Luke 23:48-55
A crowd had gathered to see the
terrible sight. Then after they had seen it, they felt brokenhearted and
went home. All of Jesus' close friends and the women who had come with
him from Galilee stood at a distance and watched.
There was a man
named Joseph, who was from Arimathea in Judea. Joseph was a good and
honest man, and he was eager for God’s kingdom to come. He was also a
member of the council, but he did not agree with what they had decided.
Joseph
went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. He took the body down from
the cross and wrapped it in fine cloth. Then he put it in a tomb that
had been cut out of solid rock and had never been used. It was Friday,
and the Sabbath was about to begin.
The women who had come with
Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and watched how Jesus' body was
placed in the tomb. Then they went to prepare some sweet-smelling spices
for his burial. But on the Sabbath they rested, as the Law of Moses
commands.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
After
we buried our beloved cat Lucy four weeks ago, we ambled around
the house rather aimlessly. We had done all we could do…there was
nothing left except to sit and allow the profundity of what had just
happened to soak in. Those were sad, heartbreaking hours. Each day has
gotten a little easier, although we still look for our precious Tuxedo
cat. I think I hear her sometimes…or that I spot her out of the corner
of my eye – lying in her favorite chair in my office.
When my
grandmother died two years ago, there was a sense of joy and relief that
her struggle had ended…that her longing to be with Jesus in heaven had
become her reality. But the very next morning, we sprung into
action…arranging her funeral, writing her obituary, answering phone
calls and questions, sorting through pictures for her memorial video.
There was so much to do initially that the time to sit and “soak it all
in” didn’t come right away. In fact, it was about two weeks before it
truly hit me that my grandmother was really gone - and I was able to
reflect on all that had happened.
Unless you are a pet owner, you
may think it in bad taste that I have shared references to the death of
my fur baby and my grandmother in the same devotional. Please stick
with me!
I tell you all of this to explain how empty, exhausted,
and numb the entourage at the cross must have felt after Jesus’ death.
Momentarily, they must have sat in silence…somewhat dumbfounded and
bewildered. “What do we do now?” they must have wondered. “Where do we
go? How will we ever be happy again?” These are normal questions
after the loss of any loved one. And the “busyness” that follow –
preparation for burial and the actual interment – are
cathartic…healing…a way to do something, which is a real human need.
But
I must also tell you that the numbness fades…rest comes...the heart
swells with memories and good thoughts…and joy returns. Jesus rose from
the grave. He lives! The tomb could not hold Him! And because of
this, we can move forward in confidence and peace. Because Jesus lives,
I know that my grandmother (and yes, my cat Lucy) are safe with Him in
heaven. We have to go through this “numb” day/time to get to the
“Resurrection Day”…but it is coming!
So wherever you are
today…whatever has caused your “numbness” or grieved you…whatever trials
you are enduring…whatever heartaches you are experiencing…know that a
better day is coming, because Jesus will make it so. Sit and weep if
you must…take in what is happening and process it. But call on Jesus to
get you past this day and into the light of resurrection in Him!
Believe in the promises of Jesus Christ, and know that joy truly does
come in the morning for all who trust in Him.
Because of Jesus,
we are a lot stronger than we think! Sit and talk with Him today…share
EVERYTHING…and remember to thank Him for His amazing sacrifices on our
behalf. I often tell people who are grieving…”You just have to get
through today.” Easter is coming…let Jesus help you get through
today - and handle all of your tomorrows.
©2015 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label hope of heaven. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hope of heaven. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for March 24, 2015
Revelation 2:14-16
But our homeland is in heaven, where our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, is; and we are looking forward to his return from there. When he comes back, he will take these dying bodies of ours and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same mighty power that he will use to conquer all else everywhere.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
December 11, 2007, is a date I remember vividly. A few of you who have followed my daily devotionals for many years know that several years ago, I learned of a little boy from Bigelow, Arkansas - Job McCully - who totally stole my heart. Job was diagnosed in July 2002 with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He was four. He underwent chemotherapy…and radiation…in preparation for a bone marrow transplant.
During Job’s hospital stays, his family was incredibly supportive…his parents, Rob and Tina…big sister Nicole, Aunt Tammy – and his maternal grandmother, Glenda, who had lived with Job’s family since he was born. One night as Glenda lay with Job, he asked her to stay close to him. Then Job said, "Don't cry for me grandma". She wasn't crying or sad at the time and probably did not understand why Job said this. But over the next several years, there would be plenty of times when tears flowed - for both Job and his grandmother.
Job received a bone marrow transplant in October 2002. During his hospital stay, Grandma Glenda was often with him as a caregiver…and she was a source of strength for everyone. In 2003, Job battled RSV pneumonia, the flu, and Broncholitios Obliterans, which caused his lungs to deteriorate…and he was hospitalized many times. Grandma Glenda was always there with his parents to offer care and support. Then in 2006, Grandma Glenda was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her philosophy was [paraphrasing]…”if Job can endure all of these treatments, so can I”. And she did.
Job was hospitalized pretty much all of the year 2007…first at Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, then in Houston…and finally in St. Louis. By September 2007, it did not look like this little guy – now all of nine years – would make it. The doctors encouraged Job’s mother to sign a DNR – Do Not Resucitate – order. They explained how dire Job’s situation was, and that there was not much left for them to do. Tina McCully wrote in Job’s *CaringBridge journal…”They wanted me to sign it. Anyway, I just stood there and listened to them, smiled and said thank you, and walked away. The only way I'm signing that paper is if God Himself tells me to, and He's not going to do that because He is too busy HEALING JOB.” And God did heal Job.
On December 11, 2007, Job McCully received a double lung transplant. And on February 21, 2008 – the one-year anniversary of his hospitalization, Job was released. The family stayed in the St. Louis area for a few days to make sure that all was well. In early March, the McCully family came home to a “hero’s welcome” in Bigelow, Arkansas - complete with a parade! In the months and years since then, Job has survived histoplasmosis, CMV, Adenovirus, and diabetes. For his 16th birthday in May 2014, he received a shiny, new red pickup truck. Job is now enjoying his junior year of high school life.
Grandma Glenda survived breast cancer…but the beast returned in her kidneys. And in the last few weeks, she was hospitalized once again. Doctors gave her six months to live two days ago…and God called her home this morning. This remarkable woman can now fully attest that “our homeland is Heaven”…because I am sure that she is there!
If you visit Job’s CaringBridge page and read the posts, you will see that this family walks in some of the most powerful faith I have ever witnessed. Whatever challenges or devastating news they have been given, their trust in Jesus remains strong. They never doubted His presence…and they have clung to His promises. And I know that this will not change now.
There will be times when God heals us on this earth…and times when we are given glorious bodies for all Eternity. Our job is to never doubt His mighty power and presence in all circumstances. The McCullys demonstrate this beautifully…and I have been incredibly inspired and encouraged by their faith and discipleship. I can only hope that I represent Jesus even half as well.
What about you? Do you trust in the mighty power of God in all situations and circumstances? Are you able to say, “the only way I’m going to do XYZ is if GOD tells me to”? Do you confidence in God’s presence in your life…and His ability to manage anything and everything? Don’t you want to?
Please pray for the McCully family in the days to come…and for others who are sick, suffering, and grieving the passing of loved ones. Thank God for His amazing power and presence…His compassion, mercy, and healing. And ask God to give you the ability to recognize His presence in your life on an hourly basis… to walk in His wisdom and care - always and in all ways.
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://caringbridgeclassic.org/ar/job/index.htm
But our homeland is in heaven, where our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, is; and we are looking forward to his return from there. When he comes back, he will take these dying bodies of ours and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same mighty power that he will use to conquer all else everywhere.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
December 11, 2007, is a date I remember vividly. A few of you who have followed my daily devotionals for many years know that several years ago, I learned of a little boy from Bigelow, Arkansas - Job McCully - who totally stole my heart. Job was diagnosed in July 2002 with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He was four. He underwent chemotherapy…and radiation…in preparation for a bone marrow transplant.
During Job’s hospital stays, his family was incredibly supportive…his parents, Rob and Tina…big sister Nicole, Aunt Tammy – and his maternal grandmother, Glenda, who had lived with Job’s family since he was born. One night as Glenda lay with Job, he asked her to stay close to him. Then Job said, "Don't cry for me grandma". She wasn't crying or sad at the time and probably did not understand why Job said this. But over the next several years, there would be plenty of times when tears flowed - for both Job and his grandmother.
Job received a bone marrow transplant in October 2002. During his hospital stay, Grandma Glenda was often with him as a caregiver…and she was a source of strength for everyone. In 2003, Job battled RSV pneumonia, the flu, and Broncholitios Obliterans, which caused his lungs to deteriorate…and he was hospitalized many times. Grandma Glenda was always there with his parents to offer care and support. Then in 2006, Grandma Glenda was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her philosophy was [paraphrasing]…”if Job can endure all of these treatments, so can I”. And she did.
Job was hospitalized pretty much all of the year 2007…first at Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, then in Houston…and finally in St. Louis. By September 2007, it did not look like this little guy – now all of nine years – would make it. The doctors encouraged Job’s mother to sign a DNR – Do Not Resucitate – order. They explained how dire Job’s situation was, and that there was not much left for them to do. Tina McCully wrote in Job’s *CaringBridge journal…”They wanted me to sign it. Anyway, I just stood there and listened to them, smiled and said thank you, and walked away. The only way I'm signing that paper is if God Himself tells me to, and He's not going to do that because He is too busy HEALING JOB.” And God did heal Job.
On December 11, 2007, Job McCully received a double lung transplant. And on February 21, 2008 – the one-year anniversary of his hospitalization, Job was released. The family stayed in the St. Louis area for a few days to make sure that all was well. In early March, the McCully family came home to a “hero’s welcome” in Bigelow, Arkansas - complete with a parade! In the months and years since then, Job has survived histoplasmosis, CMV, Adenovirus, and diabetes. For his 16th birthday in May 2014, he received a shiny, new red pickup truck. Job is now enjoying his junior year of high school life.
Grandma Glenda survived breast cancer…but the beast returned in her kidneys. And in the last few weeks, she was hospitalized once again. Doctors gave her six months to live two days ago…and God called her home this morning. This remarkable woman can now fully attest that “our homeland is Heaven”…because I am sure that she is there!
If you visit Job’s CaringBridge page and read the posts, you will see that this family walks in some of the most powerful faith I have ever witnessed. Whatever challenges or devastating news they have been given, their trust in Jesus remains strong. They never doubted His presence…and they have clung to His promises. And I know that this will not change now.
There will be times when God heals us on this earth…and times when we are given glorious bodies for all Eternity. Our job is to never doubt His mighty power and presence in all circumstances. The McCullys demonstrate this beautifully…and I have been incredibly inspired and encouraged by their faith and discipleship. I can only hope that I represent Jesus even half as well.
What about you? Do you trust in the mighty power of God in all situations and circumstances? Are you able to say, “the only way I’m going to do XYZ is if GOD tells me to”? Do you confidence in God’s presence in your life…and His ability to manage anything and everything? Don’t you want to?
Please pray for the McCully family in the days to come…and for others who are sick, suffering, and grieving the passing of loved ones. Thank God for His amazing power and presence…His compassion, mercy, and healing. And ask God to give you the ability to recognize His presence in your life on an hourly basis… to walk in His wisdom and care - always and in all ways.
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://caringbridgeclassic.org/ar/job/index.htm
Daily Devotional for December 28, 2013
Romans 8:22-25
We know that all creation is still groaning and is in pain, like a woman about to give birth.
The Spirit makes us sure about what we will be in the future. But now we groan silently, while we wait for God to show that we are his children. This means that our bodies will also be set free. And this hope is what saves us. But if we already have what we hope for, there is no need to keep on hoping. However, we hope for something we have not yet seen, and we patiently wait for it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s that time of year again… the time when we start to mark important dates in a new calendar and plan for the coming year. It is probably pretty safe to surmise that every one of us has anticipated some date in our future… a graduation… a wedding… the birth of a child…a move… even a special “date” or event, like prom…moving into a new house… starting a new job…or even the arrival of Christmas Day. And if we are brutally honest, at least once we’ve gotten to said date and asked ourselves, “Now what?”! This reminds me of a book by Dawn Brown titled, Been There, Done That… Now What?...which could be the mantra for a lot of us! The excitement and anticipation of “getting there” often culminates with something of a letdown of sorts.
Once that event for which we yearned has come and gone… where is our hope? Since we are human, we generally move on to “the next big thing”…we pack up the Christmas decorations and plan our New Year’s celebration. We graduate from high school and plan our move to college… or graduate from college and start looking for a job. We marry and start planning our lives together - or creating a new family. We move into a new house and busy ourselves with all of the projects and chores that come with it… or we work hard at a new job and seek ways to “move up the ladder”.
In the realm of our Spiritual faith…what are we doing? Where is our focus? We place our hope in God to see us through all sorts of experiences, ”growth spurts” and challenges. But our ultimate hope is to see Jesus face-to-face… to dwell in His presence forever and ever… to “have all the answers”. And truthfully, God could do all of that for us today…here… now… without any of us having to die. He could come back to earth in the form of Jesus, explain all of the mysteries of the universe to us… and make everything completely “perfect”.
So why doesn’t God do this? Doesn’t He love us? The answer lies in one single sentence from this passage…” if we already have what we hope for, there is no need to keep on hoping.” If we had all of the answers and God gave us everything now, we would have no reason to continue to trust in Him… to rely on Him… to work patiently to reach the ultimate goal of His eternal presence. I know that we think it would be fantastic if everything were all complete today… if we knew the answers to everything and all of God’s promises for our life were fulfilled with the snap of a finger. But the truth is that we would be standing around saying, “Been there, done that… now what?”… and it is very likely that we would not fully appreciate what God has in store for us.
I once lamented to a friend about how my brother and others suffered in the days/weeks prior to their death. I questioned why this had to happen…what was the purpose in their anguish and pain? My friend reminded me that this time frame was but a “blip on the screen” compared to Eternity… that their glory in heaven was made all the sweeter for the struggles they endured in this lifetime. Their perseverance and patience was rewarded… and so ours will be! Hope is a good thing… it keeps us faithful and eager… hungry for the things of God. In His timing, all will be revealed… and when it is, the “next big thing” - eternity with Him in heaven - will be all the sweeter.
So as you fill in the boxes on your new calendar, do so with hope. We can’t know everything the coming weeks and months will hold, but we know that God will be involved every step of the way. I am asking Him to allow me to patiently wait on Him and the experiences and blessings yet to come… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
We know that all creation is still groaning and is in pain, like a woman about to give birth.
The Spirit makes us sure about what we will be in the future. But now we groan silently, while we wait for God to show that we are his children. This means that our bodies will also be set free. And this hope is what saves us. But if we already have what we hope for, there is no need to keep on hoping. However, we hope for something we have not yet seen, and we patiently wait for it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s that time of year again… the time when we start to mark important dates in a new calendar and plan for the coming year. It is probably pretty safe to surmise that every one of us has anticipated some date in our future… a graduation… a wedding… the birth of a child…a move… even a special “date” or event, like prom…moving into a new house… starting a new job…or even the arrival of Christmas Day. And if we are brutally honest, at least once we’ve gotten to said date and asked ourselves, “Now what?”! This reminds me of a book by Dawn Brown titled, Been There, Done That… Now What?...which could be the mantra for a lot of us! The excitement and anticipation of “getting there” often culminates with something of a letdown of sorts.
Once that event for which we yearned has come and gone… where is our hope? Since we are human, we generally move on to “the next big thing”…we pack up the Christmas decorations and plan our New Year’s celebration. We graduate from high school and plan our move to college… or graduate from college and start looking for a job. We marry and start planning our lives together - or creating a new family. We move into a new house and busy ourselves with all of the projects and chores that come with it… or we work hard at a new job and seek ways to “move up the ladder”.
In the realm of our Spiritual faith…what are we doing? Where is our focus? We place our hope in God to see us through all sorts of experiences, ”growth spurts” and challenges. But our ultimate hope is to see Jesus face-to-face… to dwell in His presence forever and ever… to “have all the answers”. And truthfully, God could do all of that for us today…here… now… without any of us having to die. He could come back to earth in the form of Jesus, explain all of the mysteries of the universe to us… and make everything completely “perfect”.
So why doesn’t God do this? Doesn’t He love us? The answer lies in one single sentence from this passage…” if we already have what we hope for, there is no need to keep on hoping.” If we had all of the answers and God gave us everything now, we would have no reason to continue to trust in Him… to rely on Him… to work patiently to reach the ultimate goal of His eternal presence. I know that we think it would be fantastic if everything were all complete today… if we knew the answers to everything and all of God’s promises for our life were fulfilled with the snap of a finger. But the truth is that we would be standing around saying, “Been there, done that… now what?”… and it is very likely that we would not fully appreciate what God has in store for us.
I once lamented to a friend about how my brother and others suffered in the days/weeks prior to their death. I questioned why this had to happen…what was the purpose in their anguish and pain? My friend reminded me that this time frame was but a “blip on the screen” compared to Eternity… that their glory in heaven was made all the sweeter for the struggles they endured in this lifetime. Their perseverance and patience was rewarded… and so ours will be! Hope is a good thing… it keeps us faithful and eager… hungry for the things of God. In His timing, all will be revealed… and when it is, the “next big thing” - eternity with Him in heaven - will be all the sweeter.
So as you fill in the boxes on your new calendar, do so with hope. We can’t know everything the coming weeks and months will hold, but we know that God will be involved every step of the way. I am asking Him to allow me to patiently wait on Him and the experiences and blessings yet to come… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 18, 2013
Psalm 27:14
Wait patiently for the Lord.
Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This is really a hard month for patience… especially if you are four! Timothy is told virtually every day that he has to wait on something… “We have to wait to open presents until Christmas Day”… “We have to wait for the parade to start”… “We have to wait seven more ‘sleeps’ for Santa to visit”… “We have to wait until Christmas to see what Santa brings us” (to which he replies, “But it IS Christmas!”)…you get the idea. We have tried to explain to Timothy and his two-year-old sister Zola that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday… that this is truly why we celebrate. We’ve looked at dozens of nativities and talked about Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. We have discussed the wise men and their gifts…the shepherds and the all-important-to-Timothy animals that they tend.
We took the children to our community Christmas parade, and they were both so excited by the lights, cars, trucks, floats, marching band, horses, and more. When the participants threw candy, Timothy’s little body literally shook all over with excitement! The wonder and awe in both of their faces was incredibly heartwarming. Everything about the night was magical for them. And when they came face-to-face with Santa Claus, Timothy stuck out his little hand and said, “Merry Christmas, Santa!” and then declared… “I have seen the real Santa!”
The children may not realize it, but they are already “waiting on the LORD!” Whether they are waiting patiently is questionable at any given moment, but they are waiting, nonetheless. Surely they are confident that Christmas Day will come… that we will celebrate the birth of Jesus (and open presents from Santa!). But what about those of us who are old enough to fully comprehend everything that happened some 2046 years ago? Do we fully operate in bravery, courage, and patience as we serve the LORD and wait on His return?
We should be able to understand the true meaning of Christmas…AND the earthly life of Jesus…His crucifixion and resurrection. We should be trembling with excitement at the thought meeting “the real Jesus” face-to-face for the first time. The idea of heaven should be as magical and invoke as much awe and wonderment in us as the Christmas lights, sights and sounds of a parade provided for countless children on a moonlit December night.
Even in our darkest, most despondent moment, we should be filled with hope that Jesus is waiting for us… that the best is yet to come! I know there are plenty of sad situations… grief-stricken people whose hearts are broken, those who will lose their jobs the end of this month (if they haven’t already), many who cannot pay bills – much less provide Christmas gifts and meals for their loved ones... people who are sick and battling serious illnesses and injuries…lonely folks…people separated from loved ones by military deployment other constraints. And these are legitimate concerns…plausible reasons to lose heart that God understands! But He also provides an answer…His gift of Jesus Christ! For this reason, we can be hopeful. We can be brave and courageous… and patiently wait for Him to come to us – both as a Rescuer in this earthly life, and as our ultimate Savior for all eternity.
I can be as impatient as a four-year-old at times…but I’ve experienced enough of God’s grace, mercy and blessings in my life already to know that He is worth the wait. The thought of seeing Him in person makes my heart flutter and almost causes me to tremble as much as little Timothy did… and I am more than hopeful that this will happen – in God’s timing. Can you say the same? Are you ready to operate in the hope and patience of Jesus…this season and always? Isn’t this a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Wait patiently for the Lord.
Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This is really a hard month for patience… especially if you are four! Timothy is told virtually every day that he has to wait on something… “We have to wait to open presents until Christmas Day”… “We have to wait for the parade to start”… “We have to wait seven more ‘sleeps’ for Santa to visit”… “We have to wait until Christmas to see what Santa brings us” (to which he replies, “But it IS Christmas!”)…you get the idea. We have tried to explain to Timothy and his two-year-old sister Zola that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday… that this is truly why we celebrate. We’ve looked at dozens of nativities and talked about Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. We have discussed the wise men and their gifts…the shepherds and the all-important-to-Timothy animals that they tend.
We took the children to our community Christmas parade, and they were both so excited by the lights, cars, trucks, floats, marching band, horses, and more. When the participants threw candy, Timothy’s little body literally shook all over with excitement! The wonder and awe in both of their faces was incredibly heartwarming. Everything about the night was magical for them. And when they came face-to-face with Santa Claus, Timothy stuck out his little hand and said, “Merry Christmas, Santa!” and then declared… “I have seen the real Santa!”
The children may not realize it, but they are already “waiting on the LORD!” Whether they are waiting patiently is questionable at any given moment, but they are waiting, nonetheless. Surely they are confident that Christmas Day will come… that we will celebrate the birth of Jesus (and open presents from Santa!). But what about those of us who are old enough to fully comprehend everything that happened some 2046 years ago? Do we fully operate in bravery, courage, and patience as we serve the LORD and wait on His return?
We should be able to understand the true meaning of Christmas…AND the earthly life of Jesus…His crucifixion and resurrection. We should be trembling with excitement at the thought meeting “the real Jesus” face-to-face for the first time. The idea of heaven should be as magical and invoke as much awe and wonderment in us as the Christmas lights, sights and sounds of a parade provided for countless children on a moonlit December night.
Even in our darkest, most despondent moment, we should be filled with hope that Jesus is waiting for us… that the best is yet to come! I know there are plenty of sad situations… grief-stricken people whose hearts are broken, those who will lose their jobs the end of this month (if they haven’t already), many who cannot pay bills – much less provide Christmas gifts and meals for their loved ones... people who are sick and battling serious illnesses and injuries…lonely folks…people separated from loved ones by military deployment other constraints. And these are legitimate concerns…plausible reasons to lose heart that God understands! But He also provides an answer…His gift of Jesus Christ! For this reason, we can be hopeful. We can be brave and courageous… and patiently wait for Him to come to us – both as a Rescuer in this earthly life, and as our ultimate Savior for all eternity.
I can be as impatient as a four-year-old at times…but I’ve experienced enough of God’s grace, mercy and blessings in my life already to know that He is worth the wait. The thought of seeing Him in person makes my heart flutter and almost causes me to tremble as much as little Timothy did… and I am more than hopeful that this will happen – in God’s timing. Can you say the same? Are you ready to operate in the hope and patience of Jesus…this season and always? Isn’t this a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 16, 2013
Psalm 146:3-9
Don’t put your life in the hands of experts
who know nothing of life, of salvation life.
Mere humans don’t have what it takes;
when they die, their projects die with them.
Instead, get help from the God of Jacob,
put your hope in God and know real blessing!
God made sky and soil,
sea and all the fish in it.
He always does what he says—
he defends the wronged,
he feeds the hungry.
God frees prisoners—
he gives sight to the blind,
he lifts up the fallen.
God loves good people, protects strangers,
takes the side of orphans and widows,
but makes short work of the wicked.
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.
Sunday morning, Timothy came stomping into the bathroom where I was dressing for church. “Aunt Debbie,” he said indignantly, “Uncle Greg just called me a ‘stinker’!” I asked Timothy what he had done, and he replied, “But I’m hungry!” He had been opening the kitchen cabinets and drawers to scavenge for a snack! And truly, he comes by his “stinker” trait honestly. My Mam-ma Polly… Timothy’s great-great-grandmother, could really be a stinker at times. Take for instance the summer day that I grocery shopped for her, and she put Clorox® bleach on her list. It was at least 103 in the shade, and I had planned to shop at Wal-Mart. Clorox® bleach was on sale at a grocery store across town – for ten cents less. I told Mam-ma that I would just get her the store brand, because it was even cheaper. She went into a tailspin! It had to be Clorox®! I told her that “bleach is bleach”… but she vehemently disagreed. To “seal the deal”, she added a loaf of bread to her list – Best Choice… sold only at the store where the bleach was a dime cheaper! So of course, I did what any respectful grand-daughter would do… I trekked across town to the other store and bought her Clorox® bleach and the loaf of bread!
I come from a long line of “stinkers”… and we are all “brand snobs” about certain things. I will only use Hellmann’s REAL mayonnaise, and my chili flavoring of choice is Williams. My brother was a “brand snob” about several food items, and he, my dad, and my Mam-ma’s boyfriend all had major – and differing – opinions about which brand of canned pork ‘n beans was the best! And while each of us has preferences about certain things… or silly notions, ideas and opinions about this or that (and feel that OUR opinion is the RIGHT one!)…the world will not fall apart if we prefer Bush’s beans over Van de Kamp’s… or Kraft Mayo over Hellmann’s. It won’t even matter whether we use a generic bleach or the Clorox® brand!
But when it comes to our life – both on this earth and for all eternity… in the matter of where we place our hope… it matters greatly who we listen to and trust. You don’t have to look very far to get a zillion opinions. Some will tell you that you must attend this church or that one… that you must memorize scripture or perform certain rituals. Others will say that it doesn’t really matter – there are many ways to God and plenty of paths to heaven. Do NOT accept any imitations in your faith walk. Do not listen to those who speak of anything other than God’s word and time spent in His presence to determine what HE is saying to you. Study, pray, listen and learn for yourself! Don’t leave this up to anyone else!
Just because your friends and family members prefer “Brand A” faith doesn’t make it right for you any more than your taste buds are better suited to one store brand over another. You may be swayed by the media and peer pressure to purchase certain brands, to support a particular political party, and even to drive a certain kind of car. You may do everything you can to fit in with others in society…to conform to what others tell you is “normal” and “expected.” But I am telling you this… in matters of your heart, your soul, and your eternity… all the hype in the world is exactly that - puff and fluff. Stick with the REAL DEAL… put your hope in God Almighty. Trust the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ… believe in His sacrifices for you on the cross, and in the hope of a place in His presence someday in heaven.
If you must be a “stinker”, be one for God! Insist on Him and nothing else. Make Him your “brand of choice”… your only hope… and never waver. You can always trust Him to give you the best results… to bless you immeasurably and never steer you down the wrong path. God is worth the “drive across town”… His love and care is literally the biggest savings of your life!
Who are you listening to these days? Are you swayed by the message of “experts”… or are you clinging to the words and wisdom of God Almighty? Are you secure in the hope of heaven and God’s promises? Isn’t it time you were?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Don’t put your life in the hands of experts
who know nothing of life, of salvation life.
Mere humans don’t have what it takes;
when they die, their projects die with them.
Instead, get help from the God of Jacob,
put your hope in God and know real blessing!
God made sky and soil,
sea and all the fish in it.
He always does what he says—
he defends the wronged,
he feeds the hungry.
God frees prisoners—
he gives sight to the blind,
he lifts up the fallen.
God loves good people, protects strangers,
takes the side of orphans and widows,
but makes short work of the wicked.
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.
Sunday morning, Timothy came stomping into the bathroom where I was dressing for church. “Aunt Debbie,” he said indignantly, “Uncle Greg just called me a ‘stinker’!” I asked Timothy what he had done, and he replied, “But I’m hungry!” He had been opening the kitchen cabinets and drawers to scavenge for a snack! And truly, he comes by his “stinker” trait honestly. My Mam-ma Polly… Timothy’s great-great-grandmother, could really be a stinker at times. Take for instance the summer day that I grocery shopped for her, and she put Clorox® bleach on her list. It was at least 103 in the shade, and I had planned to shop at Wal-Mart. Clorox® bleach was on sale at a grocery store across town – for ten cents less. I told Mam-ma that I would just get her the store brand, because it was even cheaper. She went into a tailspin! It had to be Clorox®! I told her that “bleach is bleach”… but she vehemently disagreed. To “seal the deal”, she added a loaf of bread to her list – Best Choice… sold only at the store where the bleach was a dime cheaper! So of course, I did what any respectful grand-daughter would do… I trekked across town to the other store and bought her Clorox® bleach and the loaf of bread!
I come from a long line of “stinkers”… and we are all “brand snobs” about certain things. I will only use Hellmann’s REAL mayonnaise, and my chili flavoring of choice is Williams. My brother was a “brand snob” about several food items, and he, my dad, and my Mam-ma’s boyfriend all had major – and differing – opinions about which brand of canned pork ‘n beans was the best! And while each of us has preferences about certain things… or silly notions, ideas and opinions about this or that (and feel that OUR opinion is the RIGHT one!)…the world will not fall apart if we prefer Bush’s beans over Van de Kamp’s… or Kraft Mayo over Hellmann’s. It won’t even matter whether we use a generic bleach or the Clorox® brand!
But when it comes to our life – both on this earth and for all eternity… in the matter of where we place our hope… it matters greatly who we listen to and trust. You don’t have to look very far to get a zillion opinions. Some will tell you that you must attend this church or that one… that you must memorize scripture or perform certain rituals. Others will say that it doesn’t really matter – there are many ways to God and plenty of paths to heaven. Do NOT accept any imitations in your faith walk. Do not listen to those who speak of anything other than God’s word and time spent in His presence to determine what HE is saying to you. Study, pray, listen and learn for yourself! Don’t leave this up to anyone else!
Just because your friends and family members prefer “Brand A” faith doesn’t make it right for you any more than your taste buds are better suited to one store brand over another. You may be swayed by the media and peer pressure to purchase certain brands, to support a particular political party, and even to drive a certain kind of car. You may do everything you can to fit in with others in society…to conform to what others tell you is “normal” and “expected.” But I am telling you this… in matters of your heart, your soul, and your eternity… all the hype in the world is exactly that - puff and fluff. Stick with the REAL DEAL… put your hope in God Almighty. Trust the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ… believe in His sacrifices for you on the cross, and in the hope of a place in His presence someday in heaven.
If you must be a “stinker”, be one for God! Insist on Him and nothing else. Make Him your “brand of choice”… your only hope… and never waver. You can always trust Him to give you the best results… to bless you immeasurably and never steer you down the wrong path. God is worth the “drive across town”… His love and care is literally the biggest savings of your life!
Who are you listening to these days? Are you swayed by the message of “experts”… or are you clinging to the words and wisdom of God Almighty? Are you secure in the hope of heaven and God’s promises? Isn’t it time you were?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 1, 2013
Hebrews 11:1
Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, the Facebook post of a friend reminded me that I had a few more Christmas decorations that I had not yet placed on display. I know…hard to imagine, for those who know me… but I opened a drawer upstairs and found the miniature tree with “nativity” ornaments… a few decorations for Greg’s office… and one more item - a golden school bus ornament. Last Christmas, my Mam-ma Polly’s pastor, Bro. JR – who was like a grandson to her – gave her a painted glass “school bus” ornament. My grandmother was a school bus driver in our community for eleven years. That bus was a nod to days when she was vibrant and active – and in my mind – able to do virtually anything!
When Mam-ma died in March, we placed the school bus with her until after the funeral… and I brought it home to hang on our tree… fulfilling a promise I made to her last Christmas that I would hang it each year and think of her. And hang it I did – this morning, alongside the handmade doily ornament that holds a photograph of my grandparents and my dad when he was a boy.
This was a bittersweet moment for me… but also one filled with hope. Because I believe in the promises of God… because I operate fully in the faith that Jesus came to earth to live and die for me – and that I will be with Him forever in Heaven someday… because I know that my Mam-ma Polly and countless others who believed wait there for me… I can have hope. I can anticipate a time that I truly cannot “see”… but most certainly am assured will happen. And this fills me with joy.
We all know the “let-down” of realizing that another Christmas season has come and gone. For many of us, the anticipation of Christmas Day will build over the next twenty-five days… until many of us are in nothing short of a total frenzy. And by December 31st, Christmas will all but be a distant memory for most. Decorations will come down, the gifts will be put away, diets will commence, and we will be “over it” and on to the next big event.
We can anticipate another holiday season in eleven months. But ultimately, Christmas Days will cease for each of us – at least in the earthly sense. I will admit that I am a big kid when it comes to Christmas. Truthfully, I’m hanging my hopes and dreams on a “Christmas” that never ends… the promise I have been given of endless days in the presence of Jesus – celebrating Him with family members, friends, and “brothers and sisters in Christ” who will join me at His feet again and again. I cannot see/touch/feel this… but I believe in it all the same.
Until my earthly days are over, I will celebrate Christmas in the traditional manner. I will hang the school bus ornament and others…decorate for the holidays… bake and shop, wrap gifts, send cards, and sing Christmas carols. And I will do my best to live in a manner that honors the promises of Jesus… the incredible sacrifices He has made for me. I will share His Good News with others and encourage them to share in my confidence that an eternity in Jesus’ presence is a part of our future. In essence, I will try to live like each earthly Christmas might be my last… and I say this without sorrow or trepidation.
I have faith that heaven awaits me…hope that it will actually happen… and assurance about my eternal future. Do you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, the Facebook post of a friend reminded me that I had a few more Christmas decorations that I had not yet placed on display. I know…hard to imagine, for those who know me… but I opened a drawer upstairs and found the miniature tree with “nativity” ornaments… a few decorations for Greg’s office… and one more item - a golden school bus ornament. Last Christmas, my Mam-ma Polly’s pastor, Bro. JR – who was like a grandson to her – gave her a painted glass “school bus” ornament. My grandmother was a school bus driver in our community for eleven years. That bus was a nod to days when she was vibrant and active – and in my mind – able to do virtually anything!
When Mam-ma died in March, we placed the school bus with her until after the funeral… and I brought it home to hang on our tree… fulfilling a promise I made to her last Christmas that I would hang it each year and think of her. And hang it I did – this morning, alongside the handmade doily ornament that holds a photograph of my grandparents and my dad when he was a boy.
This was a bittersweet moment for me… but also one filled with hope. Because I believe in the promises of God… because I operate fully in the faith that Jesus came to earth to live and die for me – and that I will be with Him forever in Heaven someday… because I know that my Mam-ma Polly and countless others who believed wait there for me… I can have hope. I can anticipate a time that I truly cannot “see”… but most certainly am assured will happen. And this fills me with joy.
We all know the “let-down” of realizing that another Christmas season has come and gone. For many of us, the anticipation of Christmas Day will build over the next twenty-five days… until many of us are in nothing short of a total frenzy. And by December 31st, Christmas will all but be a distant memory for most. Decorations will come down, the gifts will be put away, diets will commence, and we will be “over it” and on to the next big event.
We can anticipate another holiday season in eleven months. But ultimately, Christmas Days will cease for each of us – at least in the earthly sense. I will admit that I am a big kid when it comes to Christmas. Truthfully, I’m hanging my hopes and dreams on a “Christmas” that never ends… the promise I have been given of endless days in the presence of Jesus – celebrating Him with family members, friends, and “brothers and sisters in Christ” who will join me at His feet again and again. I cannot see/touch/feel this… but I believe in it all the same.
Until my earthly days are over, I will celebrate Christmas in the traditional manner. I will hang the school bus ornament and others…decorate for the holidays… bake and shop, wrap gifts, send cards, and sing Christmas carols. And I will do my best to live in a manner that honors the promises of Jesus… the incredible sacrifices He has made for me. I will share His Good News with others and encourage them to share in my confidence that an eternity in Jesus’ presence is a part of our future. In essence, I will try to live like each earthly Christmas might be my last… and I say this without sorrow or trepidation.
I have faith that heaven awaits me…hope that it will actually happen… and assurance about my eternal future. Do you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 25, 2013
1 Thessalonians 5:1-8
I don’t think, friends, that I need to deal with the question of when all this is going to happen. You know as well as I that the day of the Master’s coming can’t be posted on our calendars. He won’t call ahead and make an appointment any more than a burglar would. About the time everybody’s walking around complacently, congratulating each other—“We’ve sure got it made! Now we can take it easy!”—suddenly everything will fall apart. It’s going to come as suddenly and inescapably as birth pangs to a pregnant woman.
But friends, you’re not in the dark, so how could you be taken off guard by any of this? You’re sons of Light, daughters of Day. We live under wide open skies and know where we stand. So let’s not sleepwalk through life like those others. Let’s keep our eyes open and be smart. People sleep at night and get drunk at night. But not us! Since we’re creatures of Day, let’s act like it. Walk out into the daylight sober, dressed up in faith, love, and the hope of salvation.
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.
I still remember the afternoon that our doorbell rang, and there stood my grandmother and two of my dad’s cousins from Texas. They had come to visit… and their timing could not have been worse. That didn’t faze my grandmother – or the cousins. They marched right into the house and proceeded to stay for more than an hour. I laughingly told them that I was not “dressed to receive guests”… I was getting ready to work out, had on grubby clothes and no makeup. Greg was equally busy and not “cleaned up” for company, either. I had nothing prepared to offer them…a pitcher of iced tea or a soft drink. This didn’t seem to bother our guests… but it bothered us. We had been “taken off guard”!
I am sure you can name countless times that someone dropped in unexpectedly. And if you are like me, you’ve probably caught others unprepared to “receive guests” as well. Let’s be honest, if the worst that ever happens is that someone drops by to visit and catches you looking a little grubby or disheveled, this is certainly not the end of the world. But in the spiritual realm, the last thing we ever want is for Jesus to find us unprepared.
Look at it this way… if you are told that “the cable guy” is coming to your house “somewhere between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.”…you will sit at home and wait on him – right? You’ll get up early and dress and prepare for his arrival… and you will wait – sometimes all day long – in anticipation of his visit. Why would you prepare any less for Jesus’ return? The “cable guy” may fix your television reception… but Jesus is offering us Eternal Life! How could we ever fail to prepare for the day we meet Him face-to-face?
The bottom line is that those of us who truly believe in Jesus Christ…who have given our hearts to Him and promised to serve as His disciples…have no excuse for operating in anything less than “preparedness mode.” We have the hope of salvation and an eternity in Heaven on our side. Isn’t this worth guarding?
How ready are you to meet Jesus in person? Are you on guard…”dressed up”… awake… alert? Do you have faith, hope and confidence that you will meet Him someday? We cannot possibly know what hour or day that will happen. So the question is…”Are you ready to receive Him?”
©2013 Debbie Robus
I don’t think, friends, that I need to deal with the question of when all this is going to happen. You know as well as I that the day of the Master’s coming can’t be posted on our calendars. He won’t call ahead and make an appointment any more than a burglar would. About the time everybody’s walking around complacently, congratulating each other—“We’ve sure got it made! Now we can take it easy!”—suddenly everything will fall apart. It’s going to come as suddenly and inescapably as birth pangs to a pregnant woman.
But friends, you’re not in the dark, so how could you be taken off guard by any of this? You’re sons of Light, daughters of Day. We live under wide open skies and know where we stand. So let’s not sleepwalk through life like those others. Let’s keep our eyes open and be smart. People sleep at night and get drunk at night. But not us! Since we’re creatures of Day, let’s act like it. Walk out into the daylight sober, dressed up in faith, love, and the hope of salvation.
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.
I still remember the afternoon that our doorbell rang, and there stood my grandmother and two of my dad’s cousins from Texas. They had come to visit… and their timing could not have been worse. That didn’t faze my grandmother – or the cousins. They marched right into the house and proceeded to stay for more than an hour. I laughingly told them that I was not “dressed to receive guests”… I was getting ready to work out, had on grubby clothes and no makeup. Greg was equally busy and not “cleaned up” for company, either. I had nothing prepared to offer them…a pitcher of iced tea or a soft drink. This didn’t seem to bother our guests… but it bothered us. We had been “taken off guard”!
I am sure you can name countless times that someone dropped in unexpectedly. And if you are like me, you’ve probably caught others unprepared to “receive guests” as well. Let’s be honest, if the worst that ever happens is that someone drops by to visit and catches you looking a little grubby or disheveled, this is certainly not the end of the world. But in the spiritual realm, the last thing we ever want is for Jesus to find us unprepared.
Look at it this way… if you are told that “the cable guy” is coming to your house “somewhere between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.”…you will sit at home and wait on him – right? You’ll get up early and dress and prepare for his arrival… and you will wait – sometimes all day long – in anticipation of his visit. Why would you prepare any less for Jesus’ return? The “cable guy” may fix your television reception… but Jesus is offering us Eternal Life! How could we ever fail to prepare for the day we meet Him face-to-face?
The bottom line is that those of us who truly believe in Jesus Christ…who have given our hearts to Him and promised to serve as His disciples…have no excuse for operating in anything less than “preparedness mode.” We have the hope of salvation and an eternity in Heaven on our side. Isn’t this worth guarding?
How ready are you to meet Jesus in person? Are you on guard…”dressed up”… awake… alert? Do you have faith, hope and confidence that you will meet Him someday? We cannot possibly know what hour or day that will happen. So the question is…”Are you ready to receive Him?”
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 21, 2013
1 Corinthians 15:16-20
So if the dead won’t be raised to life, Christ wasn’t raised to life. Unless Christ was raised to life, your faith is useless, and you are still living in your sins. And those people who died after putting their faith in him are completely lost. If our hope in Christ is good only for this life, we are worse off than anyone else.
But Christ has been raised to life! And he makes us certain that others will also be raised to life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It seems like every year, the Christmas decorations come out a little earlier. I think I heard the first Christmas commercial (gee thanks, K-Mart!) somewhere around the end of September. I am certain that there were Christmas decorations on the shelves alongside the Halloween costumes at Wal-Mart. And several people I know put up their Christmas tree and decorations a few days ago! It’s like we don’t believe Christmas will ever come again, so we have to grab all of it we can this year and make it last! And how many people do you know who will walk around in something of a funk for the first half of January… bemoaning the fact that the holidays are over?
Yes…I decorate for Christmas right after Thanksgiving Day. Yes…I keep our tree and decorations up through New Year’s! And I enjoy all of the holiday festivities… baking…gathering gifts and making treats for the little ones…sending Christmas cards…watching holiday specials on television…and inviting people into our home to enjoy a warm fire and some hot tea and a cookie or two! But I am so looking forward to the Ultimate Christmas… one that lasts all year long…an unending feast that doesn’t pack on an ounce around the hips and music and laughter like we have never heard before. I’m looking forward to celebrating every day with Jesus and fellow believers…a Christmas Day that never ends! And I know that it is coming!
For this reason, I can pack away the decorations in January and continue to enjoy my earthly life. I know that Christmas Day will come again… one way or another. I honestly do not understand how people function without this hope. I cannot imagine what it would feel like to believe that this earthly life is all there is… that when you die, you die, and it’s all over. I refuse to believe that Jesus isn’t waiting for me… that my friends and loved ones who knew Jesus and loved Him on this earth and have “passed over” already are not there waiting, as well. I will not believe that this is the end… that there isn’t one continual celebration waiting for me “on the other side.” And I hope you cannot believe this, either!
There is an old hymn that says, “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.” It ends with… “life is worth the living, just because He lives.” Is this true for you? Do you believe that Jesus lives… that He is waiting for you and will raise you to life in heaven for all eternity? Are you able to face tomorrow because He lives? Don’t you want to be? This is the day to ensure your spot at the Ultimate Christmas celebration. Now is the time to fall to your knees and say, “Jesus, I know that You rose again. I believe that You are alive and waiting for me… and I want to be with You forever.” We basically have two options…choose to live in the confidence that Christ rose again and waits for us… or live without any hope at all and be worse off than anyone else. Will your life be “worth the living” because of the hope and faith that Jesus lives? Or will you face the emptiness of living with the idea that your “Christmases” - and your life itself - are finite? The choice is totally yours…what will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
So if the dead won’t be raised to life, Christ wasn’t raised to life. Unless Christ was raised to life, your faith is useless, and you are still living in your sins. And those people who died after putting their faith in him are completely lost. If our hope in Christ is good only for this life, we are worse off than anyone else.
But Christ has been raised to life! And he makes us certain that others will also be raised to life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It seems like every year, the Christmas decorations come out a little earlier. I think I heard the first Christmas commercial (gee thanks, K-Mart!) somewhere around the end of September. I am certain that there were Christmas decorations on the shelves alongside the Halloween costumes at Wal-Mart. And several people I know put up their Christmas tree and decorations a few days ago! It’s like we don’t believe Christmas will ever come again, so we have to grab all of it we can this year and make it last! And how many people do you know who will walk around in something of a funk for the first half of January… bemoaning the fact that the holidays are over?
Yes…I decorate for Christmas right after Thanksgiving Day. Yes…I keep our tree and decorations up through New Year’s! And I enjoy all of the holiday festivities… baking…gathering gifts and making treats for the little ones…sending Christmas cards…watching holiday specials on television…and inviting people into our home to enjoy a warm fire and some hot tea and a cookie or two! But I am so looking forward to the Ultimate Christmas… one that lasts all year long…an unending feast that doesn’t pack on an ounce around the hips and music and laughter like we have never heard before. I’m looking forward to celebrating every day with Jesus and fellow believers…a Christmas Day that never ends! And I know that it is coming!
For this reason, I can pack away the decorations in January and continue to enjoy my earthly life. I know that Christmas Day will come again… one way or another. I honestly do not understand how people function without this hope. I cannot imagine what it would feel like to believe that this earthly life is all there is… that when you die, you die, and it’s all over. I refuse to believe that Jesus isn’t waiting for me… that my friends and loved ones who knew Jesus and loved Him on this earth and have “passed over” already are not there waiting, as well. I will not believe that this is the end… that there isn’t one continual celebration waiting for me “on the other side.” And I hope you cannot believe this, either!
There is an old hymn that says, “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.” It ends with… “life is worth the living, just because He lives.” Is this true for you? Do you believe that Jesus lives… that He is waiting for you and will raise you to life in heaven for all eternity? Are you able to face tomorrow because He lives? Don’t you want to be? This is the day to ensure your spot at the Ultimate Christmas celebration. Now is the time to fall to your knees and say, “Jesus, I know that You rose again. I believe that You are alive and waiting for me… and I want to be with You forever.” We basically have two options…choose to live in the confidence that Christ rose again and waits for us… or live without any hope at all and be worse off than anyone else. Will your life be “worth the living” because of the hope and faith that Jesus lives? Or will you face the emptiness of living with the idea that your “Christmases” - and your life itself - are finite? The choice is totally yours…what will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 21, 2012
Psalm 46:1-3
God is our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble. And so, we won’t be afraid!
Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.
Let the ocean roar and foam, and its raging waves shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today was the day we were all supposed to die. Many interpreted calculations on a Mayan calendar to indicate that the world would end today… December 21, 2012. But here we are! Matthew 24:36 tells us… “No one knows the day or hour. The angels in heaven don’t know, and the Son himself doesn’t know. Only the Father knows.” That’s good enough for me… what about you?
See, I believe the words of Psalm 46:1-3. I believe that God will help in times of trouble. I trust His mighty strength… He is my fortress. So I say, “Bring it!” Let the mountains tumble and the oceans roar. Let the earth tremble! There has not been a single thing in my life to this day that I could not handle with God’s help. There has yet to be any obstacle too big for Him to overcome… a problem He could not solve.
Did I always like the outcome? Was everything easy, pleasant and “ooey-gooey” nice? Absolutely not! Were there heartaches and difficulties? Most definitely! Was I left alone to figure out how to manage by myself? Never!
I do not dwell on the end of the world – or the end of my life. Either way, I plan to wake up in heaven! I hope you will be there with me someday. I pray that you are trusting God as your mighty fortress… ready to help in times of trouble. I trust that you do not live in fear of the temptations and struggles the devil throws your way. Our God is awesome, amazing, strong and powerful. He never leaves our side.
I don’t know what tomorrow holds… but I know WHO holds tomorrow. I am counting on God to always be my fortress and my strength in all situations. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
God is our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble. And so, we won’t be afraid!
Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.
Let the ocean roar and foam, and its raging waves shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today was the day we were all supposed to die. Many interpreted calculations on a Mayan calendar to indicate that the world would end today… December 21, 2012. But here we are! Matthew 24:36 tells us… “No one knows the day or hour. The angels in heaven don’t know, and the Son himself doesn’t know. Only the Father knows.” That’s good enough for me… what about you?
See, I believe the words of Psalm 46:1-3. I believe that God will help in times of trouble. I trust His mighty strength… He is my fortress. So I say, “Bring it!” Let the mountains tumble and the oceans roar. Let the earth tremble! There has not been a single thing in my life to this day that I could not handle with God’s help. There has yet to be any obstacle too big for Him to overcome… a problem He could not solve.
Did I always like the outcome? Was everything easy, pleasant and “ooey-gooey” nice? Absolutely not! Were there heartaches and difficulties? Most definitely! Was I left alone to figure out how to manage by myself? Never!
I do not dwell on the end of the world – or the end of my life. Either way, I plan to wake up in heaven! I hope you will be there with me someday. I pray that you are trusting God as your mighty fortress… ready to help in times of trouble. I trust that you do not live in fear of the temptations and struggles the devil throws your way. Our God is awesome, amazing, strong and powerful. He never leaves our side.
I don’t know what tomorrow holds… but I know WHO holds tomorrow. I am counting on God to always be my fortress and my strength in all situations. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)