miracle… the “quick fix” to your present problem? Or do you see the bigger picture? Is your faith in God based on His tremendous love and sacrifice for us… His promise to meet our needs and bless us with the Bread of Life - now and forever? Or are you only looking to your next meal or miracle? There is a difference… can you see it?
©2011 Debbie Robus
That evening, Jesus' disciples went down to the lake. They got into a boat and started across for Capernaum. Later that evening Jesus had still not come to them, and a strong wind was making the water rough.
When the disciples had rowed for three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the water. He kept coming closer to the boat, and they were terrified. But he said, "I am Jesus! Don't be afraid!" The disciples wanted to take him into the boat, but suddenly the boat reached the shore where they were headed.
The people who had stayed on the east side of the lake knew that only one boat had been there. They also knew that Jesus had not left in it with his disciples. But the next day some boats from Tiberias sailed near the place where the crowd had eaten the bread for which the Lord had given thanks. They saw that Jesus and his disciples had left. Then they got into the boats and went to Capernaum to look for Jesus. They found him on the west side of the lake and asked, "Rabbi, when did you get here?"
Jesus answered, "I tell you for certain that you are not looking for me because you saw the miracles, but because you ate all the food you wanted. Don't work for food that spoils. Work for food that gives eternal life. The Son of Man will give you this food, because God the Father has given him the right to do so." "What exactly does God want us to do?" the people asked.
Jesus answered, "God wants you to have faith in the one he sent."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all had someone be nice to us when they wanted something. There are some people who only come around or act interested in others when they are hoping to gain something from the interaction or relationship. I don’t mean to be cynical or skeptical, but often you can spot these people coming a mile away. And even if there is no ulterior motive, the history with this person makes it hard to believe that he/she is genuine.
It’s somewhat like when a teenager’s mom cooks his/her favorite dish, and the teen would do just about anything to get Mom to cook it again. The teenager really doesn’t notice all the wonderful, important things a mom does every day for him/her and the rest of the family (extended family, friends, community and more). It’s all about that favorite meal… personal gratification… and the teen will go to great lengths to schmooze Mom so that she will cook it again.
If we honestly look at our relationship to God, we are much the same. We pretty well always have our hand out in some manner. “LORD, please do this for me… Father, I need a miracle… God, heal me, my relationship, my family, my friends.” We’re not interested in God’s miracles and healing in the context of the world at large – much less giving back in service and dedication. We want God to feed us… to meet our needs at that very moment.
Let’s be clear… there is nothing wrong with asking God to meet our needs. He can… He will… He wants to do this for us. He wants to heal our bodies, minds, and relationships… and to do the same for those in our circle of family and friends. He wants to give us answers to our troubles and bless us each and every day. But He wants us to love and follow Him because of the Bread of Life… the gift of eternal salvation He provides to us through the blood of Jesus Christ.
God doesn’t want us to believe in Him and serve Him because He cured our cancer, helped us pass a biology test, or we ran extra fast in the 5k or cross-country event. He doesn’t want us to follow Him because He gives us a roof over our head and a good job to pay the bills. He wants us to look beyond these material, “now” things and say, “I will follow you all the days of my life because you gave me Jesus.”
For me, this was a simple – but highly powerful – illustration. Some people are following Jesus for the “fish dinner” that He provides – that “favorite meal”. They are willing to love Jesus and serve Him – and basically butter Him up – for whatever is in it for them at the moment… the “quick fix.” But God wants us to be in it for the “Daily Bread” – the meal that satisfies our soul more than our bellies... and lasts! God wants us to follow Him and serve because we love Him and desire to be a part of His Kingdom forever.
What are your motives? Do you serve Jesus for the instant miracle… the “quick fix” to your present problem? Or do you see the bigger picture? Is your faith in God based on His tremendous love and sacrifice for us… His promise to meet our needs and bless us with the Bread of Life - now and forever? Or are you only looking to your next meal or miracle? There is a difference… can you see it?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 22, 2011
John 3:34-36
"The One that God sent speaks God's words. And don't think he rations out the Spirit in bits and pieces. The Father loves the Son extravagantly. He turned everything over to him so he could give it away—a lavish distribution of gifts. That is why whoever accepts and trusts the Son gets in on everything, life complete and forever! And that is also why the person who avoids and distrusts the Son is in the dark and doesn't see life. All he experiences of God is darkness, and an angry darkness at that."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
When I was a child, the annual Old Soldiers Reunion was a huge deal in our town. Held the first weekend of August, the event is still celebrated today, but with much less fanfare than before. In my “day,” we had a parade on Thursday, complete with floats, bands, horses, and the beauty contestants who would participate in that evening’s “Miss Cleburne County” pageant. On Friday, there was a “kiddie parade,” which was filled with children who were riding on floats, peddling bicycles and tricycles decorated with crepe paper, and more bands and ponies.
One year, my sister and I rode in a float that resembled a big shoe with a giant Panama hat for our “roof” – we were “Tan Shoes and Pink Shoelaces”… a reference to a song popular in the early 1960s. Another year, we rode in a buggy pulled by my aunt’s pony, Tuffy. One year we dressed my cousin as Mickey Mouse, and he pedaled his tricycle... and my mom says that my brother peddled his toy tractor one year dressed as “Farmer Brown.”
The parade on Friday showcased contestants in that evening’s “Little Miss Cleburne County” pageant. As fun and exciting as these parades were, there was an even more exciting component to the Friday pageant. It was a rite of passage for every five-year-old girl in the area to participate in this event. We practiced in hooped petticoats that gave us a “feel” for our overly poufy evening gowns made from taffeta and netting. We rehearsed our talents. And we traveled downtown to a store front on Main Street to review the “loot” that would be presented to the winners. The prizes were extensive… toys, dolls, games, and even a U.S. Savings Bond… all waiting for the queen and her first and second runners-up. You didn’t have to pick one prize… you got them all. For a five-year-old child, this was a “lavish distribution of gifts.”
Now that I am grown, I see that this was really quite ridiculous. As many as twenty or more little girls “competed” in this annual ritual… yet only three were awarded prizes. And lest you think I have “sour grapes,” I must tell that you I won in 1962… cardboard glitter crown, prizes, and all. When we returned home after the pageant, my extended family gathered to celebrate, and I was given money by most of them. The “gifting” continued… and the following year it was much the same for my sister. Still, I think of those equally cute and talented little girls who participated with us. How must they have felt afterward? What must it have been like to see all of that loot in the store windows and know you wouldn’t be getting it?
The Good News of Jesus Christ is that all who believe in Him are winners. Each and every one of us can have the “lavish distribution of gifts” that God has prepared. Not a single one of us needs to be disappointed. Nobody has to feel left out or less than First Place in God’s eyes. Do we have to win a contest to attain this? Do we have to have the best talent or walk better in our fancy clothing? Absolutely not! All we have to do is accept Jesus and trust in Him.
You may win the lottery, beauty contests, sweepstakes, and other competitions. But you will never win anything else as big as what God is offering. There is no entry fee or practice… acceptance and trust are all that He requires. Nothing could be easier to accomplish… and more vital to your eternal future. I don’t know if your prizes will include a cardboard crown with glitter…or even a parade… but I know that you don’t want to miss this! Have you chosen to participate and receive the extravagance of the Holy Spirit? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
"The One that God sent speaks God's words. And don't think he rations out the Spirit in bits and pieces. The Father loves the Son extravagantly. He turned everything over to him so he could give it away—a lavish distribution of gifts. That is why whoever accepts and trusts the Son gets in on everything, life complete and forever! And that is also why the person who avoids and distrusts the Son is in the dark and doesn't see life. All he experiences of God is darkness, and an angry darkness at that."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
When I was a child, the annual Old Soldiers Reunion was a huge deal in our town. Held the first weekend of August, the event is still celebrated today, but with much less fanfare than before. In my “day,” we had a parade on Thursday, complete with floats, bands, horses, and the beauty contestants who would participate in that evening’s “Miss Cleburne County” pageant. On Friday, there was a “kiddie parade,” which was filled with children who were riding on floats, peddling bicycles and tricycles decorated with crepe paper, and more bands and ponies.
One year, my sister and I rode in a float that resembled a big shoe with a giant Panama hat for our “roof” – we were “Tan Shoes and Pink Shoelaces”… a reference to a song popular in the early 1960s. Another year, we rode in a buggy pulled by my aunt’s pony, Tuffy. One year we dressed my cousin as Mickey Mouse, and he pedaled his tricycle... and my mom says that my brother peddled his toy tractor one year dressed as “Farmer Brown.”
The parade on Friday showcased contestants in that evening’s “Little Miss Cleburne County” pageant. As fun and exciting as these parades were, there was an even more exciting component to the Friday pageant. It was a rite of passage for every five-year-old girl in the area to participate in this event. We practiced in hooped petticoats that gave us a “feel” for our overly poufy evening gowns made from taffeta and netting. We rehearsed our talents. And we traveled downtown to a store front on Main Street to review the “loot” that would be presented to the winners. The prizes were extensive… toys, dolls, games, and even a U.S. Savings Bond… all waiting for the queen and her first and second runners-up. You didn’t have to pick one prize… you got them all. For a five-year-old child, this was a “lavish distribution of gifts.”
Now that I am grown, I see that this was really quite ridiculous. As many as twenty or more little girls “competed” in this annual ritual… yet only three were awarded prizes. And lest you think I have “sour grapes,” I must tell that you I won in 1962… cardboard glitter crown, prizes, and all. When we returned home after the pageant, my extended family gathered to celebrate, and I was given money by most of them. The “gifting” continued… and the following year it was much the same for my sister. Still, I think of those equally cute and talented little girls who participated with us. How must they have felt afterward? What must it have been like to see all of that loot in the store windows and know you wouldn’t be getting it?
The Good News of Jesus Christ is that all who believe in Him are winners. Each and every one of us can have the “lavish distribution of gifts” that God has prepared. Not a single one of us needs to be disappointed. Nobody has to feel left out or less than First Place in God’s eyes. Do we have to win a contest to attain this? Do we have to have the best talent or walk better in our fancy clothing? Absolutely not! All we have to do is accept Jesus and trust in Him.
You may win the lottery, beauty contests, sweepstakes, and other competitions. But you will never win anything else as big as what God is offering. There is no entry fee or practice… acceptance and trust are all that He requires. Nothing could be easier to accomplish… and more vital to your eternal future. I don’t know if your prizes will include a cardboard crown with glitter…or even a parade… but I know that you don’t want to miss this! Have you chosen to participate and receive the extravagance of the Holy Spirit? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 17, 2011
Proverbs 22:7
The poor are always ruled over by the rich, so don't borrow and put yourself under their power.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anytime a person borrows from another, he/she is supposed to pay back the loan… often with interest. Many people have gotten in such a rut with borrowing that they now have credit cards just to pay off other credit card bills… and because of high interest rates, they will never be paid in full! Far too many people are at the mercy of lenders. Whether these people are literally breathing down the necks of those in their debt or not, those who borrow may feel like they are. And I have seen and heard enough to know that many view their creditors as “the enemy” – or at best, as someone whom they fear and/or dislike because of their perceived – or real – power. We’ve all heard the reference, “The wolf is at the door!”
This is a miserable way to live. And let me clarify – there is nothing wrong with obtaining a home loan or a car loan – if you are certain you can adequately meet the loan requirements… make all payments on time, and continue to put food on your table. There is a time and place for obtaining a loan responsibly. But for many, living on credit has become the norm… and the cycle is vicious and seems to have no end.
Now let’s switch gears for a minute. Suppose God was the “banker,” and we were the borrowers. Suppose we had to borrow our grace, mercy, love and blessings… and each had to be repaid in kind. What if every time God helped you out of a jam, He expected you to do something big and miraculous for His glory as payment?
What if He healed your body of a disease, and you had to do mission work for a certain amount of time to repay Him? What if you could have salvation… and the promise of a life in Heaven… but you had to carry a cross on your shoulders everywhere you went for the rest of your life? See, I didn’t even say you had to be nailed to it… just think if you simply had to carry it with you!
What if we looked at God as our “rich lender” who held our debts over our heads all the time? How would we feel? Would this be a joy-filled existence? Would peace and comfort be in our vocabulary? Would we always be worried about how we were going to “make ends meet” and pay back the debts? Would we live in fear of the “wolf at the door?”
Yes, God wants us to serve Him… and to serve others in His name. But He doesn’t require this in an itemized fashion for every single time He has blessed us. God operates in gifts, not in loans… and aren’t we glad?
I encourage you to be responsible in every area of your life. Remember the words of William Shakespeare… “Neither a borrower or lender be…” and operate as much in “cash” and “pay-as-you-go” as possible. When you do have to borrow… be sure you can repay the loan. And always… always thank God that He does not operate in loans. Thank Him for the good gifts He provides for us… and show your love an appreciation by living for Him each and every day.
©2011 Debbie Robus
The poor are always ruled over by the rich, so don't borrow and put yourself under their power.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anytime a person borrows from another, he/she is supposed to pay back the loan… often with interest. Many people have gotten in such a rut with borrowing that they now have credit cards just to pay off other credit card bills… and because of high interest rates, they will never be paid in full! Far too many people are at the mercy of lenders. Whether these people are literally breathing down the necks of those in their debt or not, those who borrow may feel like they are. And I have seen and heard enough to know that many view their creditors as “the enemy” – or at best, as someone whom they fear and/or dislike because of their perceived – or real – power. We’ve all heard the reference, “The wolf is at the door!”
This is a miserable way to live. And let me clarify – there is nothing wrong with obtaining a home loan or a car loan – if you are certain you can adequately meet the loan requirements… make all payments on time, and continue to put food on your table. There is a time and place for obtaining a loan responsibly. But for many, living on credit has become the norm… and the cycle is vicious and seems to have no end.
Now let’s switch gears for a minute. Suppose God was the “banker,” and we were the borrowers. Suppose we had to borrow our grace, mercy, love and blessings… and each had to be repaid in kind. What if every time God helped you out of a jam, He expected you to do something big and miraculous for His glory as payment?
What if He healed your body of a disease, and you had to do mission work for a certain amount of time to repay Him? What if you could have salvation… and the promise of a life in Heaven… but you had to carry a cross on your shoulders everywhere you went for the rest of your life? See, I didn’t even say you had to be nailed to it… just think if you simply had to carry it with you!
What if we looked at God as our “rich lender” who held our debts over our heads all the time? How would we feel? Would this be a joy-filled existence? Would peace and comfort be in our vocabulary? Would we always be worried about how we were going to “make ends meet” and pay back the debts? Would we live in fear of the “wolf at the door?”
Yes, God wants us to serve Him… and to serve others in His name. But He doesn’t require this in an itemized fashion for every single time He has blessed us. God operates in gifts, not in loans… and aren’t we glad?
I encourage you to be responsible in every area of your life. Remember the words of William Shakespeare… “Neither a borrower or lender be…” and operate as much in “cash” and “pay-as-you-go” as possible. When you do have to borrow… be sure you can repay the loan. And always… always thank God that He does not operate in loans. Thank Him for the good gifts He provides for us… and show your love an appreciation by living for Him each and every day.
©2011 Debbie Robus
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