April 29 ~ Proverbs 3:27-32
Do all you can for everyone who deserves your help. Don't tell your neighbor to come back tomorrow, if you can help today. Don't try to be mean to neighbors who trust you. Don't argue just to be arguing, when you haven't been hurt. Don't be jealous of cruel people or follow their example. The LORD doesn't like anyone who is dishonest, but he lets good people be his friends.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, we were hosting a party during the Christmas holidays. As we sent out invitations, we learned that another couple who lived in our town was hosting a party the same evening – and many of our mutual friends were invited to both. We had invited this couple to the party we were hosting, but we had not received an RSVP. The day before our party, I got a phone call, and the host of the other party said, “We’d love to come to your party, but some relatives have come to visit, and we are going to be busy with them. So maybe we can make it another time.” I thanked him for letting me know – but all the while, I knew the real reason they weren’t coming was because of their own party. I don’t know why this person didn’t want to tell me that they were hosting a party. I wasn’t seeking an invitation to join them. And many of our friends came to our party and left early to attend the other party…and that was fine with us.
The problem I had with this whole scenario is that it colored how I thought of these friends. If this person would create such a detailed lie about something so insignificant as a party invitation, what else would he lie about? If this was considered acceptable behavior, how did he treat others – both socially and in his profession? In the end, I decided to “take the high road” and try to let it go… and you can see how well I’ve done! The point is… even though I have let it go for the most part, deep down it still impacts how I view this person. I try to think that he was either having a bad day and not thinking clearly, or he felt the lie would be less hurtful than saying, “We’re having our own party and can’t come to yours.” Still, I wonder on some levels… is he trustworthy?
If we are going to be disciples of Christ and represent Him to the world, we have to be honest and real at all times and in all things. This is not a license to be cruel or overly blunt with people. But we do need to consider how we treat others and why we say the things we do. We need to analyze our behavior to see where we need to be more loving, considerate, and honest. There is a good way and a bad way to deliver the truth… and with God’s help, we can operate in the former. If we are cruel, dishonest, or uncaring toward others, we risk permanent damage to the image they have of us… and very possibly we nullify our Christian witness with that person. Remember the “Golden Rule” – treat others as you wish to be treated – and rest in the knowledge that God is pleased and wants you for His friend.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label heart. Show all posts
Showing posts with label heart. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for March 3, 2010
March 3 ~ Isaiah 50:10
Who out there fears God, actually listens to the voice of his servant?
For anyone out there who doesn't know where you're going, anyone groping in the dark, Here's what: Trust in God. Lean on your God!
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. For copies of The Message call (800) 366-7788.
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to walk into a dark house or room. Throughout our house, there are always lamps or lights of some sort glowing – if only a solar night light to guide our steps in the middle of the night. I heard an older person complain that nowadays, we are never truly in the dark, because there are so many lights on electronics that continually glow in our houses.
We can choose to have a Spiritual “light” on all the time in our hearts. We can choose to lean on God and know that He is always with us, guiding our steps. We never have to stumble or fumble around in the dark. We never have to get lost and go down the wrong path. GOD can keep us headed in the right direction! We just have to trust Him. We have to respect His power and authority and LISTEN to His voice.
As much as I dislike a dark house, I dislike Spiritual darkness even more. I don’t like the empty, confused feeling of fumbling in the dark Spiritually and not knowing which direction to go. I don’t enjoy feeling distant from God and His guidance. But the good news is that I don’t HAVE to feel this way! I can “flip the switch” so to speak and do the things that keep me in right relationship with God. HE will light my way and keep me from groping in the dark. And that is a very comforting feeling. Who is lighting your way these days? Are you listening to God and the voice of His servant?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Who out there fears God, actually listens to the voice of his servant?
For anyone out there who doesn't know where you're going, anyone groping in the dark, Here's what: Trust in God. Lean on your God!
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. For copies of The Message call (800) 366-7788.
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to walk into a dark house or room. Throughout our house, there are always lamps or lights of some sort glowing – if only a solar night light to guide our steps in the middle of the night. I heard an older person complain that nowadays, we are never truly in the dark, because there are so many lights on electronics that continually glow in our houses.
We can choose to have a Spiritual “light” on all the time in our hearts. We can choose to lean on God and know that He is always with us, guiding our steps. We never have to stumble or fumble around in the dark. We never have to get lost and go down the wrong path. GOD can keep us headed in the right direction! We just have to trust Him. We have to respect His power and authority and LISTEN to His voice.
As much as I dislike a dark house, I dislike Spiritual darkness even more. I don’t like the empty, confused feeling of fumbling in the dark Spiritually and not knowing which direction to go. I don’t enjoy feeling distant from God and His guidance. But the good news is that I don’t HAVE to feel this way! I can “flip the switch” so to speak and do the things that keep me in right relationship with God. HE will light my way and keep me from groping in the dark. And that is a very comforting feeling. Who is lighting your way these days? Are you listening to God and the voice of His servant?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 6, 2010
February 6 ~ Genesis 17:18-20
Then he asked God, "Why not let Ishmael inherit what you have promised me?" But God answered: No! You and Sarah will have a son. His name will be Isaac, and I will make an everlasting promise to him and his descendants. I have heard what you asked me to do for Ishmael, and so I will also bless him with many descendants. He will be the father of twelve princes, and I will make his family a great nation.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have seen the movie Pay It Forward. The premise is that when someone does
something nice for you, instead of repaying the person who did the good deed, you “pay it forward” and do something nice for another person. Often, this has remarkable results for everyone involved.
Intercessory prayer – praying for someone else – is a lot like “paying it forward.” And when we pray for others from our heart… out of a deep sense of love and concern for that person and not just “lip service,” the blessings multiply. That’s what happened with Abraham. Rather than ask God to do extraordinary things and give him a child with his wife Sarah, Abraham said (paraphrasing here), “Just bless my son Ishmael, and we’ll call it good.” But God saw Abraham’s humility and heart and decided to bless him and his wife, Sarah – AND his son Ishmael.
I’m not saying that every time you pray for someone else, you will get an inheritance or some big prize. But I can tell you from experience that the times I have reached out to someone else, in prayer or in some other gesture, I felt like I got the bigger blessing. God hears our prayers – and he hears the prayers we offer for others. Who have you prayed for lately? Are you “paying it forward?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
Then he asked God, "Why not let Ishmael inherit what you have promised me?" But God answered: No! You and Sarah will have a son. His name will be Isaac, and I will make an everlasting promise to him and his descendants. I have heard what you asked me to do for Ishmael, and so I will also bless him with many descendants. He will be the father of twelve princes, and I will make his family a great nation.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have seen the movie Pay It Forward. The premise is that when someone does
something nice for you, instead of repaying the person who did the good deed, you “pay it forward” and do something nice for another person. Often, this has remarkable results for everyone involved.
Intercessory prayer – praying for someone else – is a lot like “paying it forward.” And when we pray for others from our heart… out of a deep sense of love and concern for that person and not just “lip service,” the blessings multiply. That’s what happened with Abraham. Rather than ask God to do extraordinary things and give him a child with his wife Sarah, Abraham said (paraphrasing here), “Just bless my son Ishmael, and we’ll call it good.” But God saw Abraham’s humility and heart and decided to bless him and his wife, Sarah – AND his son Ishmael.
I’m not saying that every time you pray for someone else, you will get an inheritance or some big prize. But I can tell you from experience that the times I have reached out to someone else, in prayer or in some other gesture, I felt like I got the bigger blessing. God hears our prayers – and he hears the prayers we offer for others. Who have you prayed for lately? Are you “paying it forward?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
January 2010 Devotionals - Week 4
January 29 ~ 2 Chronicles 1:9-10
I am supposed to rule these people, but there are as many of them as there are specks of dust on the ground. So keep the promise you made to my father and make me wise. Give me the knowledge I'll need to be the king of this great nation of yours.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When was the last time you asked God for wisdom? We ask God for specific things – “Do this for me.” “Heal me of this illness or injury.” “Bring resolution to this conflict with So-and-So.” But how often do you ask, “Lord… give me wisdom in this situation. Help me to know how to proceed, according to your will.”
Solomon was a very wise man. And yet, he knew he was helpless to rule all of the people of Israel without God’s wisdom. And if you read on in verses 11 and beyond, you will see that God told Solomon (I’m paraphrasing here), “You could have asked for anything… wealth, fame, or a long life. But you asked for wisdom, and I will give it to you. But I will also make you rich and famous!” In other words, because Solomon asked for wisdom instead of “material” things, God rewarded him with both!
Does that mean God will reward us with material blessings if we ask for wisdom? Not necessarily. But without God’s wisdom, material things will never satisfy. Without God’s wisdom, nothing else will come together like we hoped it would. The key to success lies in the wisdom of God – and asking for it in prayer. Unless you pray for wisdom, you’re probably going to spend some time spinning in circles. Ask God to give you wisdom, according to His will. Listen and pay attention for His answer. You’ll be amazed at how much better things turn out if you do.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 28 ~ 1 Kings 8:35-36
Suppose your people sin against you, and you punish them by holding back the rain. If they turn toward this temple and pray in your name and stop sinning, listen from your home in heaven and forgive them. The people of Israel are your servants, so teach them to live right. And please send rain on the land you promised them forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When you go to Sonic and order lunch, you are very specific, aren’t you?! You ask for your hamburger with or without cheese. You may ask for mustard only and no onions. Or you may say, “I want that with everything.” If you don’t specify how you want your burger and whether you want tots or fries, there is no telling what you will get. And honestly, if you don’t tell the person taking the order how you want things, you have no room to complain when it isn’t right.
If we are so specific about something like a Sonic lunch order, why are we so non-specific with our prayers? Sure, God knows already what we need… but He wants us to tell Him specifically. He wants us to admit our sins, repent of them and ask forgiveness… and then He wants us to tell Him what we need. So if you have a big test that is coming up and you are worried about it, God doesn’t want you to say, “Help me in school, Lord.” He wants you to say, “Lord, I have this huge test coming up, and I really need help with studying and learning the material.” If you are sick with strep throat, God knows this. But don’t just pray, “Lord, heal me,” or “Father, make me well.” Tell him, “God, my throat is killing me. Please heal the infection there and make the antibiotics work, so that I can get well and go back to my regular routine.”
When we are children, we run down the litany of people in our nightly prayers… “God bless Momma and Daddy, Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt Sue, my sister, and the dog Spot.” But as we grow and mature, God wants us to be more specific. He wants us to detail our needs to Him and ask for answers, just as Solomon asked for forgiveness for the people of Israel… and for rain! I’m not saying that God won’t answer us when we pray, “You know the needs, Lord.” Sometimes, this is all we can muster… and God understands. But there are times when we need to confess our sins, ask God to forgive us, and then “order specifically!” It works at Sonic… and it will surely work with our awesome God!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 27 ~ 1 Kings 3:7-9
LORD God, I'm your servant, and you've made me king in my father's place. But I'm very young and know so little about being a leader. And now I must rule your chosen people, even though there are too many of them to count.
Please make me wise and teach me the difference between right and wrong. Then I will know how to rule your people. If you don't, there is no way I could rule this great nation of yours.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been asked to do something, but you felt completely inadequate? Maybe a teacher asked you to do something in class – like make a speech – and you felt you did not have what it takes to do this. Or maybe your boss asked you to head up some big project, and you felt so nervous and uncertain – and worried you might fail. Maybe you are taking a step toward a serious relationship, or even marriage, and you believe this is the right course, but you still have a little “cold feet” and even some fears. Or maybe you are facing a decision about placing your parents in the nursing home – or downsizing your own living arrangements as you age – and the future seems scary and uncertain. The first step to certainty – the way to work yourself out of anxiety and fear and nervousness – is to pray. Ask God for wisdom, just as King Solomon did. He knew that God wanted him to lead the people. But as mighty and confident as King Solomon was, he still had reservations and uncertainties – and he knew that without God’s help, everything would fail. On our own, we have every right to feel nervous and uncertain, because we are only human. But with God, all things are possible. Ask Him today to guide your steps – to give you wisdom and courage where you need it. He can make the difference in your outcome. Are you trusting Him to do this?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 26 ~ Psalms 65
Our God, you deserve praise in Zion, where we keep our promises to you. Everyone will come to you because you answer prayer. Our terrible sins get us down, but you forgive us. You bless your chosen ones, and you invite them to live near you in your temple. We will enjoy your house, the sacred temple. Our God, you save us, and your fearsome deeds answer our prayers for justice!
You give hope to people everywhere on earth, even those across the sea. You are strong, and your mighty power put the mountains in place. You silence the roaring waves and the noisy shouts of the nations.
People far away marvel at your fearsome deeds, and all who live under the sun celebrate and sing because of you. You take care of the earth and send rain to help the soil grow all kinds of crops. Your rivers never run dry, and you prepare the earth to produce much grain. You water all of its fields and level the lumpy ground. You send showers of rain to soften the soil and help the plants sprout. Wherever your footsteps touch the earth, a rich harvest is gathered. Desert pastures blossom, and mountains celebrate. Meadows are filled with sheep and goats; valleys overflow with grain and echo with joyful songs.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Are you facing a dilemma… a fearful situation… a challenge? Have I got the scripture passage for you! This would be a great passage to memorize for the times when we need to remind ourselves of God’s power, grace, mercy, and love. This would be a great reminder that God answers prayers, nurtures and cares for us, and prepares a home for us - in His temple.So whatever troubles are coming your way these days… whatever challenges you are facing, remember Psalm 65. Keep it close to you, or commit it to memory and impress its words on your heart. God’s rivers never run dry…He saves us… and His fearsome deeds answer our prayers. Our God puts the mountains in place with His mighty power. What else… WHO else do we need?!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 25 ~ 2 John 1:2
We love you because the truth is now in our hearts, and it will be there forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission. Have you ever waited for some news, and the time seemed to drag by without end? Maybe you were waiting to find out if you got into a certain college, or whether you got a job you wanted. Maybe you were waiting for a new baby to arrive or counting the days until a big event, like a big game in which you were playing – or even your wedding day! In every case, the joy and relief and overwhelming range of emotions that filled you when the waiting ended may have been indescribable. But in many cases, the love and joy you felt probably seemed overwhelming.
It’s that way with our relationship with God. Once we know His truth… the truth of Jesus’ death on the cross for our sins and subsequent resurrection…we are filled with love that flows outward – love for others and love for our God who loves us so well and completely.
Here’s the thing. All of the “events” of our lives for which we wait and anticipate and enjoy are fleeting… or at least that overwhelming sense of joy and delight we experience at the outset subsides. Sure, you may revel in the big game for years to come. You may be delighted and filled with joy and love for a new spouse or a new baby. You may really love your job and enjoy going to work each day. But none of these compare with the changes in your heart that learning God’s truth can bring. The joy, peace, comfort, hope, courage and all of the emotions that flood our heart will rise and fall over time, but the truth of God’s love, grace, and mercy, will remain steadfast. Feelings come and go, but God’s truth is forever. The wait is over… God’s truth is ours…have you made a place for Him in your heart?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 24 ~ 1 John 4:12
No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is truly in our hearts.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of my favorite sounds is that of wind blowing through a pine grove. I bet you know the sound. It is a little eerie… and soothing… all at once. When I was a child, I loved to visit a moss-covered creek bank across the road from my grandparents’ house. It was lined with pine trees, and I would jump the creek, climb up on that soft mossy bank, then sit and listen to the wind blowing through the trees. I felt safe, peaceful, and loved there.
If you want to get really technical, we don’t see or hear wind… we hear the effect wind has on objects that it impacts. We hear and see the rustle of leaves and tree branches. We see a field of tall grasses wave and hear the whoosh they make as they do so. We know the wind is there… the evidence of its effects is all around us.
Like the wind, we don’t actually see God, but we feel His effects. We are surrounded and filled by His love. We see and hear evidence of His presence, and we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He exists. And when we love each other as God has taught us, He fills our hearts with feelings of peace, safety and love as if we were sitting and snuggling on a mossy creek bank, listening to the wind rustle through the pines.
God is the ultimate “wind beneath our wings.” Can you feel Him surrounding you and filling your heart these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 23 ~ James 4:13-16
You should know better than to say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to the city. We will do business there for a year and make a lot of money!" What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life? It is nothing more than mist that appears for only a little while before it disappears. You should say, "If the Lord lets us live, we will do these things." Yet you are stupid enough to brag, and it is wrong to be so proud.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, a 15-year-old boy in our town collapsed and died while playing in a basketball game at his church gym. He apparently suffered a heart attack. A couple of days later, a young man in Little Rock collapsed on his gym floor of an apparent heart attack, and he survived but is still hospitalized in serious condition. I am sure neither of these young men or their families and friends even remotely imagined that this could happen to such young, seemingly healthy people. The people of Haiti could not possibly have planned for the devastating earthquake that ravaged their country in recent weeks and killed hundreds of thousands. Is this passage telling us we should not make plans? NO! But it is telling us that we need to remember how temporary our earthly life is… and how quickly our plans can change!
So what does this all mean for us? I believe God wants us to have hopes, dreams, and yes – plans. He wants us to plan to finish high school and/or college. He wants us to plan to grow old with family and friends and to have a rewarding career and a full life. He wants us to plan to serve Him in ways great and small… and to confidently anticipate the future and sharing His Good News with others. But at the same time, He wants us to know that this could be our last day on this earth. He wants us to realize that we don’t have time to waste on being silly or acting like a fool, worrying, blowing opportunities, and bragging about our great ambitions. We don’t know how much time we have, so we must make the most of every single minute!
God has plans for each of us, and we must stay in constant contact with Him so that we know what He wants us to do. He will give us seasons of work, play, and rest… and when His plans for us are done, He will call us to Heaven. The question we must ask God is, “Lord, what do you want me to do with my time on this earth?” Remember Who numbers your days, and plan to make each one count!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 22 ~ Ephesians 3:1-10
Christ Jesus made me his prisoner, so that I could help you Gentiles. You have surely heard about God's kindness in choosing me to help you. In fact, this letter tells you a little about how God has shown me his mysterious ways. As you read the letter, you will also find out how well I really do understand the mystery about Christ. No one knew about this mystery until God's Spirit told it to his holy apostles and prophets. And the mystery is this: Because of Christ Jesus, the good news has given the Gentiles a share in the promises that God gave to the Jews. God has also let the Gentiles be part of the same body.
God treated me with kindness. His power worked in me, and it became my job to spread the good news. I am the least important of all God's people. But God was kind and chose me to tell the Gentiles that because of Christ there are blessings that cannot be measured. God, who created everything, wanted me to help everyone understand the mysterious plan that had always been hidden in his mind. Then God would use the church to show the powers and authorities in the spiritual world that he has many different kinds of wisdom.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think about each snowflake that falls. By themselves, they have very little impact and may not seem that important, but put them together, and you have a snowball, snowman, or a beautiful winter wonderland!There are times when each of us wonders, “Why am I here?” You may feel like you are fairly insignificant in the scheme of things. But Paul shows us in this passage that each of us has a place in God’s plans. We may not feel all that important, but to Him, we are vital! He created us for His purposes… and even when they seem small to us, they still matter to God.
Just like individual snowflakes, we are unique… and vital. We may not understand why we are here, but God knows… and that’s what counts. Ask God to show you how to serve Him. In time, He will reveal more and more of His plans to you and where you fit in them. Be patient… and content… knowing He chose you and gave you a part!
©2009 Debbie Robus
I am supposed to rule these people, but there are as many of them as there are specks of dust on the ground. So keep the promise you made to my father and make me wise. Give me the knowledge I'll need to be the king of this great nation of yours.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When was the last time you asked God for wisdom? We ask God for specific things – “Do this for me.” “Heal me of this illness or injury.” “Bring resolution to this conflict with So-and-So.” But how often do you ask, “Lord… give me wisdom in this situation. Help me to know how to proceed, according to your will.”
Solomon was a very wise man. And yet, he knew he was helpless to rule all of the people of Israel without God’s wisdom. And if you read on in verses 11 and beyond, you will see that God told Solomon (I’m paraphrasing here), “You could have asked for anything… wealth, fame, or a long life. But you asked for wisdom, and I will give it to you. But I will also make you rich and famous!” In other words, because Solomon asked for wisdom instead of “material” things, God rewarded him with both!
Does that mean God will reward us with material blessings if we ask for wisdom? Not necessarily. But without God’s wisdom, material things will never satisfy. Without God’s wisdom, nothing else will come together like we hoped it would. The key to success lies in the wisdom of God – and asking for it in prayer. Unless you pray for wisdom, you’re probably going to spend some time spinning in circles. Ask God to give you wisdom, according to His will. Listen and pay attention for His answer. You’ll be amazed at how much better things turn out if you do.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 28 ~ 1 Kings 8:35-36
Suppose your people sin against you, and you punish them by holding back the rain. If they turn toward this temple and pray in your name and stop sinning, listen from your home in heaven and forgive them. The people of Israel are your servants, so teach them to live right. And please send rain on the land you promised them forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When you go to Sonic and order lunch, you are very specific, aren’t you?! You ask for your hamburger with or without cheese. You may ask for mustard only and no onions. Or you may say, “I want that with everything.” If you don’t specify how you want your burger and whether you want tots or fries, there is no telling what you will get. And honestly, if you don’t tell the person taking the order how you want things, you have no room to complain when it isn’t right.
If we are so specific about something like a Sonic lunch order, why are we so non-specific with our prayers? Sure, God knows already what we need… but He wants us to tell Him specifically. He wants us to admit our sins, repent of them and ask forgiveness… and then He wants us to tell Him what we need. So if you have a big test that is coming up and you are worried about it, God doesn’t want you to say, “Help me in school, Lord.” He wants you to say, “Lord, I have this huge test coming up, and I really need help with studying and learning the material.” If you are sick with strep throat, God knows this. But don’t just pray, “Lord, heal me,” or “Father, make me well.” Tell him, “God, my throat is killing me. Please heal the infection there and make the antibiotics work, so that I can get well and go back to my regular routine.”
When we are children, we run down the litany of people in our nightly prayers… “God bless Momma and Daddy, Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt Sue, my sister, and the dog Spot.” But as we grow and mature, God wants us to be more specific. He wants us to detail our needs to Him and ask for answers, just as Solomon asked for forgiveness for the people of Israel… and for rain! I’m not saying that God won’t answer us when we pray, “You know the needs, Lord.” Sometimes, this is all we can muster… and God understands. But there are times when we need to confess our sins, ask God to forgive us, and then “order specifically!” It works at Sonic… and it will surely work with our awesome God!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 27 ~ 1 Kings 3:7-9
LORD God, I'm your servant, and you've made me king in my father's place. But I'm very young and know so little about being a leader. And now I must rule your chosen people, even though there are too many of them to count.
Please make me wise and teach me the difference between right and wrong. Then I will know how to rule your people. If you don't, there is no way I could rule this great nation of yours.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever been asked to do something, but you felt completely inadequate? Maybe a teacher asked you to do something in class – like make a speech – and you felt you did not have what it takes to do this. Or maybe your boss asked you to head up some big project, and you felt so nervous and uncertain – and worried you might fail. Maybe you are taking a step toward a serious relationship, or even marriage, and you believe this is the right course, but you still have a little “cold feet” and even some fears. Or maybe you are facing a decision about placing your parents in the nursing home – or downsizing your own living arrangements as you age – and the future seems scary and uncertain. The first step to certainty – the way to work yourself out of anxiety and fear and nervousness – is to pray. Ask God for wisdom, just as King Solomon did. He knew that God wanted him to lead the people. But as mighty and confident as King Solomon was, he still had reservations and uncertainties – and he knew that without God’s help, everything would fail. On our own, we have every right to feel nervous and uncertain, because we are only human. But with God, all things are possible. Ask Him today to guide your steps – to give you wisdom and courage where you need it. He can make the difference in your outcome. Are you trusting Him to do this?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 26 ~ Psalms 65
Our God, you deserve praise in Zion, where we keep our promises to you. Everyone will come to you because you answer prayer. Our terrible sins get us down, but you forgive us. You bless your chosen ones, and you invite them to live near you in your temple. We will enjoy your house, the sacred temple. Our God, you save us, and your fearsome deeds answer our prayers for justice!
You give hope to people everywhere on earth, even those across the sea. You are strong, and your mighty power put the mountains in place. You silence the roaring waves and the noisy shouts of the nations.
People far away marvel at your fearsome deeds, and all who live under the sun celebrate and sing because of you. You take care of the earth and send rain to help the soil grow all kinds of crops. Your rivers never run dry, and you prepare the earth to produce much grain. You water all of its fields and level the lumpy ground. You send showers of rain to soften the soil and help the plants sprout. Wherever your footsteps touch the earth, a rich harvest is gathered. Desert pastures blossom, and mountains celebrate. Meadows are filled with sheep and goats; valleys overflow with grain and echo with joyful songs.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Are you facing a dilemma… a fearful situation… a challenge? Have I got the scripture passage for you! This would be a great passage to memorize for the times when we need to remind ourselves of God’s power, grace, mercy, and love. This would be a great reminder that God answers prayers, nurtures and cares for us, and prepares a home for us - in His temple.So whatever troubles are coming your way these days… whatever challenges you are facing, remember Psalm 65. Keep it close to you, or commit it to memory and impress its words on your heart. God’s rivers never run dry…He saves us… and His fearsome deeds answer our prayers. Our God puts the mountains in place with His mighty power. What else… WHO else do we need?!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 25 ~ 2 John 1:2
We love you because the truth is now in our hearts, and it will be there forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission. Have you ever waited for some news, and the time seemed to drag by without end? Maybe you were waiting to find out if you got into a certain college, or whether you got a job you wanted. Maybe you were waiting for a new baby to arrive or counting the days until a big event, like a big game in which you were playing – or even your wedding day! In every case, the joy and relief and overwhelming range of emotions that filled you when the waiting ended may have been indescribable. But in many cases, the love and joy you felt probably seemed overwhelming.
It’s that way with our relationship with God. Once we know His truth… the truth of Jesus’ death on the cross for our sins and subsequent resurrection…we are filled with love that flows outward – love for others and love for our God who loves us so well and completely.
Here’s the thing. All of the “events” of our lives for which we wait and anticipate and enjoy are fleeting… or at least that overwhelming sense of joy and delight we experience at the outset subsides. Sure, you may revel in the big game for years to come. You may be delighted and filled with joy and love for a new spouse or a new baby. You may really love your job and enjoy going to work each day. But none of these compare with the changes in your heart that learning God’s truth can bring. The joy, peace, comfort, hope, courage and all of the emotions that flood our heart will rise and fall over time, but the truth of God’s love, grace, and mercy, will remain steadfast. Feelings come and go, but God’s truth is forever. The wait is over… God’s truth is ours…have you made a place for Him in your heart?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 24 ~ 1 John 4:12
No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is truly in our hearts.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of my favorite sounds is that of wind blowing through a pine grove. I bet you know the sound. It is a little eerie… and soothing… all at once. When I was a child, I loved to visit a moss-covered creek bank across the road from my grandparents’ house. It was lined with pine trees, and I would jump the creek, climb up on that soft mossy bank, then sit and listen to the wind blowing through the trees. I felt safe, peaceful, and loved there.
If you want to get really technical, we don’t see or hear wind… we hear the effect wind has on objects that it impacts. We hear and see the rustle of leaves and tree branches. We see a field of tall grasses wave and hear the whoosh they make as they do so. We know the wind is there… the evidence of its effects is all around us.
Like the wind, we don’t actually see God, but we feel His effects. We are surrounded and filled by His love. We see and hear evidence of His presence, and we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He exists. And when we love each other as God has taught us, He fills our hearts with feelings of peace, safety and love as if we were sitting and snuggling on a mossy creek bank, listening to the wind rustle through the pines.
God is the ultimate “wind beneath our wings.” Can you feel Him surrounding you and filling your heart these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 23 ~ James 4:13-16
You should know better than to say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to the city. We will do business there for a year and make a lot of money!" What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life? It is nothing more than mist that appears for only a little while before it disappears. You should say, "If the Lord lets us live, we will do these things." Yet you are stupid enough to brag, and it is wrong to be so proud.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, a 15-year-old boy in our town collapsed and died while playing in a basketball game at his church gym. He apparently suffered a heart attack. A couple of days later, a young man in Little Rock collapsed on his gym floor of an apparent heart attack, and he survived but is still hospitalized in serious condition. I am sure neither of these young men or their families and friends even remotely imagined that this could happen to such young, seemingly healthy people. The people of Haiti could not possibly have planned for the devastating earthquake that ravaged their country in recent weeks and killed hundreds of thousands. Is this passage telling us we should not make plans? NO! But it is telling us that we need to remember how temporary our earthly life is… and how quickly our plans can change!
So what does this all mean for us? I believe God wants us to have hopes, dreams, and yes – plans. He wants us to plan to finish high school and/or college. He wants us to plan to grow old with family and friends and to have a rewarding career and a full life. He wants us to plan to serve Him in ways great and small… and to confidently anticipate the future and sharing His Good News with others. But at the same time, He wants us to know that this could be our last day on this earth. He wants us to realize that we don’t have time to waste on being silly or acting like a fool, worrying, blowing opportunities, and bragging about our great ambitions. We don’t know how much time we have, so we must make the most of every single minute!
God has plans for each of us, and we must stay in constant contact with Him so that we know what He wants us to do. He will give us seasons of work, play, and rest… and when His plans for us are done, He will call us to Heaven. The question we must ask God is, “Lord, what do you want me to do with my time on this earth?” Remember Who numbers your days, and plan to make each one count!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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January 22 ~ Ephesians 3:1-10
Christ Jesus made me his prisoner, so that I could help you Gentiles. You have surely heard about God's kindness in choosing me to help you. In fact, this letter tells you a little about how God has shown me his mysterious ways. As you read the letter, you will also find out how well I really do understand the mystery about Christ. No one knew about this mystery until God's Spirit told it to his holy apostles and prophets. And the mystery is this: Because of Christ Jesus, the good news has given the Gentiles a share in the promises that God gave to the Jews. God has also let the Gentiles be part of the same body.
God treated me with kindness. His power worked in me, and it became my job to spread the good news. I am the least important of all God's people. But God was kind and chose me to tell the Gentiles that because of Christ there are blessings that cannot be measured. God, who created everything, wanted me to help everyone understand the mysterious plan that had always been hidden in his mind. Then God would use the church to show the powers and authorities in the spiritual world that he has many different kinds of wisdom.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think about each snowflake that falls. By themselves, they have very little impact and may not seem that important, but put them together, and you have a snowball, snowman, or a beautiful winter wonderland!There are times when each of us wonders, “Why am I here?” You may feel like you are fairly insignificant in the scheme of things. But Paul shows us in this passage that each of us has a place in God’s plans. We may not feel all that important, but to Him, we are vital! He created us for His purposes… and even when they seem small to us, they still matter to God.
Just like individual snowflakes, we are unique… and vital. We may not understand why we are here, but God knows… and that’s what counts. Ask God to show you how to serve Him. In time, He will reveal more and more of His plans to you and where you fit in them. Be patient… and content… knowing He chose you and gave you a part!
©2009 Debbie Robus
December 2009 Devotionals - Week 4
December 31 ~ 2 Chronicles 6:30
You know what is in everyone's heart. So from your home in heaven answer their prayers, according to what they do and what is in their hearts.
Colossians 3:1 and 16
You have been raised to life with Christ. Now set your heart on what is in heaven, where Christ rules at God's right side.
Let the message about Christ completely fill your lives, while you use all your wisdom to teach and instruct each other. With thankful hearts, sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Everywhere we look this week, people are talking about the things that happened in 2009 and looking ahead to 2010. We are making resolutions, remembering births and deaths throughout the year, listing the best/worst of everything from movies to weather events. And some of this activity is fun and harmless – and maybe even healthy. Reflecting is not a bad idea… nor is planning for the future.
But as we think about “the year that was” today and look ahead to a new, fresh start, let’s remember to consider our heart. We should all stop to evaluate how we did “Spiritually” in the last year and see where we need to improve. We should spend some time reflecting on our relationship with God – the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and noting what we “resolve” to do better as we move forward. Thank God for getting you this far. Ask Him to give you wisdom, courage, strength, and focus to accomplish much more for Him in the coming year. Know that He will look at your heart and see what is there… where your motives are pure and your faith is strong and genuine – and He will answer you according to His perfect will!
Happy New Year – may God bless you! Make this the year that the message of Christ completely fills your life and captures your heart. Make heaven your goal and Christ your guide, and 2010 will be an amazing year!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 30 ~ 1 John 2:28
[ Children of God ] Children, stay one in your hearts with Christ. Then when he returns, we will have confidence and won't have to hide in shame.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I won’t name any names, but I know of more than one instance where siblings were being rambunctious, and something “bad” happened – a prized dish or piece of furniture was broken, or someone was injured. The responsible sibling felt so guilty and ashamed – and fearful of retribution – that he/she packed a bag and ran away – or hid! Somehow in the child’s mind, if he/she could just get away, the parent would have mercy. Perhaps they would feel so bad that the child was that upset - and the infraction would be forgotten, along with any punishment.
Most likely, the parent(s) admonished the child and reminded him/her that this is what happens when we are disobedient and act inappropriately. Punishment may/may not have followed. When we move away from the rules established by our parents, the outcome of our actions is, at best, often uncertain!
Unlike the transgressions of our childhood, moving away from a oneness with Christ has far more serious consequences. I don’t know about you, but I am not willing to risk Jesus’ return and the words… “What happened? What do you have to say for yourself?” I don’t want to have to even consider running away and hiding in shame (as if that would work anyway)! I want to stay close to Jesus… to hold Him near to my heart and to listen to Him at every turn. I want to live in confidence, not fear. Don’t you? Living with Jesus is not child’s play… we can’t toy with His love and grace and expect Him to coddle us like little children. It’s time to grow up… and to enjoy the grown-up benefits of a life in Christ. We will always be His “children” – but that doesn’t mean we can act like a child in our faith. Stay one in your heart with Christ and live confidently as His “child” until you meet Him face-to-face.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 29 ~ 1 John 2:27
But Christ has blessed you with the Holy Spirit. Now the Spirit stays in you, and you don't need any teachers. The Spirit is truthful and teaches you everything. So stay one in your heart with Christ, just as the Spirit has taught you to do.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
The last time I was at the salon getting my hair done, the hairdressers were discussing permanent eyeliner and lip liner. Most women who have had this procedure find it to be a real blessing and time saver. They are always “presentable” and don’t have to spend as much time getting dressed each morning. These permanent “tattoos” never go away!
If you think about it, the Holy Spirit has been sort of “tattoed” on our hearts. He is there forever and never leaves us. We are always prepared and “presentable.” This is the “tattoo” for me! What about you? Have you invited the Holy Spirit to write permanently on your heart? Is He teaching you everything you need to know? If you have not invited the Holy Spirit to live within your heart yet, today is a great day to do so! Ask Him to show you the truth and to teach you every day… to keep you close at hand and one with Christ. Make this one “tattoo” you are certain to get and can’t live without!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 28 ~ 1 John 2:4
But if we claim to know him and don't obey him, we are lying and the truth isn't in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever heard the saying, “Do as I say, not as I do”? I assure you, it’s not in the Bible! Jesus didn’t tell us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength – and to love others as we love ourselves – with the expectation that we would do something else!
When I taught kindergarten, I had three classroom rules… 1) be kind to others; 2) work and play quietly, and 3) respect the property of others. That pretty well covered everything. Have an argument with your table mate? You probably weren’t being kind to others. Raise your voice? That wasn’t working quietly. Take something that wasn’t yours – or misuse something in the classroom – that was disrespectful to the property. The children knew that there were distinct consequences for breaking these rules… and they also knew that there was no such thing as a gray area. We all knew that when a rule was broken, certain things would happen… first offense - a warning; two offenses - “time out;” three offenses - missed recess; four offenses I placed a call to their parents! It sounds almost too simple, but in several years I only got to the third consequence a few times – and maybe two or three phone calls were made.
There are consequences for Christians, too, and we can’t possibly be so dumb as to think God doesn’t know when we disobey Him. We can’t have it both ways, but somehow, unlike my five-year-olds, we seem a little more eager to test God and see what happens than they were! What does this say about us and our faith? Either we are Christians to the core and have the truth of Jesus Christ in our hearts, or we are lying and don’t really know Him. Which is it with you?
I pray that you will see that the only way to truly be a disciple of Christ is to follow Him with your whole heart. Any claim to be a Christian while acting otherwise is mere lip service. Not only is this disobedience heartbreaking and disrespectful to God, but it might mean you have not sincerely committed your life to Christ… and that could have Eternal consequences. Give yourself wholly to God. Serve Him not only with your voice… but with your whole heart and all of your actions. Live with truth in your heart and make your claims to know Him the whole truth. And while you are at it, be kind to others, work and play quietly, and respect the property of others.
2009 Debbie Robus
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December 27 ~ 1 John 1:8
If we say that we have not sinned, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth isn't in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever felt a sore throat coming on, but you said to yourself, “I’m not sick. I’m not sick.” You tried to pretend that you were not getting a cold or the flu, but ultimately, you had to admit that yes – you were SICK! You were fooling yourself… and avoiding the truth! Maybe you had something important or fun you wanted to do and you didn’t want to be sick and miss it… or maybe you just didn’t want to be sick, period! Whatever the reason, you couldn’t admit the truth to yourself or anyone else.
Sin is much more serious than a sore throat or a few days of cold or flu. The “disease” often manifests itself more subtly than these “bugs.” We don’t realize how sins – especially those we deny – are affecting our lives… or the lives of others. And we surely don’t see how these sins affect our heart. If we live with untruth in our heart and fail to acknowledge that we have sinned, very little will go right for us in life. We will be living a lie… and Satan loves that! He will make you think that everything is great… that life is wonderful… that you have no worries. But He will be drawing you farther and farther from the truth – and from God.
Don’t let this happen. Admit that you have sins… confess them to God and ask Him to forgive you. Invite God to fill your heart with His truth and to wash you clean in the blood of Jesus. Live a life that is open and honest… with nothing to hide – to yourself or anyone else. There are medications that can help you with a cold or flu. God – The Great Physician – can cure you of your sins. What are you waiting for… don’t you want to be well?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 26 ~ 1 Peter 3:4
Be beautiful in your heart by being gentle and quiet. This kind of beauty will last, and God considers it very special.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Late in the afternoon on December 23rd, cousins called my mother to tell her that her beloved Aunt Zula Turney… the last remaing sibling of Mom’s father… was at the local ER, and she was in bad shape. Aunt Zula had been ill for some time now with congestive heart failure, breathing difficulties, and degenerative disks in her back. The doctors said her spine was like tissue paper. She was in terrible pain. Mom rushed to the ER to see Aunt Zula. Even though she wore an oxygen mask and was struggling to breathe, she tried to talk. She asked about my grandmother. Mom joked that at least her ambulance driver was handsome, and Aunt Zula laughed.
The doctors said nothing could be done… at age 91, Aunt Zula’s body was shutting down. A call was made to Hospice, and a hospital bed was placed in Aunt Zula’s home in Quitman, where she returned. The doctors said she could live hours or days. I think she barely made it home before she left this earth and went to heaven.If this scripture passage describes anyone, it describes my Aunt Zula. She was the mother of four children, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. As a fourth grade teacher in Quitman for decades, she was “mother” to hundreds more. Many of Aunt Zula’s grandchildren attended Harding University, so she became “grandmother” to countless students there who filled her home on weekends – some even after her own grandchildren had graduated and moved out into the working world.
Christmas Eve, Mom said, “I don’t recall a time when Aunt Zula ever gave me advice or admonished me… she just lived by example.” One of Aunt Zula’s children contracted polio as a child, and she diligently worked with him on physical therapies so that he would not be crippled for life. She and her husband reared four children with only a pickup truck for transportation for many years. She worked hard to care for her family and earn her college degree, juggling the challenges of both in the forties and fifties without many of the modern conveniences we enjoy today. I almost never heard her complain.
Last year my mom wrote Truly Zula… Daughter of the Ozarks, and while I’m sure Aunt Zula was proud, she also seemed a little embarrassed that anyone would consider her life extraordinary and book-worthy. But I am quite certain that God considered her very special. The gentle beauty and spirit – the quiet peace of this little white-haired dynamo – did not go unnoticed.
My mom says Aunt Zula was her hero. I’m sure others will say the same thing. For me, Aunt Zula was a living example of 1 Peter 3:4, and an inspiration. I can’t say I have always lived quietly and gently as she did, but I can surely try to emulate her more in the coming years. And while we will all miss her, I find it truly fitting that God blessed her with such an incredible Christmas gift… a place at the feet of Jesus for His birthday. I know how important she was to us – and I’m sure she got a special seat at the Lord’s table for Christmas dinner.
We all need to learn to live more quiet and gentle lives – to have beautiful hearts. I know my Aunt Zula did… can I… can you? With God’s help, we can! Let’s start today… let’s develop hearts that will give our lives beauty that will last, even into eternity. Let’s live in way that honors God – a way He considers special. I pray you have an “Aunt Zula” in your life to emulate… and that you will do your best to develop a heart of quiet beauty and peace, as she did.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 25 ~ James 4:8
Come near to God, and he will come near to you. Clean up your lives, you sinners. Purify your hearts, you people who can't make up your mind.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I love how God works! When I drew up the outline for these devotionals months ago, God knew that this passage would be perfect for Jesus’ birthday! Think for a moment about the birth of Christ. Think about how people “drew near” to Him from across the land… shepherds, wise men, angels… even livestock! They knew that there was Someone special in that manger. They understood that this was a holy time, and they were in the presence of the Lord! And I believe they received a touch from Jesus, even then… I know their hearts were touched when they saw Him!
There is a saying… “If you don’t feel close to God, guess who moved?!” God never leaves us… but sometimes we don’t feel His presence very strongly in our lives. And it is always because we have drifted away and closed our heart. We have pocket doors in certain areas of our house. These are doors that slide into the wall when open, instead of swinging in and out like most doors. If you pull pocket doors together, you can get privacy and reduced noise without closing them completely. But if the opening is narrow, you may not be able to physically get in and out through it. We are like that with God. We may not completely shut the door to our heart, but if we pull it shut too much, God can’t get in, and we can’t hear Him or feel His presence!
Today, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, open the doors of your heart as wide as you can! Draw near to God, and feel Him draw near to you. Clean out the impurities of your heart. Toss them out the door and make room for God to fill you. This will be the best Christmas gift you could receive. Make up your mind today to celebrate Christmas every day of the year by letting God work in and through you. The best is yet to be for those who serve Him. May you feel the presence of Jesus in your heart today… and always. Merry Christmas!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 24 ~ James 3:14
But if your heart is full of bitter jealousy and selfishness, don't brag or lie to cover up the truth. That kind of wisdom doesn't come from above. It is earthly and selfish and comes from the devil himself. Whenever people are jealous or selfish, they cause trouble and do all sorts of cruel things. But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere. When peacemakers plant seeds of peace, they will harvest justice.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever watched how a child behaves after he/she gets a new baby sister or brother? Especially if this child was a “one and only” for awhile and got used to garnering all of the attention, the “shock” of having to share can cause trouble. And in true child-like fashion, the older sibling causes all manner of trouble out of jealousy. Whether their lack of attention is real or imagined, the fact that they are no longer “front-and-center” at all times does not set well. So they cause trouble… and sometimes do cruel things to the baby.
In my case, the “older siblings” are our two cats… and the baby is our great-nephew, Timothy. And while neither cat has paid much direct attention to the baby, they have let us know that “Hey, I was first!” They become overly needy when Timothy is around… and they show out to get our attention. The gentle, sensible, kind, friendly cats we normally have are replaced with clingy whiners who get into mischief!
Are we like this? When we feel something or someone encroaching on our territory, do we become needy – or downright cruel? Do we over-compensate with grand gestures to try to convince others we are NOT selfish or jealous? Do we put on phony smiles and “play nice” to make others think we are wonderful and get in their good graces, when secretly, we wish all of the attention was on us?
The Bible tells us we are to be the real deal at all times. Does this mean it’s okay to be selfish and jealous? Absolutely not! Jealousy and selfishness are tools of the devil! When you feel these attitudes creeping into your heart, stomp all over them! Pray and read God’s word, communicate with a Christian friend – do whatever it takes to get rid of these feelings and return to a place of peace and the true wisdom of God. In other words, we must learn “get over ourselves,” and focus on being filled with God’s wisdom… and all of the blessings that result.
Today is a great day for this thought, because at Christmas time, we are often jealous of what others have. We are sometimes frustrated that we didn’t get what we wanted – our tree isn’t big enough, and we don’t have enough lights and inflatables in the yard! The devil loves to destroy the joy and true meaning of this season by filling our hearts with jealousy and selfishness – and painting fake attitudes on us outwardly. He loves to stir up trouble and take the focus off of Jesus! Don’t let him have this pleasure! Make this Christmas a time when you start to shake the dust of the devil from your boots – and sweep him out of your heart for good. Be real and wise in the Lord… be blessed and full of HIS peace… and celebrate Jesus with a sincere heart this Christmas!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 23 ~ Hebrews 10:22
So let's come near God with pure hearts and a confidence that comes from having faith. Let's keep our hearts pure, our consciences free from evil, and our bodies washed with clean water.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
As joyful and jovial as the holiday season is, for many, it’s time of great sadness. There may not be enough money to buy gifts for others and a holiday meal. The days around Christmas may be associated with a sad event. Suicide rates go up. People lose their homes to fires. Others “party too hearty” and die from alcohol-related accidents and drug overdoses. Those who are alone feel even more lonely and isolated as people gather and celebrate – and they are not included.
But for people of faith, no matter our circumstances, every day should be a day to celebrate our God and the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. Gifts, holiday food, get-togethers, and more do not define our hearts or our faith – or at least, they shouldn’t! We should have confidence in God in all situations – and all seasons.
When you wear clean clothes, don’t you try hard to keep them looking nice? Aren’t you careful where you sit and how you eat, so nothing gets on the clothing and makes a mark? Just like water washes us clean… just like a winter snow covers the land and seems to make everything fresh and new… the blood of Jesus Christ has washed us clean of sin, evil, and all impurities. It is up to us to keep ourselves that way! Just like our clothing, we must be careful where we go, how we sit, what we “spill” on ourselves.
Let’s live like every day is Christmas… and by that, I mean, let’s celebrate our God and the birth of Jesus. Let’s focus on staying pure in heart, loving toward others, and upbeat and positive. Let’s live in such a way that exudes confidence in our faith that God will see us through every circumstance. Jesus paid the ultimate price to wash us clean our hearts and minds of evil and sin… it’s up to us to keep them that way!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 22 ~ Hebrews 8:10
"But now I tell the people of Israel this is my new agreement: `The time will come when I, the Lord, will write my laws on their minds and hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Recently a friend of mine posted on Facebook that her two-year-old daughter had announced that she had songs in her mouth and needed to sing ‘em! It sounds to me like the Lord has written on her mind and heart! When God touches us in this way, we can’t help but want to sing… if only to ourselves. When God writes on our mind and heart - and we recognize Him - everything about our lives changes.
As we grow, we often make things so much more complicated than they should be. We lose the playful abandon of a two-year-old and the ability to communicate so purely the feelings in our heart. This is a great day for us Christians… every day is a great day for us! God has written His laws on our minds and hearts. He is our GOD, and we are His people. Don’t we have songs in our mouth we need to sing?
©2009 Debbie Robus
You know what is in everyone's heart. So from your home in heaven answer their prayers, according to what they do and what is in their hearts.
Colossians 3:1 and 16
You have been raised to life with Christ. Now set your heart on what is in heaven, where Christ rules at God's right side.
Let the message about Christ completely fill your lives, while you use all your wisdom to teach and instruct each other. With thankful hearts, sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Everywhere we look this week, people are talking about the things that happened in 2009 and looking ahead to 2010. We are making resolutions, remembering births and deaths throughout the year, listing the best/worst of everything from movies to weather events. And some of this activity is fun and harmless – and maybe even healthy. Reflecting is not a bad idea… nor is planning for the future.
But as we think about “the year that was” today and look ahead to a new, fresh start, let’s remember to consider our heart. We should all stop to evaluate how we did “Spiritually” in the last year and see where we need to improve. We should spend some time reflecting on our relationship with God – the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and noting what we “resolve” to do better as we move forward. Thank God for getting you this far. Ask Him to give you wisdom, courage, strength, and focus to accomplish much more for Him in the coming year. Know that He will look at your heart and see what is there… where your motives are pure and your faith is strong and genuine – and He will answer you according to His perfect will!
Happy New Year – may God bless you! Make this the year that the message of Christ completely fills your life and captures your heart. Make heaven your goal and Christ your guide, and 2010 will be an amazing year!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 30 ~ 1 John 2:28
[ Children of God ] Children, stay one in your hearts with Christ. Then when he returns, we will have confidence and won't have to hide in shame.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I won’t name any names, but I know of more than one instance where siblings were being rambunctious, and something “bad” happened – a prized dish or piece of furniture was broken, or someone was injured. The responsible sibling felt so guilty and ashamed – and fearful of retribution – that he/she packed a bag and ran away – or hid! Somehow in the child’s mind, if he/she could just get away, the parent would have mercy. Perhaps they would feel so bad that the child was that upset - and the infraction would be forgotten, along with any punishment.
Most likely, the parent(s) admonished the child and reminded him/her that this is what happens when we are disobedient and act inappropriately. Punishment may/may not have followed. When we move away from the rules established by our parents, the outcome of our actions is, at best, often uncertain!
Unlike the transgressions of our childhood, moving away from a oneness with Christ has far more serious consequences. I don’t know about you, but I am not willing to risk Jesus’ return and the words… “What happened? What do you have to say for yourself?” I don’t want to have to even consider running away and hiding in shame (as if that would work anyway)! I want to stay close to Jesus… to hold Him near to my heart and to listen to Him at every turn. I want to live in confidence, not fear. Don’t you? Living with Jesus is not child’s play… we can’t toy with His love and grace and expect Him to coddle us like little children. It’s time to grow up… and to enjoy the grown-up benefits of a life in Christ. We will always be His “children” – but that doesn’t mean we can act like a child in our faith. Stay one in your heart with Christ and live confidently as His “child” until you meet Him face-to-face.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 29 ~ 1 John 2:27
But Christ has blessed you with the Holy Spirit. Now the Spirit stays in you, and you don't need any teachers. The Spirit is truthful and teaches you everything. So stay one in your heart with Christ, just as the Spirit has taught you to do.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
The last time I was at the salon getting my hair done, the hairdressers were discussing permanent eyeliner and lip liner. Most women who have had this procedure find it to be a real blessing and time saver. They are always “presentable” and don’t have to spend as much time getting dressed each morning. These permanent “tattoos” never go away!
If you think about it, the Holy Spirit has been sort of “tattoed” on our hearts. He is there forever and never leaves us. We are always prepared and “presentable.” This is the “tattoo” for me! What about you? Have you invited the Holy Spirit to write permanently on your heart? Is He teaching you everything you need to know? If you have not invited the Holy Spirit to live within your heart yet, today is a great day to do so! Ask Him to show you the truth and to teach you every day… to keep you close at hand and one with Christ. Make this one “tattoo” you are certain to get and can’t live without!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 28 ~ 1 John 2:4
But if we claim to know him and don't obey him, we are lying and the truth isn't in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever heard the saying, “Do as I say, not as I do”? I assure you, it’s not in the Bible! Jesus didn’t tell us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength – and to love others as we love ourselves – with the expectation that we would do something else!
When I taught kindergarten, I had three classroom rules… 1) be kind to others; 2) work and play quietly, and 3) respect the property of others. That pretty well covered everything. Have an argument with your table mate? You probably weren’t being kind to others. Raise your voice? That wasn’t working quietly. Take something that wasn’t yours – or misuse something in the classroom – that was disrespectful to the property. The children knew that there were distinct consequences for breaking these rules… and they also knew that there was no such thing as a gray area. We all knew that when a rule was broken, certain things would happen… first offense - a warning; two offenses - “time out;” three offenses - missed recess; four offenses I placed a call to their parents! It sounds almost too simple, but in several years I only got to the third consequence a few times – and maybe two or three phone calls were made.
There are consequences for Christians, too, and we can’t possibly be so dumb as to think God doesn’t know when we disobey Him. We can’t have it both ways, but somehow, unlike my five-year-olds, we seem a little more eager to test God and see what happens than they were! What does this say about us and our faith? Either we are Christians to the core and have the truth of Jesus Christ in our hearts, or we are lying and don’t really know Him. Which is it with you?
I pray that you will see that the only way to truly be a disciple of Christ is to follow Him with your whole heart. Any claim to be a Christian while acting otherwise is mere lip service. Not only is this disobedience heartbreaking and disrespectful to God, but it might mean you have not sincerely committed your life to Christ… and that could have Eternal consequences. Give yourself wholly to God. Serve Him not only with your voice… but with your whole heart and all of your actions. Live with truth in your heart and make your claims to know Him the whole truth. And while you are at it, be kind to others, work and play quietly, and respect the property of others.
2009 Debbie Robus
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December 27 ~ 1 John 1:8
If we say that we have not sinned, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth isn't in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever felt a sore throat coming on, but you said to yourself, “I’m not sick. I’m not sick.” You tried to pretend that you were not getting a cold or the flu, but ultimately, you had to admit that yes – you were SICK! You were fooling yourself… and avoiding the truth! Maybe you had something important or fun you wanted to do and you didn’t want to be sick and miss it… or maybe you just didn’t want to be sick, period! Whatever the reason, you couldn’t admit the truth to yourself or anyone else.
Sin is much more serious than a sore throat or a few days of cold or flu. The “disease” often manifests itself more subtly than these “bugs.” We don’t realize how sins – especially those we deny – are affecting our lives… or the lives of others. And we surely don’t see how these sins affect our heart. If we live with untruth in our heart and fail to acknowledge that we have sinned, very little will go right for us in life. We will be living a lie… and Satan loves that! He will make you think that everything is great… that life is wonderful… that you have no worries. But He will be drawing you farther and farther from the truth – and from God.
Don’t let this happen. Admit that you have sins… confess them to God and ask Him to forgive you. Invite God to fill your heart with His truth and to wash you clean in the blood of Jesus. Live a life that is open and honest… with nothing to hide – to yourself or anyone else. There are medications that can help you with a cold or flu. God – The Great Physician – can cure you of your sins. What are you waiting for… don’t you want to be well?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 26 ~ 1 Peter 3:4
Be beautiful in your heart by being gentle and quiet. This kind of beauty will last, and God considers it very special.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Late in the afternoon on December 23rd, cousins called my mother to tell her that her beloved Aunt Zula Turney… the last remaing sibling of Mom’s father… was at the local ER, and she was in bad shape. Aunt Zula had been ill for some time now with congestive heart failure, breathing difficulties, and degenerative disks in her back. The doctors said her spine was like tissue paper. She was in terrible pain. Mom rushed to the ER to see Aunt Zula. Even though she wore an oxygen mask and was struggling to breathe, she tried to talk. She asked about my grandmother. Mom joked that at least her ambulance driver was handsome, and Aunt Zula laughed.
The doctors said nothing could be done… at age 91, Aunt Zula’s body was shutting down. A call was made to Hospice, and a hospital bed was placed in Aunt Zula’s home in Quitman, where she returned. The doctors said she could live hours or days. I think she barely made it home before she left this earth and went to heaven.If this scripture passage describes anyone, it describes my Aunt Zula. She was the mother of four children, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. As a fourth grade teacher in Quitman for decades, she was “mother” to hundreds more. Many of Aunt Zula’s grandchildren attended Harding University, so she became “grandmother” to countless students there who filled her home on weekends – some even after her own grandchildren had graduated and moved out into the working world.
Christmas Eve, Mom said, “I don’t recall a time when Aunt Zula ever gave me advice or admonished me… she just lived by example.” One of Aunt Zula’s children contracted polio as a child, and she diligently worked with him on physical therapies so that he would not be crippled for life. She and her husband reared four children with only a pickup truck for transportation for many years. She worked hard to care for her family and earn her college degree, juggling the challenges of both in the forties and fifties without many of the modern conveniences we enjoy today. I almost never heard her complain.
Last year my mom wrote Truly Zula… Daughter of the Ozarks, and while I’m sure Aunt Zula was proud, she also seemed a little embarrassed that anyone would consider her life extraordinary and book-worthy. But I am quite certain that God considered her very special. The gentle beauty and spirit – the quiet peace of this little white-haired dynamo – did not go unnoticed.
My mom says Aunt Zula was her hero. I’m sure others will say the same thing. For me, Aunt Zula was a living example of 1 Peter 3:4, and an inspiration. I can’t say I have always lived quietly and gently as she did, but I can surely try to emulate her more in the coming years. And while we will all miss her, I find it truly fitting that God blessed her with such an incredible Christmas gift… a place at the feet of Jesus for His birthday. I know how important she was to us – and I’m sure she got a special seat at the Lord’s table for Christmas dinner.
We all need to learn to live more quiet and gentle lives – to have beautiful hearts. I know my Aunt Zula did… can I… can you? With God’s help, we can! Let’s start today… let’s develop hearts that will give our lives beauty that will last, even into eternity. Let’s live in way that honors God – a way He considers special. I pray you have an “Aunt Zula” in your life to emulate… and that you will do your best to develop a heart of quiet beauty and peace, as she did.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 25 ~ James 4:8
Come near to God, and he will come near to you. Clean up your lives, you sinners. Purify your hearts, you people who can't make up your mind.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
I love how God works! When I drew up the outline for these devotionals months ago, God knew that this passage would be perfect for Jesus’ birthday! Think for a moment about the birth of Christ. Think about how people “drew near” to Him from across the land… shepherds, wise men, angels… even livestock! They knew that there was Someone special in that manger. They understood that this was a holy time, and they were in the presence of the Lord! And I believe they received a touch from Jesus, even then… I know their hearts were touched when they saw Him!
There is a saying… “If you don’t feel close to God, guess who moved?!” God never leaves us… but sometimes we don’t feel His presence very strongly in our lives. And it is always because we have drifted away and closed our heart. We have pocket doors in certain areas of our house. These are doors that slide into the wall when open, instead of swinging in and out like most doors. If you pull pocket doors together, you can get privacy and reduced noise without closing them completely. But if the opening is narrow, you may not be able to physically get in and out through it. We are like that with God. We may not completely shut the door to our heart, but if we pull it shut too much, God can’t get in, and we can’t hear Him or feel His presence!
Today, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, open the doors of your heart as wide as you can! Draw near to God, and feel Him draw near to you. Clean out the impurities of your heart. Toss them out the door and make room for God to fill you. This will be the best Christmas gift you could receive. Make up your mind today to celebrate Christmas every day of the year by letting God work in and through you. The best is yet to be for those who serve Him. May you feel the presence of Jesus in your heart today… and always. Merry Christmas!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 24 ~ James 3:14
But if your heart is full of bitter jealousy and selfishness, don't brag or lie to cover up the truth. That kind of wisdom doesn't come from above. It is earthly and selfish and comes from the devil himself. Whenever people are jealous or selfish, they cause trouble and do all sorts of cruel things. But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere. When peacemakers plant seeds of peace, they will harvest justice.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever watched how a child behaves after he/she gets a new baby sister or brother? Especially if this child was a “one and only” for awhile and got used to garnering all of the attention, the “shock” of having to share can cause trouble. And in true child-like fashion, the older sibling causes all manner of trouble out of jealousy. Whether their lack of attention is real or imagined, the fact that they are no longer “front-and-center” at all times does not set well. So they cause trouble… and sometimes do cruel things to the baby.
In my case, the “older siblings” are our two cats… and the baby is our great-nephew, Timothy. And while neither cat has paid much direct attention to the baby, they have let us know that “Hey, I was first!” They become overly needy when Timothy is around… and they show out to get our attention. The gentle, sensible, kind, friendly cats we normally have are replaced with clingy whiners who get into mischief!
Are we like this? When we feel something or someone encroaching on our territory, do we become needy – or downright cruel? Do we over-compensate with grand gestures to try to convince others we are NOT selfish or jealous? Do we put on phony smiles and “play nice” to make others think we are wonderful and get in their good graces, when secretly, we wish all of the attention was on us?
The Bible tells us we are to be the real deal at all times. Does this mean it’s okay to be selfish and jealous? Absolutely not! Jealousy and selfishness are tools of the devil! When you feel these attitudes creeping into your heart, stomp all over them! Pray and read God’s word, communicate with a Christian friend – do whatever it takes to get rid of these feelings and return to a place of peace and the true wisdom of God. In other words, we must learn “get over ourselves,” and focus on being filled with God’s wisdom… and all of the blessings that result.
Today is a great day for this thought, because at Christmas time, we are often jealous of what others have. We are sometimes frustrated that we didn’t get what we wanted – our tree isn’t big enough, and we don’t have enough lights and inflatables in the yard! The devil loves to destroy the joy and true meaning of this season by filling our hearts with jealousy and selfishness – and painting fake attitudes on us outwardly. He loves to stir up trouble and take the focus off of Jesus! Don’t let him have this pleasure! Make this Christmas a time when you start to shake the dust of the devil from your boots – and sweep him out of your heart for good. Be real and wise in the Lord… be blessed and full of HIS peace… and celebrate Jesus with a sincere heart this Christmas!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 23 ~ Hebrews 10:22
So let's come near God with pure hearts and a confidence that comes from having faith. Let's keep our hearts pure, our consciences free from evil, and our bodies washed with clean water.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
As joyful and jovial as the holiday season is, for many, it’s time of great sadness. There may not be enough money to buy gifts for others and a holiday meal. The days around Christmas may be associated with a sad event. Suicide rates go up. People lose their homes to fires. Others “party too hearty” and die from alcohol-related accidents and drug overdoses. Those who are alone feel even more lonely and isolated as people gather and celebrate – and they are not included.
But for people of faith, no matter our circumstances, every day should be a day to celebrate our God and the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. Gifts, holiday food, get-togethers, and more do not define our hearts or our faith – or at least, they shouldn’t! We should have confidence in God in all situations – and all seasons.
When you wear clean clothes, don’t you try hard to keep them looking nice? Aren’t you careful where you sit and how you eat, so nothing gets on the clothing and makes a mark? Just like water washes us clean… just like a winter snow covers the land and seems to make everything fresh and new… the blood of Jesus Christ has washed us clean of sin, evil, and all impurities. It is up to us to keep ourselves that way! Just like our clothing, we must be careful where we go, how we sit, what we “spill” on ourselves.
Let’s live like every day is Christmas… and by that, I mean, let’s celebrate our God and the birth of Jesus. Let’s focus on staying pure in heart, loving toward others, and upbeat and positive. Let’s live in such a way that exudes confidence in our faith that God will see us through every circumstance. Jesus paid the ultimate price to wash us clean our hearts and minds of evil and sin… it’s up to us to keep them that way!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 22 ~ Hebrews 8:10
"But now I tell the people of Israel this is my new agreement: `The time will come when I, the Lord, will write my laws on their minds and hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Recently a friend of mine posted on Facebook that her two-year-old daughter had announced that she had songs in her mouth and needed to sing ‘em! It sounds to me like the Lord has written on her mind and heart! When God touches us in this way, we can’t help but want to sing… if only to ourselves. When God writes on our mind and heart - and we recognize Him - everything about our lives changes.
As we grow, we often make things so much more complicated than they should be. We lose the playful abandon of a two-year-old and the ability to communicate so purely the feelings in our heart. This is a great day for us Christians… every day is a great day for us! God has written His laws on our minds and hearts. He is our GOD, and we are His people. Don’t we have songs in our mouth we need to sing?
©2009 Debbie Robus
December 2009 Devotionals - Week 3
December 21 ~ Hebrews 4:12
What God has said isn't only alive and active! It is sharper than any double-edged sword. His word can cut through our spirits and souls and through our joints and marrow, until it discovers the desires and thoughts of our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you have ever cut up a chicken, you know that a good, sharp knife is required to cut through the bones and joints. If you have ever cut into a watermelon, you know that a good sharp knife makes this task much easier and quicker, and gets you to the deepest “meat” of the melon. This passage compares God’s word to a sharp knife that can cut through our body to get to the deepest parts of our soul and reach our innermost thoughts and desires.
Many of us have spent a lot of time trying to keep those thoughts and desires hidden – even buried – so that others don’t see who we truly are. And some of us have done such a good job of hiding our feelings that we don’t even know ourselves what we really think and feel about some things. But God’s word can cut straight through. It can penetrate the deepest, darkest regions of our mind and heart. And the best part is that where we are impure in thought and feeling, God’s word can change us! God’s word can work in us to bring about a renewed mind and heart… I’ve seen it for myself and in others!
Get into God’s word… study what He has to say to us about everything that matters. Let it really soak in… let it cut through the joints and marrow, spirit and soul and get straight to your heart and mind. The answers are there… the solutions to all of your problems lie within the Word… the healing, peace, comfort and joy of a life in God can be found there, too. If you keep reading in Hebrews 4, you will see that nothing in our heart and mind is hidden from God – He knows the truth. And verse 15-16 says that “Jesus understands every weakness of ours, because he was tempted in every way that we are. But he did not sin! So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness, and we will find help.” Come before God and let him use the “knife” of His word to reveal to you areas that could use some help – then let Him do the work to change you from the inside out and “remodel” your heart and mind.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 20 ~ Titus 2:14
He gave himself to rescue us from everything that is evil and to make our hearts pure. He wanted us to be his own people and to be eager to do right.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you have watched very many infomercials on television, you know that there is a pill or a “fix” for virtually every problem. Have a tummy bulge? There’s a machine, belt or DVD that will help you melt it away. Losing your hair? There are creams and cures for that. Acne? Not a problem… just try the regimens offered on late-night TV! Lost your job? Buy real estate with “no money down,” or work from home selling cheap “gifts and home décor” to others.
The trouble with these products is that the driving force behind them is not pure. I guess the best thing I heard about one of these was the news reporter on a local television station who does “We Try It Before You Buy It.” He tried those miracle globes that are supposed to water your plants for you. Trouble is… you still have to remember to water the globes! So much for not having to remember to water your plants! And that’s how it is with so many shortcuts and gimmicks in life… they don’t offer a complete package.
But JESUS offers the complete package. He gave His life to save ours… HE is “the cure for what ails us.” He died so that we could live… and live well. He took all of the evil on Himself, so that we could live pure lives. So why aren’t we? What’s stopping us? I believe it is a matter of committing our hearts to Him – FULLY! That means we can’t hold on to prejudice, judgment, gossip, selfishness, indiscretion, discrimination, unkindness – or anything else that is in any way impure.
It isn’t easy, and becoming completely pure in heart is a process… it doesn’t happen overnight. But with God’s help, our hearts can grow more pure every day – and honor Jesus and His sacrifice in the bargain. Are you ready to truly be Christ’s own – are you eager to do right? Are you at least willing to try? Ask God to help you release anything impure in your heart… begin to make the move toward Him, and He will draw you nearer every day.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 19 ~ Titus 1:15
Everything is pure for someone whose heart is pure. But nothing is pure for an unbeliever with a dirty mind. That person's mind and conscience are destroyed.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Remember how your mom always told you to be sure you had on clean underwear? Let’s be real… who’s to know? Oh, sure… there is that remote possibility you will be run over by a bus. But most days, nobody else will ever know how clean your drawers are! But just because people don’t see that you have on clean or tattered underwear doesn’t make a difference. YOU know what you are wearing underneath your clothes.
In the same way, it matters what is in your heart and mind. Many people talk a good game. They go to church on Sunday, sing loudest during the hymns and worship songs, and even do good deeds for others in their church and community. They write fat checks for missions and visit the sick and elderly, and appear to be Godly and pure. Then they sit at home and harbor hatred for other races and ethnicities. They feel disgust and disdain for others – even family members and friends – and in their heart and mind, they are critical and hateful. They hold grudges and pass judgments on others – for things as mundane as appearance and as large as legitimate injustices.
And in all of this, every “good deed” is negated. Every praise, every mission, every outward action of a Godly person is totally destroyed if his/her head and heart harbor impure feelings. You can’t have it both ways. You can’t appear to love God and serve Him and harbor unkind sentiments – even if you keep them to yourself. You can’t worship and minister – and hate. This is the “dirty mind” of which scripture speaks – a mind that is corrupt and impure. If you are going to really serve God – if you are truly a disciple of Jesus Christ – you heart has to have on “clean underwear” - your heart and mind must be clean and pure, too. How pure are your thoughts and feelings? What are you wearing today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 18 ~ 2 Timothy 2:22
Run from temptations that capture young people. Always do the right thing. Be faithful, loving, and easy to get along with. Worship with people whose hearts are pure.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever been in a situation where you knew in your heart you shouldn’t be there, but rather than look like a wimp or a “goody-two-shoes,” you just sat back and watched things unfold. You didn’t participate, but you didn’t leave or say anything, either. Maybe you went to a party with friends who were drinking or taking drugs or doing something else they shouldn’t. Maybe you were in a store where friends were shoplifting, and you looked away. Maybe you were with a group of people who were spreading vicious gossip, and you said nothing.
Maybe you were at a Bible study where someone started to speak unkindly about a group of people or another person… criticizing them and judging them - and claiming it was in the name of the Lord… and you didn’t challenge their comments. Maybe you worship in a church where subtle hints that only certain socio-economic and/or ethnicities are welcome. Maybe you think these things are okay!
The Bible is very clear. God uses Paul’s letters to tell us that we are always to do the right thing. Notice, he didn’t say the POPULAR thing… he said, “do the right thing.” Run from temptations. Stand up for your convictions and what you know is right in God’s eyes. Be faithful, loving and easy to get along with. In other words, don’t come down on your friends for their choices, but lovingly let them know you are not willing to participate. If you are involved in a church or a group within your church where hearts are hard and attitudes are not Godly, ask God to show you how to proceed. In all things, ask God to show you when to speak up, and when to walk away and find new friends and acquaintances. But don’t compromise your values – or your faith. Keep your heart pure and filled with the Holy Spirit at all times – then follow His lead. God will bless your efforts, and you will know you did the right thing in His eyes.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 17 ~ Philippians 1:3-11
Every time I think of you, I thank my God. And whenever I mention you in my prayers, it makes me happy. This is because you have taken part with me in spreading the good news from the first day you heard about it. God is the one who began this good work in you, and I am certain that he won't stop before it is complete on the day that Christ Jesus returns.
You have a special place in my heart. So it is only natural for me to feel the way I do. All of you have helped in the work that God has given me, as I defend the good news and tell about it here in jail. God himself knows how much I want to see you. He knows that I care for you in the same way that Christ Jesus does.
I pray that your love will keep on growing and that you will fully know and understand how to make the right choices. Then you will still be pure and innocent when Christ returns. And until that day, Jesus Christ will keep you busy doing good deeds that bring glory and praise to God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Recently I have begun to reconnect on Facebook with teacher co-workers and students from my days as an elementary school kindergarten teacher. I taught for nine years and “retired” from that career at age 29. As I reflect on that time in my life, I often am somewhat embarrassed at how poorly I handled many situations. I let myself get caught up in petty disagreements. I failed to realize that a tyrannical administrator was dealing with demons I couldn’t imagine. I could have been more sympathetic toward parents at times. Now that I feel I have the wisdom and maturity to really make a difference in children’s lives, I no longer have the physical stamina required! Even then, I collapsed on Friday nights before 9:00, exhausted from the week of keeping up with 25-28 five-year-olds all day!
The one thing I did right was love my children… every one of them. I didn’t realize then that this love was the most valuable gift I could give them… more valuable than teaching them phonics, shapes and colors, or how to tie their shoes. For approximately 1300 hours over 9 months, these children knew that I loved and cared for them and would nurture them each day. And now, as I read the posts on Facebook, I see that many of “my children” are doing very well. I worship each Sunday with some of them and delight in seeing them serve God and bring up their children to know and love Him. I see students coaching community Little League teams… while others are youth pastors in churches and medical missionaries abroad, nurses, parents, teachers and more.
I see that God used me, even when I was “young and dumb (unaware),” to minister to others. And as I have grown in my faith, I hope I make better choices each day and minister in His name with “innocence and purity.” My point is, if God can use us even when we don’t realize it… if He can work in and through us even when we make bonehead decisions – and occasional selfish choices – think how He can use us when we focus on Him! Think how we could further His kingdom if we were consciously trying to serve Him well! I have been so blessed to watch many of my students in their ministry efforts. I can’t begin to imagine the outcome if I had been more diligent! Maybe in another 20 years I will be blown away at the evidence!
Every time I think of my students, I smile and thank God I had the chance to play even a small part in their development. Today, I thank God for the opportunity to share His word with YOU! Who has a special place in your heart – and makes you thankful to God? Who is God leading you to love and serve through Him? What choices are you making? Are you consciously asking God to help you make a difference each day? Is your love for Him – and the outpouring toward others – continually growing? Are you busy doing good deeds to bring Him glory?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 16 ~ Ephesians 3:14-21
I kneel in prayer to the Father. All beings in heaven and on earth receive their life from him. God is wonderful and glorious. I pray that his Spirit will make you become strong followers and that Christ will live in your hearts because of your faith. Stand firm and be deeply rooted in his love. I pray that you and all of God's people will understand what is called wide or long or high or deep. I want you to know all about Christ's love, although it is too wonderful to be measured. Then your lives will be filled with all that God is. I pray that Christ Jesus and the church will forever bring praise to God. His power at work in us can do far more than we dare ask or imagine. Amen.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
There is a great little song we teach to children in Sunday School classes or VBS called “Deep and Wide.” Kids love this song, because they can make the motions as they sing – one hand spaced a few inches above the other, palms in, to denote “deep”… and then spread wide apart to depict “wide.” And there is a line that says, “There’s a fountain flowing…” and you wiggle your fingers and simulate a fountain flowing down the front of your body. I’ve sung this song with my cousin Olivia since she was about two, and she loves it! I can’t wait to teach it to baby Timothy!
As entertaining as this song is for children, there is a HUGE meaning in it for all ages. Deep and wide – that describes how big God’s love is for us. The “fountain flowing” indicates that there is no beginning or end… God’s love and blessings continually come to us and fill us. So many of us miss this. Oh, sure, we know that God loves us. We know He blesses our lives. But we truly do not understand the depth and width of our God! We do not understand how truly impossible He is to measure! We have no clue how much God can do in and through us, because we don’t recognize His true power and vastness!
How do we improve in this area? Do what Paul suggests… become strong followers of Christ… stand firm and be deeply rooted in His love… praise God and bring praise to Him. And I would add… open your heart and mind to the possibilities. Invite God in and give Him room to work! Give Him your heart and watch how He fills it with more than you can ever measure, explain, or imagine! Seize the power of God and let Him fill you “deep and wide.”
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 15 ~ Ephesians 1:18
My prayer is that light will flood your hearts and that you will understand the hope that was given to you when God chose you. Then you will discover the glorious blessings that will be yours together with all of God's people
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Some of you know that my husband and I are helping with the care of our great-nephew, Timothy, while his mother works and goes to college. He is “a light that floods our hearts” whenever we see him. As we watch him grow and learn new things, we are overjoyed. It seems like we laugh and smile more these days!
Did you know that God laughs and smiles with joy at us – His children! Do you understand that He chose each and every one of us to belong to Him? And just like we want to lavish love and care on our baby Timothy, God wants to bless us – you and me - beyond anything we could ever imagine. But in order to do this, we have to let Him into our hearts. His light has to flood our hearts. We have to truly understand how powerful and mighty God is – and allow Him to work in and through us.
Lately, I have spent time in prayer about several issues in my life and the lives of others. I have truly surrendered more than one of these issues to God… and then I have marveled at how He handled them for me. And you know what? In every case, His answer and resolution was far better than anything I could ever have even imagined… and certainly more than what I could have accomplished on my own. The more I see how God works when I allow Him to fill my heart, the more I see how ridiculous it is for me to try to handle things myself – much less without Him. I’m telling you the truth… the more you allow the light of Christ to flood your heart - the more you understand how much God wants to give you - the more blessed you will be.
What do you have to lose? Give God a chance to work in your life – you will be amazed at what happens!
©2009 Debbie Robus
December 2009 Devotionals - Week 2
December 14 ~ 1 Chronicles 29:16-17
Friends in Corinth, we are telling the truth when we say that there is room in our hearts for you. We are not holding back on our love for you, but you are holding back on your love for us. I speak to you as I would speak to my own children. Please make room in your hearts for us.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
It is easy to love someone who loves us back, isn’t it?! When someone is kind toward you, does nice things for you, and generally seems to enjoy your company, it makes you want to reciprocate. But what do you do when someone is unloving toward you – or at best, indifferent? Has it ever seemed like the more you did for someone… the more you loved them, prayed for them, cared about what was happening in their life… the more they distanced themselves from you?
The real test for Christians is to love those who are “unlovely” – and those who do not reciprocate. When someone slams a door in your face or hangs up the telephone on you, it’s hard to continue to behave in a loving manner toward them. When someone embarrasses you in public, or is rude to you (especially in front of others), it’s hard to find it in your heart to show a loving attitude toward this person – and sometimes, to even pray for them. Remember the scripture that says to pray for your enemies? That’s really a tough one!
Since we don’t know what is truly in another person’s heart - and we don’t have to know to be a loving Christian toward them - our responsibility is to keep on loving and showing kindness and a generous heart toward these people, regardless of whether they reciprocate. Over time, I have seen more than one person come to realize how much unconditional love and grace meant to them and begin to change. Whether this happens or not, we must show the same love and grace to others that God shows to us. We must make room in our hearts for others - and let God handle what is in theirs.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 13 ~ 2 Corinthians 3:3
You are like a letter written by Christ and delivered by us. But you are not written with pen and ink or on tablets made of stone. You are written in our hearts by the Spirit of the living God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Letter writing is becoming a “lost art.” With the advances in technology and a time when we can send someone halfway around the world a message with one click of a button, the old-fashioned way of writing letters seems almost ridiculous to some! When my husband and I were dating and he was away at college, we wrote each other every week. He left home on Sunday and drove 90 miles to college, returning on Friday afternoon. Yet we both eagerly anticipated a note from the other – even about the most mundane things. This gesture said, “I’m thinking of you. You are in my heart.”
Can you imagine if you got an actual letter from Jesus Christ? Wouldn’t that be amazing and exciting? Can I tell you something? Paul is reminding us in this passage that we DO get “letters” from Jesus in the form of His love for us. When you chat on IM or another messaging service, you probably don’t capture the conversation and print it. But the exchange has meaning for you all the same. Just because we don’t get a hand-written, delivered-in-the-mail letter from Jesus doesn’t mean He doesn’t write on our heart each day. His Holy Spirit is there, “penciling away”… “I love you. I’m with you. Feel my presence… you mean the world to me.
”I love hand-written notes and letters… and I love to send them. I think people still appreciate the time, effort, and caring that it takes to do this. But I don’t have to have a hand-written note to know that certain people care about me… especially Jesus. I feel Him writing on my heart each day… do you? Doesn’t it make you feel special to know that the Holy Spirit not only dwells in you, but that He writes on your heart each and every day? Are you receiving the messages – are they making a difference in your life?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 12 ~ 2 Corinthians 2:4-7
At the time I wrote, I was suffering terribly. My eyes were full of tears, and my heart was broken. But I didn't want to make you feel bad. I only wanted to let you know how much I cared for you.
I don't want to be hard on you. But if one of you has made someone feel bad, I am not really the one who has been made to feel bad. Some of you are the ones. Most of you have already pointed out the wrong that person did, and that is punishment enough for what was done.
When people sin, you should forgive and comfort them, so they won't give up in despair. You should make them sure of your love for them.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever been like the Apostle Paul? Have you ever been “on the fringe” watching two people you know hurt one another? Maybe your friend and her boyfriend went through an ugly breakup. Maybe you know someone who is involved with someone who is an alcoholic, drug addict, abuser – or a combination… and this person won’t leave the relationship. Maybe you know of a situation where family members are not speaking, and it’s gone on so long nobody can remember what caused the riff in the first place! Maybe you know someone who is severely depressed, and this person is dragging down everyone around him/her.
Maybe you know someone who hurt another person so deeply it seems there is no way this wound will ever heal. For all of the positives of living in small towns, such communities seem to be great breeding grounds for “scandals” we think will never be forgotten – or forgiven. But Paul is telling us that we must forgive. “But you have no idea what this person did!” you may be saying. That’s true… but if we have a hard heart that won’t forgive others, how will they ever see Jesus in us? Do you want to risk that person turning away from God and missing out on His blessings – and possibly Eternity?
Whether the person deserves forgiveness is not important. We don’t deserve forgiveness, yet God grants it to us every day! Who are we to do any less toward our brothers and sisters – His children? This does not make you a doormat… in fact, it may just free you from the bondage of carrying a grudge toward someone else! This doesn’t mean you don’t feel hurt, insulted, disappointed, or heartbroken. But you can start to heal by extending your hand – or a prayer – in forgiveness and letting the other parties know that you still love and care for them. Paul goes on in verse 11 to say we should do this to keep from letting Satan get the better of us… and who among us wouldn’t want that?!
I want you to understand that this message is as much for me as anyone reading it. I have some people and situations in my own life I need to forgive and release. We all do. I’m determined to do this… I’m determined to meet these people on the street with a loving heart that reflects Jesus Christ. It may not be easy, but I know God will give me the strength and courage – and a loving heart – to do it. He’ll do the same for you – are you willing to give it a shot?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 11 ~ 1 Corinthians 4:5
So don't judge anyone until the Lord returns. He will show what is hidden in the dark and what is in everyone's heart. Then God will be the one who praises each of us.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever been talking to someone and said, “He/she is such a nice person,” and immediately the person gestured or laughed or did something that indicated that your sentiment was not shared? Or maybe someone has said unkind about another person, who happens to be a good friend of yours! In both cases, someone is passing judgment… and we all do it! And truly, we do NOT know what is in another person’s heart… or all of the dynamics of how and why they act as they do!
Sometimes, we pass the worst judgment of all… we decide for ourselves whether a person is a Christian or not – or whether his/her behavior is “Christian.” Clearly this is not our job! Only God knows for sure what is in a person’s heart. We may think we have a pretty good idea, but honestly, we need to keep our opinions to ourselves. After all… for every person we judge, someone may very well be judging us! So leave this to God… focus on being who you should be in your own Christian faith, and let God do the judging!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 10 ~ Romans 10:8-11
All who are acceptable because of their faith simply say, "The message is as near as your mouth or your heart." And this is the same message we preach about faith. So you will be saved, if you honestly say, "Jesus is Lord," and if you believe with all your heart that God raised him from death. God will accept you and save you, if you truly believe this and tell it to others.
The Scriptures say that no one who has faith will be disappointed, no matter if that person is a Jew or a Gentile. There is only one Lord, and he is generous to everyone who asks for his help. All who call out to the Lord will be saved.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
A few years ago, I knew someone who went to a Democratic primary election polling place to cast his votes. There were several Democratic candidates he wanted to elect. Trouble is, he wanted to elect the Republican candidate for one particular office… and that person’s name was NOT on his ballot. In order to vote for this person, he would have to vote in the Republican primary, which meant he could not vote for his other candidates. He had to choose one side or the other.
Thankfully, God doesn’t operate like our political system. You don’t have to be a Democrat or a Republican – or any other party faithful – to belong to the Kingdom of Heaven! ALL are welcome! The only requirement is that you love God with all your heart, believe that Jesus died for our sins and was raised from the dead, and tell others this Good News! Aren’t you glad that salvation is that simple? How wonderful to think there is only ONE choice… JESUS… and that He is ready to save anyone who asks. Have you chosen Jesus?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 9 ~ Romans 1:9
God has seen how I never stop praying for you, while I serve him with all my heart and tell the good news about his Son.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
A friend on Facebook asked for prayer for a family she knew who had experienced a tragedy. A woman posted a “praise” report on another church prayer list, saying, “Thank you for all of your prayers – I know that is what has made the difference.” Has it ever occurred to you that others are praying for you? When things are going well in your life… when you are healed from an illness or injury… when you find a job, or you find $5 in your coat pocket… you may think, “That was an answered prayer!” But does it ever cross your mind that it might be the answer to a prayer offered by others on your behalf?
I’m not saying God has to hear the prayers of “x” number of people before He will work in our lives. But as Christians, we are called to pray for others… and those prayers matter to God! Part of our service to Him is lifting the names and circumstances of others in prayer. Have you ever prayed for someone who was in need and later learned that the prayer had been answered? How did that make you feel? Were you blessed? Were you encouraged? Was your faith in God strengthened?
I’m so happy to think that others might be praying for me – and I am honored to pray for others. I know that God honors those prayers and blesses the people who offer them. I am encouraged to pray for others, knowing that God will work in their lives, and that He will hear MY prayer for them and answer it! The next time God answers your prayer, thank Him – for the answer – and for all who asked Him for it! And remember to pray for others – your prayers do make a difference!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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December 8 ~ Acts 28:27
All of you have stubborn hearts. Your ears are stopped up, and your eyes are covered. You cannot see or hear or understand. If you could, you would turn to me, and I would heal you.' "
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Some of you are too young to have seen the early episodes of Saturday Night Live, but you may have seen reruns of the show in which the late Gilda Radner played the character, Emily Litella – a little old lady who wore thick glasses and didn’t hear well. She was “invited” on the “Weekend Update” segment to offer commentary from time to time. In one skit, she asked, “What’s all this fuss about violins on television?” Another time, she asked, “What’s all this fuss I hear about the Supreme Court decision on a ‘deaf’ penalty? It's terrible! Deaf people have enough problems as it is!” When the “news anchor” corrected her and explained it was violence on television, not violins – and the death penalty and not a penalty toward hearing impaired, she would scrunch up her face and say, “Oh… that’s very different…” and then she would deliver her trademark line with a sheepish grin… “Never mind!”
“Emily Litella” had age on her side as an excuse. We Christians have none. Oh, sure… there may be a dozen reasons why our ears are stopped and our eyes are covered… and we may feel some are legitimately beyond our control – or certainly not our fault! But we know how to change this… we know WHO can heal us and restore us to clear vision, hearing and thinking! What stops us? Often, the culprit is a stubborn heart. I think sometimes even subconsciously, we enjoy having these crutches – we like playing the victim and wallowing in self-pity. Or maybe we are actually enjoying our sin.
I’m reminded of the commercial for an aid to stop smoking in which the lady, a former smoker (and success story for this product) says something to the effect of, “I loved every minute of smoking.” Even though she knew it was bad for her health, she still enjoyed it. And even though we know some things are bad for our Spiritual health, sometimes we enjoy those, also. Our hearts are stubborn!
We don’t have to walk around in a fog with unclear vision and hearing when it comes to our heart and our faith. God can heal us and fill our hearts with the truth. We just have to be willing to let Him. How stubborn is your heart these days? Are you ready to let God restore you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
November Devotionals - Week 4
November 30 ~ Matthew 6:19-21
Don't store up treasures on earth! Moths and rust can destroy them, and thieves can break in and steal them. Instead, store up your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy them, and thieves cannot break in and steal them. Your heart will always be where your treasure is.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever known people who save their “good stuff” for a special occasion… like their best pajamas, or their “nice clothes.” Meanwhile, they wear the torn, tattered and frayed stuff every day while their good clothes hang in a closet or are folded in a drawer. I have known of people who died with beautiful things still hanging in the closet with tags on them… saved for another day. I’ve known of aunts and grandmothers who kept their “good pajamas” in the drawer “in case I have to go to the hospital.” How sad to save the “good stuff” for such an occasion!
But it’s not just clothes and possessions we store up for another day. We do this spiritually, too. We work hard to make lots of money while neglecting family and friends – and God. We “live it up” and enjoy our weekends and free time and have a blast, but we don’t serve others. We will go to Tunica and gamble all weekend long, but we don’t have an extra $100 to give to missions. We store up our “treasure” on earth and neglect the things of heaven.
What does this have to do with our heart? Everything! See, what your heart truly desires is what you will have. If your heart’s desire is to make lots of money and spend it on yourself, you will work hard to do just that. If your heart is for others and serving them… sharing what you have and serving God… you will make time for those things. If your heart is about appearances rather than substance, you’ll make a good show – but have nothing to show for it!
So what is your heart’s desire? What treasures are you storing? Are they earthly and expendable, or are they heavenly and eternal? The choice is ours… what sort of “good stuff” are you saving?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 29 ~ Matthew 5:8
God blesses those people whose hearts are pure. They will see him!
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
What does it mean to have a “pure heart?” If you read this passage in The Message, it says, “You're blessed when you get your inside world - your mind and heart - put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.” Do you see God in the outside world? Or are you a cynic? That means you look at people or things and see what’s wrong – or what could go wrong – rather than what is right. And we all do this from time to time… some of us more than others!
Our goal should be to see good in others rather than emphasize their negative traits… to see potential in unfortunate situations instead of ranting and raving about how awful or evil something is. This is part of recognizing that we are all God’s creatures and equally precious to Him. This is also recognizing God’s power to change any and all situations.
Yes, people make mistakes and fall short of what God desired for them – and so do you and I! Yes, there is evil in the world, and life often isn’t fair. But GOD is in control… and the closer we grow to Him, the more what we rationalize in our head matches our heart. The more attuned to God we become, the more we start to see people and situations with a pure heart, full of potential for God to work. This is not being simple or naïve… this is being faithful and confident in God to handle things we cannot – both seen and unseen! This is trusting His will for our lives.
So let me ask you again… do you see God in the outside world? Do you even LOOK for Him? The first step toward developing a pure heart may very well be to change your attitude! And to do this will take time spent in prayer and Bible study – listening to and looking for GOD! We all have work to do to develop a pure heart… isn’t this a great time to begin?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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. For copies of The Message call (800) 366-7788.
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November 28 ~ Jeremiah 24:7
I will give them a desire to know me and to be my people. They will want me to be their God, and they will turn back to me with all their heart.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
When I was a junior high Sunday School teacher, there were lots of Sundays when I wondered if anything that was said or done in that class registered with any in attendance. The junior high years are tough ones for a lot of kids, and they have so much racing around in their minds – and learning more about God and/or the Bible isn’t high on the radar of many! Over and over, people told me, “You’re planting seeds.” A couple of people told me, “You may never know in this lifetime what impact your leading this class had, but it did make a difference for these kids.” And I felt that, if ONE kid was touched on ONE Sunday, I had faithfully served God in this capacity.
I didn’t have to wait that long to see evidence that God spoke to kids in those classes. I still see many of those former students from time to time, and I see the how God is working in their lives. Some wandered away… but I’m not worried. I know they love God in their heart, and they will want Him to be their God in a big way someday. I know that for others, God has been an ever-present help to them through high school – and now, college. One graduating senior sent me a note and said, “I wish we could return to the days when XYZ and I were harassing you in Sunday School.” It wasn’t much of an endorsement… but I’ll take it!
You don’t have to teach junior high Sunday School to plant a desire to know God in the hearts of others. You can model faith-filled, Godly behavior in other ways. You can serve God by serving others… and make a difference in their lives – a difference that might mean whether or not they choose to follow God for themselves. YOU can plant seeds of desire for God in the hearts of others. God will do the rest.
Do your part to share God’s love with others - then be patient. Step back and watch God work. You’ll be amazed at the results. And if someone you know has wandered away from God, keep praying for them and offering encouragement. Believe that they will turn back to Him with all their heart and trust God to do the rest.
2009 Debbie Robus
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November 27 ~ Jeremiah 20:12
LORD All-Powerful, you test those who do right, and you know every heart and mind. I have told you my complaints, so let me watch you take revenge on my enemies.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Recently, a jury in Little Rock found a man guilty of the murder of news anchor Anne Pressly. Many were astounded that this man received a sentence of life in prison, rather than the death penalty. Around the same time, a man at Ft. Hood, Texas, shot and killed 13 others… and survived. I have heard more than one person say, “He should have died, too,” or “I hope he gets the death penalty.”
Please understand, I am not defending murderers. I have no patience for people who brutalize and harm others in any way, shape, or form – or murder them. But I also believe that God knows the hearts of these people… and in His time, He will deal with them. He will mete out the revenge on them that they deserve. Whether I know of it or not doesn’t matter.
So often we want to take matters into our own hands. And the danger in this is that we don’t always know what is in another person’s heart. We don’t see “the big picture” that God sees. What if a person’s life is spared from death row, and he/she is offered the plan of salvation and accepts Jesus? I read just recently about a man serving a life sentence in prison who gave his life to Christ and is now witnessing to other inmates. He knows he will die as an inmate himself, but in the meantime, he is growing the Kingdom of Heaven. Might it be that God is using a once-evil situation for His purposes now?
By all accounts, Anne Pressly “did right” and was pure in heart and mind… yet she was brutally raped and murdered. The crime against her deserves God’s revenge. But that’s the point… the revenge is God’s to give! Meanwhile, He may be able to bring about something positive from something so horrible… and that is where we have to trust Him. We serve a God of second (and third, and fourth and more) chances… and what we would wish for God to give us, we have to be willing to accept when He offers to others. Give your complaints to God – then let Him decide what to do with them.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 26 ~ Isaiah 61:3
He sent me to give them flowers in place of their sorrow, olive oil in place of tears, and joyous praise in place of broken hearts. They will be called "Trees of Justice," planted by the LORD to honor his name.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
On a day when we pause to be thankful for so much, we must remember above all else to be thankful for Jesus Christ. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, He came “to heal the brokenhearted, and to announce freedom for prisoners and captives… to comfort those who mourn.” Jesus did come to free us from the captivity of sin. He came to heal our broken hearts and comfort us – to give us new life in Him. In Isaiah 61:10, we read, “I celebrate and shout because of my Lord God.” This truly is a day to celebrate and shout – a day to be thankful for a Savior who died for us and all of the blessings and privileges we enjoy because of what He has done in our lives.
We like to name so many things for which we are thankful during this season… and that is not a bad idea, because we are rich beyond measure. But let’s remember to be thankful – first and foremost – for Jesus Christ, and a loving Heavenly Father who sent His only Son to die for our sins. We are greatly blessed – let us pause and be thankful… not only today, but always.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 25 ~ Isaiah 59:13
We have rebelled and refused to follow you. Our hearts were deceitful, and so we lied; we planned to abuse others and turn our backs on you.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever heard of a “Devil-may-care” attitude? Have you ever wanted something so badly that you said, “I don’t care what I have to do to get it!”? Have you ever known someone who pursued their dreams and desires to the extent that they were ruthlessly willing to step over others to attain them? Did you realize that we all do this to some extent? Just the other day, I was so absorbed in my grocery shopping that I reached into the meat case to select a package of bacon and stepped right in front of someone else who was there. Now I will say, I thought this person had made her selection already. But I was so “in the zone,” that I didn’t realize she actually had backed away to let me make my choices. I quickly apologized and insisted I would wait while she finished choosing her bacon!
I know… that seems like a silly example. I had to ask myself… “For even a moment, did I think my time was more important than someone else’s?” We “inadvertently” pull out in front of people in our cars, step in front of someone in line, grab the last roll at dinner without asking, say hurtful or rude things, and more. We say we didn’t mean it, but if we examine ourselves more closely, we have to admit that we were so into ourselves at that moment that we really weren’t thinking about anyone or anything else.
Soon a “harmless” incident like cutting in line becomes habit, and the devil has an opening. He will use it to harden our hearts and make us more self-serving. Before we know it, we are deliberately taking advantage of others – and proud of it! We might even brag to our friends, “I never wait in line… I make up an excuse to move ahead of the others,” or “How could he be so stupid? I just had to tell him off and let him know what I thought!” We start to feel like we are superior – even to God. We start to bend the rules and mold the Scriptures to suit our whims and justify our behavior… “Well, God didn’t really mean that!”
From time to time, we all need to examine our hearts and see how we are doing. We need to make sure we are not deceiving ourselves – or others. We need to be sure we are not bending God’s word to suit our situations and justify our sinful behavior. In all things, when God examines our heart, what does He see? This should be what motivates us each day… to make sure God is pleased with what He finds. Have you examined your heart lately?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 24 ~ Proverbs 21:2
We may think we are doing the right thing, but the LORD always knows what is in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever heard someone say about another person, “He/she just has such a good heart.” You know how I love Andy Griffith. Have you seen the episode where Barney wants to sing with the choir, but his voice is terribly off-key. But he has such a good heart, and nobody wants to hurt his feelings, so Andy and the choir cook up a scheme for Barney to sing into a “super-sensitive microphone” while a more adept singer actually performs for him from behind the curtain. Poor Barney even tries to help the choir director find the person who is singing off-key, totally unaware HE is the culprit. And when he hears the beautiful voice coming from the better singer, he thinks HIS voice actually sounds better in this special microphone. It’s a tangled web of deception – all created in the name of saving Barney’s feelings and protecting his heart.
So often we do all sorts of dances and gyrations to convince ourselves that what we are doing is the right thing – and that God will understand – when truly, we know better. Barney and Andy’s little dance may have been harmless enough, but in the end, Barney found out the truth. And isn’t that always the way? The old adages that “the truth WILL come out” and “honesty is the best policy” are both solid pieces of advice!Here are a few examples of thinking you are doing the right thing, when God is looking at your heart and your motives:
- You’re at a party where underage teens are drinking, but because you aren’t drinking, you think it is okay to stay at the party.
- You are in a store with someone who is shoplifting. You don’t shoplift, but you don’t call your friend on it, either. Your justification is that you didn’t do anything illegal… and you don’t want to make your friend mad by saying anything.
- You let your underage kids have a party at your house and you allow them to consume alcohol. You rationalize that because you keep all of the kids there and nobody is driving, it’s okay.
- You use your friend’s handicapped parking permit to claim a prime parking space when you go grocery shopping. Your justification is that you’re a senior citizen and you are entitled. Besides, there weren’t any other spaces available near the store.
- You help yourself to pens, paper, paper clips, and more from your place of employment and take them home. The business has plenty, and no more than they pay you, you feel you are entitled to these “bonuses.”
- You cover for your friend who is cheating on his/her significant other because you don’t want to get caught in the middle or hurt anyone’s feelings.
- You chew out the refs at your kid’s Pee Wee basketball game in front of everyone because you feel they made a terrible call, and by golly, they need to be taken down a notch or two!
The point I am making is that sometimes, we feel completely justified… we have rationalized our behavior and/or our choices perfectly in our mind - and we have totally compartmentalized our thoughts and separated them from our conscience – or our heart! Deep within, we may even realize that what we are doing would not be pleasing to God – or may be wrong on some level. This is a great example of where the head and heart do not function the same!
The bottom line is that we should strive to act in a manner that we know in our heart pleases God. When we are in doubt about our actions, we should consult God first and ask Him if our choices line up with His will… and if He approves. Often God will speak to us from our heart and give us the answer. And no matter how hard it may be to accept – and act upon – the outcome will always be better, and God will help us navigate any difficulties along the way.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 23 ~ Psalm 139:23
Look deep into my heart, God, and find out everything I am thinking.
Proverbs 15:11
If the LORD can see everything in the world of the dead, he can see in our hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
WHOA! I don’t know about you, but there are days I would really rather God not see everything I am thinking! And having said that, we have to ask ourselves, “What is wrong with this picture?” Surely God knows everything we are thinking. Yet when the devil gets hold of us, our thoughts are not always pleasing to God, are they? At least, I know mine aren’t! From the unkind thought I have about the driver who cuts me off in traffic to the envy I sometimes have when I see someone wearing a nice outfit to the frustration I experience when someone says or does something I don’t like – I allow the devil to creep into my heart and my thoughts… and sometimes it ain’t pretty!
The truth of this scripture is that the Psalmist is saying, “Go ahead, God… look at everything about me… see what isn’t pleasing to you…AND FIX IT!!!” Don’t be afraid for God to examine your heart. Certainly, we should all work harder to make sure what He sees there is pleasing. But the beauty of our relationship with God is that He is willing to help us change even the unpleasant things He finds in our heart. If we are willing to turn to God and completely give Him our heart, He will have mercy on us and show us how to correct “stinkin’ thinkin’!”
I’m going with the Psalmist on this one… “Bring it on, Lord! Look deep into every nook and cranny of my heart. Find the things I need to change. Forgive me for them. Then show me how to turn things around and head back toward You.” God already knows what we are thinking. The question is… do our thoughts please Him? If the answer is “not always,” are we ready and willing to change?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 22 ~ Psalm 84:2
Deep in my heart I long for your temple, and with all that I am I sing joyful songs to you.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
The older I get, the more I look forward to heaven. Now, you probably think that sounds pretty morbid… and no, I do not have a death wish! But the more I discover about God’s love for us and how He works in our lives, the more I want to know of Him! Yet, I realize we won’t have all of the answers until we get to Heaven!
At the same time, the anticipation of Heaven makes life on this earth sweeter. Does that make sense? See, just like this scripture, as God fills me with joy and I live a life that I hope pleases – and glorifies – Him, the more I enjoy my earthly life. This doesn’t diminish my anticipation of Heaven someday, but it does give me patience for the journey. God doesn’t want us to just mark time in this life as we wait for Him… He wants us to fully LIVE it!!!
I often tell younger people not to wish their lives away… and this is good advice for all of us. Instead of anticipating the future, God wants us to savor every single day. Deep in our hearts we may long for Heaven. But day-to-day, we should be filled with joyful songs for the blessings God gives us. We should live every minute to the fullest in service and honor to Him. What’s deep within YOUR heart these days?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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