1 Peter 3:10-12
“Do you really love life?
Do you want to be happy?
Then stop saying cruel things
and quit telling lies.
Give up your evil ways
and do right,
as you find and follow
the road that leads
The Lord watches over
everyone who obeys him,
and he listens
to their prayers.
But he opposes everyone
who does evil.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Greg
and Timothy were building a “village” out of wooden blocks. Timothy
made some characters out of Legos® that he dubbed “the evil gang.” The
village had several “buildings” created with stacked blocks, and Greg
asked Timothy, “Are you planning on those evil men knocking over these
houses?” Timothy assured him that this was NOT going to happen…that
“These men are just here for a visit.”
Then a building
accidentally fell, and as Greg reached to get it, Timothy said, “Oh,
that’s what ‘we’ were about to do!” Greg looked at Timothy with a
raised eyebrow, and Timothy said, “Oh, we LIED! Hehehe!” And he made
angry, evil voices for the characters. Then he started to laugh and
say, “Oh, my bad!” to indicate that he didn’t mean any harm. It was all
a fun game between a boy and his uncle.
But as I watched this
unfold and listened, I thought about how we act in “real life.” Many of
us “play nice” and pretend to be kind and friendly…but we would just as
soon “mow down” the other guy as look at him. There is emptiness in our
hearts and minds that we try to fill by building ourselves up – often
at the expense of others. We lie, cheat, steal, and tear people
down…and then we often pretend that this was not our intention at all!
Sometimes, we try to brush it all away with a “My bad!” justification.
Sadly, there are also times when we stand by our vicious words and
actions.
Most of us want people to think we are “a nice guy.” If
they only knew that sometimes, our “evil twin” has a way of appearing!
Some people may even come to think of us as a person who is always
negative, angry or disgruntled…or simply a “grump.” Others may think of
us as an out-and-out bully…and maybe some of us are indeed!
We
must understand that our words, actions, and demeanor matter. We have
to make every effort to obey God…to seek His will and operate within His
guidelines. We have to stop and think about what we say and do –
BEFORE it happens. Check your attitude in a “virtual mirror” and make
sure that you are representing God and His goodness. We all know
someone whose very name makes us groan…the thought of them conjures up a
negative attitude - or unloving (if not evil) behavior. Don’t be one
of these people!
Will this be the day that you check your own
heart and mind for an “evil gang” mentality and quit “knocking over”
others? Are you ready to say “NO!” to the devil and His methods - and
live abundantly in the will of God? When others look at you, WHO do
they see…and how will you be remembered?
Fill your heart with
God’s goodness. Work hard to be a positive, pleasant, Spirit-filled
disciple who represents the very best that God offers all of us. You
will be amazed at how this affects every aspect of your life…and the
lives of those around you. I’m betting that God will pour out His favor
on you in a new, more plentiful way, as well. It’s certainly worth a
shot…isn’t it? What are we waiting for?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label honoring Gods commands. Show all posts
Showing posts with label honoring Gods commands. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for March 2, 2016
1 John 2:3-6
Here’s how we can be sure that we know God in the right way: Keep his commandments.
If someone claims, “I know him well!” but doesn’t keep his commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.
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.
It’s probably just me…but I don’t know when I have ever been so keenly aware of people claiming the name of Jesus while “acting a fool.” My mother was a great student of history, and she always noted that name calling and “mud-slinging” are nothing new…that if we knew all that was said and done to Abraham Lincoln, we would completely lose our minds. But my mother was also the QUEEN of the phrase, “Two wrongs don’t make a right!” So just because this has happened throughout history doesn’t mean it is acceptable today.
The point is this…there are a LOT of people running around right now spewing venom in one breath – and inviting people to a Bible study in the next. Lots of people are raising their hands on Sunday morning to worship Jesus, and then shaking their fists at a referee throughout the week. More than a few are wearing their “cross” jewelry and placing signs in the yard to invite people to their particular house of worship…then gossiping, posting ugly things on social media, and disparaging anyone who is different from them – in any way.
Here we go again…PEOPLE ARE WATCHING! And what we say and do – or DON’T say and do – matters greatly. It matters to God…and it matters in our efforts to further His Kingdom. If you want to demonstrate God’s mature love, you have got to make your life match your words and actions that claim this as the case. And this means keeping God’s commandments…ALL of them – especially the one about loving your neighbor as yourself.
So the next time you start to say something that is even a little bit unkind or critical, stop and ask yourself if this demonstrates God’s love for us and others. When you are ready to rail against perceived injustices (or the teacher or referee who did your kid wrong), ask God if this fits into His plans and reflects the teachings of Jesus. When you start to get riled up about this situation or that one, check with God and see what He has to say about operating in offense.
If we want to know God in the right way, we have to fully embrace His commandments – and walk/talk them every minute of each day. People ARE watching. What – and WHO – do they see when they look at you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Here’s how we can be sure that we know God in the right way: Keep his commandments.
If someone claims, “I know him well!” but doesn’t keep his commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.
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.
It’s probably just me…but I don’t know when I have ever been so keenly aware of people claiming the name of Jesus while “acting a fool.” My mother was a great student of history, and she always noted that name calling and “mud-slinging” are nothing new…that if we knew all that was said and done to Abraham Lincoln, we would completely lose our minds. But my mother was also the QUEEN of the phrase, “Two wrongs don’t make a right!” So just because this has happened throughout history doesn’t mean it is acceptable today.
The point is this…there are a LOT of people running around right now spewing venom in one breath – and inviting people to a Bible study in the next. Lots of people are raising their hands on Sunday morning to worship Jesus, and then shaking their fists at a referee throughout the week. More than a few are wearing their “cross” jewelry and placing signs in the yard to invite people to their particular house of worship…then gossiping, posting ugly things on social media, and disparaging anyone who is different from them – in any way.
Here we go again…PEOPLE ARE WATCHING! And what we say and do – or DON’T say and do – matters greatly. It matters to God…and it matters in our efforts to further His Kingdom. If you want to demonstrate God’s mature love, you have got to make your life match your words and actions that claim this as the case. And this means keeping God’s commandments…ALL of them – especially the one about loving your neighbor as yourself.
So the next time you start to say something that is even a little bit unkind or critical, stop and ask yourself if this demonstrates God’s love for us and others. When you are ready to rail against perceived injustices (or the teacher or referee who did your kid wrong), ask God if this fits into His plans and reflects the teachings of Jesus. When you start to get riled up about this situation or that one, check with God and see what He has to say about operating in offense.
If we want to know God in the right way, we have to fully embrace His commandments – and walk/talk them every minute of each day. People ARE watching. What – and WHO – do they see when they look at you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 29, 2015
Matthew 15:3-9
But Jesus put it right back on them. “Why do you use your rules to play fast and loose with God’s commands? God clearly says, ‘Respect your father and mother,’ and, ‘Anyone denouncing father or mother should be killed.’ But you weasel around that by saying, ‘Whoever wants to, can say to father and mother, What I owed to you I’ve given to God.’ That can hardly be called respecting a parent. You cancel God’s command by your rules. Frauds! Isaiah’s prophecy of you hit the bull’s-eye:
These people make a big show of saying the right thing,
but their heart isn’t in it.
They act like they’re worshiping me,
but they don’t mean it.
They just use me as a cover
for teaching whatever suits their fancy.”
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.
Nathan has developed a new “game” that he likes to play where he hides behind an open door (in the little wedge of space between the door and the wall), peers through the crack where the hinges are…and says, “I’m hiding! You can’t see me!” Whether he realizes that we indeed can see him or not, he revels in his perceived “cover.”
This is his way of saying, “I know you are there, but since you can’t see what I’m really doing behind this door, it doesn’t count!” I’ve warned him repeatedly that he is going to pinch is little fingers in that hinge space someday…and he continues to test this idea. It will be a sad day if/when this happens.
We are all hiding and testing God, in some way. We go to church on Sunday, read our Bible, and “say and do all the right things.” But then we hide behind the “door” of our Christian faith and judge others. We pretend that no one can see us when we commit sins – of all kinds (I’ll let you fill in the blank). We claim the name of Jesus as we interpret scripture to suit our own needs and desires…or to condemn others…and we try to mold the meaning of Christian discipleship to fit the way we want things to be. In a nutshell, we fail to keep the main thing (Jesus), the Main Thing! And someday, a lot of us are going to get our fingers pinched in the doorway.
Nowhere in the Bible will you find a lot of the things that “Christians” hold to so dearly as the be-all-end-all tenets of their faith. Scripture doesn’t say that we have to shove God’s commandments down the throats of others – or plaster them on our walls. There is no Bible verse that tells us that we must pray at a certain hour each day – in a certain place…or that we must offer a prayer before every meal or ballgame. There is no specific commandment that tells us that we are to let every person who thinks or feels differently from us know that we are right – and they are wrong.
If you boil it down to what the Bible does say, you will see that we are commanded to love and respect God…to love others as He loves them and as we love ourselves…and to share the GOOD NEWS of Jesus with our words and actions. Everything else is just a smokescreen that the devil likes to use to make us think we are something we aren’t…that we can hide behind God and have it our way – and drag others along for the ride. Yes, someday, a whole lot of us are going to get pinched!
Where are you hiding today? How are you using God and your Christian faith as a “cover” to do as you please? Where have you twisted scripture to suit your desires and attitudes? Are you really ready to step out into the light of day and be who God has called you to be…to serve Him as He desires…to truly dig into His word and find out what He is saying…and to act on His intentions, not your own? Don’t you think it’s time you were?
©2015 Debbie Robus
But Jesus put it right back on them. “Why do you use your rules to play fast and loose with God’s commands? God clearly says, ‘Respect your father and mother,’ and, ‘Anyone denouncing father or mother should be killed.’ But you weasel around that by saying, ‘Whoever wants to, can say to father and mother, What I owed to you I’ve given to God.’ That can hardly be called respecting a parent. You cancel God’s command by your rules. Frauds! Isaiah’s prophecy of you hit the bull’s-eye:
These people make a big show of saying the right thing,
but their heart isn’t in it.
They act like they’re worshiping me,
but they don’t mean it.
They just use me as a cover
for teaching whatever suits their fancy.”
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.
Nathan has developed a new “game” that he likes to play where he hides behind an open door (in the little wedge of space between the door and the wall), peers through the crack where the hinges are…and says, “I’m hiding! You can’t see me!” Whether he realizes that we indeed can see him or not, he revels in his perceived “cover.”
This is his way of saying, “I know you are there, but since you can’t see what I’m really doing behind this door, it doesn’t count!” I’ve warned him repeatedly that he is going to pinch is little fingers in that hinge space someday…and he continues to test this idea. It will be a sad day if/when this happens.
We are all hiding and testing God, in some way. We go to church on Sunday, read our Bible, and “say and do all the right things.” But then we hide behind the “door” of our Christian faith and judge others. We pretend that no one can see us when we commit sins – of all kinds (I’ll let you fill in the blank). We claim the name of Jesus as we interpret scripture to suit our own needs and desires…or to condemn others…and we try to mold the meaning of Christian discipleship to fit the way we want things to be. In a nutshell, we fail to keep the main thing (Jesus), the Main Thing! And someday, a lot of us are going to get our fingers pinched in the doorway.
Nowhere in the Bible will you find a lot of the things that “Christians” hold to so dearly as the be-all-end-all tenets of their faith. Scripture doesn’t say that we have to shove God’s commandments down the throats of others – or plaster them on our walls. There is no Bible verse that tells us that we must pray at a certain hour each day – in a certain place…or that we must offer a prayer before every meal or ballgame. There is no specific commandment that tells us that we are to let every person who thinks or feels differently from us know that we are right – and they are wrong.
If you boil it down to what the Bible does say, you will see that we are commanded to love and respect God…to love others as He loves them and as we love ourselves…and to share the GOOD NEWS of Jesus with our words and actions. Everything else is just a smokescreen that the devil likes to use to make us think we are something we aren’t…that we can hide behind God and have it our way – and drag others along for the ride. Yes, someday, a whole lot of us are going to get pinched!
Where are you hiding today? How are you using God and your Christian faith as a “cover” to do as you please? Where have you twisted scripture to suit your desires and attitudes? Are you really ready to step out into the light of day and be who God has called you to be…to serve Him as He desires…to truly dig into His word and find out what He is saying…and to act on His intentions, not your own? Don’t you think it’s time you were?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 24, 2015
August 24 ~ Luke 6:32-36
“Do you think you deserve credit for merely loving those who love you? Even the godless do that! And if you do good only to those who do you good—is that so wonderful? Even sinners do that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, what good is that? Even the most wicked will lend to their own kind for full return!
“Love your enemies! Do good to them! Lend to them! And don’t be concerned about the fact that they won’t repay. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as sons of God: for he is kind to the unthankful and to those who are very wicked.
“Try to show as much compassion as your Father does."
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of TyndalePublishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Early in my adult life, I worked for a supervisor who had actually stated that one of his goals was to “make or break” first-year employees. He deliberately made things difficult for them, stirred up conflict, and created situations that tested one’s fortitude and courage. After one particularly ugly incident with this man, a co-worker offered me words of kindness and compassion…and some advice I’ve never forgotten. She said, “Kill him with kindness.”
Are you kidding me? This person had just treated me horribly…made things incredibly tough for me…acted in a manner that was reprehensible. And now I was supposed to be extra kind to him? I was also reminded by some well-meaning, loving friends and family members that it was hard to feel unkindly toward those for whom we pray. I was already praying – for my own courage and strength in the face of this person’s unkindness. But now I was challenged to pray for him! It almost seemed like too much.
I wish I could say that this was the only time in my life that I worked for a “tyrant” or with co-workers who were unpleasant or had an axe to grind. Sadly, this appears to be more commonplace than we would like to think! But I am grateful that I learned early on to follow Jesus’ words in this scripture passage from Luke 6. My parents taught me as a youngster that retaliation was not the answer…that being who God designed me to be and "taking the high road" would bring far better results. I learned that “killing with kindness” and praying for my “enemies” might not always make the other person nicer…that the path I traveled might not instantly be easier. But in the end, I would have the satisfaction of knowing that I honored my commitment to God…that I demonstrated the love of Christ even to those who were unlovely.
This is not an easy choice. There are days when we all want to fight back and “let ‘em have it!” I can assure you that even in recent months, I have found it very hard to love and tolerate some people who have been incredibly unkind and divisive. When you are hurting, it’s hard to show love and compassion for those who have committed the offenses. But I remind myself of times when both Greg and I were told by someone, “I’ve watched you from afar…I’ve observed how kind and decent you were to XYZ. I’ve seen how you treated them far better than they deserved and held your tongue, even when you could have said plenty.” I know that people are watching...that what we say and do matters…and often what we DON’T say or do is just as significant.
If we want to please God, we have to emulate Jesus. And He gave us the perfect example of how to treat those who mistreat us. Let’s be honest, to do any less puts us in the same category as those who are “wicked.” Take the high road…kill ‘em with kindness…pray for your enemies and those who have hurt or disappointed you in some way. Let them see Jesus in you and your every action and reaction. The satisfaction of knowing that you honored Him with your obedient spirit will be better than any momentary pleasure over an impulsive retaliation.
Don’t let these people steal your joy in Christ. Love others – ALL of them – as Jesus loves you…and find your peace in knowing that you have honored your commitment to love and serve Him in all things.
©2015 Debbie Robus
“Do you think you deserve credit for merely loving those who love you? Even the godless do that! And if you do good only to those who do you good—is that so wonderful? Even sinners do that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, what good is that? Even the most wicked will lend to their own kind for full return!
“Love your enemies! Do good to them! Lend to them! And don’t be concerned about the fact that they won’t repay. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as sons of God: for he is kind to the unthankful and to those who are very wicked.
“Try to show as much compassion as your Father does."
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of TyndalePublishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Early in my adult life, I worked for a supervisor who had actually stated that one of his goals was to “make or break” first-year employees. He deliberately made things difficult for them, stirred up conflict, and created situations that tested one’s fortitude and courage. After one particularly ugly incident with this man, a co-worker offered me words of kindness and compassion…and some advice I’ve never forgotten. She said, “Kill him with kindness.”
Are you kidding me? This person had just treated me horribly…made things incredibly tough for me…acted in a manner that was reprehensible. And now I was supposed to be extra kind to him? I was also reminded by some well-meaning, loving friends and family members that it was hard to feel unkindly toward those for whom we pray. I was already praying – for my own courage and strength in the face of this person’s unkindness. But now I was challenged to pray for him! It almost seemed like too much.
I wish I could say that this was the only time in my life that I worked for a “tyrant” or with co-workers who were unpleasant or had an axe to grind. Sadly, this appears to be more commonplace than we would like to think! But I am grateful that I learned early on to follow Jesus’ words in this scripture passage from Luke 6. My parents taught me as a youngster that retaliation was not the answer…that being who God designed me to be and "taking the high road" would bring far better results. I learned that “killing with kindness” and praying for my “enemies” might not always make the other person nicer…that the path I traveled might not instantly be easier. But in the end, I would have the satisfaction of knowing that I honored my commitment to God…that I demonstrated the love of Christ even to those who were unlovely.
This is not an easy choice. There are days when we all want to fight back and “let ‘em have it!” I can assure you that even in recent months, I have found it very hard to love and tolerate some people who have been incredibly unkind and divisive. When you are hurting, it’s hard to show love and compassion for those who have committed the offenses. But I remind myself of times when both Greg and I were told by someone, “I’ve watched you from afar…I’ve observed how kind and decent you were to XYZ. I’ve seen how you treated them far better than they deserved and held your tongue, even when you could have said plenty.” I know that people are watching...that what we say and do matters…and often what we DON’T say or do is just as significant.
If we want to please God, we have to emulate Jesus. And He gave us the perfect example of how to treat those who mistreat us. Let’s be honest, to do any less puts us in the same category as those who are “wicked.” Take the high road…kill ‘em with kindness…pray for your enemies and those who have hurt or disappointed you in some way. Let them see Jesus in you and your every action and reaction. The satisfaction of knowing that you honored Him with your obedient spirit will be better than any momentary pleasure over an impulsive retaliation.
Don’t let these people steal your joy in Christ. Love others – ALL of them – as Jesus loves you…and find your peace in knowing that you have honored your commitment to love and serve Him in all things.
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 22, 2014
Daniel 9:9
Lord God, you are merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I sat at the table today with our nephew, Nathan, trying to coax him to eat. “Those are strawberries...Yum! Yum!” He would look away and hide his face. “Mmmmmm...chocolate milk! It’s goooooooooooood!” He would push away the sippy cup. I know Nathan is moody at times...and just shy of his 2nd birthday, he is still figuring us out! So I pretended not to notice him. I quietly ate my lunch...turned on a television show...even got my laptop and started to check e-mail. Of course, I was watching him intently...and at times I felt him watching ME! If he noticed that I noticed him, he would retreat...put his goldfish and strawberries back in the bowl, and hide his face. It was a game...and I caught on pretty fast!
Over the course of about 30 minutes, Nathan discovered that the food I had given him was really tasty...and it all disappeared into his tummy. No matter how many times I told him how delicious it was...it had to be HIS idea. So I quickly decided to be gracious and merciful and ignore him...to play HIS game and forgive his stubbornness.
This is not just the game of a toddler. We do it all the time with God. He shows us what to do...and what not to do...and we try to do things our way. We essentially say, “Don’t look at me right now!” and pretend that if God does not acknowledge what we are doing (or not doing), it doesn’t count. Then when things fall apart, where do we run? You’ve got it...we head straight for God - and want Him to forgive us and restore us. And usually He does just that!
If you read the next few verses of Daniel 9, you will see, however, that God has His limits! While He will never turn His back on us completely, God may “hang us out to dry” a little. There may come a day when He says, “That’s it...I’ve been patient with you long enough. I told you “not to touch the hot stove” and you kept inching closer and closer, so you will just have to get burned a little to learn your lesson!” Or we ask and ask for things that God doesn’t seem to deliver, and we wonder why He is silent...only to realize that we have failed to do something He asked of us – or we have disobeyed Him repeatedly in some area. God is loving, compassionate, merciful and gracious...but He is also just and fair.
So for today, I have allowed Nathan the leeway to eat at his pace and to decide whether he was hungry. When he is older, I may have to INSIST that he eat his veggies or drink his milk. But I will always love him, just the same. And God loves us. He wants to snuggle us in His arms like we would a 2-year-old who is learning the ropes. But He also wants us to grow up and mature in our faith and our discipleship.
How patient has God been with you lately? Are there areas where He has been more than lenient? Are there other situations where you are probably testing the limits of His mercy? Isn’t it time you grew up in your faith and started listening to God a little more closely? Will God have to lose His patience with you before you truly “get it”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Lord God, you are merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I sat at the table today with our nephew, Nathan, trying to coax him to eat. “Those are strawberries...Yum! Yum!” He would look away and hide his face. “Mmmmmm...chocolate milk! It’s goooooooooooood!” He would push away the sippy cup. I know Nathan is moody at times...and just shy of his 2nd birthday, he is still figuring us out! So I pretended not to notice him. I quietly ate my lunch...turned on a television show...even got my laptop and started to check e-mail. Of course, I was watching him intently...and at times I felt him watching ME! If he noticed that I noticed him, he would retreat...put his goldfish and strawberries back in the bowl, and hide his face. It was a game...and I caught on pretty fast!
Over the course of about 30 minutes, Nathan discovered that the food I had given him was really tasty...and it all disappeared into his tummy. No matter how many times I told him how delicious it was...it had to be HIS idea. So I quickly decided to be gracious and merciful and ignore him...to play HIS game and forgive his stubbornness.
This is not just the game of a toddler. We do it all the time with God. He shows us what to do...and what not to do...and we try to do things our way. We essentially say, “Don’t look at me right now!” and pretend that if God does not acknowledge what we are doing (or not doing), it doesn’t count. Then when things fall apart, where do we run? You’ve got it...we head straight for God - and want Him to forgive us and restore us. And usually He does just that!
If you read the next few verses of Daniel 9, you will see, however, that God has His limits! While He will never turn His back on us completely, God may “hang us out to dry” a little. There may come a day when He says, “That’s it...I’ve been patient with you long enough. I told you “not to touch the hot stove” and you kept inching closer and closer, so you will just have to get burned a little to learn your lesson!” Or we ask and ask for things that God doesn’t seem to deliver, and we wonder why He is silent...only to realize that we have failed to do something He asked of us – or we have disobeyed Him repeatedly in some area. God is loving, compassionate, merciful and gracious...but He is also just and fair.
So for today, I have allowed Nathan the leeway to eat at his pace and to decide whether he was hungry. When he is older, I may have to INSIST that he eat his veggies or drink his milk. But I will always love him, just the same. And God loves us. He wants to snuggle us in His arms like we would a 2-year-old who is learning the ropes. But He also wants us to grow up and mature in our faith and our discipleship.
How patient has God been with you lately? Are there areas where He has been more than lenient? Are there other situations where you are probably testing the limits of His mercy? Isn’t it time you grew up in your faith and started listening to God a little more closely? Will God have to lose His patience with you before you truly “get it”?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 11, 2013
Exodus 20:12
Respect your father and your mother, and you will live a long time in the land I am giving you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You can’t make this stuff up! I tried and tried to figure out what to say about today’s scripture passage. I prayed and prayed… and I finally told God, “LORD, I just have nothing to share that seems right. No words are coming. Maybe this is not the verse you want me to use today.” I went back to my outline and selected the next passage… Ephesians 6:1-3… “Children, you belong to the Lord, and you do the right thing when you obey your parents. The first commandment with a promise says, ‘Obey your father and your mother, and you will have a long and happy life.’” Clearly, God wants me to address this passage today! And because I have the utmost respect for my Heavenly Father, I will do what He asks!
You may not be aware of this, but November 2013 is “National Adoption Month.” My church is incredibly supportive of a foster care program in our state… The C.A.L.L. – Children of Arkansas Loved for a Lifetime. At a recent presentation during a worship service, several foster parents shared the blessings – and challenges – of parenting foster children. They also introduced us to the photo of an 8-year-old boy in the foster care system who would love to find a “forever home”… and they asked us to pray for him. I am certain that he will find a parent or parents who will nurture him into adulthood… and I have tremendous respect for adults who are willing to open their hearts and their homes to these orphans.
This brings me to my thoughts for today. How do some children end up in foster care or needing to be adopted in the first place? I wish I could say that every parent is genuinely worthy of our respect. But we all know there are some rotten people in this world… and more than a few of them are parents. It’s not that these are necessarily bad people… they just don’t have the proper parenting skills and/or the right circumstances for creating a positive and loving atmosphere for children. And on any given day, we’ve all been a crummy “parent”. I know there have been times that I have snapped at Timothy or Zola and deeply regretted it almost instantly. The children I love more than anything have sometimes provoked me to speak harshly… if even for an instant. And all of the apologies and remorse in the world cannot take back my hasty words.
I know that there are parents who claim to love their children, yet they neglect them terribly and/or abuse them – sometimes beyond what most humans can comprehend. Many are verbally offensive. In one breath they are calling these children every name in the book and telling them how “You ruined my life,” and in the next breath they are saying, “I love you! I can’t live without you!”
I also understand that there is a difference between “biological parents” and those who truly love, nurture and rear (or “parent”) children. And while I believe God calls us to respect ALL people as His creatures, I have concluded that He is particularly referring in this passage to those who have physically “done the work” of parenting. Let’s face it… some have done a better job than others. Regardless of what kind of parents, grandparents, or parental figures you have/had, God calls us to respect them… to honor them. Does this mean you must approve of and/or endorse everything they say and do? No! Does this mean you have to put their wishes and needs above your own… or make them the center of your universe? Absolutely not! Should children in unsafe or abusive situations excuse their parents for this treatment? Not in the least!
So how do we respect our parents? How do you love and “respect” someone who is abusive, unkind or neglectful? I believe that God is calling us to be loving, gracious, merciful, forgiving, morally upright, and kind to others. Regardless of our situation, when we model Jesus’ example to others, we can’t help but be respectful and honorable. And honestly, if you don’t forgive others in your heart for any offenses they may have committed, it will eat you alive… and YOU will be the loser. Look at this scripture again. God says that when you respect your parents, you will live a long time in the land He gives you. That means you will be BLESSED! God… your HEAVENLY FATHER… will take care of you, meet your needs, and give you strength and peace.
You may have wonderful parents who do an excellent job of caring for you, loving you, and offering you incredible nurture and support. Or you may not have much of a relationship with your parents, for a myriad of reasons. God is not asking you to “look the other way” and allow anyone to mistreat or abuse you. But you must always treat your parents with love and kindness. God calls us to honor and respect Him by showing respect for those He allowed to give us life. It may not always be easy or feel right… but ultimately, I believe you will experience God’s blessings when you honor Him in all things.
Recently on NBC’s Today, correspondent Dr. Nancy Snyderman was featured in a story about her return to Little Rock, Arkansas, for a reunion of Snyderman’s now 27-year-old adopted daughter, Kate, and her birth mother, Cheryl. Of course Kate had questions… and Cheryl explained that she was young and felt unable to properly care for her. She said, “I have always been proud of you. Being a single teenage mom, I couldn't give you a life that you would amount to anything. I know you will amount to a lot of stuff right now.” Kate spoke of the wonderful childhood she had been given… and she thanked both mothers for their part in this. She told Cheryl… “I have had a wonderful life. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't thank you for everything you have given me. In her own way, to the best of her ability, this young woman respects the woman who gave her life… but she also respects and honors the woman she calls “Mom”.
God is asking us to recognize our parents and those who have “parented” us…to respect the role they played… and to treat each and every one as Jesus treats us. Whether you find this easy or challenging, it IS a command of our Father. If you respect Him, you will do this. You may not receive immediate blessings or feedback, but God has promised that He will bless you when you honor His commands. And God never breaks a promise.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Respect your father and your mother, and you will live a long time in the land I am giving you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You can’t make this stuff up! I tried and tried to figure out what to say about today’s scripture passage. I prayed and prayed… and I finally told God, “LORD, I just have nothing to share that seems right. No words are coming. Maybe this is not the verse you want me to use today.” I went back to my outline and selected the next passage… Ephesians 6:1-3… “Children, you belong to the Lord, and you do the right thing when you obey your parents. The first commandment with a promise says, ‘Obey your father and your mother, and you will have a long and happy life.’” Clearly, God wants me to address this passage today! And because I have the utmost respect for my Heavenly Father, I will do what He asks!
You may not be aware of this, but November 2013 is “National Adoption Month.” My church is incredibly supportive of a foster care program in our state… The C.A.L.L. – Children of Arkansas Loved for a Lifetime. At a recent presentation during a worship service, several foster parents shared the blessings – and challenges – of parenting foster children. They also introduced us to the photo of an 8-year-old boy in the foster care system who would love to find a “forever home”… and they asked us to pray for him. I am certain that he will find a parent or parents who will nurture him into adulthood… and I have tremendous respect for adults who are willing to open their hearts and their homes to these orphans.
This brings me to my thoughts for today. How do some children end up in foster care or needing to be adopted in the first place? I wish I could say that every parent is genuinely worthy of our respect. But we all know there are some rotten people in this world… and more than a few of them are parents. It’s not that these are necessarily bad people… they just don’t have the proper parenting skills and/or the right circumstances for creating a positive and loving atmosphere for children. And on any given day, we’ve all been a crummy “parent”. I know there have been times that I have snapped at Timothy or Zola and deeply regretted it almost instantly. The children I love more than anything have sometimes provoked me to speak harshly… if even for an instant. And all of the apologies and remorse in the world cannot take back my hasty words.
I know that there are parents who claim to love their children, yet they neglect them terribly and/or abuse them – sometimes beyond what most humans can comprehend. Many are verbally offensive. In one breath they are calling these children every name in the book and telling them how “You ruined my life,” and in the next breath they are saying, “I love you! I can’t live without you!”
I also understand that there is a difference between “biological parents” and those who truly love, nurture and rear (or “parent”) children. And while I believe God calls us to respect ALL people as His creatures, I have concluded that He is particularly referring in this passage to those who have physically “done the work” of parenting. Let’s face it… some have done a better job than others. Regardless of what kind of parents, grandparents, or parental figures you have/had, God calls us to respect them… to honor them. Does this mean you must approve of and/or endorse everything they say and do? No! Does this mean you have to put their wishes and needs above your own… or make them the center of your universe? Absolutely not! Should children in unsafe or abusive situations excuse their parents for this treatment? Not in the least!
So how do we respect our parents? How do you love and “respect” someone who is abusive, unkind or neglectful? I believe that God is calling us to be loving, gracious, merciful, forgiving, morally upright, and kind to others. Regardless of our situation, when we model Jesus’ example to others, we can’t help but be respectful and honorable. And honestly, if you don’t forgive others in your heart for any offenses they may have committed, it will eat you alive… and YOU will be the loser. Look at this scripture again. God says that when you respect your parents, you will live a long time in the land He gives you. That means you will be BLESSED! God… your HEAVENLY FATHER… will take care of you, meet your needs, and give you strength and peace.
You may have wonderful parents who do an excellent job of caring for you, loving you, and offering you incredible nurture and support. Or you may not have much of a relationship with your parents, for a myriad of reasons. God is not asking you to “look the other way” and allow anyone to mistreat or abuse you. But you must always treat your parents with love and kindness. God calls us to honor and respect Him by showing respect for those He allowed to give us life. It may not always be easy or feel right… but ultimately, I believe you will experience God’s blessings when you honor Him in all things.
Recently on NBC’s Today, correspondent Dr. Nancy Snyderman was featured in a story about her return to Little Rock, Arkansas, for a reunion of Snyderman’s now 27-year-old adopted daughter, Kate, and her birth mother, Cheryl. Of course Kate had questions… and Cheryl explained that she was young and felt unable to properly care for her. She said, “I have always been proud of you. Being a single teenage mom, I couldn't give you a life that you would amount to anything. I know you will amount to a lot of stuff right now.” Kate spoke of the wonderful childhood she had been given… and she thanked both mothers for their part in this. She told Cheryl… “I have had a wonderful life. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't thank you for everything you have given me. In her own way, to the best of her ability, this young woman respects the woman who gave her life… but she also respects and honors the woman she calls “Mom”.
God is asking us to recognize our parents and those who have “parented” us…to respect the role they played… and to treat each and every one as Jesus treats us. Whether you find this easy or challenging, it IS a command of our Father. If you respect Him, you will do this. You may not receive immediate blessings or feedback, but God has promised that He will bless you when you honor His commands. And God never breaks a promise.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 23, 2013
March 23 – Proverbs 2:20-22
So—join the company of good men and women, keep your feet on the tried-and-true paths. It’s the men who walk straight who will settle this land, the women with integrity who will last here. The corrupt will lose their lives; the dishonest will be gone for good.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, I read “The Three Little Bears” to my almost-two-year-old niece, Zola. You know the story… Momma Bear makes porridge for herself, Poppa Bear and Baby Bear, and while it cools, they take a walk. A little girl named Goldilocks comes along while out for a walk in the woods. She knocks on the door, and when no one answers… she goes right in and helps herself to food, seating, and a bed for a nap! She even breaks Baby Bear’s chair when she sits in it.
When the bears return, they discover the intruder. Goldilocks wakes up, sees the bears, lets out a yell and runs out of the house… and the story says she was gone for good, because she never went for a walk in the woods again.
Clearly, nobody explained integrity to Goldilocks! She thought nothing of entering someone else’s home, eating their food, sitting in their chairs, or sleeping in their beds. And a lot of us are very much like her! We do what we please… when we please… and take whatever we want as if we are entitled. We say things we shouldn’t. We step off the “straight-and-narrow path” and dance to the beat of our own drummer… or that of the devil himself. And ultimately, our dishonesty and brazenness catch up with us, and we are “gone for good.” Nobody wants anything to do with us… and who could blame them?!
Too many of us have our sights fixed on instant gratification… a “what’s-in-it-for-me-now” mentality. We need to focus on the things of God… His will for our lives and what He wants us to accomplish in His name for the long haul. We need to think more about eternity and how we get there than on a temporary gratification… a warm bowl of porridge, a chair and a comfortable bed, so to speak!
What about you? Are you sticking to a path that leads to lasting rewards and eternity with Jesus… or are you living as if you are on a walk through the woods – hoping to find momentary pleasure in the things of this world? Are you treating others with respect and dignity… do you value their property and their feelings? Have you asked God to show you the path you should take in order to fulfill His purpose for your life? Have you prayed for moral character and integrity… have you asked God to reveal His plan for your life? Isn’t today a great day to do all of this?
Even if you started down another path, there is still time to turn back and regroup. You don’t have to be like Goldilocks and never take a walk in the woods again. You just have to stay on the right trail and let God lead the way. Who is guiding your steps these days? Whose path are you following… and where are you ultimately headed?
©2013 Debbie Robus
So—join the company of good men and women, keep your feet on the tried-and-true paths. It’s the men who walk straight who will settle this land, the women with integrity who will last here. The corrupt will lose their lives; the dishonest will be gone for good.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, I read “The Three Little Bears” to my almost-two-year-old niece, Zola. You know the story… Momma Bear makes porridge for herself, Poppa Bear and Baby Bear, and while it cools, they take a walk. A little girl named Goldilocks comes along while out for a walk in the woods. She knocks on the door, and when no one answers… she goes right in and helps herself to food, seating, and a bed for a nap! She even breaks Baby Bear’s chair when she sits in it.
When the bears return, they discover the intruder. Goldilocks wakes up, sees the bears, lets out a yell and runs out of the house… and the story says she was gone for good, because she never went for a walk in the woods again.
Clearly, nobody explained integrity to Goldilocks! She thought nothing of entering someone else’s home, eating their food, sitting in their chairs, or sleeping in their beds. And a lot of us are very much like her! We do what we please… when we please… and take whatever we want as if we are entitled. We say things we shouldn’t. We step off the “straight-and-narrow path” and dance to the beat of our own drummer… or that of the devil himself. And ultimately, our dishonesty and brazenness catch up with us, and we are “gone for good.” Nobody wants anything to do with us… and who could blame them?!
Too many of us have our sights fixed on instant gratification… a “what’s-in-it-for-me-now” mentality. We need to focus on the things of God… His will for our lives and what He wants us to accomplish in His name for the long haul. We need to think more about eternity and how we get there than on a temporary gratification… a warm bowl of porridge, a chair and a comfortable bed, so to speak!
What about you? Are you sticking to a path that leads to lasting rewards and eternity with Jesus… or are you living as if you are on a walk through the woods – hoping to find momentary pleasure in the things of this world? Are you treating others with respect and dignity… do you value their property and their feelings? Have you asked God to show you the path you should take in order to fulfill His purpose for your life? Have you prayed for moral character and integrity… have you asked God to reveal His plan for your life? Isn’t today a great day to do all of this?
Even if you started down another path, there is still time to turn back and regroup. You don’t have to be like Goldilocks and never take a walk in the woods again. You just have to stay on the right trail and let God lead the way. Who is guiding your steps these days? Whose path are you following… and where are you ultimately headed?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 30, 2012
Due to family illness, there were no Daily Devotionals for October 28/29. We should be back on track now. Thank you for your patience!
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Matthew 7:12
Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is an old adage that says… “People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” And that is exactly what this scripture passage (sometimes called “The Golden Rule”) is saying. If you want people to be kind to you, make the first move and be kind to them. If you expect people to respond promptly, show up on time, answer phone calls and e-mail messages, and be responsible, give them an example to follow!
I can’t promise that others will respond in kind… but this is not the point. When you make a habit of treating others as you wish to be treated, you will know that you have honored God’s law and modeled Christian behavior for others. When you show others you care, don’t anticipate the same attention in return. Be content to know that you did YOUR part.
We have heard this scripture quoted all of our lives. And treating others as we wish to be treated should be the cardinal guideline for Christians. But I think sometimes we feel like this is something of a “magic bullet”… that if we are nice and respectful to others… if we care enough and do enough… others will follow suit. Sadly, this is just not the case. But it shouldn’t matter. Do not follow “The Golden Rule” for what you can receive from others. Live by this scripture because this aligns you with Christ. This is what Jesus does for us every day. None of us gives Him as much as we get in return… but He keeps on loving us and showering us with grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness.
Treat others as you wish to be treated… not so they will reciprocate, but because it is the right thing to do, according to God’s law. I’m willing to bet you will see at least a few positive results. But either way, you will know that you have honored your commitment to Jesus Christ. When pleasing Him is all that matters, you will have turned a major corner in your life as a Christian. Are you ready to take that step?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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Matthew 7:12
Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is an old adage that says… “People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” And that is exactly what this scripture passage (sometimes called “The Golden Rule”) is saying. If you want people to be kind to you, make the first move and be kind to them. If you expect people to respond promptly, show up on time, answer phone calls and e-mail messages, and be responsible, give them an example to follow!
I can’t promise that others will respond in kind… but this is not the point. When you make a habit of treating others as you wish to be treated, you will know that you have honored God’s law and modeled Christian behavior for others. When you show others you care, don’t anticipate the same attention in return. Be content to know that you did YOUR part.
We have heard this scripture quoted all of our lives. And treating others as we wish to be treated should be the cardinal guideline for Christians. But I think sometimes we feel like this is something of a “magic bullet”… that if we are nice and respectful to others… if we care enough and do enough… others will follow suit. Sadly, this is just not the case. But it shouldn’t matter. Do not follow “The Golden Rule” for what you can receive from others. Live by this scripture because this aligns you with Christ. This is what Jesus does for us every day. None of us gives Him as much as we get in return… but He keeps on loving us and showering us with grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness.
Treat others as you wish to be treated… not so they will reciprocate, but because it is the right thing to do, according to God’s law. I’m willing to bet you will see at least a few positive results. But either way, you will know that you have honored your commitment to Jesus Christ. When pleasing Him is all that matters, you will have turned a major corner in your life as a Christian. Are you ready to take that step?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 27, 2012
Proverbs 3:5-12
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health… your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, I downloaded the pattern for making a crochet button necklace. I saw my friend wearing one, and I liked it enough to want to make some with my old buttons. I can already tell from reading the instructions that I will probably have to start over more than once before I get the hang of it, but I will keep trying, and the end result will be really cool.
As with many things that don’t work out on the first try, I will probably grow a little frustrated. And I will have to be careful not to race ahead, assuming that I already know how to do the next stitch. I looked my friend’s necklace over carefully, but I have enough sense to realize that I need instructions in order to make a decent replica on my own! So I will be happy for the free instructions I found online, and I will welcome the “corrections” that will come as I attempt to create my own fashion accessory.
We often trust our own instincts and try to figure things out on our own… frequently with less than stellar results. We resent instruction, and we ignore even some of the most glaring signs that we are headed in the wrong direction. Worse yet, we listen to people who are not helpful at best – and sometimes those who may be downright evil in one way or another. If we are going to “walk in the fear of the LORD,” we have to humble ourselves and detach from evil ways. We cannot hang out with evil people… or do things we did before we committed to Christ.
This is not a bad thing… or a “death sentence!” When we walk in the “fear” (respect and honor) of the LORD and seek His guidance in all things, He will elevate us to heights we have never known… and the end result will be beautiful, healthy, and glowing! I find that learning new things is beneficial in so many ways… even if it is how to make a crochet button necklace! Learning more about the LORD and His desires for me is even better - and draws me closer to walking in His purpose for my life.
In my prayer journal notes, I have written… “Whether or not the world is ever impressed with you doesn’t ever matter to God. You don’t ever have to “kiss up” to get ahead. Walking in the fear of the LORD will get you where you need to be – to your one true root purpose.” Are you seeking God’s direction and respectfully trusting Him from the bottom of your heart? Are you healthy and glowing… do your bones “vibrate with life” in Him? Are you still learning from God… or are you stubbornly clinging to your old life and its evil pull?
God wants to do beautiful things in and through you. He wants to reveal His purpose and help you to grow in its fullness. What is holding you back today? Isn’t it time to listen to God’s instruction for your life? Are you ready to start learning again?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health… your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, I downloaded the pattern for making a crochet button necklace. I saw my friend wearing one, and I liked it enough to want to make some with my old buttons. I can already tell from reading the instructions that I will probably have to start over more than once before I get the hang of it, but I will keep trying, and the end result will be really cool.
As with many things that don’t work out on the first try, I will probably grow a little frustrated. And I will have to be careful not to race ahead, assuming that I already know how to do the next stitch. I looked my friend’s necklace over carefully, but I have enough sense to realize that I need instructions in order to make a decent replica on my own! So I will be happy for the free instructions I found online, and I will welcome the “corrections” that will come as I attempt to create my own fashion accessory.
We often trust our own instincts and try to figure things out on our own… frequently with less than stellar results. We resent instruction, and we ignore even some of the most glaring signs that we are headed in the wrong direction. Worse yet, we listen to people who are not helpful at best – and sometimes those who may be downright evil in one way or another. If we are going to “walk in the fear of the LORD,” we have to humble ourselves and detach from evil ways. We cannot hang out with evil people… or do things we did before we committed to Christ.
This is not a bad thing… or a “death sentence!” When we walk in the “fear” (respect and honor) of the LORD and seek His guidance in all things, He will elevate us to heights we have never known… and the end result will be beautiful, healthy, and glowing! I find that learning new things is beneficial in so many ways… even if it is how to make a crochet button necklace! Learning more about the LORD and His desires for me is even better - and draws me closer to walking in His purpose for my life.
In my prayer journal notes, I have written… “Whether or not the world is ever impressed with you doesn’t ever matter to God. You don’t ever have to “kiss up” to get ahead. Walking in the fear of the LORD will get you where you need to be – to your one true root purpose.” Are you seeking God’s direction and respectfully trusting Him from the bottom of your heart? Are you healthy and glowing… do your bones “vibrate with life” in Him? Are you still learning from God… or are you stubbornly clinging to your old life and its evil pull?
God wants to do beautiful things in and through you. He wants to reveal His purpose and help you to grow in its fullness. What is holding you back today? Isn’t it time to listen to God’s instruction for your life? Are you ready to start learning again?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 23, 2012
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone asked you what your sole purpose in life is, what would you tell them? Why do you suppose you are here? What has God placed you on this earth to accomplish? There is a “short answer” to this question… and it is the same for all Christians – or should be. Our sole purpose in life is to walk in the fear of the LORD and keep His commandments.
Let this soak in for a minute. If our primary purpose in life is to respect and revere God and keep His commandments, won’t this affect every aspect of our lives? If God has called you to be a great physician, and you spend your life working to keep others healthy, you have fulfilled God’s desires for you… if you have kept His commandments at the same time. If God calls you to be a teacher, lawyer, builder, laborer, mother, father, pastor, policeman, coach, salesman, farmer… or whatever… and you do this to the best of your ability and keep His commandments, you have fulfilled your purpose in life.
When we try to do anything on our own… or when we ignore God’s commandments and do things the way we want, we are fulfilling our own purposes – not God’s. If we try to minister to others while we are not walking in the fear of the LORD and His commandments, we can really mess things up. I know that God wants me to share this message with you today, because He has revealed it to me twice in the last two hours. My daily devotional from the book God Calling spoke of learning to “be” for God rather than “speak” for Him. In other words, we are far more effective witnesses for God when we live in a manner that exhibits respect, reverence and obedience for His commandments than when we try to tell someone else how to live for God. Sometimes, we need to be quiet and let the actions of our life speak for us rather than try to “win someone to the LORD” with our words.
Show others what your sole purpose is by showing them your “soul purpose.” Live in such a way that it is evident to all who know you that your primary purpose is to serve God and obey His commands. Show God how much you love Him by following His commandments and operating within His will for your life. In doing so, you will say to everyone you meet that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of all happiness. Keeping God’s commandments will open the door for God to reveal His will for your life… and bless you and others in your path.
What is your “sole purpose” today… and what is your “soul purpose?” Are they the same thing? Shouldn’t they be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone asked you what your sole purpose in life is, what would you tell them? Why do you suppose you are here? What has God placed you on this earth to accomplish? There is a “short answer” to this question… and it is the same for all Christians – or should be. Our sole purpose in life is to walk in the fear of the LORD and keep His commandments.
Let this soak in for a minute. If our primary purpose in life is to respect and revere God and keep His commandments, won’t this affect every aspect of our lives? If God has called you to be a great physician, and you spend your life working to keep others healthy, you have fulfilled God’s desires for you… if you have kept His commandments at the same time. If God calls you to be a teacher, lawyer, builder, laborer, mother, father, pastor, policeman, coach, salesman, farmer… or whatever… and you do this to the best of your ability and keep His commandments, you have fulfilled your purpose in life.
When we try to do anything on our own… or when we ignore God’s commandments and do things the way we want, we are fulfilling our own purposes – not God’s. If we try to minister to others while we are not walking in the fear of the LORD and His commandments, we can really mess things up. I know that God wants me to share this message with you today, because He has revealed it to me twice in the last two hours. My daily devotional from the book God Calling spoke of learning to “be” for God rather than “speak” for Him. In other words, we are far more effective witnesses for God when we live in a manner that exhibits respect, reverence and obedience for His commandments than when we try to tell someone else how to live for God. Sometimes, we need to be quiet and let the actions of our life speak for us rather than try to “win someone to the LORD” with our words.
Show others what your sole purpose is by showing them your “soul purpose.” Live in such a way that it is evident to all who know you that your primary purpose is to serve God and obey His commands. Show God how much you love Him by following His commandments and operating within His will for your life. In doing so, you will say to everyone you meet that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of all happiness. Keeping God’s commandments will open the door for God to reveal His will for your life… and bless you and others in your path.
What is your “sole purpose” today… and what is your “soul purpose?” Are they the same thing? Shouldn’t they be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 22, 2012
Psalm 128:1
The Lord will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I saw a news report on a documentary film that has been made about drug dealers in Mexico… except the actors were all children instead of adults. The four-minute film is a commentary on the upcoming presidential elections in our neighboring country to the south. Deemed a “wake-up” call, this “mocumentary” has gone viral on YouTube and ends with a little girl saying, “If this is the future that awaits me, I don't want it. Enough of working for your political parties instead of for us. Enough of cosmetic changes.”
As I watched the video, I was struck by the thought that every adult is someone’s child. And in that context, I would hope we find it a little more difficult to be so harsh and judgmental toward others. At the very least, when we think about the person who commits a heinous crime and see his/her grieving parents on the news, we should have compassion… for them AND – to some degree - for the culprit. Somewhere along the line, this person lost his/her respect for – and obedience to – God’s laws. And in many ways, we have all done the same thing as we choose to follow our own desires – or the will of man – rather than God’s.
We are all familiar with the “Ten Commandments” as given to Moses by God. We probably all know them pretty well by heart. But in the New Testament, Jesus gave us two basic “laws”… “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, mind and soul,” and “Love one another as He has loved us.” If/when we do these things, everything else falls into place. All you have to do is stop and ask yourself if your words and actions reflect a love for God with all your heart, mind and soul… and whether they show a love for others. It’s truly that simple… and that complicated all at once!
If we consider Jesus’ commands, we cannot be judgmental, immoral, unkind, indecent, or perverse. We cannot be arrogant, pious, or proud. We cannot murder, steal, lie or cheat. To love God on this level means we must fully surrender our “program” for God’s… and walk in respect and reverence of Him at all times.
I don’t know what man-made “laws” - or interpretations of God’s law - are governing (and/or burdening) you today. But I do know that the only laws that matter are God’s… and it’s up to us to determine which are which! If we operate in the fear (respect and reverence) of the LORD and walk in His ways… obey His laws… our choices and decisions become fairly simple – and the blessings are sure to be evident. Ask yourself simply and prayerfully, “Does this line up with the word and will of God?” Your answer will determine how you proceed… and inevitably control the outcome.
To paraphrase the little girl in the movie…“Enough of living according to man’s law and his interpretation of the word of God. Enough of pretending to serve God while serving our own interests.” It’s time to make sure we are in step with God’s will at all times. Are you asking the right questions? Whose laws are you following these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
The Lord will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I saw a news report on a documentary film that has been made about drug dealers in Mexico… except the actors were all children instead of adults. The four-minute film is a commentary on the upcoming presidential elections in our neighboring country to the south. Deemed a “wake-up” call, this “mocumentary” has gone viral on YouTube and ends with a little girl saying, “If this is the future that awaits me, I don't want it. Enough of working for your political parties instead of for us. Enough of cosmetic changes.”
As I watched the video, I was struck by the thought that every adult is someone’s child. And in that context, I would hope we find it a little more difficult to be so harsh and judgmental toward others. At the very least, when we think about the person who commits a heinous crime and see his/her grieving parents on the news, we should have compassion… for them AND – to some degree - for the culprit. Somewhere along the line, this person lost his/her respect for – and obedience to – God’s laws. And in many ways, we have all done the same thing as we choose to follow our own desires – or the will of man – rather than God’s.
We are all familiar with the “Ten Commandments” as given to Moses by God. We probably all know them pretty well by heart. But in the New Testament, Jesus gave us two basic “laws”… “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, mind and soul,” and “Love one another as He has loved us.” If/when we do these things, everything else falls into place. All you have to do is stop and ask yourself if your words and actions reflect a love for God with all your heart, mind and soul… and whether they show a love for others. It’s truly that simple… and that complicated all at once!
If we consider Jesus’ commands, we cannot be judgmental, immoral, unkind, indecent, or perverse. We cannot be arrogant, pious, or proud. We cannot murder, steal, lie or cheat. To love God on this level means we must fully surrender our “program” for God’s… and walk in respect and reverence of Him at all times.
I don’t know what man-made “laws” - or interpretations of God’s law - are governing (and/or burdening) you today. But I do know that the only laws that matter are God’s… and it’s up to us to determine which are which! If we operate in the fear (respect and reverence) of the LORD and walk in His ways… obey His laws… our choices and decisions become fairly simple – and the blessings are sure to be evident. Ask yourself simply and prayerfully, “Does this line up with the word and will of God?” Your answer will determine how you proceed… and inevitably control the outcome.
To paraphrase the little girl in the movie…“Enough of living according to man’s law and his interpretation of the word of God. Enough of pretending to serve God while serving our own interests.” It’s time to make sure we are in step with God’s will at all times. Are you asking the right questions? Whose laws are you following these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 28, 2012
Ephesians 2:1-6
It wasn't so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn't know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
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.
There is a long-standing joke in my family about how my grandmother never hesitates to tell us when she feels we are “getting too fat”… while she is simultaneously shoving sugar cookies, peanut brittle, candy of some sort, pie, or a hot homemade roll in our direction. We all know we could shed a few pounds, but the treats look so delicious! We fool ourselves into believing that “It’s Christmas – we’re supposed to indulge” or “One little bite/cookie/slice of pie won’t hurt” or “We’ll hurt Mam-ma’s feelings if we don’t eat this!” And we let “the world” tell us how to live and lull us into a false confidence that we are healthy and fit. Some of us have gotten to a point where we feel things are so far gone and hopeless that we no longer care… we just consume everything in sight (and I am not just talking food here!).
We are bombarded with commercials for all sorts of tantalizing fast food… burgers, steaks, ice cream treats, gourmet coffee concoctions, and more. We go to the doctor, and he/she tells us that our cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure are through the roof… then we stop on the way home and pick up a burger, fries and shake. We see ads at every turn for this gadget or that item that we simply have to have to be happy. We are told that we have to look like this celebrity or perform like that entertainer or athlete or operate in business like such-and-such executive in order to truly enjoy success and happiness. And yes, it’s a wonder God doesn’t just call us home and end the madness!
While good health is important- and we need to start exercising and eating a healthy diet from childhood – our “Spiritual health” is far more critical. We need to learn to say a polite “No” to a steady diet of fast food, sweet treats, inactivity and lethargy… and an even more emphatic “No!” to the lies and sins of this world. The problem many of us have with all of this is a level of commitment.
When we asked Jesus to forgive our sins and become LORD of our life, we entered into a “blood covenant” partnership with Him. We made a commitment and agreement to carry out His assignment… to love Him with all of our heart, mind, body and soul… to love others as we love ourselves… and to share His Good News throughout the world. This is not the same as a contract with Weight Watchers® or NutriSystem® to follow their plan. We are not signing up for a few weeks of fitness training at the local gym. We’re not promising to make payments on a house… car… boat or student loan. We have committed to a lifetime of service and obedience to God… with the promise of Eternal Life and the earthly presence of His Holy Spirit in the meantime.
My prayer for all of us today is that we would start to take commitments of all kinds more seriously… especially our commitment to Jesus Christ. God has so freely and extravagantly gifted us with His love, grace, mercy, and a new life in Jesus Christ. When we insult Him with our insolent, sinful lifestyles, we “violate the contract.” And often, we “shoot ourselves in the foot” and block the blessings He wants to give us, because of our own selfish actions.
If we will truly commit to God, He will show up in our lives in ways we never even expected. If we will honor our partnership by pledging love, loyalty, service and the abandonment of our sinful behaviors, God will bless us in areas we haven’t even considered… maybe even shedding a few pounds and becoming more fit! Just like the commitment to diet and exercise, a covenant with God will require hard work, time and energy. But the end results will be more than worth the effort. Are you ready to truly enter into a partnership with God and enjoy all that He has in store for you? How committed are you to God today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
It wasn't so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn't know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
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.
There is a long-standing joke in my family about how my grandmother never hesitates to tell us when she feels we are “getting too fat”… while she is simultaneously shoving sugar cookies, peanut brittle, candy of some sort, pie, or a hot homemade roll in our direction. We all know we could shed a few pounds, but the treats look so delicious! We fool ourselves into believing that “It’s Christmas – we’re supposed to indulge” or “One little bite/cookie/slice of pie won’t hurt” or “We’ll hurt Mam-ma’s feelings if we don’t eat this!” And we let “the world” tell us how to live and lull us into a false confidence that we are healthy and fit. Some of us have gotten to a point where we feel things are so far gone and hopeless that we no longer care… we just consume everything in sight (and I am not just talking food here!).
We are bombarded with commercials for all sorts of tantalizing fast food… burgers, steaks, ice cream treats, gourmet coffee concoctions, and more. We go to the doctor, and he/she tells us that our cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure are through the roof… then we stop on the way home and pick up a burger, fries and shake. We see ads at every turn for this gadget or that item that we simply have to have to be happy. We are told that we have to look like this celebrity or perform like that entertainer or athlete or operate in business like such-and-such executive in order to truly enjoy success and happiness. And yes, it’s a wonder God doesn’t just call us home and end the madness!
While good health is important- and we need to start exercising and eating a healthy diet from childhood – our “Spiritual health” is far more critical. We need to learn to say a polite “No” to a steady diet of fast food, sweet treats, inactivity and lethargy… and an even more emphatic “No!” to the lies and sins of this world. The problem many of us have with all of this is a level of commitment.
When we asked Jesus to forgive our sins and become LORD of our life, we entered into a “blood covenant” partnership with Him. We made a commitment and agreement to carry out His assignment… to love Him with all of our heart, mind, body and soul… to love others as we love ourselves… and to share His Good News throughout the world. This is not the same as a contract with Weight Watchers® or NutriSystem® to follow their plan. We are not signing up for a few weeks of fitness training at the local gym. We’re not promising to make payments on a house… car… boat or student loan. We have committed to a lifetime of service and obedience to God… with the promise of Eternal Life and the earthly presence of His Holy Spirit in the meantime.
My prayer for all of us today is that we would start to take commitments of all kinds more seriously… especially our commitment to Jesus Christ. God has so freely and extravagantly gifted us with His love, grace, mercy, and a new life in Jesus Christ. When we insult Him with our insolent, sinful lifestyles, we “violate the contract.” And often, we “shoot ourselves in the foot” and block the blessings He wants to give us, because of our own selfish actions.
If we will truly commit to God, He will show up in our lives in ways we never even expected. If we will honor our partnership by pledging love, loyalty, service and the abandonment of our sinful behaviors, God will bless us in areas we haven’t even considered… maybe even shedding a few pounds and becoming more fit! Just like the commitment to diet and exercise, a covenant with God will require hard work, time and energy. But the end results will be more than worth the effort. Are you ready to truly enter into a partnership with God and enjoy all that He has in store for you? How committed are you to God today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 10, 2012
Psalm 148:5-7
Let all things praise the name of the LORD, because they were created at his command. He made them to last forever, and nothing can change what he has done. All creatures on earth, you obey his commands, so come praise the LORD!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This week, my dear, precious 3rd-grade teacher - Mrs. Ruth Garner - passed away. She was not only my teacher and friend for more than 45 years…she was also a dear friend to my grandmother. In fact, she sat at the same dining table with my grandmother in the assisted living facility where they both resided, and I visited with her often. Two other lifelong friends of my grandmother and Ruth also sit at this table. And these ladies who are left are incredibly sad and upset.
As we talked after Ruth died, my grandmother and I discussed God’s timing. My grandmother so desires to be next to go to heaven. She told me, “I have prayed about this and asked the LORD to take me.” But we agreed that we obey God’s commands - and when He says, “Come home,” we will go… but not a minute sooner. In the meantime, I pointed out to my grandmother that God apparently still has plans for her on this earth, because I believe He creates each of us with a purpose. Her purpose may be to smile at a nurse or a nurse’s aide and encourage her. She may be here to greet those who visit and offer them a word of wisdom or a reason to get up and out of the house. I really don’t know what her purpose is for each day… but God knows. And like each one of us, when she has done all He created her to do, He will call her home to heaven.
I know Mrs. Ruth was ready to go to heaven. Almost all of these ladies have lived past age 95. They are tired and ready to reunite with loved ones who have gone before them… and rest in the arms of Jesus. But as tired as she probably was, I never heard Mrs. Ruth complain about anything - except being served white meat chicken when she preferred dark meat! She was joyful and positive. She remembered dozens of her students by name… and you could tell she was thankful for each one. She appreciated visits from “young people” like me and others… and she always smiled. She praised the LORD for His creation… and she trusted and obeyed His commands.
My 3rd-grade teacher was still teaching me things at nearly 97 years of age… as are all of these dear elderly ladies I visit. I wonder… will we be sharing the example of praising God’s creation and His command when we are older? Do we even do this now? If not… shouldn’t we get started?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Let all things praise the name of the LORD, because they were created at his command. He made them to last forever, and nothing can change what he has done. All creatures on earth, you obey his commands, so come praise the LORD!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This week, my dear, precious 3rd-grade teacher - Mrs. Ruth Garner - passed away. She was not only my teacher and friend for more than 45 years…she was also a dear friend to my grandmother. In fact, she sat at the same dining table with my grandmother in the assisted living facility where they both resided, and I visited with her often. Two other lifelong friends of my grandmother and Ruth also sit at this table. And these ladies who are left are incredibly sad and upset.
As we talked after Ruth died, my grandmother and I discussed God’s timing. My grandmother so desires to be next to go to heaven. She told me, “I have prayed about this and asked the LORD to take me.” But we agreed that we obey God’s commands - and when He says, “Come home,” we will go… but not a minute sooner. In the meantime, I pointed out to my grandmother that God apparently still has plans for her on this earth, because I believe He creates each of us with a purpose. Her purpose may be to smile at a nurse or a nurse’s aide and encourage her. She may be here to greet those who visit and offer them a word of wisdom or a reason to get up and out of the house. I really don’t know what her purpose is for each day… but God knows. And like each one of us, when she has done all He created her to do, He will call her home to heaven.
I know Mrs. Ruth was ready to go to heaven. Almost all of these ladies have lived past age 95. They are tired and ready to reunite with loved ones who have gone before them… and rest in the arms of Jesus. But as tired as she probably was, I never heard Mrs. Ruth complain about anything - except being served white meat chicken when she preferred dark meat! She was joyful and positive. She remembered dozens of her students by name… and you could tell she was thankful for each one. She appreciated visits from “young people” like me and others… and she always smiled. She praised the LORD for His creation… and she trusted and obeyed His commands.
My 3rd-grade teacher was still teaching me things at nearly 97 years of age… as are all of these dear elderly ladies I visit. I wonder… will we be sharing the example of praising God’s creation and His command when we are older? Do we even do this now? If not… shouldn’t we get started?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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